If you’re in the market for portable Wi-Fi hotspots, you can find models with fast data transfer speeds and compatibility. However, these devices can fluctuate widely depending on their quality. Picking the right hotspot can be challenging if you’re unsure of how much internet to use. With a myriad of options, how do you know which device fits your lifestyle?
We’ve taken the time to review dozens of different models plus their features bring you the best portable Wi-Fi hotspots available. Here are the top models in 2022.
- Best Overall: GlocalMe G4 Pro
- Best for Performance: NETGEAR Nighthawk M6
- Best for T-Mobile: Inseego M2000
- Best for AT&T: NETGEAR Nighthawk M1
- Best for Travel: Skyroam Solis
Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots: Side-by-Side Comparison
| GlocalMe G4 Pro | NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 | Inseego M2000 | NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 | Skyroam Solis | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.9 x 3.8 x 2.0in | 4.1 x 4.1 x 0.8in | 6.4 x 3.2 x 2.0in | 4.2 x 4.2 x 0.8in | 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.0in |
| Weight | 13.4oz | 8.5oz | 5.0oz | 8.5oz | 6.5oz |
| Connectivity | LTE, 4G | 5G, LTE, 4G | 5G, LTE, 4G | LTE, 4G | 4G |
| Data transfer rate | 150.0Mb per second | 3.6Gb per second | N/A | 150Mb per second | 150Mb per second |
| Battery life | 12 hours | 12 hours | N/A | 13 hours | 16 hours |
| Price | $169.99 | $799.99 | $128.75 | $359.11 | $150.00 |
Best Overall: GlocalMe G4 Pro
- 🌎【No contract, NO SIM required, Global coverage in 140+ countries】Our main advantages, no sim card needed, no contract,Global coverage in 140+ countries and regions, over 100+ Patent, all above...
- 🌎【Large screen, Pocket size, 4G MIFI】 Support full frequency band, touch screen operation. Connect up to 10 smart devices. 4G network speed, traffic protection and blacklist management.
- 🌎【Visual interface and User friendly app】Easy to check data flow, signal status and perform other operations through Visual screen. With the GlocalMe app you can choose data packages or simply...
- 🌎【Flexible Plans and Preferential price】Data by gb, day or year, pay as you go. No contract or roaming fees. Average cost lower than main stream operator.
- 🌎【8GB US/CA/MX Data & 1.1GB initial Global Data】GlocalMe G4 pro comes with included 1.1GB global data. As for 8GB US Data, please offer us device IMEI 2 to redeem the data. Please note that 8GB...
If a reliable internet connection is a top priority for you, the GlocalMe G4 Pro is one of the best portable Wi-Fi hotspots available.
The device works in 140 countries and comes with 8GB of initial data. The G4 Pro works on all major networks and requires no SIM card to work.
For additional data wherever you are, GlocalMe offers a variety of data plans. It has a 3,900 mAh lithium-ion battery with fast charging, so you have it when you need it. However, the device is only rated for 4G, which might feel slow if you’re used to 5G networks. The GlocalMe G4 Pro is priced at $169.
Check out the GlocalMe G4 Pro on Amazon.
©Alexander Supertramp/Shutterstock.com
Best for Performance: NETGEAR Nighthawk M6
- Connector Type : USB
- Delivers up to 7x faster speed than 4G. Backward compatible for 4G devices
- WIFI 6: Connect and stream up to 32 devices simultaneously at fast 1.8Gbps speed
- Connect to your existing home router using the Gigabit Ethernet port for fast, reliable primary or backup Internet connection. Ideal for homes with poor internet service or coverage
- Avoid the risks of public WiFi with your own secure Wireless Network anywhere
NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 offers Wi-Fi internet speeds of 3.6 Gigabytes per second, over 20 times faster than our preferred model.
If you’re still using a 4G phone, the Nighthawk M6 is backward compatible. The portable Wi-Fi hotspot comes unlocked, meaning it works with all major networks except for Sprint legacy lines. However, you’ll need to provide a working SIM card to use the service. In addition, you’ll have to pay a premium for this high-quality model.
Check out the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 on Amazon.
Best for T-Mobile: Inseego M2000
- T-MOBILE 5G SIM INCLUDED
- OEM CHARGER
- ORIGINAL 5050MAH BATTERY INCLUDED
- ENTERPRISE GRADE SECURITY
Designed for the T-mobile network in the United States, the Inseego M2000 is the perfect model for continental travelers needing connection on the go.
For the most part, a compatible Wi-Fi hotspot either comes with ancient service or costs a small fortune. However, if you’re a T-mobile user, you won’t have to compromise with the Inseego M2000. The United States’ largest 5G provider also offers an affordable monthly rate. Users that require exceptional data can purchase 100GB of roaming data for 50/month with no contract.
Check out the Inseego M2000 on Amazon.
Best for AT&T: NETGEAR Nighthawk M1
- Connect up to 20 devices on a WiFi network
- Works with most SIM cards (except Sprint legacy network)
- Fast download speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Large 2.4 inch LCD screen to monitor signal and usage
- One USB port for file transfer
AT&T users looking for a more affordable portable Wi-Fi hotspot will benefit from Nighthawk M1 4G model from NETGEAR.
Nighthawk 1 offers multiple ports can connect up to 20 devices. It also offers 150 megabytes per second, enough to browse the internet and send messages to your team. Is it a most desirable feature? It has a massive lithium-ion battery that can last all day. Though larger than other device, it offers value for money.
Check out the NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 on Amazon.
Best for Travel: Skyroam Solis
For those that often find themselves in an airport, you’ll want a device that provides reliable internet were finding it otherwise would prove difficult.
Skyroam Solis brings all the connectivity of the best portable Wi-Fi hotspots in a tiny package.
Under 4 inches square, Solis is the smallest device on our list. Its tiny frame still packs a lot of power. Users with a monthly data plan can use Solis in 130 countries worldwide. It’s also rated for up to 16 hours of battery life, meaning you can expect it to work for all your extended layovers.
Check out the Skyroam Solis on Amazon.
How to Pick the Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
When choosing the right portable Wi-Fi hotspot for your needs, there are three main considerations.
- Compatibility
- Data transfer rate
- Price
Let’s review each one in more detail.
Compatibility
Before buying a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, check whether the model you want works with your mobile device. Some hotspots are exclusive to certain networks and require a compatible SIM card to communicate properly. You can save money purchasing a Wi-Fi hotspot that connects exclusively to your service provider, or you can invest in an unlocked model for less hassle.
©A_stockphoto/Shutterstock.com
Data Transfer Rate
Having access to data where you would otherwise not have it is a considerable investment. It can run you quite a bit if you’re not careful. Before buying one of the best portable Wi-Fi hotspots available, think of how you will use internet outside of your home and office. 4G connectivity provides enough data for internet surfing but can lag with photos and videos. But if you need 5G service, expect to pay a large sum upfront and monthly.
Price
When looking at Wi-Fi hotspots, you’ll notice the price fluctuates substantially. Unlocked devices with 5G capability can cost as much as $1,000 or more. With this in mind, consider your budget and use that to decide how much data you need. Some hotspots for certain service providers may cost more than others. Finally, most hotspots require a monthly plan. If you know how much data you typically use, you can potentially save money on a smaller plan.
What to Know Before Buying a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Before you buy a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, it’s critical to know that most devices on Amazon come refurbished. That’s because most hotspots are exclusive to their service provider. Especially if you use Verizon, it’s important to check the hotspot’s compatibility. Verizon users will have to talk directly to the service provider because unless the hotspot is unlocked, it is difficult to find one that works properly.
That being said, refurbished models on Amazon typically run hundreds of dollars less than typical retail value. As a product with a price range that breaks $1,000 for strong internet, this is an acceptable option for purchasing a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Using a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: What It’s Like
Comparing these best portable Wi-Fi hotspots is difficult because they work differently with each provider. Typically common variables such as battery life and data transfer speed have wider variations depending on location.
That being said, we appreciated the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 for its 5G capability and functionality with each major provider. It was not much different than the internet browsing we would typically do. However, it’s easy to spend a substantial amount of money with that much accessibility, especially in areas where phone service is unavailable.
When all is said and done, we tried to use these devices sparingly. With most smartphones having hotspot capability, it’s easy enough to turn that on when needing to use a laptop for work. Alternatively, Starlink provides reliable internet regardless of the service provider for a comparable price.
Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots: Further Reading
The best portable Wi-Fi hotspots can provide you reliable internet when you need it. With plenty of data and a wide range of locations, these devices are handy for those working on the road. For more gadgets to level up your travel experience, check out the articles below.
- The 6 Best Portable Battery and Power Banks You Can Buy Today – If your Wi-Fi hotspot dies while you’re out of the office, these portable batteries will help you out in a pinch.
- The 5 Best Waterproof Speakers of 2022 – Add music to your next trip out with the best waterproof speakers on the market.
- The Best External Hard Drives for Photographers – If you like to take photos while on the trail, check out these external hard drives to protect your files.
The 5 Best Running Watches for Tracking Everything – Accurately monitor your vitals on your next hike with these newest running watches.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Tetiana Yurchenko/Shutterstock.com.
