Globe Tattoo 4G Prepaid Superstick Review

I got the Tattoo 4G Superstick last April 4 and took it out for a spin so I can come up with a definitive review. The device is powered by Globe’s 4G technology. Its retail box shows that its capable hitting 7.2Mbps and can accomodate up to 8 wifi-connected devices.

Unboxing

The retail box of the Tattoo 4G Superstick contains the following:

• Tattoo 4G Superstick (Huawei Mobile Wifi E5331)
• 1,500 mAh Li-Polymer Battery
• User Guide
• Safety Information

The 4G Superstick is a Huawei Mobile Wifi E5331. The device’s semi-matte hard shell was minimally marked with Globe Tattoo designs. The included 1,500 mAh battery was enough for me to use it for more 5 and half hours at 3G speed.

As mentioned in my previous article, installation was pretty straightforward: all I needed to do was put on the sim and battery, installed the driver for initial setup and configured it through its neatly designed web-based admin panel (through 192.168.1.1 default router IP).

Please do note though that the Tattoo Superstick offers 2 ways to connect to the internet – Auto and Manual. It is advisable to use Manual mode if you’re subscriber to time-based network service. I advise that you initially connect via Manual mode so you can also access the web management page and customize your device’s SSID and change your password.

The steps I previously related is an example of connecting to the net via Manual mode. Otherwise, if your prepaid account has enough credit and if you’re planning to surf the net momentarily, it’s best to use Auto mode and subsequently shut it off once you’re done.

There’s a reset switch that you can poke should you encounter any problems while setting it up or in case you forgot your password.

There is also a Quick Setup Wizard available on the web management page to facilitate you in initializing your mobile router.

Unfortunately, during my tests, I never got the chance to switch the device to 4G as it’s locked to 3G. I find this quite strange as this is marketed as a prepaid 4G stick, but it’s 4G toggle is switched off by default. (If you guys were able to switch on this feature on prepaid, please let me know in the comments section below.)

The superstick delivers decent 3G speeds during my 3 tests. Again, it’s quite unfortunate that I was not able to test this on 4G. I was hoping that I’d get 4 to 7mbps, but during my 3 tests, I only got an average of 2.07 mpbs – again, decent on 3G connection.

I just really hope that all telcos would be able to provide true 3G and even 4G speeds eventually. Based on Radio-electronics.com, here are the Max Download and Upload speeds for WCDMA, HSPA/+ and LTE:

As this device is also a mobile router, you can also use this as a means to connect devices. This device truly helped me especially during my speaking engagements where I use my iPhone to connect to my iPad or Macbook through the Superstick and play media or control my presentations.

The stick may also be used to send and receive SMS.

Valued at PhP2,895, the 4G Superstick’s cool packaging and promising features may be marred with 4G connection issues, but you wouldn’t be too disappointed with the 3G speed it can deliver. Compared to other 3G sticks out there, this superstick gives off connection speed fairly better especially in Makati, Ortigas and in some areas in Cubao.

My experience may be different from you guys! If you’re using similar device on prepaid, please share your experience in the comments section below.

Giancarlo Viterbo

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Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.