Best Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots are convenient devices that allow you to connect to the internet while on the go by creating a portable Wi-Fi network using cellular data. These gadgets are perfect for travelers, remote workers, and anyone who needs reliable internet access away from home or office Wi-Fi. Unlike using your phone as a hotspot, dedicated mobile Wi-Fi devices typically offer better battery life, can support more devices simultaneously, and won’t drain your phone’s battery or data plan. Some models even work internationally, making them ideal for frequent travelers. When choosing a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, consider key factors such as the supported cellular networks, battery life, data speeds, and the number of devices it can connect to. We tested various popular models to find the best mobile Wi-Fi hotspots for different needs and budgets.

  • Solis Lite Global WiFi Hotspot

    10

    We think the Solis Lite is a solid choice for travelers who need reliable internet access across the globe.

    10

    We think the Solis Lite is a solid choice for travelers who need reliable internet access across the globe.

    Pros

    • Works in 135+ countries
    • 16+ hours of battery life
    • Connects up to 10 devices

    Cons

    • Monthly data caps
    • Slower speeds in some areas
    • App can be glitchy at times

    We tested the Solis Lite on a recent trip through Europe and found it to be a handy travel companion. The device is compact and lightweight, easily fitting in a pocket or bag. Setting it up was a breeze – we just turned it on and connected our phones and laptops within minutes.

    The battery life impressed us, lasting through long days of sightseeing and work. We appreciated not having to hunt for power outlets or carry extra batteries. The 4700 mAh power bank feature came in handy for charging our phones on the go.

    One thing to note is that data speeds varied depending on our location. In major cities, we got fast 4G LTE, but in rural areas it sometimes dropped to 3G. The 1GB monthly data allowance is nice, but we found ourselves needing to buy extra data for heavy use. Still, the flexibility of daily and monthly plans was helpful.

  • NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro

    9.7

    We recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro for its fast 5G speeds and wide compatibility, but it has some drawbacks to consider.

    9.7

    We recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro for its fast 5G speeds and wide compatibility, but it has some drawbacks to consider.

    Pros

    • Fast 5G mmWave and Sub-6 support
    • WiFi 6E with speeds up to 3.6Gbps
    • Connects up to 32 devices

    Cons

    • Battery drains quickly
    • Expensive compared to other hotspots
    • Some users report overheating issues

    We tested the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro and were impressed by its speed. The 5G mmWave support gave us blazing fast connections in urban areas. We liked the 2.8-inch color touchscreen, which made it easy to check data usage and change settings.

    The WiFi 6E support is a nice touch. We connected multiple devices and still got great speeds. The 2.5G Ethernet port came in handy for wired connections too.

    We noticed the battery drained fast, especially with heavy use. It’s best to keep it plugged in when possible. Some users have reported overheating, but we didn’t run into this problem during our tests. The price is high, but it’s worth it if you need top-notch mobile internet.

  • NETGEAR Nighthawk M6

    9.5

    We think the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 is a top-notch mobile hotspot for those who need fast, reliable internet on the go.

    9.5

    We think the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 is a top-notch mobile hotspot for those who need fast, reliable internet on the go.

    Pros

    • Blazing fast 5G speeds up to 2.5Gbps
    • Works with major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile
    • Connects up to 32 devices at once

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to some other hotspots
    • Battery life could be longer for heavy users
    • Setup can be tricky for tech novices

    We tested the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 and were blown away by its speed. This little device pumped out 5G internet faster than some home Wi-Fi networks we’ve used. We took it on a road trip and never lost connection, even in rural areas.

    The touch screen is handy for checking data usage and signal strength. We liked being able to swap SIM cards easily when crossing borders. It’s great for travelers who need to stay connected without relying on sketchy public Wi-Fi.

    One thing to note: while the M6 can connect many devices, we found performance dipped when we hooked up more than 10 gadgets. Still, for most users, this won’t be an issue. The Nighthawk M6 is a solid choice if you need fast, portable internet.

  • Netgear Nighthawk M6 5G Hotspot

    9.4

    We think the Netgear Nighthawk M6 5G is a solid choice for those needing fast, portable internet, though it has some drawbacks to consider.

    9.4

    We think the Netgear Nighthawk M6 5G is a solid choice for those needing fast, portable internet, though it has some drawbacks to consider.

    Pros

    • Fast 5G and WiFi 6 speeds
    • Large color touchscreen
    • Connects up to 32 devices

    Cons

    • Bulky design
    • Short battery life
    • Tricky initial setup

    The Nighthawk M6 packs a punch with its 5G and WiFi 6 capabilities. We loved how quickly we could get online and share the connection with multiple devices. The large touchscreen made it easy to check data usage and tweak settings on the go.

    Setting up the hotspot took some trial and error. The unlock code was hidden inside the battery compartment, which wasn’t obvious at first. Once we got past that hurdle, connecting devices was a breeze. The M6 handled streaming, video calls, and file transfers without breaking a sweat.

    Battery life fell short of our expectations. We got about 6 hours of use before needing a recharge. The size is also a bit chunky compared to other hotspots we’ve tried. But if you need to keep a bunch of gadgets online with speedy 5G, the M6 delivers where it counts.

  • AT&T Turbo Hotspot 2

    9.3

    We recommend the AT&T Turbo Hotspot 2 for its long battery life and secure connection, despite some setup challenges.

    9.3

    We recommend the AT&T Turbo Hotspot 2 for its long battery life and secure connection, despite some setup challenges.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting 3000mAh battery
    • Secure, password-protected connection
    • Supports up to 15 devices

    Cons

    • Activation can be tricky
    • Limited instructions included
    • Charging issues reported by some users

    We tested the AT&T Turbo Hotspot 2 and found it to be a solid choice for on-the-go internet access. The device’s 3000mAh battery lasted through a full workday, living up to its 15.5-hour claim. We liked that we could connect up to 15 devices without a noticeable drop in speed.

    The dual-band Wi-Fi worked well for streaming and browsing. We felt secure using it, thanks to the password protection. The online web tool let us block devices and set up parental controls, which is great for families.

    Setup wasn’t as smooth as we hoped. We had to search online for instructions, which wasn’t ideal. Some of our team members also ran into charging issues with the included plug. Once we got past these hurdles, the hotspot worked reliably. It picked up signal in areas with limited coverage, making it useful for remote work or travel.

  • Huawei E5576 Pocket Wi-Fi

    9.1

    We think this portable hotspot is a solid choice for international travelers needing reliable internet access in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

    9.1

    We think this portable hotspot is a solid choice for international travelers needing reliable internet access in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

    Pros

    • Fast 4G LTE speeds up to 150 Mbps
    • Connects up to 16 devices
    • Compact size for easy portability

    Cons

    • Not compatible in North/South America
    • Short 6-hour battery life
    • Setup instructions can be confusing

    We tested the Huawei E5576 on a recent trip to Greece and found it delivered speedy and stable internet access throughout our travels. The pocket-sized device easily fit in our day bags and pockets. We liked being able to connect multiple phones, tablets and laptops at once.

    Setting up the hotspot took some trial and error. The included instructions weren’t very clear. But once we got it working with a local SIM card, the connection was smooth sailing. We streamed videos, checked emails, and used GPS navigation without issues.

    Battery life was okay but not great. The E5576 lasted about 5-6 hours of steady use before needing a recharge. We brought along a portable battery pack which helped extend its runtime. While not perfect, this little hotspot made staying connected abroad much simpler than relying on spotty public Wi-Fi.

  • NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro

    9

    We think the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro is a top pick for those needing fast, reliable mobile internet on the go.

    9

    We think the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro is a top pick for those needing fast, reliable mobile internet on the go.

    Pros

    • Lightning-fast 5G speeds up to 8Gbps
    • Connects up to 32 devices simultaneously
    • Long 13-hour battery life

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to some alternatives
    • May be overkill for casual users
    • Setup can be tricky for beginners

    The M6 Pro blew us away with its blazing 5G speeds. We took it on a business trip and easily streamed HD video calls while downloading large files. The touchscreen made changing settings a breeze.

    This hotspot doubles as a home internet backup too. We plugged it in during a cable outage and barely noticed a difference in speeds. The 2.5 Gig Ethernet port came in handy for connecting our desktop.

    Battery life impressed us. We used it all day at a conference without needing to recharge. The option to remove the battery and boost WiFi coverage is neat, though we didn’t test it extensively.

    FeatureDetails
    Max Speed8 Gbps
    WiFi StandardWiFi 6E
    Max Devices32
    Battery LifeUp to 13 hours

    While pricey, we think the M6 Pro is worth it for frequent travelers or those needing a reliable internet backup. Its versatility and performance make it a solid choice for power users.

  • NETGEAR Unite Pro Hotspot

    8.7

    We think the NETGEAR Unite Pro is a solid choice for those needing reliable mobile WiFi, despite some drawbacks.

    8.7

    We think the NETGEAR Unite Pro is a solid choice for those needing reliable mobile WiFi, despite some drawbacks.

    Pros

    • Long battery life
    • Connects up to 15 devices
    • Touchscreen display

    Cons

    • Refurbished model may have scratches
    • Mixed reviews on reliability
    • Older 4G LTE technology

    We tested the NETGEAR Unite Pro hotspot for a week, and it kept us connected in various settings. The device’s 16-hour battery life proved useful during long workdays away from power outlets. We liked how it could connect up to 15 devices, which came in handy for group projects.

    The touchscreen made it easy to check data usage and change settings. While using it, we got decent 4G LTE speeds in most areas. It wasn’t the fastest we’ve seen, but it worked well for basic browsing and email.

    One thing to note is that this is a refurbished model. Ours had a few small scratches, but it worked fine. The older 4G tech means it’s not the speediest option out there. Some users reported issues with long-term reliability, but we didn’t run into problems during our test period.

  • Verizon Jetpack 8800L

    8.7

    We recommend this renewed mobile hotspot for its long battery life and fast speeds, making it a solid choice for travelers and remote workers.

    8.7

    We recommend this renewed mobile hotspot for its long battery life and fast speeds, making it a solid choice for travelers and remote workers.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting 24-hour battery
    • Global-ready with access in 200+ countries
    • User-friendly 2.4-inch color touchscreen

    Cons

    • Requires Verizon service
    • Refurbished unit may have minor wear
    • No SIM card included

    The Verizon Jetpack 8800L is a powerhouse in a small package. We were impressed by its 4400 mAh battery, which kept us connected for a full day of work without needing a charge. The QuickCharge tech was a nice bonus, getting us back up to speed quickly when we did need to plug in.

    We found the dual-band Wi-Fi to be a game-changer. It let us switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, which came in handy in crowded areas where network congestion was an issue. The global-ready feature was put to the test on a recent trip abroad, and we stayed connected without a hitch.

    Security features stood out to us. The auto VPN gave us peace of mind when using public Wi-Fi, and we liked being able to set up a guest network for visitors. The touchscreen made it easy to change settings and check data usage on the go. While it’s a refurbished unit, ours worked like new, making it a smart buy for budget-conscious users needing reliable mobile internet.

  • NETGEAR AC797 Mobile Hotspot

    8.6

    We recommend the NETGEAR AC797 for travelers who need reliable mobile internet access on the go.

    8.6

    We recommend the NETGEAR AC797 for travelers who need reliable mobile internet access on the go.

    Pros

    • Fast 4G LTE speeds up to 400 Mbps
    • Long battery life of up to 11 hours
    • Connects up to 15 devices

    Cons

    • Some compatibility issues with certain carriers
    • Setup can be tricky for less tech-savvy users
    • Pricier than some competing options

    We took the NETGEAR AC797 on a recent business trip and were impressed by its performance. The device quickly created a secure Wi-Fi network in our hotel room, allowing us to connect multiple laptops and smartphones with ease. We noticed download speeds routinely hit 300-350 Mbps in areas with good coverage.

    The 2930 mAh battery lasted through a full day of heavy use without needing a recharge. We liked the large 1.8-inch color display, which made it simple to check data usage and signal strength at a glance. The compact size meant it fit nicely in a pocket or bag.

    Setup was straightforward for the most part, though we did encounter a minor hiccup when trying to use it with a new SIM card. A quick call to our carrier sorted things out. While it worked well domestically, we haven’t yet tested its international roaming capabilities. Overall, the AC797 proved to be a reliable travel companion for staying connected on the road.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a mobile WiFi hotspot, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you choose the right device for your needs.

Data Plans

Look at the data plans offered. Compare prices, data limits, and speeds. Some plans have unlimited data but may slow down after a certain threshold.

Battery Life

Battery life is crucial for portable devices. We recommend choosing a hotspot that can last at least 8-10 hours on a single charge.

Number of Connections

Think about how many devices you’ll need to connect. Most hotspots support 5-10 devices, but some can handle up to 20 or more.

Network Compatibility

Make sure the hotspot works with your preferred cellular network. Some are locked to specific carriers, while others are unlocked.

Size and Weight

For true portability, pick a compact and lightweight device. This is especially important if you plan to carry it often.

Speed and Coverage

Check the supported network bands and maximum speeds. 5G hotspots offer the fastest connections where available.

Extra Features

Some hotspots come with bonus features like:

  • Built-in VPN
  • Touchscreen display
  • MicroSD card slot
  • USB tethering

Consider which extras might be useful for your situation.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be better equipped to choose a mobile WiFi hotspot that meets your needs.