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10 Best Portable Wi Fi Hotspots 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro Mobile Hotspot 5G mmWave, 8Gbps, Unlocked, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon International Roaming 125 Countries, WiFi 6E, Portable Device for Travel, Modem Wireless Router (MR6550)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,283
Speed
Security Features

Most important from
470 reviews

Speed
Blazing-fast wireless speeds up to 1750 Mbps ensure seamless and lag-free internet for all devices.
Security Features
The guest network feature is handy for securely sharing internet access, and built-in parental controls manage internet usage for kids.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro Mobile Hotspot offers impressive features for a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. It supports 5G mmWave technology, ensuring high-speed internet up to 8Gbps, and is compatible with major US carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. This device also supports international roaming in over 125 countries, making it ideal for frequent travelers. You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, making it a robust option for both personal and small business use.

Additionally, the Wi-Fi 6E technology provides enhanced performance and efficiency, which is great for modern, connected environments. The device's security features, including private connectivity, help protect your data from risks associated with public Wi-Fi networks. The 2.8-inch color LCD touch screen makes the device easy to set up and manage, allowing you to monitor data usage and adjust settings effortlessly.

One of the strong points is its versatility in functioning as a primary internet connection for home or business, and it can cover up to 2,000 sq. ft. when connected to a power adapter. On the downside, the Nighthawk M6 Pro might be considered bulky for a portable hotspot, weighing 1.45 pounds and measuring 4.14 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches. This might impact portability for some users. Additionally, while the device is powerful, it might be more expensive compared to simpler, less feature-rich hotspots. The included lithium-ion battery is a plus.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,283
Speed
Security Features

Most important from
470 reviews

Speed
Blazing-fast wireless speeds up to 1750 Mbps ensure seamless and lag-free internet for all devices.
Security Features
The guest network feature is handy for securely sharing internet access, and built-in parental controls manage internet usage for kids.
#2

NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot, Router with Sim Card Slot, Modem, Portable WiFi Device for Travel, Unlocked with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, WiFi 6, 2.5Gbps (MR6150)

Rating
9.1
Network Compatibility
Battery Life

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
Consumer Cellular does not sell mobile hotspot units, but a sim for an unlocked unit worked perfectly with the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6, making it a reliable choice for those in remote areas.
Battery Life
Battery life meets expectations, and the device can be charged or run without a battery using various power sources, providing great flexibility.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot stands out in the portable Wi-Fi hotspots category due to its versatility and high-performance capabilities. It supports 5G and WiFi 6 technology, ensuring fast and reliable internet speeds up to 2.5Gbps, making it suitable for both home and travel. One of its significant strengths is its network compatibility, being unlocked and certified for use with major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. This allows easy swapping of SIM cards and data plans, offering flexibility to users.

The device can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, which is ideal for families or small businesses needing multiple connections without compromising on performance. Its long-lasting battery provides up to 13 hours of usage, and it also features a removable battery option with a power adapter to extend WiFi coverage up to 2,000 sq.ft, which can be particularly useful in larger homes or offices.

The Nighthawk M6 includes essential security features to safeguard your data, making it a secure alternative to public Wi-Fi networks.

Rating
9.1
Network Compatibility
Battery Life

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
Consumer Cellular does not sell mobile hotspot units, but a sim for an unlocked unit worked perfectly with the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6, making it a reliable choice for those in remote areas.
Battery Life
Battery life meets expectations, and the device can be charged or run without a battery using various power sources, providing great flexibility.
#3

NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot (MR1100-100NAS) – Up to 1Gbps Speed, Works Best with AT&T and T-Mobile, Connects Up to 20 Devices, Secure Wireless Network Anywhere

Rating
8.2
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Number of Connected Devices

Most important from
5010 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works seamlessly with various LTE plans, offering flexibility and reliable connectivity.
Battery Life
Perfect for travel, the device offers a robust battery life and easy charging via USB-C.
Number of Connected Devices
Users appreciate the ability to connect multiple devices, though some have experienced issues when connecting more than a few devices simultaneously.
Speed
Despite some negative experiences, the device is valued for its high-speed internet capabilities and versatility in different environments, from home to travel.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 is a robust 4G LTE WiFi mobile hotspot that offers impressive features, making it a suitable choice for those needing reliable internet access on the go. It supports network compatibility mainly with AT&T and T-Mobile, providing users with flexibility to choose their preferred carrier, though it doesn't support Sprint's legacy network. This device can connect up to 20 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for small groups or families traveling together or for business purposes.

The download speeds can reach up to 1Gbps, which is excellent for streaming, downloading, and general web use, though actual speeds may depend on your service and proximity to cell towers. One of its standout features is the long-lasting battery, which ensures all-day use on a single charge. This can be particularly beneficial for users who are on the move and may not have frequent access to charging points. In terms of security, it provides a secure wireless network, helping you avoid the risks associated with public WiFi networks. The device is also equipped with a 2.4-inch LCD screen, allowing easy setup and monitoring of data usage.

The product may be slightly bulky compared to other more compact hotspots given its dimensions (4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches) and weight (8.5 ounces). Additionally, users will need to acquire a micro SIM card and a compatible data plan from their carrier, which could be an added step for those looking for a plug-and-play solution. The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 provides a great balance of speed, connectivity, and security, making it a strong contender in the portable hotspot market.

Rating
8.2
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Number of Connected Devices

Most important from
5010 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works seamlessly with various LTE plans, offering flexibility and reliable connectivity.
Battery Life
Perfect for travel, the device offers a robust battery life and easy charging via USB-C.
Number of Connected Devices
Users appreciate the ability to connect multiple devices, though some have experienced issues when connecting more than a few devices simultaneously.
Speed
Despite some negative experiences, the device is valued for its high-speed internet capabilities and versatility in different environments, from home to travel.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Wi Fi Hotspots

Choosing the right portable Wi-Fi hotspot can significantly enhance your internet experience, especially when you're on the go. A portable Wi-Fi hotspot allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet through a cellular network, providing a reliable connection wherever you have cellular coverage. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs.
Network CompatibilityNetwork compatibility refers to the types of cellular networks the hotspot can connect to, such as 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G. This is important because it determines the speed and reliability of your internet connection. If you need fast internet for streaming or video calls, a 4G LTE or 5G compatible device is ideal. For basic browsing and email, 3G might suffice. Check the coverage of these networks in your area to ensure you get the best performance.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the hotspot can operate on a single charge. This is crucial for portability and convenience, especially if you need internet access for extended periods without access to a power source. Battery life can range from a few hours to over a day. If you travel frequently or use the hotspot for long durations, look for a device with a longer battery life, typically 8-12 hours or more.
Data PlansData plans are the subscription packages offered by cellular providers that determine how much data you can use each month. This is important because it affects your monthly cost and how much internet usage you can afford. Data plans can range from a few gigabytes to unlimited data. Consider your internet usage habits—if you stream videos, play online games, or work remotely, you might need a higher data plan. For occasional browsing, a smaller plan might be sufficient.
Number of Connected DevicesThis specification indicates how many devices can connect to the hotspot simultaneously. It's important because it affects the usability of the hotspot for multiple users or devices. Hotspots can typically support anywhere from 5 to 20 devices. If you have a family or a small team that needs to connect multiple devices, choose a hotspot that supports a higher number of connections. For personal use, a lower number might be adequate.
SpeedSpeed refers to the maximum internet speed the hotspot can provide, usually measured in Mbps (megabits per second). This is crucial for activities that require high bandwidth, such as streaming HD videos, video conferencing, or downloading large files. Hotspots with higher speeds (e.g., 150 Mbps or more) are better for these activities. If your usage is limited to browsing and email, lower speeds might be sufficient.
Size and PortabilitySize and portability refer to the physical dimensions and weight of the hotspot. This is important for convenience and ease of carrying the device around. Smaller, lighter hotspots are easier to carry in a pocket or bag, making them ideal for frequent travelers. If you plan to use the hotspot in a fixed location, size might be less of a concern.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include encryption, password protection, and firewall settings that protect your data and devices from unauthorized access. This is important to ensure your internet connection is secure, especially when using public networks. Look for hotspots that offer strong security features like WPA3 encryption and the ability to set a strong password. If you handle sensitive information, prioritize devices with advanced security options.

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