Key takeaways
- MTN MiFi is a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device, while MTN turbonet is a plug-and-play broadband device.
- The MiFi connects up to 10 devices, whereas the MTN turbonet supports up to 32 devices.
- Both devices have different data packages.
A reliable internet connection is essential for activities, and MTN Ghana offers two portable primary solutions: the MTN MiFi and turbonet.
MTN’s MiFi is a wireless internet device that works like a mobile hotspot. On the other hand, turbonet is a plug-and-play 4G or 5G broadband for homes and businesses.
In this article, we compare these two products to help you choose one.
MTN MiFi vs turbonet: Overview
MTN MiFi and turbonet differ in terms of functionality and features:
| Features | MTN MiFi | MTN turbonet |
| Primary focus | Mobile hotspot | Home or office broadband |
| Portability | Highly portable | Less portable |
| Device connection | Up to 10 devices | Up to 32 devices |
| Speed | Provides 10-15 Mbps | Provides up to 300 Mbps |
| Price | GH₵300 – GH₵600 | GH₵1,500 – GH₵2,500 |
MTN MiFi vs turbonet: Full comparison
Both MTN MiFi and turbonet devices offer features designed for different types of users. We examine both more closely below.
Usability
Regarding usability, both the MTN MiFi and turbonet are all about convenience. However, the MTN MiFi can connect up to only ten devices, while the MTN turbonet takes this further to 32.
Both devices are very easy to set up—you insert an MTN SIM card, turn it on, and connect your devices using the Wi-Fi name and password provided. The turbonet, however, can be used wirelessly (through Wi-Fi) or through a wired connection (LAN).
Similarly, you can connect both devices to the 4G network. MTN’s MiFi uses a standard MTN SIM card, with some models supporting the MTN data SIM. It features a micro-USB port for charging. On the other hand, the turbonet requires a data SIM and a direct power source to operate.
Speed and reliability
The speed and reliability of the MTN MiFi and turbonet depend on network coverage.
MTN MiFi offers basic internet speeds between 10 and 20 Mbps, suitable for essential activities like browsing, social media, and emailing.
MTN turbonet, on the other hand, can achieve significantly higher speeds, up to about 150Mbps download speeds and 50Mbps upload speeds.
This makes it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like HD streaming and online gaming. However, you must be within MTN’s 4G coverage area to get the best performance.
Data packages
The MTN MiFi uses a regular MTN SIM card, so you can choose from various MTN data plans, including regular data bundles, Mashup bundles, and Just4U bundles.
In contrast, turbonet’s data SIM requires that you purchase tailored bundles through the *5057# shortcode. Here’s how much you get for your money on both devices:
| Cost (GHS) | MTN MiFi (GB) | MTN Turbonet (GB) |
| 25 | 1.49 | 2.41 |
| 43 | 2.56 | 4.30 |
| 87 | 5.19 | 8.69 |
| 253 | 33.52 | 91.82 |
| 516 | – | 350.54 |
Note: MTN MiFi’s that use regular MTN SIM cards do not allow you to purchase data worth more than GHS 350.00, which gives you 92.88 GB worth of data.
Battery life
Battery life is essential if you plan to use the device on the go.
The MTN MiFi can last several hours, about six to eight hours, on a full charge. Conversely, the MTN turbonet is powered by a direct power source, making it less portable.
Some turbonet devices, however, include a Power Bank with a battery life of 10 to 12 hours to use as a backup power source during a power outage.
Portability
If portability is a priority for you, the MTN MiFi is the clear winner. It’s lightweight and designed to be carried around easily. Its small size makes it perfect for travel.
Turbonet is designed to be stationary in homes or offices because of its plug-and-play feature. Still, you can carry it around if you have the power bank or access to a power supply.
Price
MTN MiFi is more affordable, costing between GH₵300 and GH₵600. In contrast, MTN turbonet requires a significant investment, often between GH₵1,500 and GH₵2,000.
Which should you choose?
MTN MiFi is an excellent choice if you have a limited budget and need internet access on the go. It’s affordable, portable, and can be used without electricity. We recommend it for students, travelers, and remote workers on the go.
However, if you want a reliable internet connection for your home or office to support multiple users and devices, MTN turbonet is ideal. You get higher, stable speeds and 32 simultaneous device connections.
Be sure to evaluate your needs and internet usage patterns to choose wisely. And if neither meets your needs, consider exploring the MTN fibre broadband internet solution.
FAQs
How to buy data on your MTN MiFi or turbonet?
You can buy regular data bundles through the *138# USSD code for the MTN MiFi, such as Just4U, Mashup, and Midnight bundles. For MTN turbonet, you must purchase tailored data bundles through *5057# USSD code.
Does MTN MiFi and turbonet data expire?
Yes, MTN MiFi data packages expire, but it depends on the data bundle you purchase. For example, Just4U bundles expire, while regular and Mashup bundles do not. The data packages for MTN turbonet do not expire.
Conclusion
The MTN MiFi and turbonet offer reliable internet solutions for different use cases.
If portability and affordability are your main concerns, the MTN MiFi is the ideal choice, but if you want high-speed internet at home or in your office, the MTN turbonet is the better option.
Have you used the MTN MiFi or turbonet? Share your experiences and questions with us in the comment section.
