What is the Difference Between Tethering and Hotspot?

05/21/2025 • Giovanni Medeiros

Tethering and hotspots are both methods for providing internet access to devices using mobile data. However, there are some differences between the two:

Tethering:

  • Involves using your smartphone to share its data connection with other devices, such as laptops or tablets.
  • Can be done using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a USB cable.
  • Requires a relatively new smartphone and data plan.
  • Performance and capabilities may be limited compared to dedicated hotspot devices.
  • Pros: cost-effective, connectivity for up to 32 devices depending on the hotspot, and consistent performance with Wi-Fi 6 on 5G devices.
  • Cons: limited performance and capabilities compared to dedicated hotspot devices.

Hotspots:

  • Involves using a dedicated device, such as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, to connect to the closest cellular tower and provide internet access for other devices.
  • Offers better performance and capabilities compared to using a smartphone as a hotspot.
  • Ideal for heavy-duty hotspot needs, such as working remotely or using it for school groups and teams of employees on work trips.
  • Pros: better performance and capabilities compared to smartphone hotspots, and potentially more secure than using a smartphone hotspot.
  • Cons: may not be necessary if the user does not require heavy-duty hotspot needs.

In summary, tethering allows you to use your smartphone to share its data connection with other devices, while hotspots involve using a dedicated device to provide internet access. Both methods have their pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and usage patterns.

Comparative Table: Tethering vs Hotspot

The main difference between tethering and a hotspot lies in the hardware and connection methods used to share an internet connection with other devices. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences:

Feature Tethering Hotspot
Connection Method USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Hardware Requires a mobile phone and, in some cases, a USB cable Requires a dedicated device like a portable Wi-Fi hotspot
Range Limited by the length of the USB cable or Bluetooth range Fluctuating but limited, depending on the Wi-Fi signal
Speed Faster Slower
Battery Consumption Does not waste much battery life Drains more battery life
Device Compatibility Typically used for laptops, tablets, and other devices connected through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a USB cable Connects multiple devices simultaneously using Wi-Fi

In summary, tethering is a method of sharing an internet connection from a mobile phone to another device using a physical connection (such as USB) or wireless methods like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. On the other hand, a hotspot is a dedicated device that provides internet access to multiple devices within a limited range, typically using Wi-Fi.

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