The main difference between Wi-Fi and Cellular Data (also known as mobile data) is how your phone connects to the internet. Cellular data allows you to access the features on your phone with just a data plan and phone that’s in range of a cell tower. On the other hand, Wi-Fi only allows you to connect to the internet and use the other features on your phone if you’re near a router and connect to its network.

Read on to learn more about W-Fi and Cellular Data.

Wi-Fi: Connects to a router, works in a limited range around the router, passes through a local access point Cellular Data: relies on cell towers, does not have limited range as long as you're near cell towers, does not pass through local access point

Top differences between Wi-Fi and Cellular Data

Here are the key differences between Wi-Fi and Cellular Data:

Wi-FiCellular Data
Connects to a routerRelies on cell towers
Works in a limited range around the routerDoes not have limited range as long as you’re near cell towers
Passes through a local access pointDoes not pass through local access point

When should I use Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi networks offer faster and more stable internet connections versus mobile or cellular data networks. They’re also better for features that require higher bandwidth, such as video calls, streaming, playing games or downloading any large files.

Your home Wi-Fi (or Wi-Fi in other trusted locations) might also be more secure than public Wi-Fi routers because of encryption and security settings, controlled access, etc. If you’re dealing with sensitive information, including financial transactions, opting to use your own Wi-Fi makes the most sense.

Does Wi-Fi use data?

No, Wi-Fi does not use mobile data. When you’re connected to Wi-Fi, your phone accesses the internet through that connection, typically relying on an external internet service (such as home broadband), rather than your mobile carrier’s data plan.

You only use mobile data when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi Assist for iPhones (and its Android counterparts), which will switch to cellular data when your Wi-Fi is weak.

Instructions on an iphone and Android on how to turn on wifi for iPhone and on Android

How do I turn on Wi-Fi?

Turning on Wi-Fi is Ultra-easy. Read on for step-by-step instructions in enabling Wi-Fi for iPhones and Android devices.

On iPhone

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Wi-Fi
  3. Toggle the Wi-Fi switch to the “on” position
  4. Select your desired Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password if required

On Android

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap Network & Internet (or Connections depending on your phone)
  3. Select Wi-Fi
  4. Toggle the Wi-Fi switch to turn it on
  5. Choose the Wi-Fi network from the available list and enter the password if necessary

When should I use cellular data?

It’s best to use cellular data when a Wi-Fi network is not available. Even without Wi-Fi, mobile data will provide internet connectivity wherever you have cellular coverage, allowing you to stay connected wherever you are. 

You may also want to use cellular data in areas where the signal strength is poor or where there’s heavy congestion.

2 phones that showcase how to turn on cellular data for an iPhone and an Android

How do I turn on cellular data?

Read on for step-by-step instructions on enabling cellular data for iPhones and Android devices.

On iPhone

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data, depending on your region).
  3. Toggle the Cellular Data switch to turn it on

On Android

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap Network & Internet (or Connections depending on your phone)
  3. Select Mobile Network (or Mobile Data)
  4. Toggle the Mobile Data switch to turn it on

Now you know how to stay Ultra-connected

Knowing the differences between Wi-Fi and cellular data can help you make the best decision on how to stay connected wherever you go. Now, ready to make the most of your wireless plan? Tap the button below to check out our plans.

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