Internet dongles for laptops

Internet dongles connect to mobile networks and share internet to a laptop, Mac or desktop computer via a USB-port.

Their major selling points are they don’t require charging, extremely portable and are often the most cost-effective way to get internet on the move.

How do Internet dongles work?

Internet dongles connect to 4G and 5G mobile networks via an embedded SIM-card. This internet is shared via a USB-port on a laptop, Mac or desktop computer.

They are plug-and-play devices, so you simply plug them into the device you wish to connect to the internet and away you go. Generally, they are a cost-effective solution to provide internet to a support device.

What Internet dongles are available?

Internet dongles are currently available in the UK on Vodafone and O2.

Both are comparable in terms of specification and both support 4G networks, so we’d recommend checking which network has the better coverage in your area.

What speeds can I expect with an Internet dongle?

With the 4G dongles currently available on UK networks you can expect average speeds of around 20Mbps. That’s perfect for browsing, social media and email but isn’t ideal for streaming video.

Meanwhile, with a 5G dongle you can expect speeds averaging nearer 100Mbps. That’s perfect for most use-cases and those in areas with widespread 5G coverage can expect even faster average speeds.

Speeds vary based on network coverage and other variables. As a starting point we’d always recommend comparing network coverage in your area to get a general of how good network performance is in your area.

The good thing about ordering an internet dongle is you can return it for a refund in unhappy performance within the first 30 days.

When aren’t Internet dongles suitable?

Internet dongles are generally for connecting a single laptop, Mac or desktop device via USB. Therefore, if you are looking to connect multiple devices when out-and-about we’d recommend a Mobile Wi-Fi dongle.

Mobile Wi-Fi dongles connect to the mobile networks and then create a personal Wi-Fi network, which you can multiple devices simultaneously. There is also a wider selection available, including a device that support 5G.

Also, the dongles currently available on UK mobile networks only support speeds up to 150Mbps. So those looking for the fastest speeds might want to consider a Mobile Wi-Fi dongle or purchasing an internet dongle separately and then buying a data-only SIM.