What type of hardware comes with T-Mobile AWAY?
When you sign up for either AWAY plan, you’re provided a 5G Wi-Fi Gateway at no additional cost, but you don’t own it. You’re essentially borrowing the device from T-Mobile, because after canceling the AWAY service, you must return it to a T-Mobile store or ship it using a prepaid package. According to its terms of service, failure to return the device within 30 days or returning it damaged could result in a charge of up to $370.
Can I pause my T-Mobile AWAY plan?
Yes, but for a fee. T-Mobile AWAY has no contract or early cancellation fee, but once you decide to cancel, you need to return the equipment. If you want to keep the AWAY plan but don’t necessarily need it for long periods (for example, during winter when you’re not camping as much), you can pause service. However, you still need to pay a $10 fee every month when pausing service.
What’s the difference between T-Mobile AWAY and using a T-Mobile hotspot?
The main differences between the AWAY plan and T-Mobile’s hotspots include hardware and data plans. T-Mobile offers a variety of compatible hotspot devices, both online and in-store, each with different features, such as the number of devices it can connect or whether it has an ethernet output. The devices cost between $200 and $300, but unlike T-Mobile AWAY's hardware, you own the device and can pay for it in monthly installments.
The other big difference is in the data plans, with T-Mobile’s hotspot plans ranging between 2GB and 100GB, while AWAY gives you the option of 200GB or unlimited data.
How does T-Mobile AWAY compare to Starlink Mobile?
T-Mobile doesn’t shy away from the fact that its mobile internet plan directly competes with Starlink’s Mobile service, marketed as an internet solution for RVs, campers, and all travelers. Both offer unlimited data plans, but T-Mobile touts that it can be used in motion. Starlink can be used in motion, but only if you purchase the expensive Flat High-Performance dish with a Mobile Priority plan or the Starlink Mini with the Mini Roam plan.