Are you looking for the best way to stay connected with the world while roaming in Japan? Are you looking for the perfect device for getting internet services? Congratulations readers! You have reached the right place. Here you will get the comparison between Japan sim card vs pocket wifi, pros and cons of these two gadgets. 

You are requested to read the article carefully & know everything in detail.

Having an internet service is essential now these days. If you are a traveler in Japan then you also need internet services to track down your trains, routing, and other important things. 

But how to get an appropriate internet connection in a foreign land? 

The answer is quite simple, one can get a local SIM Card or can get a pocket wifi. Having a strong internet connection will let you have the benefits of 

  • High-Speed Internet Service
  • Unlimited Data 
  • Stable connection
  • Wide Coverage

So, one must select one option for the internet service. Therefore, people get confused about which mode is better for the internet. 

Therefore, we step up here. We will discuss the comparison of Japan SIM Card vs Pocket Wifi.  Staying connected will enhance your ability to communicate, travel, and other important things. So, it is one of the essential things that one must know. 

So, read the instructions carefully to know things in a better way. 

Japan SIM Card Vs Pocket Wifi

When you are planning to travel to Japan then staying connected is one of the crucial steps. There are different methods to enjoy an internet connection in Japan. 

One can get the local SIM Card and insert it into your mobile phone to get the internet connection. Also, one can get pocket Wifi a new technology gadget for fast and unlimited data. 

So, here comes the biggest question between Japan SIM Card vs Pocket wifi. Which one is better to use?

Therefore, let’s proceed next to know the comparison. 

Japan Sim card vs Pocket Wifi

FeaturesJapan SIM CardPocket Wifi
SetupInsert the SIM Card into Mobile phone Turn on the device and connect
SecuritySecured ConnectionConnection is private and secured
UsesEasy to useSimple to use
Device Requirementmobile phone is requiredPocket wifi device is required
CompatibilityMobile phone must be compatible for the SIM Compatible for all wifi enable device
CoverageLimited coverage in rural areaWide coverage in rural and urban areas
Internet SpeedLimited speed depends on the mobile signalsgenerally have high speed internet service
StabilityLess stable connectionConnection is more stable than SIM Card
Data LimitSIM Card have usualy limited data planPocket wifi generally have unlimited data plan
Roaming ChargesNo roaming chargesNo roaming charges
CostLow costHigh cost
Number of Device connectOne device per SIM Can connect to at least 10 devices at a time

What is Pocket Wifi and How it Works?

Pocket Wifi is also known as the portable wifi. It is a device which is used to get the internet signals. Yes, it is a portable modem. 

It transmits the wifi signals and you can connect to these signals. You can connect your laptop, mobile, and other wifi-enabled devices with it. 

You can buy it or rent it in Japan. If you are in Japan for a few days and you want a stable internet facility with high speed, then you should go with this device. 

There are certain advantages to having this device. Let’s explore them all one by one. 

Advantages of Pocket Wifi

Let’s know the pros of Pocket wifi. 

  • First of all, it provides a high-speed internet facility. 
  • Also, it provides unlimited data. 
  • It provides the facility to connect 10 gadgets at a time. 
  • The pocket wifi device is portable. So, it operates on the battery. So, it has a long battery backup which enables you to use it for a long time in one charge. 
  • Mobility is one of the USPs of Pocket Internet. It is a small device. You can put it in your pocket. 
  • It provides a wide coverage range. It also provides you with stable connections in rural areas. 

Pocket wifi

Disadvantages of Pocket Wifi

Anything if it has pros then there are some cons of it. So, one must know the disadvantages of Pocket Wifi.

  • This device has a high cost. If you are planning to buy it then it will cost higher than the SIM Card. But you can rent it in Japan. So, you need to return it after some time. 
  • This device provides stable connections, but there are mostly unlimited data plans available for this device. So, it is costlier for the solo user
  • The main disadvantage of this device is that you will have one extra gadget to carry around. 

What is a Japan SIM Card and how does it work?

Getting a Japanese SIM Card is one of the most adopted and cheaper ways to get an internet connection. It provides internet facilities without roaming charges. 

If you are a solo traveler in Japan and you want to have a stable internet connection. Then you must buy a Japan SIM Card. 

All you need to do is get it activated from the vendor. Thereafter, you will have to insert it into your compatible mobile device. Thereafter, you need to set up an APN PIN, if required. 

At last, you can use the internet services through your mobile phone.

So, it is time to know the advantages and disadvantages of getting a Japan SIM Card for internet services.

Advantages of Japan SIM Card

  • It is a cost-effective solution for the solo traveler. You choose the cheaper plan for the internet services. 
  • You can insert the SIM Card into your compatible mobile phone. There is no need for extra gadgets
  • It is more convenient to purchase a SIM card rather than renting a pocket wifi device. 
  • You can send text messages and call anyone without paying roaming charges in Japan. 

japan sim card

Disadvantages of Japan SIM Card

  • You are required with a compatible mobile device. If your mobile is not compatible then your SIM will not work. 
  • If you are planning to travel to a rural area then you may encounter a signal problem. 
  • Only one user can use the internet service if you choose to go with the Japan SIM Card. 
  • Having a SIM Card for the internet services will provide you with low-speed internet as compared to pocket wifi. 

These are some of the important factors that we have learned in the Japan SIM Card vs Pocket Wifi comparison. We must keep in mind while selecting a device for an internet connection in Japan. 

How to choose the best option between Pocket Wifi and SIM Card Japan

Now we know the pros and cons of both Pocket wifi and Japan SIM cards. So, we already know that both options are good for the access internet in Japan. Therefore, it fully depends on other factors which one you should choose for the internet services. 

You will need to consider these given points to know which option is better for you. 

  • Duration of Stay:

Travelers planned their trip to Japan. They also know the duration of their stay. So, if you are single and have planned to stay long in Japan then you should get SIM Card. If you are not staying for long, then it is convenient to get the pocket wifi on rent. 

  • Group Size

If you are in a group, then you are required with more internet data to stay connected in Japan. In that case, you should get the pocket wifi. It helps you get unlimited data and allows a number of people to get the connection at the same time. If you are a single traveler then you can get the Japan SIM card. It will help you get internet access and allow you access to the local network to make calls and messages. 

  • Budget

If you have a low budget and require unlimited data. Then you can proceed with the pocket wifi. It allows several travelers to connect to the internet simultaneously. 

So, when you are choosing between Japan SIM Card vs pocket wifi. Then you need to consider these given factors. These points will help you select best suitable device for the internet connection in Japan. 

Related: 

Which is Better Among Modem Router Combo and Separate?

Conclusion

In final words, a comparison of Japan SIM Card vs Pocket wifi will lead you to select one method for the internet. Both are the different functionality to provide the same purpose. 

So, sometimes users find it difficult to choose the right method for getting internet in Japan. 

Therefore, we have discussed every single aspect which will lead you to choose any of the methods. In short, it all depends on your requirements. Both methods are good. 

If you are going solo then you can buy a SIM Card. Otherwise, if you are in a group and want to have the internet facility without paying roaming charges. Then you should go with the pocket internet. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to get a SIM Card than pocket wifi?

It all depends on the situation. If you are going solo and want to have an internet facility for one person. Then you should go for the SIM Card.
On the other hand, if you are in the group. Then you should rent a pocket wifi device. This device will allow 10 users to connect at the same time.

Japan SIM Card vs Pocket wifi, Which is a cheaper way to get internet in Japan?

For 10 people it is cheaper to rent a pocket wifi and recharge it with unlimited data. Also, if you are looking for internet services for a single person.
Then it is cheaper to purchase and activate a Japan SIM Card or eSIM.

How many devices can I connect to Pocket Wifi?

Pocket Wifi worked as a portable modem. You can take it anywhere. So, one can connect the wifi enable device to the pocket wifi for the internet.
It provides the facility to connect 10 users at a single time.

Do pocket Wifi are compatible with the 5G network?

Yes, some pocket wifi models are compatible with 5g networks in Japan. So, you can have the 5g internet speed using this device.
But you need to make sure of some important points. Like 5g network availability etc.

Which one is better Japan SIM Card vs Pocket Wifi?

If you are a Solo Traveler & are going on a short trip. Then, a SIM card is a suitable option for you. As there are no rental fees, you don’t need to carry the additional device to charge it, & is easy to use.

However, if you are in a group or have multiple devices that require internet connectivity. And you thinking of longer stays. In such instances, Pocket Wifi is a suitable & better option for you. But, you will not have any number to make calls (offline). You to rely on Skype or social media to make calls.

You can connect multiple devices, but you need to carry additional devices (chargers) with them, they have a rental fee, which can be cost-effective if you are in a group. It enables you to stream videos and work online.

So, depending on your need & convenience. You can choose a better & suitable option for you between a Japan SIM Card vs Pocket Wifi. Therefore, select accordingly.

If I have an iPhone, which is a suitable option Japan SIM Card vs Pocket Wifi?

If you are an iPhone user, depending on your specific requirements & stay in Japan. Both can be a suitable option for you.
To better understand the pros & cons of suitable SIM cards and Pocket Wifi. Kindly read this article thoroughly and clear your doubts.

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Last Update: September 17, 2024