Nothing is more frustrating than not being able to connect to the internet when you need it most. Whether you’re traveling, working, or learning remotely, a reliable internet connection can make or break your day. That’s where knowing your options for the best portable wi-fi hotspots pays off. A wi-fi hotspot is a wireless access point that allows you to connect your phones, computers, tablets, and other devices to the internet. Although most smartphones can serve as a hotspot, many of us need something more powerful for connecting laptops and tablets, typically for work or school. Hotspots are excellent options for anyone who travels a lot and wants a secure internet connection without the hassle of unsecured public wi-fi.
Using the internet for work and school is one thing, but according to a recent study, more and more people are becoming addicted to social media, scrolling through feeds, and using their smartphones. Scientists at the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom have developed a new internet “spectrum” to categorize users into five groups based on their online habits – casual users, initial users, experimenters, addicts in denial, and addicts. Let’s hope a new portable hotspot isn’t feeding into your thirst for mindlessly scrolling the internet.
The good news is hotspots work a little differently than home internet service. Hotspots are typically dictated by your mobile phone provider which will also determine compatible devices that work within their coverage area. Most providers have a list of compatible hotspot devices that work within their network. Whether you’re using one of the big three mobile providers such as AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, or you’re using another company, chances are your cellular provider has a hotspot-specific plan. Since hotspots use a lot more data than your basic phone plan, you’ll want to choose a plan wisely based on a combination of your needs, the coverage area, and rates.
So, which portable hotspots are considered the top products available on the market today? StudyFinds did some research, consulting 10 online tech review sites to bring you a consensus list of the best portable wi-fi hotspots. Our list comprises the five most frequently listed devices from across these sites. Think the techies missed a great product? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
➡️ How Our “Best Of The Best” Lists Are Created
StudyFinds’ “Best of the Best” articles are put together with the idea of taking the work out of common consumer research. Ever find yourself searching for a product or service on Google and reading multiple reviews to find items listed across many of them? Our Best of the Best lists are created with that process in mind, with each item ranked by how frequently it appears on expert reviews or lists. With Best of the Best, you are getting consensus picks — making them truly the best of the best!
The List: Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots Experts Recommend
1. Inseego MiFi X Pro 5G
The top spot on the list of the best portable wi-fi hotspots belongs to the Inseego MiFi X Pro 5G. The Inseego MiFi is designed for use on T-Mobile networks and offers blazing-fast connectivity as well as excellent download and upload speeds of 600 Mbps and 22 Mbps, respectively, notes PC Mag. Together, the speed and affordability of the Inseego MiFi X Pro 5G make this a great choice for anyone in an area with T-Mobile 5G coverage.
The Inseego MiFi is also recommended for gaming and use with a tablet, explains ZDNet. This hotspot can support up to 30 devices and employs a combination of WiFi 6, WPA3, and Enterprise Grade VPN to keep your computers, laptops, and tablets safely connected. The Inseego even includes a remote for easier control and access.
As Best Products writes, not only can the Inseego MiFi support over 30 devices, but it also has a great battery life. Users can expect a staggering 18 hours of battery life before the Inseego needs to be charged. The Inseego MiFi also features an ethernet port for reliable wired connections while you’re on the move.
2. Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro
The Nighthawk M6 Pro is the advanced version of the Netgear Nighthawk M6, a stellar hotspot in its own right. The M6 Pro is a true upgrade, though, explains Tom’s Guide. The Nighthawk M6 Pro is originally an AT&T mobile hotspot capable of connecting to AT&T’s 5G plus network.
However, as Tech Radar notes, the Nighthawk M6 Pro is loaded with a plethora of features that make it one of the best hotspots. First, the M6 Pro is small and portable, making it an excellent choice for business travelers and working remotely. Next, the M6 Pro is also available unlocked and can connect to almost all major carrier’s networks, not just AT&T. Add in the 13-hour battery life and the Nighthawk M6 Pro is a great choice for those long days on the road.
Although the Nighthawk M6 Pro is available unlocked, it’s advertised for AT&T customers, explains GearBrain. AT&T customers can pay a small monthly fee to pay for the device. If you want an unlocked device, you’ll probably need to purchase the M6 Pro at full price. However, once you’re up and running, the Nighthawk M6 Pro supports up to 32 devices and offers up to 8 Gbps download speeds.
3. Orbic Speed 5G UW
The third spot on the list of the top hotspots available on the market is the Orbic Speed 5G UW. The Orbic Speed 5G UW is loaded with many of the same features as the previous two entries. It is compatible with Verizon’s network, which Men’s Health notes can sometimes be finicky. Still, this Orbic Speed mobile hotspot works great with Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network.
As Gear Brain explains, the Orbic Speed is a powerful device. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon x55 modem and offers a worthy 4 Gbps download speed, making it suitable for gaming. Similar to the Nighthawk Pro, you can purchase this hotspot unlocked and use it on other networks besides Verizon, usually for around $300.
When you consider everything together, Tom’s Guide believes the Orbic Speed 5G UW is the best available mobile hotspot on the market. Although it is a bit heavier than some of the other models, the Orbic Speed 5G delivers everything you need to stay productive on the move. Its reliable connectivity and decent battery life make the Orbic Speed 5G a great choice for traveling and staying productive.
4. GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE
The GlocalMe G4 Pro features a 5-inch touchscreen makes a great choice for international travelers with a demand for using data in different countries, explains Best Products. Although this portable hotspot doesn’t support 5G, you’ll have the ability to purchase highly flexible plans with pay-as-you-go options and have reliable connectivity around the world.
As CNN explains, the GlocalMe network supports connectivity from over 140 countries around the world. When you factor in the flexible pay-as-you-go options, the GlocalMe G4 Pro is perfect for vacations. You can connect up to 10 devices to this lightweight, highly portable wi-fi hotspot.
Glocal is also one of the most affordable mobile hotspot brands you’ll find out there. The GlocalMe 4G Pro can be found for well under $200 and Men’s Health agrees that it might just be the best portable hotspot for the money. Glocal has been specializing in mobile hotspots for a long time and its commitment to quality shows. The GlocalMe G4 Pro is designed more like a smartphone than a mobile hotspot. The sleek user interface and five-inch screen make it easy to check your data usage, see the details of your connection, and generally manage your hotspot. The best part is there’s no contract or SIM card to worry about.
5. Simo Solis Lite
Rounding out the list of the best portable hotspots is the Simo Solis Lite. Similar to the GlocalMe G4 Pro, the Simo Solis Lite is perfect for travelers who need a reliable connection. ZDNet agrees that the Solis Lite is a great choice for international travelers, especially those looking for something lightweight and hassle-free.
Travel and Leisure raves about the Solis Lite as being the top choice for anyone looking to take a long vacation or who needs to have a reliable connection at all hours of the day, across different time zones. Simo offers some of the best customer service that’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you’re covered if you ever have any problems. Excellent for anyone working and frequently traveling to different destinations across the globe.
Simo also offers flexible data plans designed to meet your needs, explains Men’s Health. The Simo Solis Lite is also one of the more affordable devices available. You can easily find a Solis Lite for under $175 across the internet. Factor in the Solis Lite’s 12-hour plus battery life that keeps you connected throughout the day and you have an outstanding portable hotspot for a busy lifestyle.
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Sources:
- PC Mag
- ZDNet
- Travel and Leisure
- CNN
- Tom’s Guide
- Best Products
- Tech Radar
- High Speed Internet
- Men’s Health
- Gear Brain
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.