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10 Best Portable Wifi 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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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 by1,322
Network Compatibility
Data Speed
Number of Connected Devices

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk R6700 Smart Wi-Fi Router has been a game-changer, delivering blazing-fast wireless speeds and seamless connectivity for all devices.
Data Speed
The Nighthawk R6700 delivers consistent speed, even during peak hours, making it a reliable choice.
Number of Connected Devices
The beamforming technology focuses on connected devices, enhancing performance over other brands.
Security Features
The guest network feature is handy for securely sharing internet access with friends and family.
Ease of Use
Setting up and managing the router is a breeze with the Nighthawk app, which allows control and optimization from a smartphone.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro Mobile Hotspot offers impressive network compatibility as it is unlocked and supports major carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, along with international roaming in 125 countries. This makes it highly versatile for both domestic and international use. The data speed is remarkable, with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X65 5G modem providing groundbreaking speeds up to 8Gbps, ensuring fast internet connectivity. The device supports WiFi 6E technology, further enhancing performance and efficiency, allowing up to 32 devices to connect simultaneously without compromising on speed, which is excellent for both personal and business use.

Battery life is flexible; the device comes with a removable battery option and can be powered via an adapter to extend coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft. This feature is handy for extended use without worrying about battery drain. In terms of portability, the M6 Pro is compact and lightweight, weighing 1.45 pounds and measuring 4.14 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches, making it easy to carry around. Security features are robust, offering secure, private connectivity to avoid the risks associated with public WiFi networks.

The ease of use is highlighted by the 2.8” color LCD touch screen, which allows effortless setup, WiFi setting adjustments, access sharing, and data usage monitoring. While the device is made primarily for use in the US and Canada, its international compatibility is a significant plus. One downside could be the relatively high price point and the dependency on compatible SIM cards and data plans for optimal performance. Additionally, the device may be overkill for users with basic internet needs, given its advanced features and capabilities. It is a solid choice for those who require reliable and fast internet access on the go.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,322
Network Compatibility
Data Speed
Number of Connected Devices

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk R6700 Smart Wi-Fi Router has been a game-changer, delivering blazing-fast wireless speeds and seamless connectivity for all devices.
Data Speed
The Nighthawk R6700 delivers consistent speed, even during peak hours, making it a reliable choice.
Number of Connected Devices
The beamforming technology focuses on connected devices, enhancing performance over other brands.
Security Features
The guest network feature is handy for securely sharing internet access with friends and family.
Ease of Use
Setting up and managing the router is a breeze with the Nighthawk app, which allows control and optimization from a smartphone.
#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
9.7
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Size and Portability

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 is highly reliable and connects seamlessly even with Consumer Cellular, making it an excellent alternative for remote areas with good cellular coverage.
Battery Life
Battery life meets expectations, and the option to run the device without the battery using various power sources is a great feature.
Size and Portability
The WiFi signal is robust enough to cover an RV and areas within a hundred feet, making it ideal for mobile use.
Ease of Use
Setup is a breeze, with immediate connectivity and no need for the Netgear app; it's easily accessible via a laptop browser.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot impresses with its versatile and high-performing features, making it an excellent choice for those needing reliable internet on the go. It supports 5G WiFi with the latest WiFi 6 technology, ensuring fast and secure connectivity. The device is unlocked and works seamlessly with major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, allowing users to switch SIM cards and data plans effortlessly.

With the ability to connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, it’s ideal for both personal and professional use, providing a solid alternative to public WiFi or mobile phone hotspots without draining your phone's battery. The Nighthawk M6 offers exceptional data speeds up to 2.5Gbps, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks and ensuring a stable connection during cable or DSL outages.

Its battery life is commendable, lasting up to 13 hours on a single charge, and the option to remove the battery and use a power adapter is handy for extended coverage needs. The device is easy to set up and manage through its 2.4” color LCD touchscreen. However, it's worth noting that this model is designed for use in the US only, which might limit its appeal to international travelers. Additionally, while portable, the inclusion of multiple components such as the battery and power adapter may slightly impact its portability. Despite these minor drawbacks, the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 stands out as a robust and reliable portable WiFi solution.

Rating
9.7
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Size and Portability

Most important from
470 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 is highly reliable and connects seamlessly even with Consumer Cellular, making it an excellent alternative for remote areas with good cellular coverage.
Battery Life
Battery life meets expectations, and the option to run the device without the battery using various power sources is a great feature.
Size and Portability
The WiFi signal is robust enough to cover an RV and areas within a hundred feet, making it ideal for mobile use.
Ease of Use
Setup is a breeze, with immediate connectivity and no need for the Netgear app; it's easily accessible via a laptop browser.
#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
8.8
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Data Speed

Most important from
5010 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works with various LTE plans and has excellent battery life, making it a reliable travel companion.
Battery Life
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works with various LTE plans and has excellent battery life, making it a reliable travel companion.
Data Speed
This device provides better speeds when the WiFi signal is set to low or off, and using an external antenna can significantly improve performance.
Number of Connected Devices
Despite claims, the device struggles to support more than 2-3 devices simultaneously without rebooting, making it unreliable for multiple connections.
Ease of Use
Setup can be challenging, but the Netgear help desk is very committed to resolving issues and provides good support.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot stands out in the portable WiFi category with a range of impressive features. It supports high data speeds up to 1Gbps, though actual speeds can vary depending on your service provider and how close you are to a cell tower. This makes it suitable for data-heavy activities like streaming and video calls. The hotspot is compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile networks and can connect up to 20 devices at once, making it ideal for families or small groups on the move.

It includes a long-lasting battery that supports all-day use, which is great for travel or remote work scenarios. The device is also quite portable, with compact dimensions of 4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches and weighing only 8.5 ounces, ensuring it won't be a burden to carry around. Security is another strong point, as it allows users to avoid insecure public WiFi networks. The 2.4-inch LCD screen makes it easy to set up and monitor your network.

However, there are some drawbacks. The device works best within the U.S. and specifically with AT&T and T-Mobile, which might limit its global usability. Additionally, it requires a Micro SIM card and a compatible data plan, which may involve extra costs. While it’s generally user-friendly, those less tech-savvy might find the initial setup and data plan activation a bit challenging. Lastly, although it offers a USB port for media sharing, this feature may not be essential for all users.

Rating
8.8
Network Compatibility
Battery Life
Data Speed

Most important from
5010 reviews

Network Compatibility
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works with various LTE plans and has excellent battery life, making it a reliable travel companion.
Battery Life
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 works with various LTE plans and has excellent battery life, making it a reliable travel companion.
Data Speed
This device provides better speeds when the WiFi signal is set to low or off, and using an external antenna can significantly improve performance.
Number of Connected Devices
Despite claims, the device struggles to support more than 2-3 devices simultaneously without rebooting, making it unreliable for multiple connections.
Ease of Use
Setup can be challenging, but the Netgear help desk is very committed to resolving issues and provides good support.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Wifi

Choosing the right portable Wi-Fi device can significantly enhance your internet experience, especially when you're on the go. Portable Wi-Fi devices, also known as mobile hotspots, allow you to connect multiple devices to the internet using a cellular data connection. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a portable Wi-Fi device.
Network CompatibilityNetwork compatibility refers to the types of cellular networks the device can connect to, such as 3G, 4G LTE, or 5G. This is important because it determines the speed and reliability of your internet connection. If you need fast internet for activities like streaming or video conferencing, a device that supports 4G LTE or 5G would be ideal. For basic browsing and email, 3G might suffice. Check the coverage and compatibility with your preferred carrier to ensure optimal performance.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the portable Wi-Fi device can operate on a single charge. This is crucial for users who need internet access for extended periods without access to a power source. Devices with longer battery life (8-20 hours) are suitable for long trips or workdays, while shorter battery life (4-8 hours) might be adequate for occasional use. Consider your typical usage patterns and choose a device that can meet your needs without frequent recharging.
Data SpeedData speed refers to the maximum internet speed the device can provide. This is important for ensuring a smooth online experience, especially for high-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, or video calls. Devices supporting higher speeds (e.g., 150 Mbps or more) are better for heavy internet users, while lower speeds (e.g., 50 Mbps) might be sufficient for basic tasks like browsing and emailing. Assess your internet usage habits to determine the appropriate speed for your needs.
Number of Connected DevicesThis specification indicates how many devices can simultaneously connect to the portable Wi-Fi. It's important because it affects the overall performance and convenience of the hotspot. If you plan to connect multiple devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptops), look for a device that supports 10 or more connections. For individual use or fewer devices, a lower capacity (e.g., 5 connections) may be sufficient. Consider the number of devices you typically use to choose the right capacity.
Size and PortabilitySize and portability refer to the physical dimensions and weight of the portable Wi-Fi device. This is important for users who need to carry the device frequently. Smaller, lightweight devices are easier to transport and fit into pockets or bags, making them ideal for travel. Larger devices might offer better battery life or additional features but can be less convenient to carry. Think about how and where you'll use the device to determine the best balance between size and functionality.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include encryption, password protection, and firewall settings that help protect your data and prevent unauthorized access. This is crucial for maintaining privacy and security, especially when using public or shared networks. Look for devices with robust security options, such as WPA3 encryption and customizable passwords. If you handle sensitive information or frequently use public Wi-Fi, prioritize devices with advanced security features to safeguard your data.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to set up and operate the portable Wi-Fi device. This is important for ensuring a hassle-free experience, especially for users who are not tech-savvy. Devices with intuitive interfaces, clear instructions, and user-friendly apps are easier to manage. Consider your comfort level with technology and choose a device that offers straightforward setup and operation to avoid frustration.

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