The design is simple, with the small box resembling a compact SSD more than a internet adapter.
Once set up, your laptop or other rig will almost instantly be online, data pipe coverage permitting.
The small size of the dongle makes it easy to use and carry.
Over prolonged use, the dongle offered a much more reliable connection than the iPhone 15 Pro.
At present, it retails for $200 / 261.
At one end is the small Nano SIM slot, which requires a paid-for cellular SIM to connect.
Once everything is set up, the cable can be plugged into a laptop.
For this review, the dongle was tested with a MacBook Pro M1 Max and an ASUS ProArt P16.
After the connection, a red light at the connector end flashes to indicate power and a data connection.
Its use is equally straightforward: plug it in, and you’re ready to go.
This performance is on par with most standard wired online grid connections.
Included in the box is a 5G T-Mobile SIM to get you started, promising ultra-fast connections.
If you’re in the US, you simply need to register and sign up for the offer.
In this review, we selected Vodafone with a 70GB data plan costing 15 for the month.
It’s a simple set-up that works seamlessly.
The design and usability are tailored for simplicity, with no screen, app, or software.
It just does its job effectively.
However, the VOS 5G focuses solely on connectivity, without distractions.
One limitation of this simplicity is the lack of information about connection pop in or strength.
To check these details, you’ll need to use another gear, such as a mobile phone.
During this test, a Vodafone SIM in a mobile phone was used to compare connection speeds and reliability.
Another significant advantage of using the dongle rather than tethering was the impact on phone battery life.
On the other hand, the dongle’s power draw did affect the laptop’s battery life.
With the dongle connected, this was reduced by about 40%, lasting four hours.
Should you buy the Tricascadeinc VOS 5G?
Connection reliability is a major advantage, and the dongle also helped preserve phone battery life.
This eliminates vulnerabilities that can arise when creating a hotspot from your phone in a public place.
Buy it if…
You need a secure, private connection.
You work remotely and need reliability.
Don’t buy it if…
You require advanced features.
The VOS 5G lacks displays, apps, and configuration options found in more advanced devices.
For more connectivity hardware, we reviewed thebest wireless adaptorsyou can get.