Wyfibox Review

Unlimited data, in over 185 countries... but at what cost?

Picture this: A mysterious box arrives at your front door. The box has only a single button. Press the button and you will receive untold riches. There’s just one catch: someone will pay the price.

Quick verdict: Wyfibox

After using the Wyfibox for a while now, it's obvious that the device isn't meant for regular, everyday usage. Especially at 10 euros per day. Still, as the bright orange colourway might suggest, you could probably use a Wyfibox in your emergency kit. The Wyfibox offers 24 hours of battery life and unlimited data in over 185 countries. You only pay for what you use. It might seem expensive, but the fact that you can access unlimited mobile data, wherever you are, with the press of a button, is worth something and might just end up paying for itself in an emergency.

What is Wyfibox?

A data panacea in your pocket ! For all intents and purposes, Wyfibox is a pocket WiFi device like any other. A small brick about the size of your average power bank that connects multiple devices to the internet. It’s operated with a single button to power the device on and off and is charged via micro USB. The one major difference between it and most telco-supplied WiFi hotpots is that has no physical SIM tray, instead operating entirely on an eSIM that connects automatically in over 185 countries, and that it offers unlimited data with no strings attached.

How much does it all cost?

It'll cost you over 150 € to get started. It’s not cheap but without surprise, as it includes the delivery by DHL and the importing taxes. Wyfibox has an interesting pricing model. As for usage, you only pay for the days you use. Powering on the Wyfibox will initiate a €10 charge for the day, then you’ll have access to unlimited data for the next 24 hours. Using it here and there is okay but using it every day will rack up a pretty big bill and fast. Still, Wyfibox’s unlimited data offer has its merits.

Billing Process

Perhaps, the most unusual aspect of the whole product is the billing process. Essentially, we’re told, that Wyfibox isn’t legally allowed to charge the credit card you use to purchase the device. So instead, the company takes on the risk of allowing you to use as much data as you want for the first few weeks. Once you pay your first bill, the payment information used will be directly debited for further invoices going forward. But if you don’t respond to the first invoice, the company will block the device after three weeks.

Wyfibox speeds

Having only used the Wyfibox locally so far, I’ve assumed the role of an international traveller visiting Australia. And honestly, despite being on the lesser of the three mobile networks here, Vodafone, I’m still quite impressed with the speeds delivered by the magical internet box.

As it is with all mobile connections, speeds can vary dramatically but the Wyfibox has consistently achieved around 30Mbps on average, with no dips below 20Mbps (during my speed tests, at least.)

Wyfibox battery life

Wyfibox advertises 24 hours of battery life. Due to its nature, it’s not likely you’ll be using it for 24 hours straight, but even if you do push it to its limits, a quick charge will get you back to full battery in no time. In my tests, with occasional use, I’ve managed to go a week without needing to charge the Wyfibox.

Is the Wyfibox worth it for frequent flyers?

Great in an emergency. Just don't make it a regular thing. it’s available to anyone in the world, no matter where you live. The Wyfibox solution might be expensive, but it’s simple: A single portable modem that delivers unlimited data in over 185 countries, with no lock-in contracts or hidden fees.

It’s definitely not an everyday solution but considering the flexible payment option, it’s hard to ignore as an emergency backup solution. Something to pack in your bum bag just in case you need it.

Written by Brodie Fogg, an Australian editorial lead at Reviews.org. He has covered consumer tech, telecommunications, video games, streaming and entertainment for over five years.