A reliable internet connection is crucial, particularly in areas without fiber or adequate ADSL speeds. 4G boxes are effective solutions, providing high-speed internet by utilizing mobile networks. The guide discusses leading options for 2024, including Bouygues Telecom, SFR, Free, and Orange, detailing their speeds, pricing, and features. It also highlights the simplicity of 4G boxes, their pros and cons, and emphasizes their suitability mainly for homes lacking fiber connectivity.
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right 4G Box
In today’s digital age, having a reliable internet connection at home is essential, especially in areas lacking fiber or sufficient ADSL speed. Enter the 4G box, a game-changer for those in need of high-speed internet access. With numerous operators providing enticing plans, the question arises: which 4G box should you select? Let’s explore some of the top options available right now.
Top 4G Box Options for 2024
As of now, over 92% of households in France enjoy internet connectivity. However, several regions still grapple with inadequate coverage, making 4G boxes a viable solution. These devices leverage the same 4G network utilized by smartphones, catering specifically to individuals residing in areas without fiber optics.
For those struggling with slow connections, a 4G box presents an opportunity to experience significantly higher internet speeds. By sharing the mobile network through Wi-Fi, users can connect multiple devices, making it an attractive choice for browsing, gaming, streaming, or remote work.
Bouygues Telecom 4G Box
For 2024, the Bouygues Telecom 4G box stands out as one of the premier choices for internet access in fiber-deficient zones. This compact device allows connections via both Wi-Fi and Ethernet, ensuring optimal speed.
Enjoy unlimited 4G+ connectivity that can reach download speeds of up to 220 Mbps and upload speeds of 38 Mbps—up to 10 times faster than ADSL. Priced at €37.99/month, this plan also includes free access to 70 live channels and 25 replays through the B.tv app on your smartphone or tablet. Plus, you can connect up to 64 devices simultaneously.
Bouygues Telecom does charge a setup and cancellation fee of €19 each, but they provide a 30-day “Satisfaction or Money Back” guarantee, allowing you to cancel without penalty if the service does not meet your expectations.
SFR 4G+ Box
Similar to Bouygues, the SFR 4G box delivers a remarkable 4G+ connection, offering speeds that can also reach 10 times that of ADSL. At €36.99/month, you gain unlimited internet access and the ability to connect 64 devices simultaneously.
This box can achieve download speeds of up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds of 50 Mbps. With four Ethernet ports available, you can enjoy both wired and wireless connections. Additionally, SFR offers unlimited calls to landlines and mobiles within France and the DOM. You can also access 130 TV channels through the SFR TV app on various devices.
Just like Bouygues, SFR imposes a setup and cancellation fee of €19 each, with the 4G+ box available without any long-term commitment.
Free 4G+ Box
The Free 4G+ Box is another excellent choice for achieving a robust internet connection, even in areas lacking fiber. This box provides ultra-fast speeds that can soar to 320 Mbps for downloads and 50 Mbps for uploads, making it approximately 15 times faster than ADSL. The plan is priced at €29.99/month with no commitment, allowing for a flexible option.
While the connection is capped at 250 GB, it continues at a reduced speed thereafter. Similar to its competitors, the Free 4G box can connect up to 64 devices at once. The first 30 days come with a “satisfaction or money back” guarantee, and Free promises to refund cancellation fees during this period. Note that there is a setup fee of €19 and a cancellation fee of €29.
Orange 4G Home and 5G Home
The Orange 4G Home plan is available for €38.99/month without commitment. If you’re not satisfied after the first month, Orange will refund your purchase fees for the 4G+ Flybox. It supports high-speed connections up to 300 Mbps for downloads, with a monthly data cap of 200 GB. Beyond this limit, the speed drops to 128 kbit/s. However, Orange provides an additional 100 GB/month Pass at no extra cost. If you need more data, you can subscribe to extra recharge Passes.
In addition to internet access, Orange offers over 100 TV channels available on computers, tablets, or mobile devices. You can also opt for the TV Key at €5/month to watch TV on your television. Like others, this service allows connection for up to 64 devices and features four Ethernet ports for wired connections.
For those seeking an even faster option, Orange also provides a 5G Home box for €42.99/month, offering an unlimited high-speed connection that can reach up to 1 Gbps for downloads.
Understanding 4G Box Functionality
4G boxes are designed for simplicity. As the name suggests, they utilize the same 4G mobile network as smartphones. Acting as a router, you simply insert a SIM card and plug the device into a power source to get started.
The 4G box connects to the mobile network and emits a Wi-Fi signal, allowing you to access the internet from any device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Many models also feature Ethernet ports for wired connections, providing speeds that can be 10 to 15 times faster than traditional ADSL connections. This makes them a superior choice for areas lacking fiber optics.
Pros and Cons of Using a 4G Box
4G boxes come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages that should be weighed before making a decision.
Starting with the positives, 4G boxes offer fast internet speeds that can often exceed 300 Mbps for downloads, surpassing ADSL capabilities. The Wi-Fi coverage can extend up to 250 meters around the box, enhancing connectivity. Depending on your chosen provider, additional features may include TV access or landline phone services. Moreover, setup is incredibly easy; once your 4G box is delivered, you simply plug it in and insert the SIM card to start enjoying internet access.
On the downside, these boxes are only suitable for users with poor ADSL connections who lack fiber. If your residence is in a fiber-covered area, this option may not be available to you. Additionally, if your home doesn’t receive strong 4G signals, the performance of your box could be compromised. Therefore, it’s crucial to select an operator based on the quality of their network in your location. Lastly, 4G boxes are not intended for mobile use; they are designed for home connectivity.
For those seeking a mobile internet solution, consider opting for a 4G Wi-Fi Hotspot to enjoy internet access on the go.