A Beginner’s Guide to Mobile Internet: 4G vs. 5G, Devices, and When to Choose Mobile Over Fixed Broadband

Hello and welcome to D-Link’s beginner’s guide to mobile internet! Whether you’re working remotely, travelling in a caravan, or exploring alternatives to traditional broadband, mobile internet offers flexible, powerful solutions. As the UK and Ireland embrace faster connectivity, we’re here to explain the essentials: the difference between 4G and 5G, the various devices available (hotspots, dongles, and routers), how mobile internet can act as a failover or replacement for home broadband, and where it excels—especially for caravan homes and more.
4G vs. 5G: What’s the Difference?
Mobile internet uses cellular networks, with 4G (fourth generation) and 5G (fifth generation) being the main technologies today. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you decide which suits you:
  • 4G: The dependable choice, 4G offers average download speeds of 20-60Mbps in the UK, with peaks up to 300Mbps in optimal conditions. It’s widely available, covering over 99% of the UK population, making it ideal for most users. 4G handles streaming HD videos, browsing, and general home use well, though it may struggle with multiple heavy users at once.
  • 5G: The next step up, 5G delivers lightning-fast speeds, averaging 100-300Mbps and potentially hitting 1Gbps in urban areas. It’s built for low latency (quicker response times) and supports many devices simultaneously, perfect for gaming, 4K streaming, or smart homes. However, 5G coverage is still growing, mainly available in cities and towns, so check your area first.
Who should choose what? If you’re in a rural area or need reliable coverage, 4G is the safe bet. If you’re in a 5G-covered urban area and want speed for demanding tasks, 5G is worth considering. D-Link’s range, like our DWR-2101 5G Wi-Fi 6 Mobile Hotspot or DWR-960 4G LTE Router, supports both, offering flexibility wherever you are.
Hotspot, Dongle, or Router: Which Device Is Right for You?
Mobile internet devices come in three main types—hotspots, dongles, and routers—each designed for different needs. Let’s break down their differences and who they’re for:
  • Mobile Hotspot
    A hotspot is a portable, battery-powered device that creates a Wi-Fi network using a SIM card. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and connects multiple devices, such as phones, laptops, or tablets.
    • Best for: Travellers, remote workers, or anyone needing internet on the go. Ideal for short trips, café work, or temporary setups.
    • Example use: You’re at a campsite with your family, and everyone wants to stream or browse. A hotspot like D-Link’s DWR-2101 connects up to 32 devices with 5G speeds.
    • Why choose it? It’s portable and simple—no setup needed, just insert a SIM and go.
  • Dongle
    A dongle is a compact USB device that plugs into a laptop or computer, providing internet to that single device via a SIM card. It’s powered by the device it’s connected to, so no battery is required.
    • Best for: Solo users needing internet for one device, like a laptop, while travelling or in areas without Wi-Fi. Great for students or professionals working remotely.
    • Example use: You’re on a train, catching up on emails. Plug a 4G dongle into your laptop for instant access.
    • Why choose it? It’s affordable and straightforward but limited to one device, so it’s not ideal for sharing.
  • Router
    A mobile router (or MiFi router) is a more robust device that uses a SIM card to create a Wi-Fi network for multiple devices. Unlike hotspots, routers are often mains-powered and designed for fixed or semi-permanent use, with better range and features like Ethernet ports.
    • Best for: Households, small offices, or caravans needing a stable, shared connection. Perfect for replacing or backing up home broadband.
    • Example use: Your family’s holiday home needs internet for streaming, gaming, and work. A router like D-Link’s DWR-978 5G AC2600 Wi-Fi Router supports dozens of devices with reliable coverage.
    • Why choose it? High capacity and versatility, often with advanced features like dual-band Wi-Fi or failover modes.
Quick tip: If you’re unsure, opt for a hotspot for flexibility or a router for home-like performance. Dongles are niche, best for single-device scenarios.
Failover or Full Replacement for Home Broadband?
Mobile internet isn’t just for travel—it can complement or replace your fixed-line broadband. Here’s how:
  • Failover Solution
    A failover setup uses mobile internet as a backup when your primary broadband fails. D-Link routers, like the DWR-960, support 4G LTE failover, automatically switching to a mobile network if your fibre or ADSL drops. This is invaluable for businesses, remote workers, or anyone who can’t afford downtime.
    • Who needs it? Homes or offices in areas with unreliable broadband, or professionals reliant on video calls and cloud apps.
    • Why D-Link? Our routers make failover seamless, keeping you online during outages without manual intervention.
  • Replacing Home Broadband
    In some cases, mobile internet can fully replace fixed broadband, especially with 5G’s speeds rivalling fibre (100Mbps+). It’s plug-and-play—no engineer visits or landlines—and flexible, with contracts as short as 30 days. However, data limits and signal strength are key, so unlimited plans and good coverage are essential.
    • Who should consider it? Renters, students, or those in rural areas where fibre isn’t available. Also ideal for temporary homes or frequent movers.
    • Why D-Link? Our 5G routers, like the DWR-978, deliver fibre-like speeds and support up to 64 devices, perfect for busy households.
Note: Replacing broadband works best with unlimited data plans and strong 4G/5G signals. Check coverage with your provider and consider an external antenna for weak signals, compatible with many D-Link devices.
Where Mobile Internet Shines: Caravans, Holiday Homes, and More
Mobile internet excels in scenarios where fixed broadband isn’t practical. Here are some prime examples:
  • Caravan and Motorhome Owners
    Caravans often stop in rural spots where fibre broadband isn’t available, but 4G/5G signals often are. A mobile router or hotspot keeps you connected for navigation, streaming, or work. D-Link’s DWR-933M 4G LTE Mobile Router is compact yet powerful, ideal for life on the road.
    • Pro tip: Pair with an external antenna for better signal in remote areas, and choose a router with mains or 12V power options for campsite flexibility.
  • Holiday Homes and Short-Term Lets
    Setting up fixed broadband for a holiday home or rental is costly and slow. Mobile internet is instant—just plug in a router and go. It’s also portable, so you can take it between properties.
    • Example: Your lake cabin needs Wi-Fi for guests. A D-Link 5G router provides fast internet without long-term contracts.
  • Rural Homes
    Many rural UK areas lack fast fibre, but 4G/5G coverage is improving. Mobile broadband can outperform slow ADSL, offering 20-100Mbps where fixed lines struggle. D-Link’s solutions, with external antenna support, boost weak signals for reliable connectivity.
  • Boats and Off-Grid Living
    For boaters or off-grid enthusiasts, mobile internet is often the only option. Hotspots or routers with battery power (or 12V compatibility) keep you online, whether docked or sailing.
Why mobile over fixed? It’s portable, quick to set up, and doesn’t need infrastructure. For caravaners or rural residents, it’s often faster and more reliable than outdated fixed lines.
Getting Started with D-Link
Ready to explore mobile internet? Here’s how to begin:
  1. Check Coverage: Use your provider’s coverage map to confirm 4G/5G availability at your location or travel destinations.
  2. Choose Your Device: Pick a hotspot for portability, a dongle for solo use, or a router for shared, stable connections. Browse D-Link’s range at [D-Link UKI website].
  3. Select a Plan: Look for unlimited data if replacing broadband, or flexible PAYG/30-day plans for occasional use. Major UK providers like EE, Vodafone, and Three offer competitive options.
  4. Boost Your Signal: If coverage is weak, consider a D-Link router with external antenna ports for improved performance.
  5. Set Up and Enjoy: Most D-Link devices are plug-and-play—insert a SIM, power on, and connect.
At D-Link, we’re passionate about keeping you connected, whether at home, on the road, or off the grid. Our mobile internet solutions, from the DWR-2101 5G Hotspot to the DWR-978 5G Router, combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to suit every lifestyle.
Got questions or need help choosing? Visit our website or contact our UKI team via our live chat - or drop us an email — we’re here to make your mobile internet journey seamless and stress-free. Happy browsing!

 

Disclaimer: Speeds and coverage vary by location and provider. Always check with your network operator for the latest information. D-Link products are subject to availability and specifications may change.
By Alan Jones, Marketing Manager, D-Link

A highly experienced Marketing professional, Alan Jones has led the UK&I Marketing Strategy of D-Link for 5 years.