Going on a trip from Central Texas to Angel Fire, NM, so lots of areas with weak cell service.

Question; Using our built in Ford hotspot vs just turning on your hotspot on your cell phone. We installed aftermarket audiovox rear seat entertainment system that will connect to the hotspot along with a chromebook for school work.

Last year we just used our cell phone and it seemed to work o.k. except when we didn't have a good cell phone signal, although I felt like we had to keep connecting it when turning off vehicle (although may have that same problem with ford hotspot?). I have a Verizon phone and my wife's is AT&T. I can see a pro being we could use either the AT&T or Verizon phone depending on which had a better signal.

The built in Ford hotspot uses AT&T. Does it get a better signal with the on the roof antenna? Would it be more of a constant connection? Are those signal boosters worth.. but they seem expensive ($500).

This might just be personal preference, but just checking to see if anyone has tried both and had recs. Using cell phones would be free, the ford hotspot plan is $20/month.

Thanks!

i see the built in tend to get better signal, but generally very limited on data usage (2GB). However you are double paying for a solution you already have, especially with the dual coverage of AT&T and Verizon. If I am you, I stick with on phone hot spot, assuming you are on a high or unlimited data coverage. Then you don't have to worry about what is being streamed or how much data you are using.

Appreciate info.

The Ford plan is unlimited data.

Ours phones are also unlimited data.

Do you stay that close to your car where it is worth having an unlimited use hotspot? I guess if you stay around your car much of the time it might make sense. The car will get no better reception than a handset would.

https://www.amazon.com/weBoost-Drive-470154-Signal-Booster/dp/B07PDVTMM6?ref_=ast_sto_dp

You're welcome.

Ford's is unlimited, no speed restrictions and month to month (about $25/month). GM drove to Colorado last year and said it worked great. Used about 170 GB and never slowed down.

Do vehicle hotspots work off of cell towers or satellites?

I watched the Cowboys playoff game through NM on a chevy hotspot (still ATT) and worked fine. Along 287 you shouldn't have an issue with either one.

Jock 07 said:

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Do vehicle hotspots work off of cell towers or satellites?

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they are cellular.