Introduction:
Nowadays 4G and 5G mobile networks become too fast that some people start thinking that Is mobile WiFi is best option for online gaming?
Short Answer, It could but all depend on signal strength, latency and which game you are playing. In this article we will understand that how mobile wifi is suitable for gaming.
1. What is Mobile WiFi
Mobile WiFi is internet that is connected to your mobile through you SIM card via 4G or 5G network. You can connect your mobile, laptop even can connect your gaming console through it.
Key Features:
- Portable and on-the-go internet
- Sim-based data connection
- Can connect with multiple devices
2.Is Mobile WiFi Speed is Enough for Gaming
Speed:
If you play casual games like Subway Surfers, Clash of clans or 8 Ball pool than 4G or 5G speed is enough.
- 4G: 20Mbps to 50Mbps
- 5G: 100Mbps+
This speed is enough for majority online games.
Stability:
Signal Fluctuation i biggest issue. Sometimes, mobile network speed becomes slow especially when:
- Signals are weak
- Crowed on network
- Unfair weather
3. Ping and latency, the gamer’s headache
Ping and latency is more important than speed especially when you are playing competitive games.
- Best ping: 20ms to 50ms
- Acceptable ping: 50ms to 100ms
- Laggy ping: 100ms+
In mobile wifi ping remains high becomes internet signals come from tower.
4. How much data is consumed in gaming?
If your data is limited then you have to take a look on your gaming
- Online Gaming(per hour): 40MB to 150MB
- With voice chat: 200MB+
- Games data download or update: Assume GBs of internet
Example: GTA V update can easily consume 2-5 GB data.
5. Battery drain and Device Heating issues
If you turn on your mobile hotspot than:
- Battery drain fast
- Phone heat ups too early
- Long-term use can also damage device
Heating up of phone during Gaming session is common issue.
Also Read
What is Dual Band WiFi? Full Guide For Fast Internet
Why My WiFi Becomes Slow Suddenly?
Do You Need WiFi for Ethernet?
6. Benefits and disadvantages of Mobile WiFi gaming
Benefits:
- Portable internet, can play game anywhere easily
- No dependency on wired networks
- Helpful for emergency gaming sessions
Disadvantages:
- High latency and lag issues
- Signal depend on tower
- Risk of data limit and signal dropping
My opinion
If you are a casual gaming player then mobile wifi is enough. But if you are competitive gaming player then mobile wifi is not best. Mobile wifi is best in traveling emergency network backup and light multiple players. You should avoid play rank matches, fast spaced FPS games and gaming tournament when you re using mobile wifi network.
If you want reliable network for gaming then you should wired Ethernet. Mobile wifi can be backup option not primary internet.
