Verdict: The Skyroam Solis X offers fantastic battery life, integrated with a 4,700 mAh power bank, making it our top pick for a WiFi hotspot device, priced similarly to Teppy.
Traveling worldwide offers diverse experiences, but staying connected becomes a hassle. Whether it’s blogging, remote work, or everyday connectivity needs, finding reliable internet overseas is vital. Public WiFis pose privacy risks, while local SIM cards aren’t always feasible for short stays. International WiFi Hotspot Devices like Skyroam and TEP eliminate this struggle, providing seamless connectivity across various countries. Let’s dive into a comparison of these two companies.
How do WiFi Hotspot devices Work?
International WiFi hotspot devices operate through partnerships with local 4G carriers across various countries. These devices use the 4G network of the respective local carrier when you’re in a specific country. Instead of paying the carrier directly, users subscribe to plans offered by the WiFi hotspot manufacturers. Although slightly pricier than local SIM cards, these devices provide convenience by eliminating the need to switch SIMs and purchase new phone plans in each country. They ensure continuous internet access across multiple destinations without the hassle of changing carriers or services.
These gadgets are ideal for frequent travelers who move between countries and don’t stay in one place for an extended period. They offer flexible 24-hour subscriptions that cater to short stays until users familiarize themselves with local plans. Conversely, if you plan an extended stay at a specific location, opting for a local SIM and device might be a more cost-effective choice.
Skyroam vs Tep
The leading companies in the WiFi hotspot market, Skyroam and Teppy, offer comparable services and dominate the industry. Each company presents a set of features worth exploring. Later, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of two renowned WiFi hotspot devices, the Skyroam Solis and Teppy.
About Skyroam
Skyroam was established in 2008 by Jung Liu, a frequent business traveler who encountered common challenges associated with international or countrywide travel. Liu faced issues securing a reliable, fast mobile internet connection while on the move, often accompanied by exorbitant roaming charges. Recognizing the difficulty in finding affordable, dependable mobile WiFi, he developed and patented virtual SIM technology in 2008. This innovation led to the creation of the Skyroam Global Hotspot, providing users with fast, secure, and cost-effective mobile data across the globe.
Skyroam’s WiFi hotspot device lineup includes two distinct products: the Solis X and Solis Lite.
The Skyroam Solis X WiFi Smartspot offers 4G LTE Mobile data, functioning as a 4700 mAh Powerbank, featuring an 8 MP Remote Camera and a customizable Smart Assistant. It supports connections for up to 10 devices simultaneously, employs patented vSIM Technology, and is compatible with Local & International Data Plans. Additionally, it includes a built-in Speaker, Microphone, and Bluetooth.
In contrast, the Solis Lite WiFi Hotspot, a more basic version of the Solis X, provides 4G LTE Mobile data and supports up to 10 connections concurrently. It boasts all-day battery life and utilizes patented vSIM Technology compatible with Local & International Data Plans. However, it lacks an 8 MP Remote Camera, built-in Speaker, Microphone, Bluetooth, and customizable Smart Assistant, making it a streamlined version of the Solis X with essential functionalities.
About Tep Wireless
Tep Wireless, also known as Tep, was founded in 2010 by Simine Rigoni, offering mobile broadband for global travelers. Much like Skyroam, their focus is on curbing high roaming fees faced by international travelers while ensuring wireless mobile data accessibility worldwide. Their mobile broadband service operates via partnerships with global network operators, facilitated through their Teppy Hotspot device, available for purchase or rent.
Their sole WiFi hotspot device, the Teppy, offers access to 400+ data plans through their app. It supports connectivity for up to five devices, encompassing smartphones, laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles. The Teppy provides up to 12 hours of usage on a single charge, is password-protected, safe, and secure. With no contracts, users enjoy flexibility, accessing extensive network coverage without long-term commitments.
Skyroam Solis X vs Teppy
Comparison of Skyroam Solis X and Teppy WiFi Hotspot Devices:
Build and Design
- Solis X: Medium-sized, round-shaped device (3.5” x 0.9”, 11 ounces). Fits travel purses or backpack outer pockets but not jeans pockets. Comes in an appealing orange color.
- Teppy: Slim, rectangular-shaped device (3.93″ x 2.75″ x 0.59″, 4.5 ounces). Lightweight, small, and easily fits in any pocket, including jeans or backpacks.
Battery Life
- Solis X: Impressive battery life of over 16 hours on a single charge. Features a built-in 4700 mAh power bank with USB-C outlet for continuous usage and on-the-go charging.
- Teppy: Offers up to 6 hours of battery life on a single charge, with less than half the battery capacity of the Solis X. Lacks an integrated power bank.
Simultaneous Connection
- Solis X: Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections at a time.
- Teppy: Supports up to 5 simultaneous connections.
While Solis X boasts longer battery life, more simultaneous connections, and a power bank, Teppy is smaller, lighter, and offers a more pocket-friendly design. The choice between the two would depend on preferences regarding portability, battery life, and the number of connections required.
WiFi Plans
Both TEP and Skyroam allow you to either buy the device or Rent them. They both have an unlimited plan and a day plan as well.
Skyroam Plans:
- Unlimited Monthly Subscription: Provides 30 days of unlimited data with billing per month. Offers high-speed data up to 20GB, then switches to slower speeds (3G/2G). Available in Global or USA plans at $99-$49/mo, depending on geography and prepayment choice.
- GoData Pay-Per-GB Subscription: A pay-as-you-go plan with a base price of $9-$4 per month. Includes 1 GB of high-speed data per month, and additional GBs can be purchased based on the region at $9-$4/mo per GB.
- Global Day Passes: Offers unlimited high-speed data over 24 hours in any covered country at $9/day.
Teppy Plans:
- Unlimited Monthly Subscription: Provides 30 days of unlimited data billed at $99 per month. Subscribers get a free Teppy device.
- Pay-As-You-Go Plans: Offers access to 900+ data plans suitable for various users in over 130+ covered countries.
- Day Passes: Grants unlimited internet access for 24 hours at $8/day. New device purchases include a free 3-day pass.
Teppy triumphs in pricing! It’s more cost-effective, grants 3 free passes (Skyroam offers just 1), and a free Teppy device with a $99 monthly plan.
Renting the Device
Skyroam Solis X: Rent the Solis X at $8.99/day plus shipping charges. Prepay for round-trip shipping or use their global drop-off points for returns.
Teppy: Rent Teppy starting at $7.95/day, offering different data plans. Shipping to you is free in select countries; return shipping fees apply. Plans vary based on daily data usage and include travel adapters.
Teppy emerges as the better rental choice, costing slightly less per day and offering free shipping to some locations. But remember, if you travel often, buying might be more cost-effective due to potential shipping charges.
Data Capping
Both Skyroam Solis X and TEP Wireless enforce a 500MB daily 4G usage cap per day due to international data roaming agreements. Once reached, speeds reduce to 2G/3G. With TEP, you can add 500MB at 4G for $1.95/day, while Skyroam offers continuous 4G speed at $6/GB (USA/Europe) or $9/GB (Worldwide).
Verdict: Skyroam vs Tep Wireless
Skyroam Solis X excels in build quality and offers an integrated 4700 mAh power bank, but Teppy has a lower price point and offers the device for free with their $99/month plan. Additionally, Teppy has better rental options. Both perform well in coverage, but Solis X’s extra battery life makes it stand out.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual priorities and usage patterns. However, our top pick is the Skyroam Solis X due to its exceptional battery life and integrated power bank.
Both Skyroam Solis X and TEP Wireless offer reliable connectivity solutions for international travelers. Whichever you opt for, you can rest assured that your connectivity needs while traveling will be well taken care of. Enjoy hassle-free and uninterrupted connectivity wherever your adventures take you!
Leave a Reply