We have drawn up a comparative table to help you decide which Hotspot solution best suits your needs. Contact us if your questions aren’t answered below.
Feature comparison
| Hotspot OS-only | Kiwix Hotspot | |
|---|---|---|
Package (content) selection |
Choice of package can be chosen upon purchase. | Choice of package can be chosen upon purchase. |
| SD card easily accessible to enable a different package to be loaded |
If the user’s hardware allows for easy SD extraction, yes. | The content is loaded onto the SSD, so requires tools for extraction and a compatible reader. |
| Works Out of the Box |
Needs assembly, flashing, and configuration before use. A compatible Raspberry Pi, power plug, case, SDHC card and card reader are required. | Just power on and connect; everything is pre-configured. |
| Software & Image Setup |
Requires downloading rpi-imager software and large image file (~200GB), plus 5 hours to flash SDHC card. | No downloads or setup needed; device comes pre-flashed, content pre-loaded, tested and ready to use. |
| Clock & Timekeeping |
Clock won’t retain time unless connected to the Internet. | Battery-backed clock keeps time accurate even offline. |
| Testing & Quality Control |
Non applicable | Each device is human-tested before shipping to ensure quality and reliability. |
| Support & Warranty |
Product FAQ, online community or self-support; no official warranty. | Includes warranty and priority support from Kiwix. |
| Cost |
Low, but user’s own hardware costs and installation time may add up. | Higher. Includes high-quality durable hardware, full setup, testing, technical support and shipping. |
| User Profile |
Ideal for hobbyists or tech-savvy users willing to put in the effort for a successful installation. | Ideal for organisations, educators, NGOs, or anyone needing a turnkey, reliable offline knowledge solution. |
In short…
Choose Hotspot OS-only if you…
- Have technical skills, enjoy DIY projects and can troubleshoot if required.
- Are budget-conscious and willing to invest time and effort to set up and run your own hardware.
- Want full control over the installation process.
Choose Kiwix Hotspot if you…
- Want a high-performance device without any setup hassle.
- Have no technical skills or simply wish to have an “out-of-the-box” offline solution.
- Value high-quality, pre-installed and tested hardware for ease of use and professional support.
