I already have mobile internet. Do I need to pay for a different plan for my home internet? It’s a common problem people face, especially after getting their own place. The easy answer is that it depends on how you use the internet at home.

If you’re just checking emails and using social media now and then, it might be enough. But unfortunately, it’s not the only factor that must be considered. And while mobile internet is undoubtedly convenient, it has its limitations, too.

Since you’ve found your way here, you’re already at that point where you don’t see the need for paying for high speed internet at home. It makes total sense, especially if you’re trying to save some money.

Let’s work together to determine the best decision for your needs.

1.     How many people will be connecting to your mobile hotspot?

The first consideration would be the number of users that will be connecting to your mobile internet. Are you just by yourself? If so, then you might be okay, especially if your internet use is light. However, if you live with others and you are planning to have them connect to your mobile data, it could be unsustainable in the long run, frustrating even.

Even something as simple as two people watching videos at the same time can really push your mobile internet to its limits. If you’re planning to share your internet with family, roommates, or even guests, having a dedicated home internet connection might be a better fit.

2.     How do you use the internet at home?

The next thing to consider is the usage. For example, if you’re someone who’s always on the lookout for streaming deals just because you love watching TV shows and movies and you also engage in bandwidth-heavy online activities like gaming, your mobile internet might not suffice. You have to understand that these kinds of activities can easily drain your mobile data, and to be pretty honest, it’s not designed for these kinds of activities, especially when done simultaneously.

3.     How much data and speed does your mobile internet have?

The next thing you need to consider is the data and speed your mobile plan has. Just like your usage, your data and speed limits play a huge role in whether your mobile internet is enough for home use. Some mobile plans come with a fixed amount of high-speed data, so once you use that up, you will notice that your speed will drop significantly. Others may offer unlimited data, but with speed restrictions after a certain limit.

4.     Is your mobile internet connection stable throughout the day?

Stability is also important when it comes to home internet. Home internet coverage varies depending on the type of internet you have and your location. And it’s the same for mobile internet. If your cell service coverage is poor in your area, you cannot expect to get a smooth or steady connection all the time. You might notice that the internet works great in the morning but slows down in the evening, or that it completely drops out during bad weather.

That’s because mobile signals can be affected by a lot of things, including network congestion, your proximity to a cell tower, and others. So, before you rely fully on mobile internet for your home, try paying attention to how consistent your connection is throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the number of users, your existing plan, your usage, and the coverage in your area. Make sure to answer these questions first before you actually decide on whether to pay for a home internet plan or not. Good luck!