A mobile hotspot allows you to connect other devices to the internet using the data from your phone plan.

The data usage for a mobile hotspot is directly tied to the activities performed on the devices connected to it.

On average, a hotspot can consume anywhere between 60MB to 810MB of data per hour, depending on the activity.

This guide outlines how much data various activities use, provides information on cell phone plans that offer mobile hotspot data, and answers common hotspot-related questions, such as the cost of a mobile hotspot and how to set up your phone as a hotspot.

What is a Mobile Hotspot, and How Do You Use It?

A mobile hotspot is a device, often your phone, that shares its cellular data connection by broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal, allowing other devices to access the internet. 

Setting up your phone as a hotspot is simple, or you can opt for a portable hotspot device to conserve your mobile data.

Steps to use your phone as a mobile hotspot:

1. Open your general settings.
2. Locate the “Mobile Hotspot” setting, which may be found under “Cellular Data” settings or as a separate option.
3. Turn the mobile hotspot option “on.” Your phone will provide you with a network name and password.
4. On your other device, go to Wi-Fi settings.
5. Find and select your network name.
6. Enter the password and connect.

How Much Does a Hotspot Cost?

In most cases, there is no additional cost for using a mobile hotspot, as it’s generally included in your cell phone plan.

Your hotspot usage may either come from a specific allotment of data for hotspot use or from your overall data plan. 

If you exceed your monthly data limit, you may incur extra charges for the additional data.

Some prepaid providers, such as Boost Mobile and Straight Talk Wireless, may offer hotspot data add-ons as well.

If you don’t have a phone that supports hotspot functionality, you can purchase a standalone hotspot device. 

These devices usually range in price from $150 to $200. Additionally, some carriers, such as Verizon, charge an access fee to use the hotspot device, such as $20/month for an Unlimited plan or $10/month for a shared data plan.

Data Usage for Hotspots

The amount of data your hotspot consumes depends on what activities you’re doing on the connected devices.

Here’s a table to give you an idea of the data usage for different activities:

Do Mobile Hotspots Have Data Limits?

The data limits for hotspots are determined by your mobile plan. Carriers handle and restrict hotspot data usage in a couple of main ways:

1. Data included in the phone plan: Some plans count hotspot data toward your overall data limit, including smaller data plans. Unlimited plans may allow hotspot data but could restrict the speed.
2. Dedicated hotspot data: Many plans, particularly unlimited plans from major carriers, come with a specific allowance of high-speed hotspot data, separate from your overall data limit. These limits typically range from 20GB to 100GB per month, and once you hit the cap, your speeds will be reduced.

While hotspot data usage doesn’t usually incur extra costs unless you exceed your limit, plans with high data caps are often necessary for data-heavy activities such as streaming or video conferencing.

If your needs are lighter, a hotspot might be a good alternative for accessing the internet without requiring a traditional home connection.

How to Track Hotspot Data Usage?

Most cell phone carriers provide easy access to data usage information through apps and online account managers like myAT&T, My Verizon, and My T-Mobile.

You can also check your phone bill for a breakdown of your data consumption during a billing cycle.

Can You Share a Mobile Hotspot Connection?

Yes, a mobile hotspot connection can be shared with multiple devices.

However, keep in mind that the more devices connected, the more data will be used, potentially causing your data usage to spike.

Best Mobile Hotspot Plans

Here are some of the top mobile hotspot data plans:

Visible’s $25 plan offers unlimited hotspot access at respectable speeds (5Mbps) and is a great option for those who use hotspots occasionally. 

US Mobile’s $45 Unlimited Premium plan provides a generous 50GB of hotspot data, ideal for those who need reliable on-the-go internet access without excessive costs.

For heavy hotspot users, Verizon’s Unlimited Ultimate plan provides 60GB of hotspot data, with the option to add 100GB for just $10. 

While it comes at a premium price, this plan is perfect for those who often engage in data-intensive activities while on the move.