Interestingly for me, I have used my mobile data way less than usual since the cost of data tripled recently. But that ideally wouldn't cause me to use the internet less because what I am online for is usually worth it. Maybe some of it goes to films at 1080p or 2160p films at least 1.5 GB. But the idea of constraining myself to use less is generally unrealistic for me, especially when Coursera videos are factored in, for example.
It was almost like I preempted the spike in data costs when I signed up for a co-workspace nearby. A few things I enjoy at the workspace are stable power, a decent work desk and chair, cool air and, most importantly, unlimited Wi-Fi service. There's a game lounge with a PS5, yes, but that's not why I go there... sometimes.
So tell me, when I spend at most 11 hours there working with Wi-Fi service that comes with the workspace subscription, why would I think of mobile data ever again? I could conveniently download Visual Studio Installer and some packages as large as 6 GB and not be bothered.
Okay. Stop playing Jay. The moment I'm out of there, I would be totally cut off without internet, although I usually disconnect at night.
Anyway... Way before I even discovered the workspace, I learned to prefer to use Wi-Fi for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I used to think that data plans for my Mi-FI -- my portable Wi-Fi device -- would be way better than mobile when I first bought it. I found it was such a big lie. It's pretty much the same and sometimes more expensive for routers, the bigger ones, but are the ones that often have the unlimited bundles.
Phones last longer when mobile data is left off, and even longer on airplane mode. I found this to be true, so I could connect to a Wi-Fi network, save battery and still be online. This is one reason, but there's also speed and strength.
I used to think that smartphones these days are better tuned for good network service. I still think they are, but there are advantages with Wi-Fi -- my Mi-FI at least. When network is at it's worst, like when there's just too many people around, my Mi-Fi often gives me an edge. When at it's best, man, then I can talk about crazy speed. Let's not mention being able to put the device where there's good signal strength while being free with my phone.
To think that there was once a time when we didn't have all these is funny. The first Android phone I used ran on version 2.1; we're now at 15. At that time, there wasn't anything like a hotspot. Only Bluetooth tethering. Although Wi-Fi had already been a thing on most smartphones then, it wasn't common. You either had to have your own mobile data or visit a cyber cafe. Now we're comparing Wi-Fi and mobile data in the community.
Original content and all images belong to me