Look, you’re in Kenya. Maybe you’re climbing Mount Kenya. Maybe you’re on safari in the Maasai Mara. Or maybe you’re just trying to get some work done in a Nairobi cafe.
No matter what you’re doing, you need a reliable internet connection. And that’s where portable WiFi comes in.
Think of it as your own personal WiFi hotspot, giving you the freedom to connect wherever and whenever you want. No more hunting for cafes with decent WiFi or relying on spotty hotel connections.
In this article, I’m going to break down the 7 best portable WiFi devices in Kenya, so you can stay connected, productive, and entertained no matter where your adventures take you.
Why You Need Portable WiFi in Kenya
Before we dive into the devices, let’s talk about why portable WiFi is a game-changer, especially in Kenya.
- Unreliable fixed-line internet: Let’s be real, fixed-line internet in Kenya can be unpredictable. Portable WiFi gives you a backup option when your home or office connection goes down.
- Freedom and flexibility: Work from anywhere! Coffee shops, co-working spaces, even the beach – the choice is yours.
- Travel companion: Stay connected while exploring Kenya’s amazing national parks and cities. Share your adventures with friends and family back home.
- Cost-effective: Avoid expensive roaming charges when traveling. Many portable WiFi devices offer affordable data plans.
Bottom line: Portable WiFi gives you control over your internet connection, so you can stay connected and productive, no matter what.
What to Look for in the Best Portable WiFi in Kenya
Not all portable WiFi devices are created equal. Here’s what to consider before you buy:
- Network coverage: Make sure the device supports the network with the best coverage in your area (Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom).
- Speed: Look for devices that support 4G LTE or even 5G for fast download and upload speeds.
- Battery life: How long can the device last on a single charge? This is crucial if you’re on the go.
- Data plans: Compare data plans and choose one that fits your needs and budget.
- Number of connections: How many devices can you connect simultaneously?
- Price: Portable WiFi in Kenya comes in a range of prices. Set a budget and find the best device within your price range.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the devices themselves!
7 Best Portable WiFi Devices in Kenya
If you are looking for portable wifi in Kenya, here are some options.
1. Huawei E5573
This little guy is a pocket wifi powerhouse, offering great value for money. It’s compact, easy to use, and supports 4G LTE speeds.
Why it’s awesome:
- Affordable portable wifi price in Kenya.
- Reliable performance.
- Long battery life.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious users and travelers.
2. TP-Link M7000
This device is built for speed and reliability. It offers fast 4G LTE connectivity and can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Why it’s awesome:
- Blazing-fast speeds.
- Connects multiple devices.
- Great for sharing with friends or family.
Perfect for: Families, business travelers, and anyone who needs to connect multiple devices.
3. Alcatel MW45AD
Another one of the best portable wifi in Kenya is MW45AD.
This device is not only functional but also looks good doing it. It’s slim, sleek, and offers decent 4G LTE speeds.
Why it’s awesome:
- Stylish design.
- User-friendly interface.
- Good battery life.
Perfect for: Style-conscious users who want a device that looks as good as it performs.
4. Telkom 4G MiFi
Telkom Kenya offers this device and provides excellent coverage on their network. It’s a solid choice if you’re primarily using Telkom.
Why it’s awesome:
- Great Telkom network coverage.
- Affordable data plans.
- Reliable performance.
Perfect for: Telkom subscribers who want a reliable and affordable portable wifi solution.
5. Safaricom 4G MiFi
Safaricom is the leading mobile network operator in Kenya, and their 4G MiFi device offers excellent coverage and speeds.
Why it’s awesome:
- Wide network coverage.
- Fast 4G LTE speeds.
- Easy to use.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants the best possible coverage and speed in Kenya.
6. Airtel 4G MiFi
Airtel offers competitive data plans and their 4G MiFi device is a great option if you’re looking for value.
Why it’s awesome:
- Affordable data plans.
- Good network coverage.
- Decent battery life.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious users who want a good balance of performance and affordability.
7. Faiba 4G MiFi
Faiba is known for its fast 4G speeds, and their MiFi device doesn’t disappoint. If speed is your top priority, this is the device for you.
Why it’s awesome:
- Superfast 4G speeds.
- Reliable performance.
- Good value for money.
Perfect for: Heavy internet users and anyone who needs the fastest possible speeds.
Best Portable WiFi in Kenya Compared: Which One Is Right For You?
You’ve seen the contenders, now let’s compare them head-to-head. This table breaks down the key features of each portable WiFi device, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.
| Feature | Huawei E5573 | TP-Link M7000 | Alcatel MW45AD | Telkom 4G MiFi | Safaricom 4G MiFi | Airtel 4G MiFi | Faiba 4G MiFi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network Compatibility | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Telkom | Safaricom | Airtel | Faiba |
| Speed | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G LTE |
| Battery Life | Good | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Max Connections | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range | Budget-friendly | Mid-range |
| Special Features | Compact and portable | Fast speeds, connects multiple devices | Stylish design | Good Telkom coverage | Wide network coverage | Affordable data plans | Superfast speeds |
| Best For | Budget-conscious users | Families, business travelers | Style-conscious users | Telkom subscribers | Best coverage & speed | Value seekers | Speed demons |
Pro Tip: Remember to factor in data plan costs when making your decision. Some providers offer more competitive plans than others.
Still Stuck?
Choosing the best portable wifi in Kenya can be tough. If you’re still not sure which device is right for you, consider these questions:
- What’s your budget?
- Which network has the best coverage in your area?
- How much data do you need?
- How important is speed?
- How many devices do you need to connect?
Once you have the answers to these questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect portable WiFi companion.
Choosing the Right Data Plan
Okay, you’ve got your device. Now you need a data plan. Here’s the deal:
- Consider your usage: How much data do you need per month? Be realistic.
- Compare prices: Don’t just go with the first plan you see. Shop around and compare prices from different providers.
- Look for bundles: Many providers offer bundles that include data, voice minutes, and SMS.
- Check for hidden costs: Make sure there are no hidden fees or charges.
Pro Tip: Consider your usage patterns. Do you need more data during the day or at night? Some providers offer plans with different data allowances for different times of day.
Read also: 5 Cheapest Home Wifi in Kenya (Compared)
Setting Up Your Portable WiFi
Setting up your portable wifi router is usually a breeze. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Charge the device: Make sure the battery is fully charged before you start.
- Insert your SIM card: Most devices have a SIM card slot. Insert your SIM card and make sure it’s activated.
- Turn on the device: Press the power button and wait for the device to boot up.
- Connect your devices: Use the device’s WiFi name (SSID) and password to connect your smartphone, laptop, or tablet.
Troubleshooting Tips
Having trouble with your portable wifi? Here are a few things to try:
- Restart the device: Sometimes a simple restart can fix the problem.
- Check your signal strength: Make sure you have a strong signal. If not, try moving to a different location.
- Check your data balance: Make sure you have enough data left on your plan.
- Update the device’s firmware: Check for firmware updates and install them if available.
- Contact your provider: If you’re still having problems, contact your service provider for assistance.
FAQs about Portable WiFi in Kenya
How much is wifi per month in Kenya?
The cost of wifi in Kenya varies depending on your provider and data plan. You can find plans for as low as KES 1,000 per month, with prices going up for heavier data users.
How much is wifi installation cost?
With portable WiFi, there’s no installation cost! You simply buy the device and activate a data plan.
What is the cheapest wifi packages in Kenya 2024?
Several providers offer affordable wifi packages in Kenya. Check out Telkom, Airtel, and Faiba for some of the cheapest options.
Where can I buy portable wifi in Kenya?
You can buy portable wifi in Kenya from various retailers, including:
- Mobile network operator shops (Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom)
- Online retailers (Jumia, Kilimall)
- Electronics stores
Conclusion
There you have it – your guide to the best portable wifi in Kenya. Whether you’re a student, a business traveler, or a digital nomad, portable WiFi gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay connected wherever you go.
So ditch the data blues and get yourself a portable WiFi device today. You won’t regret it.