10 Best Hotspot Devices 2026 in the United States

The TP-Link 5G Mobile Hotspot M8550 is a solid choice if you want fast, reliable internet on the go. It supports 5G connectivity with tri-band Wi-Fi 6E, which means it can provide high speeds for streaming, gaming, or working remotely—making it great for travel or business use. It connects up to 32 devices at once, so you can share internet with family, friends, or co-workers easily. Battery life is impressive, delivering up to 14 hours on a full charge, which is enough to last a full day without needing a recharge. Its compact and lightweight design also makes it very portable.

One handy feature is the ability to switch between cellular hotspot mode and Ethernet router mode, giving you flexibility depending on your setup. The device supports major US carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, but you’ll need a nano SIM card to get started since there’s no eSIM support. If you travel internationally, this unlocked hotspot can work with various compatible SIM cards, which is convenient. For security, it includes built-in VPN support and advanced protections to keep your connection safe.

External antennas to boost signal strength must be purchased separately if needed, which might be an extra cost for users in low-coverage areas. Managing the device is made easier with a dedicated app, and keeping firmware updated is important for best performance. If you want a portable 5G hotspot that balances speed, battery life, and security, the TP-Link M8550 provides a reliable option, especially for those comfortable using physical SIM cards.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk 5G Mobile Hotspot M7 is a solid choice if you want fast, reliable internet on the go. Supporting 5G and 4G LTE, it delivers impressive speeds up to 3.6 Gbps, which is great for streaming, gaming, or working remotely. It can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for families or small groups. The device stands out with its unlocked design and wide carrier compatibility, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and activated Verizon SIMs, plus eSIM support for over 140 countries. This flexibility means you can easily switch carriers or buy data plans directly via the NETGEAR app without extra contracts.

Battery life is decent, offering up to 10 hours of usage on a single charge, which should cover a full day of moderate use. The hotspot is reasonably portable, though it’s a bit heavier and larger than some simpler models due to its advanced features. Security is robust for a device like this, featuring WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and automatic updates to keep your connection safe. One limitation is that activating new Verizon SIMs/eSIMs directly on the device won’t be available until 2026, which might inconvenience some users.

The high-end performance and multi-device capability come with a higher price tag compared to basic hotspots. If you need a powerful, versatile hotspot for travel or work with multiple users and want cutting-edge 5G WiFi 7 technology, the NETGEAR Nighthawk M7 is a reliable and user-friendly option. For those seeking a budget-friendly or ultra-compact device for only a few devices, there may be simpler alternatives.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot is a high-performance device that delivers robust connectivity for both home and on-the-go use. One of its standout features is its compatibility with multiple networks including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, allowing users to easily switch SIM cards and data plans. With Wi-Fi 6 technology, it supports fast speeds up to 2.5Gbps, making it suitable for various online activities, from browsing to streaming. The ability to connect up to 32 devices simultaneously is impressive, making it a great choice for families or teams that need multiple connections at once.

Battery life is another strength, offering up to 13 hours on a single charge, which is beneficial for travel or remote work. Users can also plug it into a power source for extended use, providing flexibility in different environments. The 2.4-inch color LCD touch screen makes it easy to manage settings and monitor data usage, adding to its user-friendly design.

While it excels in portability, weighing just 1.3 pounds, some users might find it bulky to carry around compared to smaller hotspots. Additionally, being made for use in the US only may limit its appeal for international travelers or those looking for a more global solution. The reliance on 5G networks means that in areas with limited coverage, the speed and connectivity may not be as reliable. The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 is best suited for users who require a powerful and secure mobile hotspot, whether at home or on the go. Its capacity to handle multiple devices while providing decent battery life makes it a solid choice for families, remote workers, or frequent travelers, as long as they are within 5G coverage areas.