10 Best Portable Wifi Hotspots 2026 in the United States

The TP-Link 5G Mobile Hotspot M8550 is a strong choice for travelers and remote workers who need fast and reliable internet on the go. It supports major U.S. carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, and allows you to swap SIM cards easily, which is great for using different data plans or international roaming. Its tri-band Wi-Fi 6E technology offers very fast speeds—up to nearly 3,000 Mbps on 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands—so streaming and downloads should be smooth, though actual speed can vary by location and obstacles.

Battery life is solid, with a 4680mAh battery providing up to 14 hours of use, enough for a full day of work or travel. You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, making it suitable for small groups or families. The device is compact and lightweight, adding to its portability, and it even supports external antennas to boost signal strength in weak coverage areas.

Security is well thought out with built-in VPN support for safe remote work and compliance with U.S. cybersecurity standards. The included Tether app makes managing the hotspot straightforward on your phone. However, it does not support eSIM, so you need a physical nano SIM card. Also, the Ethernet mode offers flexibility if you want to use it as a wired Wi-Fi router. The M8550 is a versatile and powerful portable hotspot with good battery life, strong security, and wide carrier compatibility, ideal for users who prioritize speed and connecting many devices while traveling.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk 5G Mobile Hotspot M7 is a strong choice for anyone needing fast, portable internet on the go, especially travelers visiting over 140 countries. It supports both 5G and 4G connections and offers impressive speeds up to 3.6 Gbps, which means smooth streaming, fast downloads, and reliable video calls. It can connect up to 32 devices, making it suitable for small groups or families.

The hotspot is unlocked and compatible with major networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon (though new Verizon activations start in 2026), giving you flexibility with your carrier and data plans. The eSIM feature allows you to buy and manage data plans easily through the NETGEAR app without long-term contracts, perfect for those who want hassle-free usage abroad. Battery life stands at around 10 hours, enough for a full day of use before needing a recharge.

Security-wise, it uses the WPA3 protocol, offering strong protection for your connections. In terms of portability, it’s lightweight and compact but slightly heavier than some simpler models, so it fits well in bags but may not be pocket-friendly. While the price and need for separate data plans might be considerations, the M7 offers a high-performance, flexible solution for people who want reliable, fast internet wherever they go.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro Mobile Hotspot is a powerful and versatile portable Wi-Fi hotspot. It supports 5G mmWave technology with speeds up to 8Gbps, making it ideal for high-speed internet use at home, in the office, or on the go. Its compatibility with major US carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) and international roaming in 125 countries ensures you stay connected almost anywhere.

You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, making it a great option for families or small businesses. Additionally, it features WiFi 6E technology for enhanced performance and has a 2.8” color LCD touch screen for easy setup and monitoring. Its security features provide a safer alternative to public Wi-Fi networks. The device can also work as a primary home internet connection, acting as a backup during outages and covering up to 2,000 sq. ft. when connected to a power adapter.

On the downside, it is relatively bulky with dimensions of 4.14 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches and weighs 1.45 pounds, which might be less convenient for frequent travelers. This device is an excellent choice for those who need reliable, high-speed internet access across multiple devices and locations.