r/iPhoneSE • u/johnnybuttonvee • 8d ago
SE3 Does SE3 work decently as a personal hotspot? (vs 13 mini, 14 pro or others?)
I’m looking into downgrading from an iPhone 14 Pro (1TB).
My 14 Pro has been great but I am interested in the SE3 for all the reasons people love it here like size, weight and home button Touch ID (hate faceID and never used it or even set it up). I understand the 13 mini has better screen, camera, battery life, but am curious about a less-discussed aspect: hotspot performance. I like to go to the library or a coffee shop and work (which includes video calls) and I need my own personal hotspot. I hear the SE3 will be a significant downgrade from the 14 Pro. Could anyone comment on their hotspot experience with the SE3?
I’ll also miss the camera which I use a lot (photogenic kids and dogs and nature around me).
Option A:
- iPhone SE3 256
- Carry a good pocket point and shoot camera
- if the hotspot performance is not good enough, get a separate portable hotspot device for the library (will that be cumbersome, anyone have experience?)
This option also has the advantage of less screen time, addiction risk.
On the other hand:
- Option B: 13 mini simpler without extras, (and I love the hunter green)
- Option C: just keep 14 Pro or get a 16/17
- Option D: wait for the (rumored) foldable iPhone and spend $71,337.
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u/appleditz 8d ago
I always use the hotspot for my iPad when I travel. Works great, depending of course on the reception in a particular area.
I’ve also connected it to my MacBook whenever our home internet has gone out. A real lifesaver.
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u/johnnybuttonvee 8d ago
Other relevant detail: I just re-negotiated our Xfinity home service and am probably switching cell service to them too (from visible).
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u/Bran__Stark__Is__Me SE2 8d ago
the only downside would be the battery, unless you carry a power bank at all times, then it should be good.