best travel router with sim card slot

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6 Best Wi-Fi Routers With SIM Card Slot

Sumukh has been simplifying tech for the masses and helping consumers pick the right gadgets with his in-depth insights and reviews. He decided to hide his engineering degree in the closet to pursue his passion for writing. Over the past 5 years, he has contributed with guides, reviews, and detailed opinions to notable publications like TechPP and XDA-Developers. When not jamming his fingers on thoccy mechanical keyboards, Sumukh is busy convincing people how VR Gaming is the next best thing after sliced bread.

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In today’s world, staying connected is more important than ever. A good Wi-Fi router is essential whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or gaming online. But what if you don’t have access to traditional wired internet? That’s where a Wi-Fi router with a SIM card slot comes into the picture. These routers allow you to connect to the internet using a cellular data plan. And, if you’re looking for the best Wi-Fi routers with a SIM card slot, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the best Wi-Fi routers with SIM card slots that promise a seamless and dependable online experience. Most of these are also quite portable, allowing you to stay connected wherever you go. And if you’re all about speed, there are 5G routers available, too. So let’s take a look at the best options on offer.

But first, you might want to check out the following:

• Learn how to choose the right Wi-Fi router .
• Never go offline when using these power banks for your Wi-Fi router .
• Save a buck while gaming online with these budget Wi-Fi gaming routers .

1. TP-Link N150

TP-Link N150

The TP-Link N150 is an affordable and easy-to-use Wi-Fi router. It’s also very compact and portable, making it a great choice for travel. However, unlike the rest of the products on this list, the N150 doesn’t have a dedicated SIM slot. Instead, it makes use of a simple workaround.

Since the TP-Link N150 doesn’t have a SIM slot, you must use a 4G LTE wireless dongle to insert your SIM and then use the dongle with the router to use the cellular connection. This slightly inflates the overall cost, but the package is still quite affordable. Once you’ve inserted the SIM card, switch to the 3G/4G switch on the side, and you should be ready.

The compact design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or bag, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go connectivity. Since it’s powered by a standard microUSB port, you can even power it with a battery pack. While the N150 may not boast the highest speeds compared to more premium models, its affordability and simplicity make it an attractive option for many users.

What We Like

• Budget-friendly
• Small and lightweight
• MicroUSB powered
• Compatible with most 3G and 4G LTE networks

What We Don’t Like

• Requires an external 4G LTE wireless dongle
• Speed limitations
• Limited advanced features

2. Alcatel Link HH41NH

Alcatel Link HH41NH

Alcatel has been in the networking space for decades. It’s no wonder, then, that the Alcatel Link HH41NH is a quality product. It is an unlocked SIM card router that accepts a 4G SIM card and can achieve maximum speeds of up to 150Mbps. You also get a port to attach a telephone line that links to the router.

The Alcatel Link Hub 4G LTE router works with a 4G SIM worldwide, no matter which carrier you use. So, you will be able to use the router to access your mobile data connection. There’s a WAN port and a LAN port for a wired connection. Like the TP-Link N150, the Alcatel Link HH41NH is powered by a single microUSB port. And, thanks to its diminutive size, you can use it on-the-go too.

Regarding speeds, the Link HH41NH boasts a max speed of 150 Mbps. You can also connect up to 32 devices to the router at once. As for features, while the router only supports WPA2, it supports a WPS key and a VPN pass-through. While the app interface isn’t the most intuitive, it’s not too shabby, either. One thing to note here, as posted by some consumers, is that the antennas on this router are a bit tight to adjust.

• Globally compatible with most 3G and 4G LTE networks
• RJ11 telephone port

3. NRadio C2000

NRadio C2000

The C2000 is a dual-purpose router from NRadio. While it features a LAN/WAN port with support for speeds up to 1,200Mbps, it also comes with a SIM card slot. You can use this slot to facilitate the primary internet connection or even as a failover connection if your broadband goes haywire.

The NRadio C2000 is a dual-band SIM card router with a top download speed of 1,200Mbps. However, it is worth noting that while using the SIM card, the speed is limited to 150Mbps, similar to the other products on this list. The router features a WAN and a LAN port. You can use the WAN port to connect the C2000 to your broadband modem. Additionally, you can use the LAN port to provide wired connectivity to another device, such as a PC or a printer.

Despite all these features, the C2000 is still quite compact and extremely portable. You can power it off a power bank and stay connected on the move. Some reviews complain that the setup process is slightly complicated when using the router with a SIM card for the first time. However, following the instructions properly should ensure you get a working router in a few minutes.

• Dual-band Wi-Fi
• AC1200 speeds for normal router mode
• The setup process is slightly complex

4. Cudy LT500

The Cudy LT500 offers a compelling balance of speed, features, and affordability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. Apart from its convenience and reliability, the LT500 also offers a suite of advanced features, usually limited to more expensive routers.

If you’re looking for a feature-packed Wi-Fi modem with SIM, the LT500 is a solid option. Compact yet powerful, the Cudy LT500 offers 1200Mbps dual-band Wi-Fi and 4G LTE connectivity. Its Nano SIM card slot ensures a reliable internet connection even in areas with limited wired infrastructure. Similar to the NRadio C2000, you can configure the LT500 to work primarily with your broadband and use the SIM network as a failsafe.

The LT500 comes with plenty of extra hardware and software features up its sleeves, too. It has 5dBi High Gain Antennas that boost the sensitivity of the router. As a result, you get improved signal quality, even at a distance from the router. The 4G router also has built-in PPTP/L2TP/OpenVPN/WireGuard VPN Clients. As such, you can set up a VPN for your router and safeguard your privacy.

• 5dBi High Gain antennas
• Built-in VPN clients
• Not portable

5. NETGEAR Nighthawk 4 LAX20

NETGEAR Nighthawk 4 LAX20

Netgear is another brand that is quite popular and reliable. The Nighthawk Nighthawk 4 LAX20 is a 4G LTE router with a SIM card slot and Wi-Fi 6 support. It is a 4-stream router that can achieve a maximum download speed of 1.8Gbps via Wi-Fi and connect to 20 devices simultaneously.

The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 is an expensive SIM card router, but you’re also getting a ton of features that you won’t find on other routers mentioned in this list. The Wi-Fi 6 technology onboard ensures faster connectivity with better signal strength. With multiple Ethernet ports, it caters to the needs of gamers and home office enthusiasts who require stable and fast connectivity.

As for 4G LTE connectivity, the LAX20 supports SIMs from all major carriers, such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. The NETGEAR Nighthawk app provides a user-friendly interface for managing your Wi-Fi network, including setting up parental controls, optimizing network settings, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. Additionally, the router also comes with Netgear Armor powered by Bitdefender to protect against cyber threats. So, you can browse the web without any worries.

• Best coverage of any router on this list
• Wi-Fi 6 support for faster speeds
• Multiple Ethernet ports for wired connections
• Robust and durable design
• Easy-to-use Nighthawk app for network management
• Netgear Armor powered by Bitdefender for online security
• No support for 5G bands

Speaking of 5G, if you are specifically looking for a 5G Wi-Fi router with a SIM card slot, then the Cudy P5 is a great option. While expensive, it’s one of the rare Wi-Fi routers supporting a faster network speed. Add to that, it houses not one but two SIM card slots.

Packed with cutting-edge technology, this router not only supports the latest 5G standards but also harnesses the efficiency of WiFi 6, setting the stage for a seamless online experience. The dual SIM card slots add a layer of versatility, allowing users to harness the power of two separate cellular networks for enhanced reliability and coverage.

Both slots support 5G NR/SA/NSA connectivity with downlink speeds of up to 2.4 Gbps. Moreover, even 4G LTE connections get a downlink speed of up to 1Gbps. As a result, you get access to blazing-fast internet speeds and low latency. Whether streaming high-definition content, engaging in video conferences, or gaming online, the router ensures a lag-free and immersive experience.

The Cudy P5 has advanced features that enhance its versatility and security. It supports mesh networking, allowing you to expand WiFi coverage by adding compatible mesh nodes. It also features built-in VPN support, allowing you to securely connect to your home or office network when you’re away. Additionally, the Cudy P5 includes parental controls and guest network options for added security and privacy.

• Blazing-fast 5G connectivity with speeds up to 2.4 Gbps
• Dual SIM redundancy for uninterrupted connectivity
• Wi-Fi 6 technology for expanded coverage
• Advanced features
• User-friendly interface
• Very expensive
• Overkill for basic users

Share Your Mobile Data With All Your Devices

Well, that was our list of the best Wi-Fi Routers with a SIM card slot. At the end of the day, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for simplicity, high-speed connectivity, portability, or advanced features, these routers offer a range of options to keep you seamlessly connected. Choose one of these best Wi-Fi routers with a SIM card slot the one that aligns with your lifestyle and enjoy a world of uninterrupted online experiences.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 01 December, 2023

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

Nomad Internet claims to have a 5G SIM modem/router.

I have a 4G WIFI MODEM and it needs a sim card where can I get one

You shared a knowledgeable information. Thank you.

I asked for wifi router with sim card slot alongwith traditional cat 6 or fibre cable input connectivity both. If traditional not working, 2nd connectivity with sim card gets working. Can you provide details on this.

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The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

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The Best Wireless Travel Routers of 2024

Pocket routers for Wi-Fi networking on the road

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

• The Ultimate Router Buying Guide

Frequent travelers battling poor cell service, dubious security, and excessive hotel and airport Wi-Fi fees can benefit from a good travel router when working away from home.

The best wireless travel routers avoid these hassles by letting you set up a private bubble of Wi-Fi anywhere you happen to land, whether in a conference center, hotel room, or airport lounge. 

Most people should buy the TP-Link TL-WR902AC  - it's small enough to chuck in a backpack and can even double as a Wi-Fi range extender. If you also want a cellular connection as backup, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 is for you, as it doubles as a mobile hotspot for your hotel room or car.

What to Look For in a Travel Router

Best overall, tp-link tl-wr902ac travel router.

 Amazon

Compact size is ideal for frequent travelers

Doubles as a Wi-Fi extender

Included cables are short

TP-Link's TL-WR902AC is one of the fastest travel routers we've seen, which is especially impressive at this size and price. Measuring 2.64 x 2.91 x 0.9 inches and weighing in at only 8 ounces, it's small enough to carry in a pocket, briefcase, or backpack, so you'll be ready to set up your own Wi-Fi bubble anywhere.

For such a small device, the TL-WR902AC offers impressive dual-band Wi-Fi performance. It's also really versatile since it can be not only be used as a router or access point to create a wireless network but also as a range extender, private Wi-Fi hotspot, or even as a bridge to connect a wired device to a Wi-Fi network by using its built-in Ethernet port in the opposite direction. 

A built-in USB port lets you share files and media from a removable USB storage device, and it can also provide up to 2A of passthrough power to charge your smartphone or tablet. The only real downside is that the port layout can be awkward since the USB and micro USB power ports are on the opposite side of the Ethernet port. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best Splurge

Netgear nighthawk m1.

Great choice for heavy internet users

Supports up to 20 Wi-Fi devices at once

Long battery life

Doubles as a mobile hotspot

Very expensive

Can occasionally overheat

While it's not the most affordable option on our list, it's well worth the splurge if you need to get several devices onto the internet anywhere at blazing-fast speeds.

With support for up to 20 simultaneous devices, Netgear's Nighthawk MR1100 can quickly handle your whole family or project team, and unlike most travel routers on this list, the one works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot too. This means you'll be able to connect to its Wi-Fi network and get online even when there's no other Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. It's also the first mobile hotspot to support Gigabit LTE , with 4X4 MIMO and four-band Carrier Aggregation. Hence, it can provide internet speeds rivaling your home broadband connection.

It's not just about LTE, though—the MR1100 also works as a traditional portable router. Just plug a standard internet connection into the Ethernet port to share access to your Wi-Fi devices. A large 2.4-inch color LCD screen also ensures that you can keep track of the router's status and how much data you're using. The rechargeable battery can keep you going for up to 24 hours before you need to charge it, and in a pinch, you can also use some of that capacity to charge your smartphone or other mobile devices. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac / 4G LTE | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1 

TP-Link TL-WR802N N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

Fast single-band Wi-Fi performance

No USB port

Not the fastest internet speeds when connected to multiple devices

TP-Link’s TL-WR802N is an older single-band router that offers a surprisingly great range in its small package. While the single-band N300 rating won’t break any speed records, it still provides enough performance for lag-free 4K Netflix streaming and uninterrupted video conferences on Zoom. 

Like most travel routers, the TL-WR802N is designed for use by one or two users when you’re on the go, and the 300Mbps 802.11n speeds will likely be faster than the internet connection at most hotels and conference centers you find yourself in. This little pocket-sized router offers exceptional coverage, so you won’t need to worry about staying connected while roaming the boardroom. 

The N300 draws its power via a micro USB port that can connect directly to a wall charger or laptop, so you won’t have to worry about how to power it. It can also function as a repeater, Wi-Fi client, or extender for a public WISP hotspot. The only downside is that, unlike its dual-band sibling, the TL-WR902AC, it lacks a USB port, so you won’t be able to use it for sharing files. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11n | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: N300 | Bands: Single-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best for Road Warriors

Gl.inet mudi gl-e750.

Works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot

Open source

Excellent VPN support

No external antenna

The GL.iNet GL-E750 router is an excellent choice for road warriors who must stay connected securely and reliably anywhere they land.

With WireGuard encryption, support for multiple Open Source VPN protocols, and even Tor anonymous network routing, this router ensures that you can always have a secure and private connection to the internet if you're a relatively advanced user. Whether that's over your hotel's shared network or your carrier's LTE network, all your traffic will be encrypted, and you can even have an always-on tunnel back into your home or office network. 

It's not just for mobile LTE access, however; it's also a capable Wi-Fi access point, with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz support with 733Mbps throughput across both bands, along with a built-in battery that offers up to eight hours of use and a USB port and microSD card slots that can be used for sharing files with your connected devices. Since it's designed to be used from anywhere, it also features a built-in rechargeable battery that promises up to eight hours of use on a single charge. 

Lifewire / Andy Zahn

Most of the routers on the market are big and bulky devices. If you're parking them in a corner at home, this is a manageable problem, but they're not suited for taking the road with you.

This has given rise to a whole new category of travel routers: devices that are specifically designed to be highly portable—often small enough to be carried in a pocket—and run from internal batteries or a simple USB-powered connection that lets you plug them into a laptop or portable battery pack to create your own personal Wi-Fi network. 

Most importantly, since public Wi-Fi hotspots are usually insecure, a good travel router can also offer additional peace of mind by providing a private, encrypted Wi-Fi network for your traffic, securing the connections not only between your devices and the router but also making sure the traffic leaving the router is also encrypted. 

This means that you can take them just about anywhere you happen to land, whether it's between your home and the office, to a coffee shop where you might want to have more secure Wi-Fi, or on the road with you to use in hotels, conference centers, and airport lounges.

Bandwidth and Performance

When shopping for a router for your home, you're looking for enough range to blanket your home with the strong Wi-Fi signal you need to support streaming and gaming from multiple devices. 

Travel routers are different. You may find that even an entry level router—one that offers 802.11n support at 150Mbps speeds—is more than enough.

Wireless Frequencies: Single-Band vs Dual-Band

Like other wireless routers, travel routers come in single or multi-band versions, which refers to their frequencies. A single-band router works only on the 2.4GHz frequency, while a dual-band router offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies on two separate bands. 

Security and Privacy

As a bare minimum, every modern wireless travel router should include support for the Wireless Protected Access 2 (WPA2) encryption standard. This is even more important in a travel router you'll use in more public spaces.

While this probably isn't such a big deal if all you want to do is stream movies from Netflix, if confidentiality is essential, we strongly recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting through a travel router. While you can do this directly from your devices, you'll probably find it even simpler to pick up a travel router with built-in VPN support so that your connection is automatically encrypted as soon as you plug it in.

Connectivity

Almost all travel routers offer the same connectivity as your home router—turning a wired connection into a Wi-Fi network. However, as more hotels offer guest Wi-Fi networks instead of Ethernet jacks, you'll probably find getting a travel router that can also connect to a public Wi-Fi network is more beneficial.

There's also a category of travel routers that can act as mobile hotspots to offer internet access for your mobile devices over an LTE cellular network.

Even though most hotels already offer free Wi-Fi, it’s often struggling under the load of many people using it, so having a travel router can provide better performance, especially if you can plug it into a wired connection in your room. Plus, most public Wi-Fi hotspots are completely insecure, allowing your traffic to be easily intercepted by anybody else on the same Wi-Fi network. Using a router plugged into ethernet will also often save you money as you won't have to pay for the usable 'premium' internet package.

The best travel routers offer industry-standard WPA2 encryption—the same type of security used by your home router—which means that all of your wireless traffic is safe from prying eyes. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are open networks that use no encryption at all but keep in mind that if you’re using a travel router as a wireless extender for a public Wi-Fi hotspot, your traffic will still be unencrypted between your travel router and the hotspot. For the best security, use a wired connection or a VPN wherever possible.

Even if you use your travel router in your hotel room, internet traffic still travels over the hotel’s network. While most sensitive sites and services like email and online banking use SSL encryption, this won’t prevent the hotel or other public hotspot provider from seeing where you’re going; they just won’t be able to know what you’re doing. If you want to ensure your connection is as private and secure as possible, we recommend using a travel router with built-in VPN support.

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Best Mobile Wi-Fi Routers 2023

A Mobile Wi-Fi router, or MiFi for short, is a portable gadget that lets you share an internet connection to other devices from a SIM card with a mobile data plan.

You might wonder why you need one at all when you could use your phone’s portable hotspot (or tethering) feature to create a Wi-Fi network for other devices to connect, but if you’re travelling in another country you might prefer to keep your usual SIM in your phone and pop a local SIM card into a mobile Wi-Fi router to share its data with all your Wi-Fi devices, including a laptop, tablet and even a Fire Stick you might take with you.

If you need a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot regularly, a MiFi router can be the preferred solution because they won’t drain your smartphone’s battery, there’s no fiddling around with swapping SIM cards, and you won’t need to leave your phone with whomever is sharing its internet connection. They can also be used with data-only SIMs (those that do not offer calls and texts), which can make it cheaper to get online. 

And in case you’re wondering, the difference between a mobile Wi-Fi router and a mobile data dongle is that a router does not physically connect to your device, and it can share a mobile data connection with more than one device. You could plug a dongle into your laptop or PC, but the advantage of the MiFi routers below is that they provide an internet connection to multiple devices at the same time.

What is the best mobile hotspot?

1. tp-link m7350 – best overall mobile router.

• SIM-unlocked
• Supports 10 devices
• 10-hour battery
• Cheaper options are available
• May be overkill for some

TP-Link’s M7350 is a solid 4G mobile router that has the big benefit of being network-unlocked. That means although you’ll pay in full upfront, you can choose any data deal from any UK network operator, and you aren’t tied to a contract.

The TP-Link supports all three UK 4G LTE bands, with up to 150Mbps download speeds and 50Mbps uploads. It can create a wireless network for up to 10 devices, and supports a microSD card for shared storage and has an LCD that tells you the signal strength, how many devices are connected, how much data you have used of your total limit, plus the remaining battery capacity.

You can also use the LCD to cycle through a menu that caters to such options as toggling on or off data roaming, switching between 2.4- and 5GHz output, and choosing between 4G, 3G or a mixture of both.

A final option displays a QR code that takes you directly to Google Play or the App Store to download the tpMiFi app, which lets you manage users, alter the range, share files and read text messages. 

The TP-Link’s 2550mAh battery should be good for up to 10 hours of 4G connectivity, but lasts days on standby.

2. Huawei Mobile WiFi 3s (E5576-320) – Best Value Mobile Router

• Supports up to 10 devices
• Nicely designed
• Simple to use
• 6-hour battery life is shorter than some

Available on contract through Three, the Huawei E5576-320 offers such great value that you’d be crazy not to simply buy the network-unlocked version outright.

This is a 4G mobile router that lets you connect up to 10 devices, with its 1500mAh battery offering a standby time of up to 350 hours and working time of up to 6 hours.

It’s small, compact and easily portable – but, more importantly, it’s functional, with up to 150Mbps download speeds and 50Mbps uploads.

There are no fancy extra features, with this affordable mobile router from Huawei instead concentrating on one primary task: getting your mobile devices online wherever you are.

3. TP-Link M7200 – Best No-Frills Mobile Router

• 8-hour battery
• Quick to set up
• Plasticky design
• Difficult to prise off rear panel

TP-Link’s M7220 is a no-frills mobile Wi-Fi router that supports 4G FDD-LTE/TDD-LTE and 3G networks. It’s SIM-unlocked, so you simply unclip the back panel, pop in your SIM, and switch it on. It’s that easy to set up.

The 2,000mAh internal battery can last up to 8 hours in use, but significantly longer on standby, and you can share its 2.4GHz mobile Wi-Fi connection with up to 10 devices.

This is a rather plasticky device, and we were worried about snapping the rear panel when trying to prise it off to insert the SIM, but it’s tougher than it looks. The Wi-Fi network name and password are hidden under this panel, however, so you might prefer to make a note of it than to have to keep pulling on and off the panel every time you want to share the network.

The display doesn’t give you any stats about how much data you’ve used, but three status lights keep things super-simple: you can see how much battery remains, whether you’re connected to the internet and if it is sharing a Wi-Fi network.

Should you want to access more settings you can use the free mobile app or connect to the router via its login page on a browser, but otherwise the TP-Link keeps things simple for those who just want to turn it on and get online.

4. TP-Link M7450 – Best 4G Mobile Router

• Supports 32 devices
• 15-hour battery life
• Might be overkill for some

The TP-Link M7450 is a newer, more advanced version of the M7350, but it’s also more expensive and we think the older model currently offers better value.

Like the M7350, it’s sold unlocked and should work with any major network, either in the UK or abroad. It supports Cat6 LTE, with 300Mbps downloads (double the M7350) and 50Mbps downloads; you can pick between either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi bands; and you can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously – way, way more than most people will ever need.

Menu navigation is simple, and the clean UI makes the most of the two buttons and small screen to give you the info you need. For more complex setup – including USSD support, useful for connecting to many foreign networks – you can use either the web portal or free smartphone app.

The 3000mAh battery should give you an impressive 15 hours of working battery time. You even get a microSD slot, which supports cards up to 32GB and can be used as a quick way to share files between devices.

5. MyWebspot – Best Rental Mobile Router

• Great for one-off use
• Ready to go out of box
• Local charger supplied
• Rental prices will stack up
• Fair usage policy
• No LCD or app

Many of the options in this chart are suitable for those who will regularly need the use of a mobile Wi-Fi router, but MyWebspot is more appropriate for those who have a one-off requirement.

If you’re going on holiday abroad (potentially outside the realms of free roaming in Europe) and have several devices to get online, the service allows you to hire a hotspot for use by up to five devices in more than 100 countries.

Daily charges are calculated based on where you are going and for how long. At first glance they might seem steep, but they are nothing compared to what your mobile operator will charge you once you overstep your data allowance. It can also be very expensive to connect to Wi-Fi provided by some holiday resorts, which is often slow and time-limited.

The data is technically unlimited, but once you exceed the fair usage (1GB/day in Europe, US and Canada; 2GB in Mexico; fully unlimited in South East Asia; and 512MB everywhere else) the speed drops to an almost unusable 256kbps.

Setup couldn’t be simpler. The device can be delivered directly to your resort (or home if you prefer), then you turn it on, wait a moment for it to connect to a local 4G LTE network, and pick it up on your mobile device as you would any other Wi-Fi network using the SSID and password printed on the label on the back. On your way home you pop it in the post box using the prepaid envelope.

MyWebspot claims download speeds up to 100Mbps, and uploads of up to 40Mbps. In our testing in Lake Garda, Italy, we recorded  an average download speed of 33.5Mbps, and upload speed of 26.8Mbps. Naturally these speeds will decrease as you add multiple devices.

You’ll get about eight hours battery life from the Mi-Fi router, which is supplied with the appropriate local charger for your holiday destination.

There’s no companion app, which means even technophobes will get along with MyWebspot, though it would be handy to have some way of monitoring usage across multiple devices given that there’s no LCD screen.

6. Three Huawei 4G Plus MiFi – Best Value Contract Mobile Router

• Unlimited data
• Shorter contract options

If you’d rather buy a mobile Wi-Fi router on a contract, Three has some of the best deals right now. It uses the Huawei E5783B-320, and pairs it with some great data bundles.

We like the fact you can subscribe to a one-month rolling contract, because the way the world is right now no-one really knows how much they’ll be traveling over the next couple of years!

Three offers great value on unlimited data, with the one-month plan costing £27 per month (plus £39 upfront), the 12-month plan costing £26 per month (no upfront cost), and the 24-month plan costing £22 per month (again, no upfront cost). Purchase either the 12- or 24-month option and right now you get the first six months half-price.

If you don’t need this much data, 10GB and 40GB plans are also available, with the 10GB 24-month plan starting from £12 per month.

What are the advantages of buying a mobile Wi-Fi router?

You can connect multiple devices: Some MiFi devices let you connect 10 or more devices to a single hotspot, which will work out a lot cheaper than paying for a mobile data plan for each of those devices – but you’ll want a generous data allowance.

You can connect Wi-Fi-only devices to a mobile data connection:  Tablets are great to use at home, but what about on the train, on the beach or by the pool? Wherever you can get a phone signal, you can use MiFi to create a wireless network and get online from any Wi-Fi device.

You can save money on your next tablet: Buying a tablet with a 4G or 5G data connection adds around £100 to the price, and that’s before you consider the monthly fee for your data. Use some of that money to buy a MiFi router instead and you’ll never need to buy a cellular tablet again.

You can reduce roaming charges: Most mobile operators offer free roaming in the EU (for now, anyway!), but fixed-fee roaming elsewhere, allowing you to take your home tariff with you for a set cost. Rather than paying this extra charge on all your devices, turn off data roaming on them and connect them all to a mobile hotspot. You’ll pay this charge only once, but get all your devices online. Note that 5G roaming is not widespread, but it is currently offered by Vodafone and VOXI.

You can avoid using slow hotel Wi-Fi: When visiting hotels that still charge for Wi-Fi, you can get the kids online all day and at a lower cost than what the hotel would charge. Better still, you can avoid using the same network as all the other guests, which is usually slow and often has poor signal in your hotel room. Sometimes these networks can also be unsecured, so using MiFi will be preferable.

You can add 5G connectivity to a 4G device: Many of us have yet to jump on the 5G bandwagon, but where available it is seriously fast. Although your phone may be limited to 4G, your data plan almost certainly includes 5G. A 5G mobile router will allow you to connect your 4G phone to the internet at 5G speeds.

You can get faster download speeds: Even if your device already supports 5G, you could potentially get faster download and upload speeds by switching to a MiFi that supports a faster connection. Just remember that 5G is not yet available everywhere, and purchasing a 5G hotspot will push up the price.

You can share storage across your own mobile network: If your MiFi supports a microSD card, you can share that storage across all your devices, which is especially handy if they don’t support expandable storage themselves.

How do I choose a mobile router?

There are three options when purchasing a mobile Wi-Fi router:

• Buy a device and data SIM bundle direct from a mobile operator in return for a fixed monthly subscription
• Buy a network-unlocked MiFi router and add your own data SIM
• Hire a mobile router to cover only the period you need (see MyWebspot , reviewed above)

Many people will automatically go to their mobile operator for a MiFi device, since it’s an easy solution and you don’t need to pay anything up front. But this isn’t always the best idea.

If you buy a MiFi router from a mobile operator it will probably be locked to that network, preventing you from shopping around for the best data deal. You will also most likely pay over the odds if you choose to pay nothing up front but tie yourself into a two-year contract.

However, buy a network-unlocked router and shop around for a great-value data SIM plan and you will save money in the long run.

Note that the mobile hotspots offered by UK mobile operators are typically made by Huawei, but also Netgear, HTC and TP-Link. If you know the model you can usually find these devices available network-unlocked through retailers such as Amazon.

Can I use any SIM in a mobile hotspot?

Technically, yes. If you have a significant or unlimited data allowance with your mobile tariff you could simply take the SIM out your smartphone and insert it into a mobile router. 

However, not all mobile operators support unlimited tethering (check your contract), various phone functions are not going to be available on your smartphone while it’s missing its SIM, and you might regret the decision if you are overly generous with that shared mobile Wi-Fi connection and run out of data some time before the allowance renews.

You can now purchase data SIMs or SIM-only plans with big data allowances on PAYG or contract from all the UK’s major mobile operators. Which option you choose is largely going to be based on how much data you need to use, and how frequently you need to use it.

If you want something only for when you go on holiday, choose a PAYG plan and pay for data only when you need it. If you want something to get around a flaky home broadband connection or for use on your daily commute, choose either a rolling one-month contract option or save a bit of money with a 12- or 24-month plan.

What are the best data SIM deals?

We’d advise looking for a deal from a well-known mobile operator that has reliable coverage in your area (or your holiday destination), with a big data allowance, no restrictions on tethering, free or cheap roaming, and a low monthly or PAYG cost.

You can check network coverage in your area for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G on the mobile operator’s website. Use the following links to jump straight to the major UK mobile operators’ coverage checker: Vodafone , EE , O2 , Three , GiffGaff , Smarty , VOXI , iD Mobile , Virgin Mobile , TalkMobile . 

There are many more companies offering data SIMs than we have listed here, but all are what are known as MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators. This means they piggyback on another mobile network (Vodafone, EE, O2 or Three) for connectivity. As long as you have coverage with the big four, all the MVNOs should be covered in your area.

The best data SIM deals are always changing. We’ve collated more in-depth advice in our frequently updated guide to the best SIM-only deals , but our preference currently falls to Three . All its SIMs support 5G.

Smarty, which also runs on Three’s network, currently has a great deal on 40GB of data for £10 on a12-month plan. Tethering is unlimited in the UK.

Author: Marie Black , Editorial Director

Marie is Editorial Director at Foundry. A Journalism graduate from the London College of Printing, she's worked in tech media for more than 17 years, managing our EMEA and LatAm editorial teams and leading on content strategy through Foundry's transition from print, to digital, to online - and beyond.

Recent stories by Marie Black:

• Welcome to Our New Home on TechAdvisor.com
• Brilliant Tech Gift Ideas for Kids for Christmas
• How to Recall Gmail: Unsend An Email

Savvy Travel Advice

Best Travel Routers for Internet while Traveling

Last updated: April 14, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 224 Comments

These days most travelers want to be able to get online regularly while traveling to check email, get directions, check hotel and restaurant reviews, upload photos, update social media, and stay in touch with those back home. Travel routers can help with this.

It is definitely easier to stay connected as wireless Internet is now widely available in most parts of the world but there are still a number of situations when it can be tricky (or expensive) to connect.

As travel bloggers who regularly have to manage our business on the go, it is often really important for us to be able to get online on a regular basis while traveling and it can be very frustrating when we are in a hotel with weak Wi-Fi, we are being restricted from using multiple devices on one Internet connection, or we would like more security when using an unsecured public hotspot.

A travel router is a compact little device which solves these common Internet issues and offers a number of features to the on-the-go traveler who wants to stay connected. In this post we’re going to go through some of the best travel router options available on the market today based on real-world testing and personal experiences, so you can pick the right option for you.

Table of Contents:

Basic Information on what a Travel Router Does

If you are new to travel routers, also known as portable WIFI routers, this section will help you understand what they do and whether they might be a good fit for your travels or not.

We understand that a lot of the terminology can be somewhat opaque, so Laurence has put his years of experience as a software engineer to use to help explain everything you need to know.

What is a Travel Router?

A travel router is a wireless range extender designed for people who are on the go and need to connect to the Internet when they are away from home. It also performs the functions of a wireless access point.

Just like you would use a home WiFi router to connect your devices to the Internet at home, you may also want to consider having a portable router to use when traveling.

What does a Travel Router do?

Different wireless travel routers have different features, but the main feature is that they increase the range of existing wireless Internet networks. So for example, if you are in a hotel with a weak wireless signal that you are having difficulty connecting to with your laptop or phone, the travel router will amplify the signal so you can connect more easily.

Here is an overview of the main features of a travel router:

• A travel router can extend the range of wireless networks , meaning you can connect to a network somewhere that you might not have been able to connect to with your device because the signal is too weak. The powerful antenna of a travel router can pick up this weak signal and amplify it so your devices can connect to it.
• The travel router also creates a secure wireless network at a public hotspot to better protect your devices . Often when traveling the networks we connect to are unsecured and unencrypted, which means anyone could in theory grab hold of passwords or other data that we send to and from the internet. Travel routers feature a firewall which protects your personal devices from known DoS attacks and port scans from the Internet, giving you a more secure internet connection. However, it is still not recommended that you share sensitive information over a public connection. 
• A travel router allows you to connect multiple devices to a network , even with a single login. The travel router is seen by networks as a single device, so if you are only given one login, you can still use multiple devices. You just login once from the travel router via a web browser (or in some cases a provided smartphone app), and then all your devices can be connected to the network created by the travel router.
• Some travel routers can also be used as a WiFi bridge . These have Ethernet ports so you can connect Ethernet-enabled devices wirelessly to an existing WiFi network. These can include Internet-ready TVs, Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles.
• Other features of travel routers may include the ability to connect to a wired network and turn that into a wireless network, to provide USB charging power to devices such as phones. to work without power, and even to act as an SD Card reader or media hub.
• Some travel routers (including one on our list) can also act as mobile hotspots, but this is not common. See our guide to mobile hotspots for more options in this area.

How much do travel routers cost?

Travel routers range in price from about $20 to $130, although more expensive models with more features are available. We’d recommend that most people look at ones in the $30 to $70 range, as these will work for most users.

If you have a small budget, you can get a decent travel router for around $30. See our recommended travel router list later in the article; they are listed in order by retail price. But beware of ones that are really cheap as they may not work well as advertised.

If you need a travel router that also acts as a mobile hotspot or has other specialized features, then you will pay extra. Some of these can be upwards of $200.

The Best Travel Routers 2024

There are a number of travel routers on the market today, which range in price and features. All the below models would make for a good choice, and the model you choose will depend on your budget and required features.

We currently use a GL.iNet GL-MT1300 which replaces our previous and now discontinued Netgear Trek N300 (PR2000).

We also use the Netgear Nighthawk M1 on some trips when we need access to the Internet as this functions primarily as a mobile hotspot, but it can also be used as a travel router.

Below are our current favorite recommendations:

1. GL.iNET GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Mini Travel Router

This is the first of a few GL.iNet routers that we recommend in this post. We like them for a number of reasons. First, they’re based on the OpenWRT software, which is a Linux based operating system that receives regular updates. GL.iNet keep on top of regular firmware updates, so the routers stay secure and get new features. This is unfortunately not as common as you might think, but it is super important to keep your devices safe.

As an example, the GL.iNet routers we list have all been upgraded to include support for WPA3, the latest wireless security standard. Regular updates and support for new features is definitely a benefit when it comes to a travel router, and means it will likely be more future proof.

Whilst this may all sound quite technical, the good news is that you don’t need to really worry about it if you’re not an advanced user. The devices have a simple interface and are easy to setup, and upgrades are just a single click option. If you want to dive into more advanced options you can, but the device works great out of the box, with setup via a simple web interface.

All the GL.iNet routers in our list also all support VPN credentials (see why you need a VPN for travel here ). This means that if you have a VPN account for more secure browsing like NordVPN , all your devices will connect through that when using this device.

The MT300N-V2 model, also known as Mango, is one of the more entry level options in terms of price and features, but if you’re looking for a small device that will do pretty much everything you are likely to need from a travel router, it’s a great option.

You get 300Mbps 2.4Ghz WiFi support, WPA2 and WPA3 support, and two 100 Mbps Ethernet ports for sharing a wired network. It’s also very privacy-focused. As well as the aforementioned VPN support, it also comes with built-in support for Cloudflare’s DNS over TLS. This basically means your internet connection is going to be pretty secure and hard for anyone to snoop on.

Another great feature is that if you have a smartphone with tethering support, or a 3G/4G data dongle, you can plug this smartphone into the USB 2 port on this router, and share the phone’s data over the router’s WiFi network.

The device is powered by USB, so any USB power source can power it, including a power bank or smartphone charger.

The reviews are positive and it’s available at a great price for a travel router that supports 300Mbps and only weighs 1.41oz. It is not as fully featured as some of the other options, in particular it only operates on the 2.4GHz band and the ethernet ports are 100Mbit rather than gigabit. However for most users this likely won’t make a significant difference.

If you are after a lightweight great value travel router with VPN support, this is a solid option.

Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

2. TP-Link TL-WR902AC Router

The TP-Link TL-WR902AC wireless travel router is another small, value option that is worth considering.

This weighs just 2oz, is powered by USB and supports the 802.11ac standard, which offers speeds up to 433Mbps. We’re not sure this speed will make much difference in the real world, as you’re always limited by the speed of the network you connect to, it is good to have.

It also has a USB port that you can connect a USB drive to for file sharing, or to charge a smartphone or other USB powered device. There’s also a 100Mbps ethernet port. It doesn’t have a built-in battery, so it does need to be powered from either a USB battery pack or a wall adaptor.

This is definitely an option if you’re looking for a small travel router at a good price, but be aware the software is not updated as regularly as the GL-iNet and it doesn’t have as many features such as VPN support.

Price: Check the latest price on Amazon here

3. NewQ Filehub AC 750

If you’re after a travel router with a few more features and great functionality, then the NeqQ Filehub AC750 is a good choice. It may also allow you to replace some of the other devices you typically travel with to pack less.

As well as offering a fast 433Mbps network with support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, this device features a 6700mah battery so it works without needing power, and can also be used to charge your devices.

It also features an SD Card reader and a USB port, so you can transfer files from memory cards to your hard drives or computer. It also has DLNA compatible media serving capabilities, although it is missing built in VPN support.

The latter means you can plug in a hard drive or memory card with your movies on, and stream them directly to your TV, laptop, or mobile phone. There’s a lot of functionality for the price and it weighs under 7 ounces!

Price: Check the latest price on Amazon here .

4. GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) Travel Router

The GL-A1300 from Gl.iNet is the latest version of the travel router we currently use. The GL-A1300 supports 400Mbps on the 2.4Ghz channel, and up to 867Mbps on the 5Ghz channel. It also supports up to 40 devices simultaneously, thanks to a relatively fast processor and lots of RAM.

Like the other GL.iNet routers it also gets regular updates and includes support for features like IPv6 and WPA3, as well as lots of other advanced features that make this perfect for both travel and at home use.

Now, to be honest, most WiFi networks you connect to aren’t going to offer internet speeds which this router can take advantage of. However, if you happen to connect to one that is that fast, this device will let you take full advantage of it! It also means when you’re not travelling you can use it at home as a fast network option to extend an existing network.

You also get three gigabit ethernet ports, a faster USB 3.0 port with media server capabilities, a micro SD slot for storage, and a USB-C port for power. As with the other GL.iNet devices in this list, If you have a smartphone that supports tethering, you can plug it into the USB port and share your smartphone data as well. Or, if you have a USB 3G/4G modem, you can plug that into the USB slot and share that data.

This router is also specifically designed to provide good support for a wide range of VPN services as well as support for IPv6, making this one of the most future proof travel routers we’re aware of on the market. It weighs 6.3oz, so it’s not the smallest option, but it’s still very compact and offers a lot of functionality for the price.

5. GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX)

Launched in December 2022, this travel router takes the speed crown from our previous fastest travel router, the GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) , and as the name suggests, is an upgrade over the 1300 Beryl model.

If you want one of the fastest and most future proof travel routers on the market, this is the model to go for. It’s one of the few travel routers we know of currently that supports the latest WiFi 6 standard, with speeds of up to 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz channel and a blazing fast 2402Mbps on the 5Ghz channel.

It also has an incredibly fast dual-core CPU and double the RAM of the previous Beryl model, meaning it can support up to 70 connected devices simultaneously.

You also get a USB 3 port for tethering support and 2 LAN ports. One of those LAN ports offers gigabit speeds whilst the other is 2.5 gigabits, which is about as fast as you can get, and ideal if you also want to use this at home with a fibre connection.

It otherwise has the same features as the other GL.iNet products, so you get regular updates and support for VPN connectivity if you have a VPN account. If you do have a VPN, this router offers WireGuard speeds of up to 300Mbps, which is incredibly fast compared to other travel routers on the market.

To be honest, this router is probably a bit much for most general travel needs. However, If you have a lot of devices to connect, or just want the fastest option with all the features, and support for USB 3, this is the one to go for. At 7oz, it’s not the lightest option out there but you do get incredible performance.

Price : Check latest price on Amazon here .

6. Netgear Nighthawk M1

If you are looking for a product that is both a mobile hotspot and a travel router, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 (MR1100) is an option to consider. This is for people who know they are going to be traveling in places without Internet access.

As well as offering travel router capabilities like extending an ethernet or wireless network, this device also lets you put a 4G LTE SIM card into it, and use it as a mobile hotspot when you are away from wireless or ethernet.

It has a 5040mAH built in battery which you can use to charge your phone, media streaming support, can connect up to 20 devices, and supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz 802.11ac wireless networks.

Note that this can work on multiple bands around the world, but it doesn’t support all bands around the world. Check to make sure it will work where you need it to work before purchasing. The device should come unlocked and be able to work with any compatible SIM card.

This is definitely a more premium product, but may be a good option for more frequent travelers, those who work remotely, and those who need to get online in more remote locations like RVs or rural settings. For more convenient travel, there are cases you can purchase for it to keep the router and cords, such as this one .

If you are looking for an even faster mobile hotspot that also doubles as a travel router, then you might consider the newer versions which support 5G, including the Netgear Nighthawk M5 (MR5200) and the Nighthawk M6 (MR6150 & MR6500).

These offer 5G compatibility, a touchscreen interface, and can support up to 32 devices. They are significantly more expensive than the M1, but worth considering if you have a larger budget and want a more future-proof router that supports 5G. The M6 series additionally supports WiFi 6.

Note that there is also a M2 version of the router available in certain markets like the United Kingdom and Europe. This one also offers more features like a touchscreen interface but it doesn’t include 5G support.

Price: Check latest price here

You can see and compare most of the travel routers above in one place on Amazon here .

What We Like about Travel Routers

Our primary use for our travel router has been to extend existing Wi-Fi connections. We have often encountered the situation when we are happy to learn that a wireless Internet connection exists in a hotel, bus, cafe, or airport but are then disappointed that the connection is too weak to connect to or is very slow.

Our travel router can then be pulled out to help strengthen the signal so that we can get online using our phone, tablet, and/or laptops. Although not always possible, it is also great in those situations where you can extend a Wi-Fi range from a hotel lobby to your room or from an indoor space to a patio.

The device also partially helps with the security issue of using public Wi-Fi hotspots by providing a firewall and some protection from common Internet threats; however, you should still be cautious about providing sensitive personal information over a public connection.

Travel Routers are also great in other traveling situations beyond just extending an existing wireless connection. There are situations where you might only be given a password to connect one device at a time on a wireless network or may have to pay for additional devices. Obviously, since we are traveling as a couple with two cell phones, two laptops, and two Wi-Fi enabled cameras between us, one Internet connection is not enough and we hate to pay for Internet!

So by whipping out this device, it will allow you to connect multiple devices to a wireless network using a single login. You just login once from the travel router via a web browser or the provided smartphone app, and then all your devices can be connected to the travel routers network, where they should all work simultaneously.

Also, if you are in a hotel or other location that only offers wired Internet access in your room, you can plug the Ethernet cable into the travel router and create a wireless connection that can be used for all of your WiFi-enabled devices.     

Interestingly we have ended up using our travel router as much, if not more, at our apartment verses while traveling.  When we lived in California, we had a good wireless Internet connection in our apartment but it became weaker when trying to use a laptop or phone outside on the deck.

We’ve set up the travel router to extend the range of our home wireless network to be able to blog more efficiently on the deck which was one of my favorite spots to blog . We have also used the USB ports on our router to charge cell phones and other devices and to plug in our USB hard drive for use as a network attached storage device to be shared on our home network.

We also like that most of these travel routers are powered through a micro-USB port, so you can actually power them from a laptop or USB power bank if you don’t have easy access to a power point.

Limitations of Travel Routers

Travel routers are not a mobile hotspot, so they cannot create an Internet connection if one does not already exist. So if you are wanting to actually use the Internet in place where there is no or very poor Internet, you’ll probably want to consider something like a mobile hotspot rather than a router or range extender product.

The Netgear Nighthawk M1 is a combo router and mobile hotspot, and so this could be an option as well if you need a hotspot.

For those wondering how to get online or how to find an Internet connection while traveling, see our travel guide to getting online when traveling . It also covers things like mobile hotspots, SIM cards, international data plans, VPNs, etc.

Sometimes despite the power of a travel router’s antenna, the signal will still be too weak to connect. In a few situations we have spent too much time trying to get a connection to work when the signal is simply just too weak.  Some routers can also take a few minutes to connect to a network which can leave you wondering if it is just taking awhile or if it isn’t working. 

Be sure to check before you buy to make sure the travel router is compatible with your devices! This should not be an issue for most newer devices but some may not work as well with older devices or those using older operating systems.

Do you Need a Travel Router?

Overall, we have found travel routers to be a benefit to our travels. They are generally easy to use once configured, and are compact and easy to travel with.

Given that many hotels only allow you to join a network using one device at a time (or charge extra for multiple devices), having a travel router makes it possible for us to use all our WiFi enabled devices at once without extra fees.

We currently use ours both at home to extend the range of our own home Internet and while traveling to extend wireless Internet connections, to login multiple devices using one password, and to add a little security while using public WiFi hotspots.

What issues do you have related to using the Internet while traveling? Have you used or would you consider using a travel router? As always, we’d love to hear any advice, tips, or questions you may have!

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Andrew Scott Post author

April 13, 2024 at 6:37 am

I’m so overloaded with reviews and information that I decided I’m going to get something you use or recommend. Best review is one where someone recommends something they actually use. Now, you use the GL.iNet GL-MT1300 but Amazon says it’s no longer available. I think it said “try this instead” but I’m wondering if you’d recommend its apparent replace, whose model I can’t remember, or if you’d switch up/to one of the others you recommend/reviewed. Thanks in advance.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

April 14, 2024 at 1:44 am

Yes, it looks like our Beryl router (MT1300) is showing as unavailable, so it looks like it is either out of stock or has been recently discontinued. GL.iNet has been updating and making new routers pretty regularly over the past several years. So based on that one, we would recommned the GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) router . It’s offers pretty much the same feature set as the MT1300, but with improved VPN support. It’s also at roughly the same price point as the one we bought.

If you want support for more recent network technology, then the MT3000 (Beryl AX) would be the option to go for. The Beryl AX (MT3000) is the same model as we have with more advanced technology but at a higher price point. For most travel needs though, the A1300 should work fine.

Either of the above models should work fine for you. We have had good luck with our GL.iNet travel routers and they offer free customer support as well as free returns on Amazon. I would say they are the most reliable brand out on the market right now for regular travel routers. You can, of course, also ask us any questions you may have about routers and we are happy to try to help.

Hope this helps and wishing you happy travels!

Best, Jessica

March 24, 2024 at 1:16 pm

This is a follow-up to my first comment but unable to reply to unapproved comments hence this one.

Just realised that since they are invariably powered via USB, rather than buying one with a built-in battery, you could just use a power bank to power them. The trick would be knowing what size of power bank you’d need for a given travel router.

March 25, 2024 at 4:25 am

Yes, Internet on cruises can be challenging. I think it will depend on the Wifi signal (if it is only available in the cruise cabins) if it will reach to other public areas or not.

The majority of the travel routers we recommend accept a USB input for power so many can be charged/powered by battery. The main thing is to check that the battery bank puts out an output that matches the input of the travel router. Most travel routers accept a 5V 2amp, 3amp or 4amp input, which should work with most battery banks. However, some higher powered routers require a higher voltage, so just check the specifications to be sure.

In terms of size, a 15,000 to 25,000 mah battery bank such as this one by INIU should provide many hours of operation.

Hope that helps and hope you have a wonderful cruise!

Best, Jessica & Laurence

March 24, 2024 at 1:06 pm

We’re looking at one for use on cruises since we learned we can’t hot-spot the WiFi each of phones will have access to. Thought we’d only be able to use it in our room until I read about the one that is battery powered. That would allow us to use it beside the pool or in some other public area. THAT would be extroflexible.

March 25, 2024 at 4:16 am

See our response to both of your comments above to your second comment.

Kelly Post author

December 28, 2023 at 9:24 am

Hi – we sure appreciate the great info!

I was hoping to learn if you thought a travel router would be a good choice to replace our router in Mexico so that we are able to access US streaming through our VPN? It would become our new permanent router there. And/or would we able to use 2 routers with the same VPN, one for other travel and one for our Mexico residence?

December 28, 2023 at 1:54 pm

Happy to try to help with your travel router and VPN questions. So it sounds like a permanent router would be best for your Mexico home and most home routers by GLiNet, Netgear, and many other brands will support a VPN. So for example, this one by GL.iNet should work find as a home router with a VPN service. A home router is going to be larger (so not ideal for travel) but is going to generally perform better overall than a small travel router and have more features, so best to stick to that for home use.

It sounds like you also want a more portable travel router for when you travel internationally to other locations outside of Mexico and the USA? And in that case, most of the midrange and above travel routers support VPN services. You just want to avoid the really cheap ones. Any of the GLiNet travel router options we recommend above such as the Slate or Beryl models should work fine with most VPN services and they are really good travel routers as well. Just see our recommended list above.

And yes, you should be able to use the same VPN service across your home and travel routers. If you stick to the same brand across your routers, it might be a bit easier with configuration but it probably doesn’t make too much difference.

It sounds like you probably already have a VPN service for traveling, but if not, Laurence made a guide and a list of VPNs for traveling here that might be useful.

Hope that helps but just let us know if you have any further questions!

December 28, 2023 at 4:49 pm

Big thanks, Jessica – all VERY helpful information to make my learning curve more bearable.

I will look further into supporting your sites.

Much appreciation,

December 29, 2023 at 6:32 pm

You’re very welcome, and just let us know if you have further questions as you do any further research on routers and VPNs!

Patricia Post author

September 18, 2023 at 9:00 am

Do I need any cabling to use these travel routers with an iPad Pro. Looking at the photos they seem to have Lan connectors and usb sockets , but at the moment at least iPads don’t have either of these. Please advise. I need the router to connect to Wi-Fi when the signal is weak but I would also like it to be as secure as possible thank you. Great reviews

September 18, 2023 at 9:55 pm

Hi Patricia,

No, you don’t need any cables to be able to use any of the recommended travel routers with your iPad Pro, they all can be used with WiFi with your devices. However, most also allow for LAN Ethernet connectivity if you need a wired connection and many also have USB ports. But most people just use their devices over WiFi so you would be fine with any travel router if you are just needing to mainly connect your devices for security, easier connectivity, and extending existing WiFi.

Bob Simmons Post author

July 2, 2023 at 10:05 am

Thanks for the great article. My issue is with WiFi that requires payment after entering password. Also each device requires payment. On a cell phone, after logging in, it pops up a window (browser?) where you enter the credit card info. Do any of these travel routers have that capability, to enter payment information? Reading the user manuals it appears the answer is no. In your travels maybe you have encountered this issue.

Laurence Post author

July 4, 2023 at 9:34 am

It’s our pleasure, and we will do our best to try to help you.

So the window that pops up to take payment is called a captive portal, and it’s the same thing you often encounter even with free Wifi where it might ask you to enter your name or e-mail address to access the internet. All the travel routers on our list support this, so you can log in and pay if necessary for internet access. A window will pop up on the first device you connect with where you can pay. A pop-up blocker or ad blocker might stop it from happening but in our experience a browser window normally just appears to log in with.

Let us know if you have any more questions!

Laurence & Jessica

Luke Post author

May 25, 2023 at 5:08 am

Just want to say thanks for the sharing informative article, very helpful in choosing the best travel router for our next trip!

June 2, 2023 at 4:39 am

You’re very welcome and glad to hear you found the best travel router for your upcoming travels! And thanks for taking the time to comment.

B.Balakrishnan Post author

May 19, 2023 at 4:04 am

This blog post on the best travel routers for the internet while traveling in 2023 is a lifesaver! Staying connected on the go is crucial, and these router recommendations are just what I needed. Thank you for the helpful insights!

May 21, 2023 at 9:50 am

Hi there, So glad you found our travel router review helpful. Just let us know if you have any questions!

Arnold Machel Post author

April 23, 2023 at 9:08 am

Thanks for the great article. I’ve used a travel router for years and found them super helpful, especially in situations where I want to use a portable Chromecast, but the hotel WiFi security settings won’t it allow to connect directly to the hotel WiFi.

I am now using a laptop that needs a high wattage charger (ideally 65 watts) and would love to finde a travel router with that kind of charging capability, but I can’t seem to find the technical stats on most of them. Any thoughts?

April 24, 2023 at 1:28 am

Glad to hear you have found a travel router useful on your travels. So it sounds like you are looking for a travel router that doubles up as a powerbank that you can use to charge your laptop? Unfortunately, we aren’t aware of any travel routers on the market which offer that level of output, most travel routers which have the facility to charge devices have fairly small batteries and don’t offer high wattage outputs. The ones that offer the ability to charge a device, are more designed to top up a smartphone rather than to power a laptop.

So if you want a portable device to help charge your laptop on the go, I would look at powerbanks like this one that are speciically designed to charge laptops.

Hope that helps! Jessica

April 24, 2023 at 6:34 am

Thanks Jessica. Too bad. Was just hoping to get one device to do both. Good luck with the blog.

April 26, 2023 at 2:19 am

You’re very welcome. Yes, unfortunately I don’t think there is a device that would be able to do both those things well. Feel free to come back and let us know what travel router and charging device you decide to use on your next trip as it may be helpul to furture readers wanting to do the same thing.

Sherry Duvall Post author

March 6, 2023 at 6:46 am

Thanks for this great article! I have just discovered travel routers and am intrigued as to whether this would be something that would work for my family. I would like to know if any of these would work on a cruise ship? We have to pay for each device, or log off and login on them which is such a pain. Cruise ships are huge so will it work when you are far away from your room, and if so, which one would you recommend? Thank you for any help!

March 6, 2023 at 8:44 am

Our pleasure! So to the first part of your question, yes, this should work to allow you to use multiple devices with a single login. The travel router will appear as one device to the cruise ship network, and then you would be able to connect your devices to the travel router’s network without needing to keep logging in and out.

For the second part of the question, travel routers have a variable range but it won’t cover a whole cruise ship unfortunately. It would work in your room and then nearby, but all the walls etc would reduce the range. So it wouldn’t cover the whole ship sadly. But any of the travel routers on the list work in a very similar way in terms of login and would cover your room.

Hope this helps!

March 6, 2023 at 9:41 am

Thank you very much…guess I will save my money!

QBM Post author

March 1, 2023 at 9:21 pm

This article from Independent Travel Cats’ blog is a comparison and review of the top portable WiFi routers for travellers. This post does a good job of researching and comparing the features, benefits, and cons of each router. Personal anecdotes and experiences from the bloggers’ travels are also included in the article. In sum, if you are a frequent traveller in need of a dependable and transportable router, you will find this article to be a gold mine of information.

March 2, 2023 at 4:14 am

Thanks so much for the very kind summary and recommendation of our travel router review article!! If you have any questions about portable routers, feel free to ask!

Daniel W Post author

February 24, 2023 at 8:33 pm

I appreciate what you did with this blog post, especially the way you keep it updated. It is the best online resource for people looking for information on travel routers, thanks!

February 27, 2023 at 7:12 am

Thanks for the kind words and glad you found our travel routers review article useful! If you have any questions about choosing the best travel router for you, just let us know. Happy to try to help!

Karen Arnauld-Bakelaar Post author

January 20, 2023 at 10:21 pm

This i8s so incredibly useful – thank you! Can you help me sort out which might be the best option for me? I mainly work in South Africa, which means we have long spells without power, so anything that runs on battery would be nice to have. I’m in a rural area, so even while working from home I often have trouble getting a wifi signal, especially in bad weather.

I need the signal to be strong enough for Zoom meetings, etc – and often it’s not.

I also need a portable option for when I travel, but I don’t know if I need something to boost a signal or to hotspot – can you help me with this?

All internet here is wifi – I have a home plug-in router with a SIM card in it, and a small portable router as well, but they don’t always do the job!

January 23, 2023 at 7:22 am

It’s our pleasure. So it sounds like you need a mobile hotspot rather than a travel router. A travel router can only extend an existing WiFi signal.

A mobile hotspot works over cellular networks (like a mobile phone). However this can be affected by bad weather, so would basically be the same situation as you are in as your plug-in router likely works the same way. The only difference is that a mobile hotspot has a built-in battery.

So in bad weather situations, there may not be anything more you can do as strong weather can affect the overall signal which could affect the signal for any kind of devices using WiFi or mobile signals. But you might try a hotspot to see if that helps as it works with a different type of signal (cellular signal versus WiFi).

Monte Post author

December 23, 2022 at 3:10 pm

Is there a travel router best suited for offline multiplayer gaming? My wife and I often wind up in areas with no internet. A normal home router constantly nags us with the “you aren’t connected” screen. We know! That’s why we’re playing Minecraft!

December 24, 2022 at 6:48 am

Happy to try to help. So I am guessing the home routers you are referring to are ones that are not your own but ones you stay in while traveling?

So none of the travel router models we recommend are specifically designed for offline gaming. However, we think any of the Gl.iNet routers on the list would work in this scenario, allowing you to create a local WiFi network that your devices can connect to without needing to connect to another WiFi network. However, we have not tried this specific scenario so it is hard to say if one or another router on this list would be better suited to the task. But the more advanced ones offer more features and more future proofing.

Another option to try might be to see if one of your computers (or smartphones if playing on them) allows you to set up a WiFi hotspot. Some Windows 10 and Windows 11 laptops for example have the option to allow you to set up a local WiFi network, which you could then connect your other device too. This may be another possible solutation you could check out.

Anyway, hope that helps and we’d love to know what solution you come up with that solves your issue as it may be useful to future readers.

Virag Post author

November 28, 2022 at 8:22 am

Hi, Thank you for this amazing article. I travel quite a lot and work at the same time and I would need something that I can use to boost the available public wifi (like in hotels or coffee shops). Which one would you recommend in this case?

Thank you in advance, Virag

November 28, 2022 at 9:38 am

Glad you found our travel routers guide useful. So any of the routers listed in our guide would work for that purpose but the GL.iNet routers with the antennas, such as the Slate, Beryl, or the Slate AX models, would have the best performance. We personally use the Beryl model . So I’d recommend any of those three models or a similar travel router to those.

I believe Amazon has been offering discounts on most of the routers for the past week so I would definitely compare prices as you can sometimes get one of the newer models for a good price when they are running discounts.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions.

Steve Brown Post author

October 31, 2022 at 11:45 pm

Thank you for sharing the list. I really needed one. I have dead wifi zones with which the travel routers could help.

November 1, 2022 at 9:19 am

It’s our pleasure, glad you found our list useful. So whilst a travel router can work to resolve dead zones, you might prefer to purchase a WiFi extender instead, especially if you plan to use this at home. They tend to be a little bit cheaper because they don’t need as much functionality.

Another option to solve dead zones would be to upgrade to a mesh WiFi network – see our guide to the best home WiFi routers for ideas in that area. The mesh system can help make it so that the WiFi is able to extend throughout your home.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any questions!

AJ Post author

October 21, 2022 at 5:01 pm

I purchased two of these items ( #1 and #3) but since I am not tech savvy at all, they were impossible to use. I tried reading and rereading the instructions. I tried the company websites. I tried many youtube videos. I sat between Carls Jr and Walmart, who both have free wifi. I was able to scan each one with a success response. BUT NO WIFI.

This sucks. When someone in an actual store can hook me up and show me how to use it, and provide an actual phone number I can call when I am on the road (which I always am), then I’ll buy one. But reading reviews and going to amazon, and returning said items to amazon, is not my cup of tea.

October 21, 2022 at 5:09 pm

Sorry to hear that you are having issues with using your travel router while traveling. So most travel routers require a little bit of setup.

Have you tried using them inside where you know the WiFi was a good strength and working properly? If you were sitting outside the stores, the public signal might not have been strong enough for instance to really work.

If you have already gotten the manufacturer’s instructions (GL.iNet has some really detailed ones online you can get), you can also try contacting their customer support. If you want in-person support, you could also try going to a local tech store near you (or a chain like Best Buy) that sells travel routers and might be able to troubleshoot with you and help you.

Hope you are able to get it to work!

David Post author

October 1, 2022 at 10:31 pm

For travelers who need access to the internet while traveling, this device sounds very useful. In our everyday life we cannot think of going a day without internet. Thanks for sharing for your valueable information.

October 3, 2022 at 6:55 am

Yes, travel routers can be very useful for those who need to be connected while traveling. If you have any questions about travel routers, just ask!

Chris Post author

September 7, 2022 at 1:54 am

I’m having trouble backup my extender settings, it takes saying that backup is done but can’t find the file??!!

September 7, 2022 at 5:08 am

Many travel routers do allow you to back up their settings, and save the settings to a file. But you will want to check the manual for your specific travel router model to see if it has that functionality and how to do that.

When you backup something as you did, it should give you the option to choose the file location when you do so. So if you check your browser downloads folder it should be there where you set it to save. Or check your manual for the default location.

Hope that helps, Jessica

Jason Post author

August 1, 2022 at 7:32 pm

Hello. Thanks for all the great info. I have been researching travel router setup, but am not sure if it’s possible to do what I’m attempting. I hope you can help me out.

I have an “older” ASUS Dual-Band router that was replaced when we upgraded our home to Eero Mesh router. What I’d like to do is set up the old ASUS router with the same SSID & password as my current home router (the Eero), so that I can take the ASUS on family vacations, connect it to the hotel/condo/house/etc. WiFi, and then all of our devices will automatically connect to it (since they have the same SSID/pswd already saved from our Eero router), without having to sign in all of our devices to the hotel/condo/house/etc. WiFi.

I’ve found some articles that explain how to set up 2 routers with the same SSID & pswd, but they all require connecting the router to a laptop for the initial setup/configuration. So, the real question/problem is: I don’t want to take my laptop on vacation, just to connect my old ASUS router to the vacation home’s WiFi. So, is it possible to set up my old ASUS router at home, and then plug it directly into the vacation hotel/condo/home router via ethernet cable, or will I need to bring my laptop to open a web browser and complete the setup?

August 2, 2022 at 12:10 am

It’s hard to really give specifics without knowing the type of router and equipment. But if the main step that is required is to connect to the Asus router via a web browser over the WiFi connection, then you shouldn’t need a laptop specifically to do that as you can just use the web browser on your smartphone to achieve the same thing. So that part of it should work.

I would definitely test this setup at home first to see if you can extend your existing network with your old Asus router to see if it works as you intend. If you can’t get it to work at home, I would not recommend taking it on vacation. If you can’t get it to work, I would just recommend getting a new travel router that will do what you need it to do for your trip.

Best, Laurence

David Paker Post author

July 4, 2022 at 1:34 pm

Wow! You guys are doing an amazing job. Following your tutorials, I learned so much !!

July 5, 2022 at 2:38 am

So glad you found our articles helpful. If you have any questions about travel routers, just ask!

May 12, 2022 at 10:42 pm

Thanks for the review. I’ll definitely look into it. It really is frustrating if the signal is slow. . I’ll be willing to carry extra weight if it would boost connection,.

May 13, 2022 at 2:07 am

Yes, a travel router may definitely be able to help with that. It does require packing something extra but travel routers are designed for travel and many of the models are pretty small and lightweight these days so won’t add a lot of extra weight! But I would recommend keeping the dimensions and weights of each model in mind when choosing the best travel router for you.

Ryan J Post author

May 11, 2022 at 6:19 am

Thank you for such a thorough and informative writeup! I also read your Best Mobile Hotpots review and was inspired to purchase the Nighthawk M1100, especially considering it’s added ability to be a travel router and boost a current wifi signal. Will be travelling to Europe and staying at many AirBnb’s. Just in case any of them have a weak wifi signal, I’ll be prepared! Now that I have the device, I can’t seem to find instructions on how to use it as a travel router specifically. I’ve searched everywhere online, and there seems to be different wording out there “turn the m1100 into a modem, use it with a modem, etc. Saw one video on how to use the nighthawk with another router (boosting that router’s signal), but it requires connecting an ethernet cable from the router to the Nighthawk. Is that the process of using it as a travel router? Ideally, I’d like to be able to avoid using the ethernet cable, especially if on a public network (i.e. train) that I need to connect to but is weak. Or staying somwhere that I don’t have access to the broadcasting router. Any specific instructions on using the Nighthawk M1100 as a travel router without using an ethernet cable? Thanks in advance.

May 11, 2022 at 9:28 am

So yes, the Nighthawk M1100 is mainly used as a mobile hotspot, but it can also be used as a travel router. So it is definitely possible to set up the MR1100 as a travel router to share a WiFi network, but the manual is not super helpful. We remember this ourselves when we set it up.

The section you are looking for calls it called WiFi data offloading. If you load the MR1100 manual on this page ( https://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/MR1100/MR1100_UM_EN.pdf ) – you are looking for the instructions on page 30, titled “offload your mobile internet connection”. There are sections here on setting this up for either Wifi offloading or ethernet offloading. You are looking for the instructions on Wifi offloading.

Hope that helps, but just let us know if you have any further questions. We have used both the Nighthawk M1 and M2 and have set them up to work as a travel router ourselves so happy to help!

May 12, 2022 at 6:34 pm

Amazing. Would have never found that out on my own. Thank you! Will let you know how it goes. My wife and I are being “digital nomads” for the first time having worked remote in the States for the past 20 years. Will be travelling to Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Croatia, Switzerland, Germany, UK, and Ireland over the course of 5 1/2 months. Leaving next week and super excited!

May 13, 2022 at 2:06 am

Glad that helped and you should be able to test it out before you leave. Having the ability to use it both as both a travel router and a mobile hotspot (when you don’t have WiFi) is nice for a long trip like that.

Enjoy your time working as digital nomads in Europe!

Paul Post author

April 30, 2022 at 2:16 pm

Hi, we’re staying at a place that requires us to re-log in every 24 hours. Are there travel routers that will automatically take care of that for you?

May 1, 2022 at 5:33 am

So we aren’t aware of any travel routers that would be able to automatically do this out of the box. With a travel router there is the advantage that you only have to do this once, rather than once for each device you connect to the travel router. So you should be able to just do the necessary daily login once and then all the devices connected to your router should not have to do the log-in.

Depending on how technically minded you are, it is worth pointing out that the GL.iNet routers are based on the OpenWRT software, which allows technically-savvy users to install extra packages if they want and run custom code. However, this is beyond the scope of most users (and not necessary or recommended in most cases). However, if that does describe you though, then that’s an option as you may be able to write code (or find code written by someone else) that would be able to do the auto log-in each day.

Pasu Post author

April 28, 2022 at 9:24 pm

“A travel router allows you to connect multiple devices to a network, even with a single login. The travel router is seen by networks as a single device, so if you are only given one login, you can still use multiple devices. You just login once from the travel router via a web browser (or in some cases a provided smartphone app), and then all your devices can be connected to the network created by the travel router.”.

That’s exactly what I need. Connecting to a WiFi and giving the signal to other devices.

But sorry, which if the mentioned models can do this?

Thank you for your help

April 29, 2022 at 3:51 am

All of the travel routers we mention in our article can do this as this is one of the main features of most travel routers. The one we are personally currently using is the GL.iNet Beryl model above, but as noted, any of the above models can do this.

For instance, we often use it with the WiFi in a hotel to connect all our devices at once without having to log in each one. It can also help get around device limits imposed by some hotels as you just need to connect the travel router.

Travel routers can also make your connection more private and secure, and you can also use most of them in conjunction with most VPNs.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any further questions.

April 20, 2022 at 8:43 am

Thanks for this article, but it wasn’t clear to me if any of these support what I want to do: I want to be able to connect a baby monitor to a hotel network (for instance, so a babysitter can keep an eye on the kids from a living room), but my baby cams don’t support connections to captive networks. I’ve gathered that this is where the travel router comes in, allowing me to create my own network after connecting to the hotel’s wifi. What I am hoping to find though, is a travel router that does NOT require an Ethernet connection to make that initial connection to the hotel’s wifi, as not all hotel rooms come with Ethernet ports. It looks like the HooToo TM-02 does this, but I also note that that model is getting a bit long in the tooth at this point. Do any of your recommendations support what I am trying to do? Thanks!

April 20, 2022 at 10:03 am

So none of the travel routers on our list require an ethernet connection to make the first connection, they all work over WiFi (although some can work via ethernet as some have ethernet ports as we note). The way it works is that you turn on the travel router and connect your phone or laptop to the travel router’s WiFi network. Then you use a web browser to configure the travel router to connect to the hotel WiFi network, and if necessary login through the captive portal.

In our experience, the GL.iNet products are the currently the more reliable and most regularly updated options. So those would be our top recommendations, but any of these should work. But newer models are more future proof.

Just a note that setting up cameras or using surveillance devices in hotel rooms is illegal in many countries if any person filmed is unaware of their presence (so if the babysitter or other hotel staff were filmed without their knowledge). So just something to be aware of.

Shannon Post author

February 1, 2022 at 12:02 pm

Hello, I’m currently at a campground with about 4mbps Wi-Fi. I need 200 mbps to do my job and i need help finding the right option. I need something that works with any internet provider and will give me a minimum of 200mbps. Can you help?

February 2, 2022 at 2:39 am

Hi Shannon,

So 200 mbps is very very high and you are unlikely to get that unless you are able to access a 5G mobile network AND a very good cellular signal. The average download speed for 4G is 8-10 mbps. Do you possibly mean 20 mbps that you need for work?

A travel router can help increase a connection but it is not going to make it much faster in most cases. The connection speed at the campsite may be 4mbps at its max and if so, there is nothing you can do to increase that. Especially not 5X or 50X!

If the campsite does have a very fast connection but you are too far from the signal then a travel router can help, but it will likely not make a very big difference, it will generally just make the connection more reliable and secure. But if you travel a lot for work then a travel router like the Beryl one we list above is probably one you would want to have. But you still need to be in places that have a decent connection.

So your best option would be to look into mobile hotspots. These connect over a mobile network and can give you either 4G or 5G speeds depending on the type, and you would need a SIM card to go in them as they are similar to phones in that regard. Of course, you still would need a good cellular network reception for them to work. You can see our guide to mobile hotspots here .

So the best advice is to make sure to do some research before you head to a new place to see what its WiFi connection speed and mobile signal is so that you can see if it a place that you would be able to work from or not. If so, then if you have a travel router and/or mobile hotspot, it should help you work remotely when needed.

Looking to the future, a better option might be something like the Starlink satellite internet which can provide fast internet via low orbit satellites anywhere in the world.

Sage Post author

June 19, 2022 at 11:36 am

Hello! To follow up on this reply (and I am not a techie 🙂 ) I was planning on working from France through a hotel’s WiFi but maybe I should use my cellphone, which is verizon 4G LTE and can be a hotspot? In general, are cellular networks faster than a hotel wifi? I guess it depend on their carrier?

Also, do you recommend a VPN whichever way we access the internet – via cellphone hotspot or hotel wifi?

June 20, 2022 at 4:07 am

So the answer as to whether the hotel WiFi is faster than your cellphone 4G is a difficult one to answer. WiFi is definitely capable of being faster than 4G, but this depends on a number of factors, including the speed of the internet connection the hotel has, how far from the router your device is, and how many other people are using it. 4G also has similar issues, depending on factors like how far away the nearest mast is, if your room is near to a window (walls can weaken a signal), and so on.

In most cases, I’d say that hotel wifi is likely to be faster, but this is definitely not always going to be the case. In general, in your situation, I’d probably say to go with the less expensive option. This is likely to be to get a travel router and use the hotel WiFi (the travel router can then be used on future trips as well). But it depends on the cost of your international data plan.

If you decide to get a travel router (and use hotel WiFi), just be sure to read the instructions and test it out locally before your trip so you know how to set it up and use it before you get to France. Any of the routers we list should work for your situation, our favorites are the ones by GL.iNet.

When it comes to a VPN, VPNs can definitely provide more protection. However, if you are going to use a travel router or cellphone hotspot to connect, it is probably not necessary. Cellphone hotspots or a travel router are going to be more secure because it’s just you connecting to your connection, and mobile networks are a lot harder to hack.

The security concerns over public WiFi networks are not as great as they used to be now that the majority of the web has moved to https. That means the data that is sent from your device to the web and back again is encrypted end to end, so it’s a lot harder for people to snoop on it. In the old days of unencrypted websites and public hotspots, it was fairly easy for someone to hack into someone’s connection, but this is much harder today, especially if you stick to secured websites.

There are still advantages to using a VPN though. Obviously, there is the additional peace of mind, but also some websites block users from specific countries and some countries may block access to certain websites. So a VPN can usually get around that for travelers who need to access websites from their home country. One of the advantages to surfing the web with a VPN in France we’ve found is that it keeps all the websites from constantly redirecting you to the French versions.

Note that some jobs require employees doing remote work to use a VPN or only sign into accounts using some sort of secure connection. This is especially the case if you deal with client data or other sensitive information. So be sure to check your job’s remote work policy regarding security.

We have a post that reviews VPNs for travel here , if you decide you want to use a VPN.

Hope that helps, and feel free to follow-up if you have further questions. Wishing you a great trip to France.

Will Pearce Post author

December 17, 2021 at 8:28 am

I’ve had a HooToo HT-TM05 for about 5 years, and was initially very happy with it. Increasingly, though, I’m encountering web logins on hotel wifi–a situation that I’ve not been able to handle with the HooToo.

I’m aware that some travel routers can be configured with the web login credentials so that they’re able to establish the wifi connection, but it’s not clear from your review which of your recommended devices can do that.

Could you clarify that, please. Also, if you know of some way to get the HooToo to handle this situation, I’d be glad to hear it.

December 17, 2021 at 1:15 pm

Sorry you are having issues with your travel router. Hotel log-ins can be tricky. So the HooToo HT-TM05 should be able to handle the situation you describe (and HooToo noted this in their old FAQ section), as that’s a common scenario for using a travel router. You would normally connect to the Hootoo network with your smartphone or laptop, login to the Hootoo and select the hotel network, and then open up a new browser page from your phone or laptop and try to use the web. This should launch the hotel login page.

Sometimes though this might not work, and it’s possibly because the Hootoo is an older device as that model is now several years old. There are various reasons that it could fail, including a custom DNS setup on your device, use of a VPN, or trying to navigate to some https pages. It’s hard to troubleshoot without seeing the error message you are getting. How far into the process are you getting? Are you getting any error messages?

If this occurs in more than one hotel, and you can’t get it working, I’d recommend contacting HooToo for support. They list the following info on their website: Tel: 1-888-456-8468 (Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 17:00 PST) and email [email protected]

It looks like the company has not updated information on HooToo HT-TMO5 for a couple of years now and it may be that the company is no longer supporting the device. We also just saw that it has been removed from Amazon.

If nothing is working, it is probably that you just need to upgrade the device. I’d recommend upgrading to one of the newer GL.inet, TP-Link, or Netgear travel router models. We’ve used both the GL.inet Beryl and Netgear M1 in hotels recently without incident.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any further questions!

Pipps Post author

November 18, 2021 at 2:45 am

Thanks for the great guide and clear recommendations👍

November 18, 2021 at 2:13 pm

Thanks Pipps for taking the time to leave a comment. Glad our travel router guide was helpful and just let us know if you have any questions!

November 19, 2021 at 2:18 am

My pleasure, you definitely got the Amazon referral 👍

Nikki Mag Post author

October 14, 2021 at 10:12 pm

Thank you for this wealth of information, greatly appreciate it. I am not tech savvy whatsoever and was hoping you had some information to share.

My employer requires an ethernet connection from a modem/router to the company laptop. We are unable to directly connect to wifi. As of today, is there a recommended travel router that I can connect via ethernet cable? I apologize if youve answered this already and I missed it.

October 15, 2021 at 6:35 am

No problem, and happy to try to help!

All the GL inet travel routers we recommend come with at least two ethernet ports. For instance, the Slate router has three Ethernet ports and a lot of other features. So you can connect to the router via an ethernet cable, and then configure the router to connect to either a WiFi network, or to another network with the other ethernet port on the router. This is fairly plug and play so shouldn’t be too tricky, and the instructions that come with the devices are quite easy to follow as well.

You may also want to talk to your company’s IT department as well about the issue since it sounds like they require a certain level of security to be in place for use. If you, for instance, need to use a VPN to connect to your work data, the Slate router is compatible with over 30+ VPNs but may not be compatible with all VPNs.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any other questions!

jack Post author

October 9, 2021 at 7:48 pm

thanks for the awesome article I am looking for a mobile hotspot and a travel router, I need it very much. I found your article. Very beautiful and will come in handy for me.

October 10, 2021 at 4:53 am

Glad it was helpful and hope you found a travel router that works for you. If you are looking for a device that can be both a travel router or wireless hotspot, then the Netgear Nighthawk router is probably your best bet. If you are looking for two separate devices, then you can also check out this article about choosing a mobile hotspot .

But do let us know if you have any questions about travel routers or mobile hotspots.

Joao Post author

October 6, 2021 at 7:41 am

Thank you for this great article.

I’m looking for a travel router, just with the intention of better capturing public networks.

Which of these routers do you think provides a better increase in signal strength on public wireless networks?

October 7, 2021 at 1:31 am

So we’d recommend either the Gl.iNet AR750S ( https://amzn.to/2Quyhsb ) or the GL.iNet MT1300 would be our suggestions. These both have little external aerials which mean they are able to get improved range compared to other options in the round up.

October 7, 2021 at 3:10 am

Hi Jessica,

Thank you for the reply.

Do you think the gain in signal strength is worth it for the price difference for the GL.iNet GL-AR300M16 for example?

October 8, 2021 at 1:44 pm

The more powerful travel routers should be able to provide a stronger signal, but I think you would also be paying more for extra features (not just signal strength specs) as well on the more expensive routers. Whether it would improve the signal strength over some of the lower priced GL.iNet routers is probably going to depend on the particular situation and place in which you use it. You might consider buying the lower priced and test it out to see if it works as you need it to. If not, you could return it and purchase the more expensive router with the better signal strength.

For more technical questions about signal strength and the differences between models, you might want to reach out to the GL.iNet customer service and let them know how you specifically plan to use it and they can probably give you a more technical answer since we have not tested the two routers at the same time.

Alice Post author

August 9, 2021 at 7:50 am

Great information here on travel routers. Which of the Glinet routers would you recommend for a first time user? Interested in using it for working on laptop at coffee shops and for travel (domestic and international). Not super tech savvy so something that is pretty easy to use and will last.

August 9, 2021 at 8:35 am

Thanks very much! I appreciate we go into a bit of detail with the GL.iNet routers and their advanced features, but the good news is that you don’t need to be technical to use them, they work well out of the box with a simple web interface to set them up. Any of the ones listed should actually meet your needs.

So the MT300N-v2 (Mango) is a good option if size and budget are the key constraints. It is small, lightweight, and the least expensive. Its small size and weight make it perfect for travel.

For a more future-proof solution, then the two higher-priced GL.iNet models (Slate and Beryl) offer a faster WiFi network with support for the 5Ghz band, which tends to be less congested and therefore faster in public situations. The Beryl model (which we have), is the most powerful with the fastest processor inside, but it’s honestly not going to make a huge difference between that and the AR750 (Slate) unless you have a need for the USB 3 port or want to connect to very fast networks (which most public wifi networks in our experience are not!).

Hope that helps, and let us know if you have any further questions!

August 4, 2021 at 1:25 pm

First off, I say thank you for this information. I will say that I used to use the Netgear Trek N300 before I left it in a hotel (doh). So when I saw that you used to use it as well and saw the information on Juplink EC3-750, I was sold.

I haven’t been able to connect to hotels with it since most hotels have a login screen. I can’t seem to get the setup right on the Juplink to actually be able to pull up the screen to login. How do you set yours up to use in hotels so I can get my setup right. Thank you in advance.

August 5, 2021 at 4:59 am

Yes, the Netgear Treks were great and I wish they would have continued to make and update those. The Netgear Nighthawk M1 is good, but expensive if you are not using it for a mobile hotspot as well as a router.

So the interface for the Juplink can be a bit confusing as it has the different modes and functions. You should be able to get it set up as follows.

First, put the router in repeater mode, then plug it in (if you’ve set it up previously, hold down the reset button on the side for five seconds to start over).

Once the router is on, you should be able to connect your device to the Juplink WiFi network, which doesn’t have a password. You will then be able to login to the router via the url router.juplink.com, the default username and password is admin for both.

From the admin page, press the “repeater wizard” option. This should bring up a list of all the WiFi hotspots, and you would choose the hotel network option. Here you can also specify the network name, this will be your network name. If there is a security password on the network, the network you create will start off with the same password.

The router will restart, and when it comes back it should present you with the new wireless network to connect to. If you connect to this and then try to use the internet, you should be presented with the network login screen.

For added security, I’d recommend changing the password of the created network to a password of your own choosing. You can do this by going to router.juplink.com, logging in again with the username and password, and then going to the WiFi settings. Here you can change the name and password on the WiFi settings.

Hopefully that will work for you, but if not feel free to let us know!

August 6, 2021 at 3:15 pm

It doesn’t work. The hotel sign in page never comes up to sign in.

August 7, 2021 at 9:01 am

I am sorry to hear that isn’t working. I would reach out to Juplink’s customer service to see if they can help as that is the process that we have followed in the past.

If you can’t get it to work after reaching out to Juplink, I’d recommend returning it for one of the recommended GL.iNet or TP-Link travel routers. We have found that GL.inet keeps their software the most updated in recent years so can be the best for the kind of issues you are having.

Let us know what happens as it may be that it doesn’t work well (or is difficult to configure) at certain hotels and we will consider removing it from our list if that is the case.

August 9, 2021 at 6:37 am

We have done more testing with our Juplink and we were able to replicate the issue you are having with a network sign-in page. So for now, we are removing this router from our list and have reached out to Juplink’s customer service to see if Juplink has a solution to fix this issue. It is still working fine as an extender/router but it seems to have issues with log-in screens. Laurence is not sure if this is a hardware or software issue.

In the meantime, we would recommend returning the Juplink and getting a GL.iNET travel router or similar – we have not had the log-in page issues with the GL.iNet router (we have the Beryl one specifically) and are showing it able to load log-in pages when the Juplink one cannot when using them both at the same time. Sorry for the inconvenience as we have had the Juplink for over a year but our travels have been pretty limited due to Covid so we were not able to test it as much as we normally would and it worked fine in our initial uses.

Tiara Post author

May 3, 2021 at 6:42 am

Great, informative article! And it’s awesome that you guys are still making responses after two years.

I’m looking for a travel router that can help me for my remote contact center work. I’m interested in traveling to national parks or otherwise and am looking for routers to secure a good connection on the days I have to work. I know hotels and whatnot near parks can still be somewhat slow, and this is also for general travel. What would you recommend?

May 3, 2021 at 10:33 am

Yes, we aim to try to reply to all comments and email questions related to travel and photography – and have been trying to do so for 10 years now 😉

So a travel router can certainly help improve a connection by making it more consistent and secure. However, it can’t turn a really slow connection into a fast one. Any of the travel routers on this list can help with extending Wifi, making your connection more secure, and allowing you to use it with more devices more easily. So it just depends on if there are any features you’d need (e.g., Ethernet ports) and buying one that works with faster speeds will make it more future-proof.

However, the reality is that in and around many national parks and state parks, the WiFi speed is not great. This is especially the case in the Western and rural parts of the USA.

Now if you have a poor Wifi connection but good mobile phone signal strength, then a mobile hotspot will work. This will do the same things as the travel router but it will also help you extend the mobile signal to connect your other devices (e.g., laptop, tablet, etc.) that you need to use. So you might check out the Netgear Nighthawk M1 device we recommend above in the article which can act as both a travel router and a mobile hotspot – we have this one and have used it on places like boats and rural areas where we have phone signal but there was no Wifi access.

For those who work in remote areas with both poor Wifi access and poor mobile phone signals, they often need to rely on satellite access but these devices are not currently travel-friendly or budget-friendly. A mobile hotspot can only help where there is some mobile signal.

So I would investigate the places you are thinking of spending time and need a faster connection and see what the Wifi access and mobile signals (for your specific carrier) are in those areas. That can help you assess what type of device might be best for you and also if you should plan to work in certain places or just visit them when you don’t need to work.

Hope that helps, and let us know if you have any further questions! Jessica

Patti Hackney Post author

April 14, 2021 at 9:40 am

We are looking for a travel router that we can plug into a strong antenna that we wired outside our boat. Our paid for wifi is pretty far away, but the antenna works great to connect; however only on one device (our laptop) if the antenna is plugged into it. Do you know of any travel routers that have the ability to connect an external antenna to pick up the wifi signal? Thank you for any information you can give us. Patti

April 15, 2021 at 7:18 am

The Netgear M1 / M2 can support an external antenna but it’s only for improving a 4G LTE signal rather than a WiFi signal. So I don’t think that would work for you given your situation.

There are some travel routers that support external antennas. Some versions of the GL.iNET GL-AR300M , for example, have an external antenna which you can connect your own antenna to them. But you would want to check if it is the same connector type as your existing antenna so that they are compatible.

But a travel router may not be the best fit for you, given your situation, so you may want to ask a networking/router specialist at a Best Buy or similar to ask about options that would work with your boat Wifi signal/external antenna situation. An access point, standard router, or bridge may be a better option.

YL Hu Post author

March 30, 2021 at 10:14 am

Very practical and interesting topic. I am currently looking at a mobile router, Ryoko. Would hope to hear from anyone who has been using it. Thanks. YL

March 30, 2021 at 10:24 am

This more of a hotspot than an actual travel router which is what my post is about. The is a 4g router and requires a SIM card to use.

I have not heard of or used the Muama-Ryoko mobile routers before. They only have a 3.1/5.0 rating on TrustPilot and a lot of mixed and bad recent customer reviews. So I would really read the reviews there before making a decision.

If you are just looking for a travel router (not a mobile hotspot), I would consider one of the other ones we list above as they are actual travel routers. If you need something that also functions as a mobile hotspot, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 functions as a router and extender but you can also add a SIM card and use it as a mobile hotspot as well.

Jum Post author

April 8, 2021 at 5:37 am

It’s very difficult to find genuine reviews. Apart from Trust Pilot, the rest of the review websites on Google are extremely suspicious. They all 100% recommend and offer a link direct to Muama-Ryoko. The company seems to have a complete stranglehold on any info. I would avoid.

Melissa Post author

January 27, 2021 at 9:16 pm

I am not the most tech savvy person but I am looking for a way to use Chromecast in hotels when I travel overseas. The Wifi is usually horrible in these hotels so I’m not sure that Chromecast would work without some help. Can you recommend something easy to use that could help in this situation? Also, do I need a sim card or anything for these mobile routers or am I thinking of a hotspot?

Thanks so much!

January 30, 2021 at 5:13 am

Hi Melissa,

A travel router could definitely help in this situation, and it would also make setting it up each time easier. As you know the Chromecast needs a WiFi network to connect to, and if you use a travel router then you can setup the Chromecast to connect to the WiFi network that the travel router creates. This means you won’t need to reconfigure the Chromecast every time.

In addition, the travel router should be able to deal with spotty hotel wifi more reliably than the Chromecast. Being stuck behind the TV means it will get worse reception in general, whereas you can place the travel router in a better location.

You don’t need a sim card for these travel routers as they just extend an existing network – you are indeed thinking of a mobile hotspot. That is also an option, but for streaming it would work out quite expensive as streaming uses a lot of data. So a travel router that improves the WiFi reception is your best option. Any of the options we list should work well for your purposes.

Sparkles Post author

June 2, 2021 at 8:43 pm

The problem with chromecast on hotel wifi is the login access page since it doesn’t have a built in browser without a travel router logging in requires spoofing the mac address of a different device to match the mac address of the chromecast.

Pondorosa Post author

January 21, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Great insight on travel routers, VPN’s and other stuff I did not know of. Thank you!!!

January 23, 2021 at 8:34 am

You’re very welcome Pondorosa – if you have any further questions about travel routers just let us know!!

Thomas Bash Post author

December 21, 2020 at 3:46 am

Thanks for sharing this informative blog, I think the Tp-Link travel routers are best.

December 22, 2020 at 11:02 am

You’re very welcome, and thanks for taking the time to share your views on travel routers with us!

Julie Post author

December 3, 2020 at 11:21 am

Wow! This was exactly the article I needed. Thank you. I’m trying to convince my employer to let me take my remote, on-line job on the permanent road (RV). Their concern is that I occasionally need to take credit card information for orders. I also do video calls with customers, so speed is important. I go through a VPN at home with a wired, ethernet connection. I could easily create a mobile hotspot where needed with my phone, so is the GL-iNetGL-AR750S all I really need? Or is it necessary to go up to the NetGear Nighthawk?

December 4, 2020 at 4:56 am

Glad you found our article on travel routers helpful.

So if you are confident of phone reception, usually you would set up the VPN connection on your phone and then set it up as a mobile hotspot. The only reason you’d need a travel router in this case is to extend the range of the WiFi network that your phone creates. So a regular travel router (like the GL.iNet one ) is probably good to have for this purpose and it can also provide extra strength and extra security when you do use public WiFi networks. Since you need VPN, that is probably a good one for you.

Something like the NetGear Nighthawk (which is a router + mobile hotspot) is only necessary if you’re going to be connecting multiple devices at higher speeds than your phone can handle since you already are able to create a mobile hotspot with VPN on your phone. So you can test that out in advance to see if you would need a mobile hotspot or not, or if your phone connection is enough.

However, my main concern would be around cell reception, which will obviously depend on where you plan to be traveling. Remote and rural parts of the USA might not always have great cell reception and if you are an avid RV traveler, you’ll know there are some big dead zones for networks here and there. The only solution to this is to investigate satellite options – for example the Starlink system is coming online in the USA at the moment, which offers fast speeds at a reasonable price (compared the other offerings at least!). So it may take your subscribing to something like this to convince your boss if they are worried about you always being able to be online, or making sure you only travel to places with good phone signals. A mobile hotspot won’t work in places where there is no signal of some kind.

Anyway, hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions!

Matt Post author

October 29, 2020 at 5:54 pm

Hi Jessica, your article was great. It was very helpful and much needed information. Your article was clear, consistent, and well-researched. Thanks.

October 30, 2020 at 5:01 am

Hi Matt, Glad you found it helpful. We have tried to keep it updated over the years as technology and manufacturers have changed for travel routers! Just let us know if you have any questions. Best, Jessica

Dwayne Post author

July 25, 2020 at 3:01 pm

I’m at a hotel and would like a secure connection the room does not have a ethernet port, I connect to the internet on a log in screen and most of the times the screen doesn’t come up and connects itself. I have theTP-LINK TL-WR902AC AC750 WI-FI TRAVEL ROUTER set at hotspot mode and plugged to my laptop. The power and wireless lights are lit, but the internet light blinks, the hardware is version 3. I have tried the range extender mode and could connect to internet at all. Is there something I’m not doing in the router setup page. I have not had any answers yet with the tplink support staff. This is a really good site. Thanks

July 26, 2020 at 4:05 am

Sorry to hear you are having issues logging into your router at the hotel.

So could you clarify, you are in a hotel and you are connecting to the TP-Link WiFi network, but the internet is not working? Normally what should happen is the first time you want to connect to a new network you have to visit http://tplinkwifi.net , login with the username and password (the default is admin for both), and then follow the quick setup instructions which will allow you to choose a network. Then, if you try to browser to another website, the hotel login page (if there is one) should come up.

The router should be in hotspot mode as you say, but it doesn’t need to be plugged into your laptop. Normally the internet light only blinks in access point or router mode so you might want to check the mode switch is in “share hotspot” mode.

Let us know if you were able to get it fixed or if not, happy to try to help further. But hopefully you got through to the Tp-Link staff as well.

July 27, 2020 at 12:43 pm

Hello Jessica, I got connected to internet with my router on saturday, I just kept playing around with the tplink setup page and got it work. I am also using the hotspot shield free vpn, I did a speed test my upload and download mbps is under 1 at 0.56mbps. and sometimes the download gets to 1.07 Is there something I can do to get the speed faster? Thanks

July 28, 2020 at 4:31 am

Glad you got connected. So if the Internet speed is just slow where you are, there is nothing really you can do to make it faster, unfortunately. But the travel router should not slow it down. Travel routers can help strengthen a signal but they don’t really affect speed.

However, VPNs can slow down speeds (particularly free services) so you might want to test the speed without the VPN to see if that is the case. If you do find it is the VPN, you might want to consider trying a different VPN or connecting without it. You can see our list of the recommended VPNs for travelers .

If you find that the Wifi speed where you are is just too slow to perform what you need, then your only other real choice might be to consider a mobile hotspot as these create an Internet connection. However, these are more expensive and rely on a mobile network, so best to see if you can get things to work with the travel router if you can since there is an existing connection where you are.

Evan Bell Post author

May 8, 2020 at 4:08 pm

I had a Netgear travel router but it recently broke and need a new one to connect to the internet when away. This is a great resource on travel routers, I appreciate!

May 8, 2020 at 4:28 pm

Great to hear you found our travel router review article helpful. We’ve had good experience with Netgear devices, it is too bad they never made an update to the Netgear Trek, but there are several good options out there by TP-Link, GL.iNet, and RavPower. Just let us know if you have any questions.

Tim Post author

April 27, 2020 at 7:45 am

Great info about the internet during travelling and using travel routers. Is there other things I should do to keep info and passwords secure while travelling and avoid hacking attacks? Thanks.

April 27, 2020 at 9:15 am

Yes, there are lots of other things you can do to further protect your data:

-Make sure all your devices (phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) are secure and protected with passwords and identify verification -Make sure your operating systems on your devices are updated with most recent updates and patches – you should also have firewall/virus protection -Use a VPN when traveling. For more info you can see our guide to choosing a VPN . You’ll want to make sure your travel router is compatible with a VPN -Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or data while on public Wifi – you should try to access important accounts (e.g., banking) as little as possible when traveling to avoid identify theft and people getting your password details. -Make sure you have backup copies of important data and info stored at home before your trip -Never give out your account passwords to anyone while traveling -Avoid providing any information on unsecured websites -Be cautious about downloading files, especially if you are not absolutely sure of their source

Hope that helps, and do let us know if you have any questions about choosing a travel router!

Sam Johnson Post author

March 24, 2020 at 6:16 am

I have Linksys WTR54GS Wireless-G Travel Router . This comes with a built-in access point and an Ethernet port used to connect to a wired network or to other computers. For a secured connection, this device has an encryption capability. This has its own power supply and an antenna. Included in the package is a case for easy safekeeping.

March 24, 2020 at 6:29 am

Thanks for sharing which travel router you use and glad that one has worked well for you. That is an older model which is why its not included on our list as it doesn’t support the latest WiFi standards, but should still work for most people!

Jeff Post author

February 12, 2020 at 6:15 pm

I have a tp-link nano travel router today. But the problem with it is that it does not play well with the captive portal system that hotels use. Every time I try to set up the router in a new hotel it takes multiple efforts to get the travel router to recognize the hotels wireless network. And then even after it does, it quite often will not show me the captive portal login page. It is very frustrating. What is your experience with these travel routers you recommend and their ability to play well with hotels captive portal?

February 13, 2020 at 6:50 am

Usually when we have this problem the issue is because the wifi network signal is so weak that even the travel router struggles to connect. However, normally we don’t have any problems with the captive portal – the routers are designed to be able to handle them, and should pass it through to your device so you can login. When you say it won’t show you the captive portal screen, do you mean after you have connected your travel router to the network, and connected your device to the travel router, that it’s just not loading the screen? Does it load anything at all?

If you are consistently having these problems, you might want to reach out to TP-Link for support as it’s possible the router has a fault, or it might need a firmware update.

Hope that helps! Laurence

February 13, 2020 at 10:12 am

>”When you say it won’t show you the captive portal screen, do you mean after you have connected your travel router to the network, and connected your device to the travel router, that it’s just not loading the screen?”

Correct. Most times (not always) the captive portal screen will never display. I repeat the setup process over and over to have the router scan for the hotel’s wifi signal and about half the time after several tries the captive portal login screen might appear.

>”Does it load anything at all?”

When it doesn’t show a screen, usually what happens is a message pops up stating something like “The network you are using may require you to visit it’s login page.” And that’s it. No login page appears.

I am done with this travel router. I’m tossing it. But I don’t want to purchase a different travel router only to have this same problem persist.

February 13, 2020 at 12:03 pm

It sounds like you know what you are doing and have tried a lot of things. Although it can take a little time to get to the captive login screen, you should be able to get there if the signal is strong enough and it is set up, so it is likely a hardware or firmware issue, so our only recommendation would be to ask TP-LInk about the issue and see if they have specific guidance on your model. We have not encountered this issue with the routers we have used.

Tlynnk Post author

July 15, 2020 at 11:06 am

I absolutely HATE my TP Link nano. Thank goodness it was cheap. It’s going straight to the trash. After two years of problems, I give up.

James Post author

January 8, 2020 at 2:45 am

I am using a travel router from one of the top-notch brands but its speed is far below the committed numbers. Which other routers do you suggest which can deliver at par speeds that we get at our homes/ offices? Thanks in advance.

January 8, 2020 at 10:13 am

So we usually find when we travel that the speed of the internet is often slower than at work or home (depending on your home connection speed). When I talk about the speed of the internet, I mean the connection speed that the hotel or guesthouse network offers. If there connection is slow, then the travel router won’t be able to improve upon that.

Most travel routers offer speeds in the region of 300Mbps, which is more than fast enough for streaming even very high definition content, and faster than most networks. So I think that no travel router will really improve that speed so any of them will pretty much give you the same speed. The only option would be to invest in a mobile hotspot, which bypasses the wifi entirely and connects over a 4G network which could deliver faster speeds. If these are available in the country you are traveling in, they can be faster than WiFi in some cases.

If you decide you’d prefer a mobile hotspot, you can read about them more in this article and it includes some of our suggestions if you decide you want to rent or buy a hotspot.

Tony Post author

January 16, 2020 at 11:18 am

My entire career has been designing digital networks all over the world, so I think I can help explain why what you’re asking for is currently impossible. First, don’t confuse network “speed” with network bandwidth. Public WiFi utilizes Broadband technology, which can be best visualized by comparing it to a regular pipe. No available technology can increase the size of a pipe in order to increase the rate of flow. Rather, a bigger pipe must be installed!

Likewise, no current technology can take a Public WiFi with a bandwidth (pipe) of 150mpbs and increase the bandwidth to 300mbps. What the best Travel Routers do is boost and extend a weak network signal into a much stronger network signal, which in turn decreases network latency, which improves the overall quality AND quantity of the flow of digital information to your laptop or tablet.

Steve Post author

January 5, 2020 at 11:37 pm

Everyone should choose a strong router at an affordable price especially while traveling. Many on this list of routers that will be a great choice. I use a TP-link router that is quite good while traveling.

January 6, 2020 at 1:16 pm

Hi Steve, Yes, the TP-Link ones are a great choice and well-priced. They also seem to keep updating the technology in them every couple of years which is good! Best, Jessica

O.G. Post author

September 23, 2019 at 2:33 pm

This was a great informative post about usig the internet during travelling and using travel routers. If you want to use the internet while travelling then you must buy a wireless mobile router because its signal range are large with the secure password nd also send a message to the user if someone try to hack a password, otherwise you feel trouble during travelling! I use them mostly because of the added security as I don’t feel safe using the internet in public places for private things and banking while traveling without having extra security. Thanks.

September 26, 2019 at 12:41 pm

Yes, travel routers are probably primarily used to increase signal strength, but yes, the extra level of security is definitely an additional featured added by travel routers. They can help make public WiFi networks a bit more secure.

Glad our article was helpful to you! Jessica

Brad Post author

September 16, 2019 at 2:34 am

Thanks for bringing our eye on this great device as we all know many hotels out their provides free internet service but the speed is ridiculously slow, show it could be of great use ( but the pricing can be a little lower in my opinion)

September 16, 2019 at 9:35 am

Hi Brad, Yes, a travel router can definitely help if you have a slow (or unsecured) connection at a hotel. If you are looking for the most budget-friendly option, the RAVPower Filehub Tripmate Nano is one to take a look at. Best, Jessica

Kimi Post author

September 11, 2019 at 1:34 am

Routers are great, as you can connect to the internet whenever you want. I mostly use it while I’m out on the beach, to listen to music or to watch some cool videos. But I’m still concerned about the safety and certain restrictions in certain countries, so I also use Nord VPN, so that my holiday would as comfortable as it can be. So, your own router and NordVPN are my best travel buds!

September 11, 2019 at 10:10 am

Hi Kimi, Yes, a VPN can be great, especially if you are traveling in lots of places with unsecure Internet (although a travel router can help secure your connection) and countries with lots of online restrictions. A VPN doesn’t work so great with some travel routers, but it sounds like you have found a good system for you! Best, Jessica

Sam Post author

August 27, 2019 at 9:03 pm

thanks @travelcats for the article. However, I am still a bit on the fence with these devices because I don’t find many hotels that use the Ethernet cable anymore in each room, so if I want to set up my own “room network”, I would need a device that acts as a Hotspot and the models mentioned in the article are Not that. Is this correct? If so, can you recommend some or have you already covered that subject in another article that you can post a link to?

August 28, 2019 at 7:25 am

Yes, so travel router devices can either extend an ethernet network into a WiFi network, or extend a weak WiFi signal into something your devices can connect to. Of course this only works if there is a wifi connection to extend.

If you want to connect when there is no WiFi connection, you would need a mobile hotspot, you can see some options here . Or you can get a device like this Netgear Nighthawk device that can function as both a travel router and mobile hotspot.

For more about mobile hotspots and getting online when traveling, this article may be useful: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/how-to-get-online-when-travelling-away/

Hope that helps, and let us know if you have further questions!

Bob J Post author

July 8, 2019 at 8:17 pm

Can any of these routers act as a wireless Ethernet bridge? I want to connect net gear router to our resort WiFi and was wondering if a travel router would be reasonably priced way to do that

July 11, 2019 at 2:30 pm

That is a good question. Some of these routers may be able to do that but that is not really what they were designed to do. I would check the specs of the devices and contact the specific manufacturer of the one(s) you are interested in and ask them specifically if they can do this and how you would do this. If not, I would look for a device designed more to do this, I am sure Netgear could recommend one. Best, Jessica

Tex Post author

July 4, 2019 at 12:01 pm

It sounds like you can use either an app or a browser on a laptop to configure the Trek in case it needs a password to connect to the hotel’s wifi, am I understanding that correctly? Because if that is the case, then $35 for a way to boost the WiFi signal is a bargain. So many hotels advertise free WiFi but deliver very slow connections

July 6, 2019 at 2:30 pm

Hi Tex, Yes, that is correct, you can usually use them to get around hotel minimum device issues as well as to boost exisiting WiFi signals. They also add a bit more security. Netgear is not making the Trek any longer so they are hard to find, but you might be able to find one on Amazon or ebay or secondhand. But other routers work in a similar way and they pretty much all do the same thing so you can also check out the other devices. Best, Jessica

Jimmy Chang Post author

July 1, 2019 at 5:42 am

Ravpower Filehub Plus slow down internet speed more than 50% makes it unusable in most case. Although the device’s small size and has it’s own battery is a huge plus. I bought one, really like it, but I return the product due to the internet performance disappointment.

July 1, 2019 at 5:58 pm

Hi Jimmy, Yes there are pros and cons to all of the travel routers. Sorry to hear the Ravpower Filehub Plus was not a good fit for you, but there are several other options out there that you can try. Best, Jessica

Adam Post author

June 9, 2019 at 2:32 am

Alright so this list needs updated badly. No WiFi AC options = bad. Which there are enough of to warrant an update.

June 9, 2019 at 2:08 pm

Thanks for your input! We do keep this list as up to date as we can, and there are not that many travel routers on the market that support this speed.

Some of our recommendations support the 300Mbps speed, and AC is only 433Mps, so the difference is not that great. In addition, in our experience most networks when we travel don’t offer speeds anywhere near close to maxing out even a 150mbps travel router. So there are very few places where you would encounter public Wifi AC at this time, therefore, there is not much of a compelling reason for most people to need this feature.

However, we’ll certainly review the post and update this list to ensure the best options are still represented ????

Beri Post author

May 28, 2019 at 3:46 am

I found a list of some more routers suitable for a VPN setup, have you had any experience with setting it up? I’m subscribed to this VPN but I’m a little uneasy about the technical part of configuring a router.

May 28, 2019 at 11:50 am

Hi Beri, Yes, as you know, not all routers will work with a VPN. But if you have a travel router that does, you will just need to follow the directions of that router to use it. It should work the same as without a VPN unless otherwise indicated. Best, Jessica

Tobias Claren Post author

May 21, 2019 at 4:09 am

Is it possible to use such Wireless Travel Router with a Wifi with voucher code (entry in web browser)?

May 21, 2019 at 5:23 am

Hi Tobias, Yes, it is. Once you have connected the travel router to the network, you should be able to access the voucher page from your device as you normally would. Best, Laurence

John Stafford Post author

May 16, 2019 at 6:43 am

Could you advise how these travel routers deal with the invariable web page sign in that most Hotels require you to fill in before allowing you on their WiFi network?

May 16, 2019 at 7:01 am

Hello John,

All the routers we recommend support the sign-in page that some networks require – they usually just forward it to the device you first access the network from. So say you are using a smartphone, you first connect the travel router to the hotel network using the configuration tool on your smartphone, and then when you try to access the internet, you will be redirected to the web page to sign in.

The advantage of using a travel router is that you should only need to sign in once, then any other devices you connect to your travel router will not need to sign in again. It also carries the advantage that if the hotel restricts access to one device, you can circumvent that as the hotel sees the router as the one device, and you can connect as many of your devices to the router as it supports.

Hope that helps! Jessica & Laurence

Stanley Post author

May 17, 2019 at 8:59 am

I have purchased TP Link Nano and configured to hotel WiFi. Unfortunately, it is not opening up the sign in page automatically. Hence I am not able to use the internet for my devices. What could be the possible reason?

May 17, 2019 at 10:57 am

Hi Stanley,

This can happen sometimes if your device is configured in a certain way, for example if you have a VPN running. If you connect the same device to the hotel wifi directly (without the router), does the login page come up?

Do you have another device you can try? If so, I’d logout and disconnect and try a different device.

The TP Link definitely does support this when you connect a device to it, but specific configurations can cause issues with your client devices. It’s hard to troubleshoot though as there are different possible causes.

Mark Post author

May 12, 2019 at 10:38 pm

Thanks for writing a great article about travel routers! I wish more routers/extenders would include software to function in this way.

Question: I have a particular use-case and I was wondering if any router that you’ve come across has the necessary functionality. Do any of these or any >$100 devices save the credentials of the wireless networks that you have to before and auto connect when they are available?

My wife and I travel to the same places often for work. We used the Airport Express for this for a while but we’re looking for a new solution and Apple has sadly dropped the product(one of the best smart routers out there for a long time).

Also when the local WiFi is slow we use the hotspots on our iPhones/iPad. We even have different mobile providers for different areas so one of us always has signal.

If we always had a common WiFi for all our devices that used the best signal or just auto-joined the hotspot when it was turned on we would be ecstatic!

May 13, 2019 at 8:58 am

Thanks very much!

So in our experience the travel routers we have used for this purpose (originally the Netgear Trek, although this is sadly no longer on sale) did remember the networks it had previously connected to, and would automatically reconnect to these. So we would think this would be standard for most of these. However we aren’t 100% sure as we mostly use the Trek still – the best thing might be to either contact the manufacturer of the one that sounds the best. Or just try the router that has the features you need, and then see if it works. If not, you should be able to return it for a refund.

Sorry we couldn’t be of more help. If you find out more about this in researching these routers, please let us know and we can add that to our article.

Alan Smith Post author

May 9, 2019 at 2:19 am

Thanks for sharing.

May 12, 2019 at 11:44 am

Hi Alan, glad you enjoyed the post. Just let us know if you have any questions about travel routers. Best, Jessica

Emani Post author

April 23, 2019 at 7:07 pm

Since there is no “like” button, I just wanted to quickly leave a comment to say thank you for writing this article because it was extremely helpful to a computer layman like myself. I greatly appreciate it 🙂

April 24, 2019 at 6:55 am

Hi Emani, Glad you found our article helpful, and just let us know if you have any questions about travel routers or what they do. Best, Jessica

Jacqueline Post author

April 21, 2019 at 3:54 pm

Hello I have a quick question I’m just looking for something I can get for my teenaged girls to watch Netflix and play games while on the road we do a lot of traveling and they want to watch movies and play games on there tablet and laptops do u know which router fits my family best thanks for this article by the way

April 22, 2019 at 3:08 am

Hi Jacqueline,

So the main question would be whether or not you need internet access while out and about, or just looking to extend coverage and use multiple devices at hotels etc. A travel router like these in this post can only extend an existing wireless network, so won’t help if you are in a car for example that does not have WiFi access.

If the device is primarily for use in hotels or near existing wireless networks, then any of the devices on this list would be a good fit. I’d recommend looking at the TPlink N300 or the GL iNet AR300.

If you are also looking for WiFi, then in that sort of situation you would want a wireless hotspot type device like the TEP wireless or Glocalme hotspot . You can read more about Internet access solutions while traveling in this article .

Alternatively, if you are traveling domestically, your phone may also allow you to create a wireless hotspot and share the connection with the other devices around you.

The only thing about these options is that it will depend on your daughters usage – streaming movies for example uses quite a lot of data, and most wireless hotspot services tend to restrict speeds after around 1GB of data, which is less than your average film.

Hope that helps, but do let us know if you have further questions! Laurence

Todd Post author

March 23, 2019 at 9:13 am

I just returned my new TP-Link N300 Nano after a couple of very frustrating days trying to connect it to my iPhone 6. Their helpdesk agent was friendly but couldn’t find a solution. I found a resolution in their community forum and flashed new firmware onto the device to solve the issue. Sadly, the router would lock up after a few minutes of use. I let it hang twice before declaring it useless and boxed it back up to send to Amazon.

It’s such a shame because it probably could be a good router. But who can afford to be upgrading software while on the road 🙁

March 23, 2019 at 11:39 am

Hi Todd, Thanks for taking the time to comment. Sorry to hear that this did not work out well for you, although glad you had good customer service experience. I hope you are able to find something that works for you. Best, Jessica

March 2, 2019 at 7:39 pm

Thanks for a great article. I wish I could find a device that does everything the RAVPower FileHub does, along with VPN. I need a router that does wired, wireless bridge, USB port for external HDD, Video streaming, and hopefully VPN. Any suggestions?

March 3, 2019 at 5:37 am

Hi Chris – that would be a great device indeed! We’ve taken a look around though, and we can’t find one that does everything you need – either they have VPN and don’t have file sharing, or vice versa. The best solution we can offer is something like the RAVPower FileHub, with setting up a VPN on your laptop or mobile phone. We know this is an extra step for each device, but right now we don’t know of a product that has all 5 of those features. Hopefully one will be available soon! Best, Jessica

January 31, 2019 at 6:01 am

My company has production plants all over the world. As such, there has been and will continue to be the opportunity for me to spend extended time abroad. This past year alone, I spent four weeks in Italy which is the reason I’m now searching for some sort of wifi booster. The hotels in Italy had wifi that would operate a laptop, iPhone, et cetera, but the signal was not strong/reliable enough to use my Chromecast. This meant I spent a lot of evenings looking at my iPhone 7 to watch Netflix. Not optimal!

What I need to know is will a product like this allow me to stream Netflix, Hulu, Youtube, whatever, to my Chromecast in such an instance? There is a very good chance that I might be spending weeks-on-end abroad again very soon. I would like to be able to address this issue before I leave. Any thoughts on this?

January 31, 2019 at 10:32 am

So this is not a question we can 100% answer. A travel router can boost signal and provide more secure Internet browsing, but it depends ultimately on the speed of the hotel’s connection.

First, the Internet speed in general in the location you are visiting will need to be fast enough to support streaming. It sounds like this has generally been the case in hotels you’ve stayed in, as you were able to stream to your iPhone. In that case, if your iPhone is able to stream across the WiFi, then a travel router should strengthen the signal sufficiently for the Chromecast to also work. However, we can’t guarantee it will work in every instance, so this might not be a guaranteed fix.

If you are able to download any films or TV shows we’d recommend doing this. I know Netflix lets you download some shows to supported devices. You might then be able to stream these more easily.

Alternatively, with something like the RAVPower router we mention, that acts as a streaming hub that your Chromecast should be able to stream from, if you have a hard drive or memory card with some shows on.

We think a travel router should help, but we can’t guarantee it in every situation!

Sajjad Ahmad Post author

January 23, 2019 at 1:17 am

Thanks for sharing this is such a very nice post and review of available travel routers. thanks for spending time on it. i found it very useful.

January 23, 2019 at 2:46 am

Hi Sajjad, You are very welcome and just let us know if you have any questions as you check out the different travel routers. Best, Jessica

Business Traveler Post author

December 13, 2018 at 6:49 am

great article, very helpful as a business traveler!

December 13, 2018 at 7:34 am

Thanks, glad you found it helpful! Just let us know if you have any questions about choosing a travel router. Best, Jessica

Gary Post author

December 2, 2018 at 10:39 pm

This is a very good article and comparison of different travel routers, as so far I’ve read several articles. Thank you!

December 3, 2018 at 6:00 am

Hi Gary, Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad to hear you found our travel route article helpful. Do let us know if you have any questions. Best, Jessica

Shah Post author

September 28, 2018 at 2:03 pm

This was a great informative post you have shared on this page about the internet during travelling and using travel routers. If you want to use the internet while travelling then you must buy a wireless mobile router because its signal range are large with the secure password nd also send a message to the user if someone try to hack a password, otherwise you feel trouble during travelling! Thanks.

September 29, 2018 at 8:05 pm

Hi Shah, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, and hope you choose the best travel router for you. Wireless routers can definitely help you get online while traveling and also help keep you more secure when away from home! Best, Jessica

Bella Johsan Post author

September 28, 2018 at 2:05 am

Many wireless routers available in the market which is helpful during the travel like np15 and so many. We always want a good speed router during our travels, regarding best router I found this post really helpful.

September 29, 2018 at 7:01 am

Hi Bella, Glad you found this helpful in choosing a travel router and wishing you the best on your future travels! Best, Jessica

Sam Billings Post author

September 6, 2018 at 12:00 am

Netgear Trek is a small router for those travel a lot or whose work is to travel. This device is easy to handle and it does not need a lot of space. I really like it!

September 6, 2018 at 12:13 pm

Hi Sam, Yes, we like the Netgear Trek as well and it is a great size for travel. It is just a shame that Netgear stopped making them now. I am hoping that will come out with an updated or new travel router product that is similar to that one. Best, Jessica

pamela Post author

September 4, 2018 at 10:02 pm

TP-Link Nano travel routers N150 and N300 are so aesthetically pleasing. I have N150 and don’t have anything bad to say about it, except the price could be lower. Btw, I use Nordvpn with it, and I’d say it’s a perfect match.

September 5, 2018 at 4:06 am

Hi Pamela, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and for your experience with the N150 travel router. Glad that you have had a good experience with it. We recommend NordVPN as well for those that need a VPN service. Best, Jessica

Jean Post author

August 11, 2018 at 3:07 pm

Hi. I’m looking into purchasing the TP-Link N300 Nano Travel Router to use at a lakeside resort. The lodge at the resort has free wi-fi but the nearby cottages do not. They last time we were there, we were able to pick up in our cottage a weak signal from the lodge. Would the TP-Link N300 Nano server to strengthen that signal. We use Mac laptops, if that matters. Obviously, we don’t know much about travel routers. Any information you can provide will be very helpful. THANKS!

August 13, 2018 at 12:53 am

Hi Jean, Yes, that is the sort of situation that the router is designed for and it should strengthen your signal and make it stronger than what it would be with only your laptops. It may not be a “strong” connection, but it should certainly be stronger. As long as you have relatively recent model laptop (last several years) most routers will work fine with most modern laptops, tablets, and phones. Wishing you a wonderful vacation at the lake! Best, Jessica

Stive Smith Post author

July 27, 2018 at 4:42 am

What a helpful technical post on travel routers! I think Wireless Router is the best one to achieve uninterrupted WiFi while blogging. I had some issues with my router which I was unable to fix on my own. Then, I got Netgear Support which was truly helpful in fixing all my router issues.

July 27, 2018 at 4:44 am

Hi Stive, So glad you found our travel routers post helpful. And yes, if you need help with a Netgear product, Netgear Support is a great place to get help with your travel router! Best, Jessica

Christina Post author

January 19, 2017 at 11:13 am

It’s nice to have WiFI while traveling and I appreciate the design and functional features of the device. The Netgear Trek’s initial function, increasing the range of existing wireless networks, sounds great.

January 20, 2017 at 3:19 am

Hi Christina, Yes, we still take the Netgear Trek travel router with us on most of our travels as it often comes in handy when we need to connect while on the road. Just let us know if you have any specific questions about the device that are not answered in the review. Best, Jessica

January 13, 2017 at 9:47 am

It’s nice that the included antenna can amplify the weak signal. Many people would find this product useful.

Harry Post author

January 3, 2017 at 2:57 pm

Thanks for the response. I”m back at home now but will try this at the next hotel. Great review. If this pans out, this truly is something that has been needed for quite a while and it will become my “go-to” solution when traveling.

travelcats Post author

January 3, 2017 at 3:18 pm

Hi Harry, We find that sometimes it does take a bit of patience and fiddling but we have been successful in using it as we described. Best of luck and please let us know how it works on your next trip! Best, Jessica & Laurence

December 30, 2016 at 9:34 am

I was led to understand the netgear N300 would allow you to use the hotel “captive portal” wifi with multiple devices. It doesn’t look like that is the case as your commenter above states. I see no option in the http://www.routerlogin.net netgear page for this to happen. It requires you to put in an ssid for the hotel network and a password. The problem is, with “captive portal” pages, there is no “password”. They ask for your room number and you to accept the user agreement.

What is needed is to be able to sign in to the netgear n300 and then open a browser and try to get on the internet and then the hotel page pops up and you enter your room number and any other required info and you are on the web.

I don’t see that capability in the netgear N300

Also, I think you may need the ability to “clone” the mac address of your laptop so your mac address isn’t always telling the hotel that you are probably using a “router” type device to get around their “one or two device” rules. If the mac address says “I’m a netgear router”, it would be easy for the hotel to not allow such mac addresses.

December 31, 2016 at 3:07 am

Hi Harry, In our experience the N300 router has allowed us to do this. You can enter the hotel SSID without a password, and then the router will forward your browser to the hotel page to log in, after which point you can browse with multiple devices. We’ve definitely used it in this situation and not had any problems at several hotels.

For the MAC address spoofing, we’ve never encountered a hotel set up intelligent enough to do this, and we suspect we never will – the effort to do so isn’t really worth the rewards we suspect.

Hope this helps, and I would message or call Netgear Support if you are having further difficulties. Best, Jessica

John-Paul Post author

October 12, 2016 at 3:24 pm

NetGear has been horrible in trying to answer my question.

I was told that I can connect in places like Starbucks that require me to click on ACCEPT their terms or a location like a hotel that might require me to enter other information on a log in screen.

I have not been able to make that happen. I select the network (such as Starbucks) and the system spins for a couple minutes and then says it can’t connect. It doesn’t take me to the needed screen to accept terms.

Is the function I want available and, if so, how is it supposed to work.

October 12, 2016 at 5:46 pm

Hi John-Paul, I am sorry to hear you have not had a great response to your question from Netgear. Um, have you gotten the Netgear to first work at your home? We were normally able to connect in public places, and have used it in hotels and coffee shops. It should first connect to the Netgear and then you should be able to then sign into the store or public screen wi-fi. Are you able to sign into the public wifi screen once you turn of the Netgear Trek? ~ Jessica

October 12, 2016 at 8:10 pm

No trouble logging on to NetGear at home and retransmitting my home network.

I was at a hospital with a public network. I was able to log on to their network (after accepting their terms on a pop up page) on both my computer and my iphone. However, when I selected the hospital network in the NetGear menu it tried to connect a couple of times but said they could not connect. It never gave me the sign on screen from the hospital.

So. The normal process should be

1) Connect my laptop to the NetGear network created by my device. 2) Go through the netgear menu and select the desired network from the available list. 3) Hit the Go/Enter/Next button (don’t remember which it’s called) 4) Any signon screen from the network should automatically come up??

It’s step 4 that isn’t happening

October 12, 2016 at 8:45 pm

Hi John-Paul, Yes, it sounds like you are doing it correctly. I don’t know what may be happening – it could be something to do with the hospital network in combo with the Netgear. But if you have had this problem at other places, it is probably the Netgear. Have you had it working in any public places you have tried? If contacting Netgear support isn’t working the best, you might try contacting them via social media such as sending them a Tweet (@Netgear) and feel free to tag me on it (@TravelCatsBlog) and I can monitor to make sure you get a reply. Sorry I can’t be more helpful but I hope Netgear can help you out. Best, Jessica

October 13, 2016 at 12:11 pm

Good news. I finally got it to work.

I’m very happy as now that we are retired this is going to be extremely useful in all the timeshares we stay in.

October 13, 2016 at 1:25 pm

Great, glad you got the Netgear Trek working! ~ Jessica

Mary Tarris Post author

February 22, 2016 at 4:38 pm

I use it to bring wifi to my laptop in various parts of the house from my desk, where it sits cabled to a broadband modem that itself is cabled to the internet. The big problem is that very often it shows up as not connected to the internet, although I can usually get it to function OK after turning various bits of kit off and then on again. Has anyone else had this hassle?.

February 24, 2016 at 4:34 am

Hi Mary, We have generally not used the device on a daily basis, but we have had issues where it disconnects itself and we have to reconnect the connection to get it rebooted. Another issues may be that since you may be in areas of the desk where there is a weak connection, it may be losing the wifi signal at times. I am not sure if there is anything you can do other than what you are doing. Anyone else have advice? ~ Jessica

Gary Jackson Post author

February 4, 2016 at 3:24 am

I am also using NETGEAR TREK since December 14. It helps me to connect multiple devices and let me do my work on the fourth flour. Its an excellent device!

February 6, 2016 at 11:04 am

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Netgear Trek. I am glad that you have found it helpful!

Gil Hale Post author

October 21, 2015 at 1:02 am

We have begun to use a DropCam camera (now a Nest product) as in some hotels we have had some items taken from our room (not Marriott). But, I found the DropCam would not connect directly to the Marriott provided WiFi in our room. I tried to use our iPad as a hotspot, but the connection was not reliable. I ended up investing in a Netgear Trek N300 WiFi router and was able to log that unit onto the Marriott WiFi with no problems, then connect our devices to the N300. Perfect…

October 24, 2015 at 6:58 am

Hi Gil, Sorry to hear about the taken items, but I am glad that you have found the Netgear Wifi router helpful during your travels! We are actually using it right now in Rome!! ~Jessica

Tom Post author

August 8, 2015 at 12:30 pm

I’ve had spotty results with the Netgear Trek. The Internet connection is flaky and it resets itself a few times each day, even when it seems to pick up a strong signal from a hotel or RV park. Did you run into that problem, too?

August 11, 2015 at 11:59 am

Hi Tom, We have not experienced the flakiness so much but we have had it reset when we have it on for a long time, but not quite that often. Maybe contact Netgear and see if they have any tips? ~Jessica

July 13, 2015 at 2:08 pm

Great review! I, too, am in the market for a travel router. Thus, I have a question: Can this be powered via a USB-powered port on my laptop or by A/C only?

July 13, 2015 at 8:27 pm

Hi Todd, thanks! Yes, you can power this via a plugged in USB cable or via the AC cord. If you use the Netgear Trek, please feel free to share your experience!

Adelina Post author

February 26, 2015 at 12:08 pm

Interesting. I’ve thought of maybe getting one of these for my own home! There are corners that just have such weak connections. It does seem a bit bulky though to be carrying it when traveling. How heavy is it?

March 4, 2015 at 3:23 pm

Hi Adelina, yes we use it both at home to extend our wifi to our patio and also sometimes while traveling. Here are the size and weight specs from the Netgear website:

Dimensions: 3.39 in x 3.31 in x 1.30 in (86.5 mm x 86.2 mm x 32 mm) Net Weight: 0.355 lb (161 g).

So it is fairly compact and not that heavy but if you are like me, every little bit can matter when trying to squeeze more things into one’s luggage so we generally just travel with it when we know we’ll be experiencing bad wi-fi. Hope that helps and feel free to ask more questions if you are deciding to buy.

Marisol@TravelingSolemates Post author

February 23, 2015 at 1:35 pm

Thanks for the review. I’ll definitely look into it. It really is frustrating if the signal is slow. . I’ll be willing to carry extra weight if it would boost connection,.

March 9, 2015 at 12:29 pm

Yes, just let me know if you have any questions about the Netgear trek Marisol!

Em... Post author

February 23, 2015 at 11:35 am

Gone are the days of combing an area for a dodgy internet cafe in order to e-mail friends and family about travels. Now you can use gadgets like this and blog away… Big innovations in just even a decade!

March 9, 2015 at 12:25 pm

Isn’t it amazing how fast Internet availability and speeds have changed in just the past 5-7 years!

Jess Post author

February 22, 2015 at 5:52 pm

My greatest frustration when traveling is places that advertise wifi when it’s too slow or unreliable to be usable – I’m fine when they just don’t have it, but I hate spending so much time trying to make it work. I think I could use one of these.

March 9, 2015 at 12:21 pm

Hi Jess, yes I agree. Better to not advertise Internet than to have Internet that is impossible to use:) This can help when there are weak signals.

Corinne Post author

February 22, 2015 at 3:38 am

Great review…as we all know living without good Internet is a killer!

March 9, 2015 at 12:13 pm

Indeed Corinne:)

Lyn (aka) The Travelling Lindfields Post author

February 22, 2015 at 1:47 am

This sounds like a very useful device for people who need the internet when they travel.

March 9, 2015 at 12:12 pm

Indeed, we find it both useful for home and for traveling!

Paula McInerney Post author

February 22, 2015 at 1:21 am

Interesting, We use netgear at home and love it. Gordon will look into this.

March 9, 2015 at 12:10 pm

Great, and just let me know if you or Gordon have any questions!

Leah | KidBucketList Post author

February 21, 2015 at 11:32 pm

I love the idea of SECURE access to public hotspots when travelling. My only concern is it’s size. It seems so big!

March 9, 2015 at 12:06 pm

Yes, it is also a pro and con when adding something extra to one’s luggage. Here are the size and weight specs from the Netgear website:

AwesomelyOZ Post author

February 19, 2015 at 9:11 pm

That’s very cool – I haven’t used this but it’s good to know it’s a reliable product. My mobile phone is a hotspot so if anything, we can connect multiple devices to it as well. It’s REALLY handy to have that functionality because it also doesn’t require any extra gear, just my phone. 🙂 Have a great one Jessica! -Iva 🙂

February 20, 2015 at 8:44 am

That sounds great and I wish I could use my cell phone as a hotspot, but it is quite expensive. Mobile hotspots are definitely very cool. The great thing about the Trek is that it is a very low cost option ($35 one time cost) for locations that have WiFi (or Ethernet) and you’d just like to make a stronger, safer, and more reliable connection.

Anda Post author

February 19, 2015 at 2:03 pm

Looks like an excellent device, I’ll be glad to look into it. The only downside is that you still need to carry a router from what I understand, which is an extra weight in the luggage…

February 20, 2015 at 8:42 am

Hi Anda, yes the Netgear Trek is a very neat device. It is pretty compact, but you do need to have the device with you to connect and increase the wifi range so it is going to take up some precious luggage space unfortunately.

SUZAN FAWCETT Post author

February 19, 2015 at 5:39 am

i was very interested in your take on this product. However I use an android tab when i travel and there was no mention made of that possibility in the specs. I research further and found that is does work with android and ios operating systems too. I am seriously looking at purchase. Thanks for bringing this device to our attention!

February 19, 2015 at 9:14 am

Yes, for some reason Netgear does not list it under the written system requirements, but the Netgear Trek works well with our Android phones and devices. Let us know if you have any other questions! ~ Jessica

February 18, 2015 at 7:52 pm

It sounds like you can use either an app or a browser on a laptop to configure the Trek in case it needs a password to connect to the hotel’s wifi, am I understanding that correctly? Because if that is the case, then $35 for a way to boost the WiFi signal is a bargain. So many hotels advertise free WiFi but deliver very slow connections.

Thanks for a great review!

February 19, 2015 at 9:09 am

Yes, that is correct. Similar to going to a coffee shop, it will bring up the Netgear page and you will choose the network you want and then connect to it as needed (if there is a password or something to click). Yes, we think the $35 is a very good value which is why Laurence bought his own so we now own two of the devices:)

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The best mobile hotspot in 2024: top 4G LTE and 5G hotspots for working from home

Stay connected wherever you are with the best mobile hotspot around today

• Best overall
• Best hybrid
• Best 4G LTE
• How to choose
• How we test

1.  Best overall 2. Best 5G 3. Best hybrid 4. Best 4G LTE 5. Best UK 6. FAQ 7. How to choose 8. How we test

The best mobile hotspot in 2024 is more relevant than ever in today's fast-paced environment, and one can find a range of options offering fast, secure internet connectivity virtually anywhere around the globe. These devices are particularly vital for those needing a reliable and secure internet connection for business purposes, where using public Wi-Fi hotspots might pose security risks.

The advancement in mobile network technology means you no longer have to compromise on internet speed. With 4G, users can experience speeds that rival traditional broadband connections, especially in areas with strong network coverage. This ensures a smooth browsing experience, often surpassing the performance of free or shared Wi-Fi spots that typically come with data limits and heavy traffic.

Moreover, the expansion of 5G coverage is revolutionizing internet connectivity. 5G, the latest in mobile internet technology, offers speeds that not only match but often exceed those of broadband internet. This rapid pace of 5G adoption is gradually bringing more 5G mobile hotspots into the market. While the options are still growing, we include only the best in our list, ensuring they meet high standards of performance and reliability.

For those relying heavily on mobile data for work or personal use, the transition from 4G to 5G can be a game-changer. Some network providers are even offering upgrades from 4G to 5G contracts at no extra cost. Investing in one of the best 5G mobile hotspots could significantly enhance your productivity and internet experience.

As technology continues to evolve, we're also beginning to see the emergence of the best Wi-Fi 6E routers that feature 5G connectivity as well. These routers promise even faster and more efficient internet connectivity, making them an exciting development in the world of mobile hotspots. Stay tuned as we guide you through the best mobile hotspot options available in 2024, helping you stay connected, secure, and productive wherever you go.

• We’ve also rounded up the best mobile broadband deals
• Check out the best powerline adapters for expanding your network

The best mobile hotspot of 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The Best mobile hotspot overall

1. inseego 5g mifi m1000, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you're a Verizon customer who can get the company's 5G network, the great news is that the Inseego 5G MiFi M1000 is your best 5G hotspot. It offers dual-band Wi-Fi support and includes USB-C and Ethernet tethering for devices requiring a wired connection. 

The battery life is large enough to power you throughout the day and charges quickly. The only issue is that while this is great for Verizon customers if you're not with the network or live outside the US, this isn't the right choice for you - so check out our other picks below.

On the hunt for a new webcam for your next business meeting? Then make sure to check out our review of the best business webcams .

The Best 5G mobile hotspot

2. htc 5g hub.

The HTC 5G Hub is the best 5G mobile hotspot money can buy. Sure, there's not much competition out there now, as 5G is still relatively new, but HTC has come out of the gate with a winner.

EE, the UK's biggest network provider, offers data subscriptions with this hotspot. 

It's not cheap – you pay £100 upfront and then £50 a month for 50GB of data – but you are getting a very accomplished kit.

It can handle up to 20 wireless devices connected simultaneously, which should be enough for most households, and an Ethernet port for wired devices. 

A powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor powers the device, and a 5-inch HD touchscreen gives you all the information you need to keep an eye on your 5G network. It also has a large battery life that should keep you going while you're out and about.

The Best mobile and Wi-Fi hotspot

3. netgear nighthawk m6 pro wi-fi router.

This small, portable mobile router makes a great companion for business travelers and remote working. The M6 Pro is a beast of a hotspot that offers some of the latest and greatest features for staying connected on the go. The device comes unlocked for all major mobile networks and supports 5G data speeds with WiFi 6E connectivity. 

The built-in battery provides about 13 hours of run time, plenty for a full day’s work, and offers 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz, and the new 6.0GHz frequency bands. Also included is a mains power adapter for working indoors near an outlet.

While it may be overkill for some, for those who need the fastest speeds and all-day connectivity, the Nighthawk M6 should jump to the top of your list.

Read the full review: Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro Wi-Fi Router

The Best 4G LTE hotspot

4. tp-link m7350 v4 4g lte mobile hotspot.

The TP-Link M7350 may be a little chunkier than some of the other top mobile hotspots on this list, but it remains an excellent mobile hotspot that supports both micro and nano SIM cards. This means it will almost certainly be compatible with your own SIM card. 

It has a small display informing you about your connection and supports dual-band Wifi on both 2.4 and 5GHz. Up to 10 devices can access it simultaneously, and performance is very good on 4G LTE. It's also unlikely to run out of juice when you need it most, with a 2000mAh battery that guarantees around eight hours of 4G connectivity.

Need some tips on sending large files without requiring bloated emails? Check out our list of the best ways to send large files in 2024

The Best mobile hotspot in the UK

5. ee 4gee wifi mini mobile hotspot.

The EE 4GEE WiFi Mini is one of the better-looking mobile hotspot devices on this list, and its compact design means it can be easily carried around with you. The 1500mAh offers up to 50 hours on standby and six hours when connected to the internet. 

It can support up to 10 devices at once, but it doesn't have an LCD screen, like the TP-Link M7350, so it's not quite as user-friendly. You also need to use the EE network, which isn't too much of a hardship due to EE's coverage and fast 4G speeds, and the network offers a range of data plans to go alongside the EE 4GEE WiFi Mini. 

However, if you want something more future-proof, check out the HTC 5G Hub at the top of this list of EE's best mobile hotspots.

Best mobile hotspot: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mobile hotspot.

A mobile hotspot can be plugged in almost anywhere to provide users with a mobile Wi-Fi network. It does so by connecting to a 4G or 5G data network and transmitting a secure Wi-Fi connection that can be used by a limited number of users who have required login details. 

The best mobile hotspots: how to choose

There are several factors to consider when aiming to whittle down the choice of the best mobile hotspots to just one. 

First, consider the reasons behind your interest. If security is a big concern - and with public Wi-Fi hotspots not usually secure and often unreliable, it certainly should be - then you might want to consider mobile hotspots that offer robust security features or additional ethernet ports. Speed should also be a consideration, and you might wish to purchase a hotspot that is 5G compatible when this becomes more prevalent. 

Lastly, consider how many users the hotspot will have. If it's just you, you'll have a pick of the lot, but if you're in a business with upwards of ten users, you'll have a more limited selection.

The best mobile hotspots: How we test

On this page, we've looked at mobile hotspots that offer the best speed, the number of devices they can accommodate, and other key factors such as port availability and dual-band capability. 

The 4G and 5G mobile hotspots we've listed are battery-powered modem routers that use a SIM card that connects to the internet via cellular data and broadcasts a secure Wi-Fi network to which you can connect your device.

Note that while we've analyzed and rated the technical performance of each hotspot, we haven't touched upon the running costs, which will vary according to your provider. As with smartphone SIM cards, you'll need a data contract and pay for the service, either a monthly rolling contract or a pay-as-you-go SIM , which can be a more affordable choice if you only need to use these devices sporadically. 

• Don't forget to check out the best wireless routers

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Best Travel Routers with SIM Card Slot: Stay Connected on the Go!

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected while traveling is essential. To ensure seamless internet access on the go, investing in the best travel routers with a SIM card slot is a wise decision. These versatile devices not only provide a secure and reliable Wi-Fi connection but also allow you to insert a SIM card for instant access to mobile data networks wherever you are. The convenience and flexibility offered by these travel routers make them a must-have for frequent travelers and digital nomads seeking uninterrupted connectivity during their journeys.

The Best Travel Routers With Sim Card Slot

Exploring travel routers with sim card slot.

Travel routers with SIM card slots provide a convenient solution for staying connected while on the go. These compact devices allow travelers to create a portable Wi-Fi hotspot using a SIM card from a local cellular network provider, eliminating the need to rely on public Wi-Fi networks or incur high roaming charges.

One of the key advantages of travel routers with SIM card slots is their versatility in supporting multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who need to connect smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices to the internet while on the road. With fast and reliable internet access, users can stay productive, stream media, and communicate with family and friends wherever they are.

Additionally, travel routers with SIM card slots often come equipped with built-in security features such as firewalls and encryption protocols to ensure a safe and secure connection. This is especially important when accessing sensitive information or conducting online transactions while traveling. Users can have peace of mind knowing that their data is protected from potential cyber threats.

Overall, travel routers with SIM card slots are an essential tool for modern-day travelers looking to stay connected and productive during their journeys. With their portability, easy setup, and reliable performance, these devices offer a convenient way to access the internet anytime, anywhere, without the hassle of searching for Wi-Fi hotspots or worrying about data limits.

01. TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

Ideal for travelers or those seeking a compact networking solution, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router offers reliable internet connectivity on the go. With its lightweight and sleek design, this router fits easily into any bag or pocket for convenient access in hotels, airports, or coffee shops. The dual-band AC750 Wi-Fi ensures fast and stable connection speeds for browsing, streaming, or sharing content with multiple devices.

Setting up the router is a breeze with the intuitive web interface, allowing users to quickly configure settings and secure their network. The versatile USB port also provides added functionality, enabling file sharing or charging devices. Overall, the TP-Link AC750 Nano Travel Router is a handy companion for travelers or individuals in need of a portable networking solution.

• Compact and portable design
• Easy setup and configuration
• Dual-band WiFi for faster speeds
• USB port for file sharing
• Multiple operating modes
• Affordable price point
• Limited range and coverage.
• May experience connectivity issues with multiple devices connected simultaneously.

02. GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel AC Router

Compact and powerful, the GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel AC Router is a game-changer for frequent travelers. With its advanced features such as gigabit speeds and dual-band Wi-Fi, this router ensures a reliable and fast internet connection wherever you go. The sleek design and portability make it easy to carry in your bag, providing secure networking on-the-go.

Setting up the GL-AR750S-Ext is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly interface and extensive range of customization options. The VPN compatibility and robust security features offer peace of mind for secure browsing. Whether you’re a digital nomad or just need a reliable travel router, the GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext is a top-notch choice for anyone seeking reliable, fast, and secure internet connectivity while on the move.

• Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Dual-band Wi-Fi support
• VPN compatibility
• Extensive range of features and customization options
• Limited range compared to larger stationary routers.
• Setup and configuration process may be challenging for a non-technical user.

03. Huawei E5788u-96a Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Huawei E5788u-96a Mobile WiFi Hotspot is a game-changer for those constantly on the move. Its ultra-fast 4G LTE speeds ensure smooth streaming and browsing experiences on multiple devices simultaneously. The compact design and long-lasting battery make it perfect for travel or everyday use.

With advanced features like dual-band Wi-Fi and support for up to 32 connected devices, the E5788u-96a offers flexibility and convenience. Additionally, the intuitive interface and easy setup process make it user-friendly for all levels of tech-savvy individuals. Overall, this mobile WiFi hotspot is a reliable and efficient solution for staying connected on the go.

• Fast mobile data speeds with LTE Cat16 technology
• Long battery life with a 3000mAh battery
• Supports up to 32 devices connected simultaneously
• Secure internet connection with VPN and firewall protection
• Limited compatibility with some cellular networks.
• No option for external antenna connection.
• Expensive compared to similar mobile WiFi hotspots.

04. RAVPower FileHub Travel Router AC750

Compact and versatile, the RAVPower FileHub Travel Router AC750 is a must-have gadget for travelers and on-the-go professionals. With its seamless file transfer capabilities and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, it effortlessly functions as a portable media hub. The built-in 6700mAh power bank ensures continuous device charging, making it a reliable companion for long journeys. Despite its small size, this router offers impressive performance, enabling easy sharing of files between devices and providing stable internet connections on the road. Overall, the RAVPower FileHub Travel Router AC750 is a practical and efficient solution for all your connectivity needs while traveling.

• Multi-functional device
• Wireless file transfer and backup
• Portable and lightweight
• Easy to set up and use
• Built-in power bank
• SD card reader and USB port functionality
• Limited range for Wi-Fi coverage
• Slow transfer speeds for larger files

05. Alcatel LinkZone MW41TM Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Last update on 2024-02-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The sleek design and easy setup make this hotspot user-friendly for all ages. Its ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously is a convenient feature for families or small groups. Overall, the Alcatel LinkZone MW41TM Mobile WiFi Hotspot is a practical and efficient solution for staying connected while on the move.

• Portable and compact design
• Supports up to 15 devices connected simultaneously
• Long battery life
• Affordable pricing
• Easy setup and user-friendly interface
• Limited battery life
• Limited range compared to other mobile hotspots

Why Choose Travel Routers with SIM Card Slot?

Travel routers with SIM card slots have become essential gadgets for frequent travelers and digital nomads. These compact devices allow users to create a secure Wi-Fi network anytime and anywhere by simply inserting a SIM card. The best travel routers with SIM card slots offer flexibility and convenience for staying connected on the go.

One primary reason people opt for travel routers with SIM card slots is to avoid expensive roaming fees. By using a local SIM card in the router, travelers can access affordable data plans and avoid bill shock from international roaming charges. This cost-effective solution enables seamless connectivity for work, staying in touch with loved ones, or simply browsing the web while traveling.

Additionally, travel routers with SIM card slots provide a secure network connection, ideal for protecting sensitive information and ensuring privacy while using public Wi-Fi networks. These devices offer encryption features and can act as a firewall, protecting users from potential cyber threats and unauthorized access to their data.

In conclusion, the convenience, cost-saving benefits, and enhanced security features make investing in the best travel routers with SIM card slots a wise decision for those who value connectivity and productivity during their travels.

Choosing the Right Travel Router with SIM Card Slot

Selecting the perfect travel router with a SIM card slot involves careful consideration of crucial aspects to ensure seamless connectivity and reliable performance during your journeys.

Network Compatibility

Network compatibility is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a travel router with a SIM card slot. Different routers support different frequencies and bands used by various mobile networks. Ensuring that the router is compatible with the network frequencies of the region you will be travelling to is essential for reliable connectivity. Without proper network compatibility, the router may not be able to connect to local networks, resulting in poor signal strength or no connection at all. By choosing a router with the right network compatibility, you can ensure seamless and uninterrupted internet access during your travels.

Data Speed And Coverage

One should consider data speed and coverage when choosing Travel Routers with SIM Card Slot to ensure seamless connectivity while on the go. The data speed determines how fast you can browse the internet, stream videos, or access online services. A reliable and fast data connection is essential for a smooth travel experience. Additionally, checking the coverage of the network provider in the areas you plan to travel to is crucial to avoid being left without connectivity in remote or rural locations. By considering data speed and coverage, travelers can ensure they stay connected wherever they go.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a Travel Router with a SIM card slot. A longer battery life ensures uninterrupted internet connectivity while on the go, especially in situations where charging options are limited or unavailable. Having a robust battery allows users to work, stream, or stay connected for an extended period without the need for frequent recharging. This feature is particularly important for travelers who rely on their routers for essential tasks while away from traditional power sources. Choosing a travel router with an extended battery life can provide peace of mind and convenience during your travels.

Number Of Supported Devices

Considering the number of supported devices is crucial when choosing a travel router with a SIM card slot to ensure compatibility with all your devices. By determining how many devices can be connected simultaneously, you can avoid connectivity issues and ensure a seamless browsing experience for everyone traveling with you. This factor is particularly important if you are traveling in a group or with multiple gadgets that require internet access. Choosing a travel router that supports the right number of devices will enhance connectivity, allow for smooth data sharing, and make your travel experiences more convenient and enjoyable.

Security Features

Considering the security features when choosing a Travel Router with a SIM Card Slot is crucial to safeguard personal data and ensure a secure connection while traveling. Robust security measures such as encryption protocols, built-in firewalls, and VPN support can prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive information from cyber threats. By prioritizing security features in a travel router, users can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their data transmissions are safe and their online activities are shielded from potential risks, making it essential for a worry-free and secure travel experience.

Setting Up Your Travel Router For Seamless Connectivity

Setting up your travel router for seamless connectivity is essential to ensure you have a smooth and reliable internet connection while you’re on the go. The first step is to insert your SIM card into the router, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the SIM card is correctly inserted to establish a cellular connection.

Next, connect your devices to the router either wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable. Access the router’s settings through a web browser by typing in the default IP address. Follow the setup wizard to configure your network settings, including setting up a secure password and network name to protect your connection.

It’s important to choose the appropriate network settings based on your location and the type of connection available. Make sure to select the correct network mode (3G, 4G, LTE) for optimal performance. You may also need to configure additional settings such as VPN connections for added security while traveling.

Lastly, test your connection to ensure everything is working correctly. Check the signal strength and speed to confirm that you have a stable internet connection. By properly setting up your travel router, you can enjoy a hassle-free internet experience wherever your adventures take you.

Tips For Maximizing Data Usage Efficiency

To maximize data usage efficiency while using a travel router with a SIM card slot, consider choosing a data plan that suits your needs. Look for plans that offer sufficient data allocation without unnecessary extras. Additionally, some carriers provide specialized data plans for travelers, so explore these options for cost-effective usage.

Another tip is to monitor your data usage regularly. Most travel routers have built-in settings that allow you to track data consumption. By keeping an eye on your usage, you can better manage your data and avoid any unforeseen overages.

Consider optimizing your devices for data efficiency. For instance, disabling automatic app updates and limiting video streaming quality can help conserve data. Close background apps consuming data unnecessarily to ensure you are using data only for essential tasks while on the go.

Lastly, utilize data-saving features on your travel router, if available. Some routers offer data compression or resource-saving modes that can help reduce data consumption without compromising your browsing experience. By implementing these tips, you can make the most of your data plan and stay connected while traveling without exceeding your data limits.

Security Features To Consider For Safe Travel Router Usage

When selecting a travel router with a SIM card slot, it is crucial to consider the security features for safe usage during your travels. Look for routers that offer robust encryption protocols, such as WPA2 or WPA3, to secure your network from unauthorized access. It’s also advisable to choose routers with built-in security features like firewalls and intrusion detection systems to prevent cyber threats.

Another important security feature to consider is VPN support. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) add an extra layer of encryption to your internet connection, ensuring your data remains secure while traveling. By using a VPN with your travel router, you can protect your personal information and browsing activities from potential hackers and snoopers on public Wi-Fi networks.

Additionally, browse for routers that offer guest network capabilities. This feature allows you to create a separate network for guests, keeping your primary network safe and private. Through guest networks, you can control access permissions and isolate potential security risks that may arise from connecting multiple devices to the same network.

Lastly, some advanced travel routers come with configurable security settings, such as MAC address filtering and parental controls. These features enable you to customize your router’s security settings according to your specific needs and preferences, providing an added level of protection for secure and worry-free travel router usage.

How Do Travel Routers With A Sim Card Slot Work?

Travel routers with a SIM card slot work by allowing you to insert a compatible SIM card from a local carrier at your destination. The router then uses the cellular data connection from the SIM card to create a wireless network that you can connect your devices to. This enables you to have internet access on multiple devices without needing to rely on public Wi-Fi networks, making it a convenient and secure option for travelers. Additionally, some travel routers may have features like battery backup and VPN support for added functionality and security.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Travel Router With A Sim Card Slot?

A travel router with a SIM card slot offers the convenience of secure internet connectivity while on the go. By using a local SIM card, travelers can avoid expensive roaming charges and stay connected with high-speed internet wherever they go. Additionally, the router can create a private Wi-Fi network, allowing multiple devices to connect simultaneously, making it ideal for sharing internet access with travel companions or for business purposes. Overall, a travel router with a SIM card slot enhances flexibility, affordability, and connectivity for travelers.

Can I Use Any Sim Card With A Travel Router?

Yes, you can usually use any SIM card with a travel router as long as the router is unlocked and compatible with the SIM card’s network. Make sure the router is not locked to a specific carrier and supports the frequency bands used by the SIM card provider for optimal performance. Additionally, some routers may require manual APN settings to connect to the internet using the SIM card.

What Features Should I Look For When Choosing A Travel Router With A Sim Card Slot?

When choosing a travel router with a SIM card slot, look for LTE compatibility to ensure fast and reliable internet access on the go. Check for dual-band Wi-Fi support for optimal connectivity in various locations. Additionally, consider a router with VPN support for secure browsing and a built-in firewall for added protection. Compact size and lightweight design are essential for portability during your travels. Ensure that the router has a long-lasting battery to keep you connected throughout the day.

Are Travel Routers With A Sim Card Slot Compatible With All Devices?

Travel routers with a SIM card slot are generally compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and IoT devices. However, compatibility may vary depending on the specific router model and the devices you are connecting. It is essential to check the router’s specifications and ensure that your devices are compatible with the router’s wireless standards before purchasing to avoid any connectivity issues. In most cases, travel routers with a SIM card slot are designed to work seamlessly with various devices, making them a convenient option for staying connected while on the go.

Final Words

For travelers seeking reliable internet connectivity on-the-go, investing in the best travel routers with SIM card slots is a game-changer. These devices provide the convenience of seamless internet access in remote locations, ensuring that you stay connected wherever your adventures take you. With their compact designs and impressive performance, these top-rated travel routers with SIM card slots are essential companions for modern jet-setters looking to stay connected while traveling. Choose one of these travel routers with a SIM card slot, and experience hassle-free internet connectivity no matter where your journey leads you.

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Best router with a sim card slot (2024), daniele besana.

Inserting a 4G or 5G SIM card into a router can improve your Internet connection by letting more devices connect to the network and using router features like beamforming and MU-MIMO to make your connection better.

The best SIM card routers use the WiFi 6 standard for improved speed and security , include multiple ports for wired connections, and are compatible with many telecom operators.

SIM card routers should not be confused with mobile hotspot devices . SIM card routers resemble regular routers which require connection to a power source and contain multiple ports.

Mobile hotspot devices are small, portable devices designed for mobile network internet access on the go.

The Netgear LAX20 is the editor’s choice for the best router with a SIM Card slot as it features WiFi 6 technology that delivers faster speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps which enables you to stream, download, and transfer 1.5 times faster than the previous technology. The four WiFi streams provide reliability and high performance for up to 4 times more smart home devices, allowing for simultaneous and uninterrupted streaming.

The Cudy LT700 is another great choice and features the 4G LTE Cat.6 Connectivity with data rates of up to 300/50 Mbps. The built-in 4*4 high-performance antennas have MU-MIMO technology which expands the internet coverage and increases your service capacity. It can easily create a connection to the VPN server to securely transfer all your online traffic and data.

The Netgear MR6150 delivers secure and blazing-fast 5G internet and can achieve speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps for on-the-go travel as well as your primary home internet connection allowing you to game, stream, and work simultaneously. The MR6150 comes with two TS9 RF, one 1Gbps Ethernet, and one USB Type-C port.

Although most SIM cards are compatible with the majority of SIM card routers, the type of SIM plan you have can affect compatibility.

For example, some prepaid plans or limited internet plans may not work in a SIM card router.

For this article, we have tested 24 SIM card routers , with the top 7 making our product reviews.

7 Best LTE & 5G SIM Card Routers (2024)

• Best Overall: Netgear Nighthawk LAX20
• Runner-Up:  Cudy LT700
• Best 5G Router:  Netgear Nighthawk MR6150
• Budget Friendly:  Cudy LT500D
• Best Portable Router:  NRadio C2000
• Best For Multiple Carriers:  Alcatel HH41NH
• Basic LTE Router:  D-Link DWR-921

Finding the best LTE and 5G SIM card router is essential especially if you are a traveller or living in an area that does not have access to satellite or cable internet.

A quality router containing a SIM card slot should provide a consistent and stable internet connection.

Below are the reviews of the top 7 routers with a SIM card slot that you can choose from.

Each review comprises of design and performance of the router as well as the specifications, who it is made for, pros, and cons.

1. Netgear Nighthawk LAX20 (Editor’s Choice)

The Netgear LAX20 features WiFi 6 technology that delivers faster speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps. This speed enables you to stream, download, and transfer 1.5 times faster than the previous technology.

The four WiFi streams provide reliability and high performance for up to 4 times more smart home devices, allowing for simultaneous and uninterrupted gaming, movies, video calls, and more on all the connected devices.

Performance

For the Netgear LAX20 to work, you need a Nano SIM card from your carrier and activation of a compatible Bring Your Device (BYOD) data plan that meets your data requirements.

The LAX20 comes with download speeds of up to 300 Mbps. You should note that these speeds can change depending on the service and its proximity to the nearest cell tower.

If your current internet service fails, you can use the LAX20 for backup internet by inserting your provider’s Nano SIM card into it and it will seamlessly switch over to 4G LTE. You can protect your entire WiFi using an automatic shield of security on all your devices, which comes with a 30-day free trial.

The Nighthawk app enables you to set up the LAX20 in minutes. You can also use it to easily monitor data usage, manage your WiFi settings, and test internet speed. The four Ethernet ports enable you to connect your computers, game consoles, and other streaming players.

The OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies ensure that you have simultaneous streaming on all your devices. Beamforming technology directs the WiFi signal to devices involved in bandwidth-intensive tasks.

You can use the USB port to create personal cloud storage that is accessible anywhere. The LAX20 features the WPA3 wireless security protocols to ensure that your network is safe.

Who It’s For

The Netgear LAX20 can be used as a backup or primary internet connection and is suitable when service is unavailable or weak.

• Speed: 8 Gbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax
• WiFi Range: 1500 sq. ft.
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Ports: 4 Ethernet, 1 USB
• Supported Carriers: T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon
• Decent coverage range.
• Fast WiFi 6 connection.
• Nice build design and quality.
• Comes with two external antennas.
• None found.

2. Cudy LT700 (Runner-Up)

The Cudy LT700 features the 4G LTE Cat.6 Connectivity with data rates of up to 300/50 Mbps. The built-in 4*4 high-performance antennas have MU-MIMO technology which expands the internet coverage and increases your service capacity.

This 4G router can easily create a connection to the VPN server to transfer all your online traffic and data while securing it at the same time.

The Cudy LT700 comes with a replaceable cellular antenna interface that offers different installation possibilities. 2*5dBi WiFi antenna and 4*5dBi cellular antenna improve the signal quality of WiFi and 4G LTE and enhance the sensitivity of the router.

Also, the cellular antenna has a detachable design which enables you to use it as an external cellular antenna with the help of the SMA connector, in which you can plug extension cables up to 10 meters. 

The Dual WAN and SIM Failover enables you to always be on the internet. The two SIM slots keep the device always online and provide redundancy. You can choose to use either SIM card 2 or SIM card 1, fill both SIM slots, or auto-select using Cudy. We tested out each variation and they performed very well, giving us a great variety of network options.

Set the LAN/WAN port as WAN to allow Cudy to use landline internet from WAN. The 3G/4G connection can be used as a backup to deliver a reliable and sustained internet connection.  The 4G/5G band lock enables you to lock the 4G working frequency to single or multiple bands to keep the operation stable.

In terms of security, the Cudy LT700 is compatible with 20 DDNS providers making it convenient to manage your remote cameras if you have CCTV installed at home.

Also, the advanced DNS security prevents manipulation and eavesdropping of DNS data through a man-in-the-middle attack.

The Cudy LT700 is a 4G router that is suitable for users looking to get a stable high-speed internet experience and improved signal quality both inside and outside of your home.

• Speed: 1200 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 5 (802.11ac)
• WiFi Range: Up to 1200 sq. ft
• Ports: 4 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile
• Faster and stable connection.
• Multiple VPN server compatibility.
• Advanced security features.
• Improved signal quality.
• Setting it up is a bit difficult.

3. Netgear Nighthawk MR6150 (Best 5G Router)

The Netgear MR6150 delivers secure and blazing-fast 5G internet and can achieve speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps for on-the-go travel as well as your primary home internet connection allowing you to game, stream, and work simultaneously.

The MR6150 comes with two TS9 RF, one 1 Gbps Ethernet, and one USB Type-C port. It has a greater capacity to provide internet connection for up to 32 devices and has exceptional performance.

The Netgear MR6150 is a portable hotspot for 4G LTE and 5G around the world and is certified with T-Mobile and AT&T. It needs a 5G compatible SIM card to work, therefore, ask your network provider to give you the best 5G data plan to suit your requirements.

The Ethernet port can be used to extend 5G internet speed to your entire home. Just plug your home’s Orbi mesh system or WiFi router into the port. You can also use the Ethernet port to create a wired connection to your laptop or other wired devices and enjoy speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

Set up, monitor your data usage, share access, and change WiFi settings on the 2.4-inch color LCD touchscreen.

With the MR6150, you get a secure private WiFi connection for your phones, tablets, and laptops in trains, hotels, airports, and other places providing public WiFi.

To ensure that you have premium performance and power, the MR6150 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 5G modem. The powerful battery delivers up to 13 hours of battery life so that you can always stay online.

The Netgear MR6150 is the best 5G router that provides a secure mobile WiFi connection for you on the go, at home, or while traveling. It is suitable for areas with poor coverage or internet service.

• Speed: 5 Gbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 6
• WiFi Range: 2000 sq. ft, up to 32 devices
• Bands: Tri-Band
• Ports: 1 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: AT&T and T-Mobile
• Secure WiFi.
• Portable making it great for the road.
• Great battery life.
• Reliable and fast speeds.
• Not compatible with all carriers.

4. Cudy LT500D (Budget Friendly)

Design  .

The Cudy LT500D is designed with AC1200 dual-band WiFi and an integrated 4G LTE modem. You just need to insert a SIM card, switch the router on, and enjoy stable, fast WiFi at home.

The LT500D delivers download speeds of up to 150 Mbps. It offers a better user experience by allowing you to use both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands . You can use the 2.4 GHz band for easy tasks such as web browsing and use the 5 GHz band for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as streaming or online gaming.

The Cudy LT500D ensures that you are always online because you can use it as a backup or primary internet connection. To use it as a backup router, just connect an ethernet cable to the LAN/WAN port. Use the port as the primary internet source and the 4G network as backup. If the LAN/WAN internet service does not work, it will automatically enable the 4G service.

The LT500D comes with a built-in VPN that enables the router to connect to the server and transfer encrypted online traffic and data. You can use this feature to create your home network with your school or work network.

You can use the DDNS function to bind your home IP address to a custom domain name, which ensures remote management is possible.

The LT500D is easy to set up. All you need to do is insert the SIM card into the router and enter the PIN on the web configuration page to begin enjoying a fast and stable wireless. The graphical management interface is easy to use and it enables you to manage and monitor the network easily.

The DNS encryption protects your privacy and helps to prevent manipulation and eavesdropping.

The Cudy LT500D is a budget-friendly 4G modem router that can provide high-speed internet in areas where the signal is unavailable or weak such as rural homes, holiday cabins, a boat, remote cameras, and RVs.

• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 5
• WiFi Range: 1200 sq. ft
• Decent speeds.
• Good coverage.
• Stable throughput.
• Great security features.
• Incompatible with Verizon.

5. NRadio C2000 (Best Portable Router)

The NRadio C2000 works with T-Mobile and AT&T. All you need to do is insert your Nano SIM card and enjoy a reliable connection as it delivers a downloading speed of up to 150 Mbps.

The C2000 is suitable to be used in places where wired networks are not available such as boats, RV, or vacation cabins. It provides a better user experience as it allows you to use both bands and connect to about 128 devices at the same time.

Setting up the NRadio C2000 is simple and secure. With only two steps, you will enjoy a stable and fast wireless network with just two steps. First, insert the SIM card into the cellular router and then connect it to the router.

The NRadio C2000 comes with high gain 4G antennas and professional built-in WiFi antennas to improve the signal quality of WiFi and 4G LTE, which is needed for creating WiFi connections from long distances.

We compared the coverage of the C2000 and a phone-generated mobile hotspot using the same network and found the C2000 completely outperformed the phone hotspot.  

The C2000 is compact and slim, easy to carry, and light, making it the perfect accessory to take with you when traveling.

It comes with a cellular and wired failover, meaning that you first get access to the wired broadband internet access and then it automatically turns to cellular internet if the wired broadband stops working. When the wired broadband is recovered, it then switches back.

The NRadio C2000 is the best portable 4G router that is suitable for those traveling a lot and needing a constant connection to the internet.

• Speed: Up to 1.2 Gbps
• WiFi Range: 1000 sq. ft.
• Ports: 1 WAN/LAN and 1 LAN
• Highly portable.
• The port setup is decent.
• Great coverage.
• Easy to install.
• Reliable speeds.
• It is not compatible with AT&T prepaid cards.

6. Alcatel HH41NH (Best For Multiple Carriers)

The Alcatel HH41NH is compatible with most cellular network providers. It supports upload speeds of up to 50 Mbps and download speeds of up to 150 Mbps.

The HH41NH comes with two antennas that enable you to have a coverage of up to 1000 sq. ft. and connect to 32 devices.

The Alcatel HH41NH has two-gigabit ports that allow you to connect any wired device including a laptop, tablet, and more. Ethernet speeds are only applicable when the HH41NH is paired with cable internet.

This device comes with a few security features such as WPA2, VPN passthrough, and guest access. Our testers found enabling guest access to be very easy to implement, and a great way to protect your network.

You can use the VPN passthrough to keep your identity safe by staying behind the router’s firewall when accessing a remote network. The VPN keeps your data encrypted while the guest access allows users to access the internet temporarily.

The Alcatel HH41NH is a mid-tier router with a SIM card slot that meets most of your internet needs including email sending, HD streaming, and web surfing.

The Alcatel HH41NH is suitable for users looking for an affordable device that supports multiple carriers and offers decent features such as multi-device handling capacity and decent coverage.

• Speed: 150 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11b
• WiFi Range 1000 sq. ft
• Bands: Single Band
• Ports: 2 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: Unlocked For Any GSM Standard SIM
• Good device handling capacity.
• Less security features.

7. D-Link DWR-921 (Basic LTE Router)

The D-Link DWR-921 works well with major cellular companies and delivers download speeds of up to 150 Mbps. This level of speed allows you to do mobile gaming, web surfing, HD streaming, and other light tasks.

This LTE router comes with two antennas that enable it to provide a coverage of up to 800 sq. ft and connect to around 15 devices. 

The D-Link DWR-921 comes with four Ethernet ports which allows you to establish faster wired internet connections. You can use the port to connect bandwidth-consuming devices such as laptops, computers, and more to experience better streaming quality.

This device comes with great security features including WPA2, SPI firewall, and NAT firewall. The WPA2 encrypts most of the data that is transmitted over the network.

The Network Address Translation (NAT) firewall and Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) firewall help to prevent access to any malicious websites and keep away most external threats.

If you are looking for a basic LTE router that delivers great online connections and is compatible with major cellular networks, the D-Link DWR-921_E is a good option.

• Speed: 300 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11n
• WiFi Range: 800 sq. ft
• Supported Carriers: T-Mobile, Verizon, & AT&T
• Reliable and stable speed.
• Comes with four ethernet ports.

Cons  

• Average device-handling capacity and coverage.

Factors To Consider When Looking For The Best Router With A SIM Card Slot

5G/LTE SIM Card Support 

To maximize on internet speeds by reducing latency, opting for a router with 5G/LTE SIM support is an ideal choice compared to 4G/LTE.

Given that 5G is now widely adopted, most routers in 2024 that contain a SIM card slot will feature 5G/LTE support. 5G has the potential to be nearly 10 times faster than 4G, due to its use of the high-frequency millimetre wave system. 5G wavelengths vary from 30 to 300 GHz, compared to wavelengths of 6 GHz and below for 4G/LTE.

Additional benefits of 5G/LTE SIM card support include faster download speeds, OFDM encoding, and greater cell density, meaning they can support more users at the same time while maintaining a strong internet connection.

If you own a 4G/LTE SIM but purchase a router with 5G SIM card support, you don’t need to worry as 5G SIM routers are compatible with 4G SIMs. What they are unable to do however is convert the 4G network into a 5G network. To do that, you will have to upgrade your SIM. The router will still operate but use a 4G network.

Carrier Compatibility 

In terms of carrier compatibility, you should prioritize a router that is unlocked and therefore enables you to use any mobile network that operates within the country of use.

Something to look out for is pay-monthly versus pre-paid SIM compatibility. The majority of devices will be compatible with pay-monthly SIMs, but some may not be compatible with pre-paid SIMs, such as those from AT&T.

Also, note that some SIMs with limited data plans may not work in a SIM card router. This is due to carrier data throttling in an attempt to prevent internet overuse.

If you own SIMs from multiple networks, having a router that is compatible with many carriers is advantageous as you can test to see which carrier provides the best speed and coverage in your given location.

WiFi Coverage 

Although the information on WiFi coverage is not always easily available, you should expect a router with a SIM card slot to at minimum cover 1000 sq ft.

The coverage figure can be tricky to estimate, however, and often the figure presented is theoretical. This is due to unknown obstacles (concrete walls, bookshelves) or interferences (microwaves, fridges) which all impact coverage, but can be very specific to a household.

The location of the household is especially important for the coverage potential of a router using a SIM slot. Rural locations typically have weaker mobile networks for example, so the coverage may be weaker in rural areas compared to urban areas.

As a general rule, the real coverage of a router will be anywhere between 70% to 120% of the advertised figure (if available). Try to locate your router in a spot where there are minimal obstacles or interferences to help increase the coverage.

Security Features & Router Management 

Purchasing a device with quality security features is important, as it will enable you to keep your network secure.

Security features to look out for on 5G/LTE routers include WPA3, which is the latest certification standard and is the hardest for intruders to penetrate. The auto-firmware update feature is useful to keep you updated with the latest software developments while having VPN support encrypt most data shared over the network.

Depending on the router manufacturer, you can purchase advanced security settings and parental control features such as those provided by Netgear Armor or TP-Link HomeShield Pro.

In terms of router management, most LTE/5G routers can be controlled via a mobile application. This enables users to restart the device and review usage levels and parental controls. Many routers also enable guest access, which ensures new users don’t connect to your secure network.

LTE/5G SIM Card Router vs. Mobile Hotspot   Device 

The main difference between an LTE/5G SIM router and a mobile hotspot is portability. LTE/5G routers are designed to be stationary and provide internet access via a mobile phone network, while a mobile hotspot device is much smaller, and provides internet access on the go.

The advantage of LTE/5G SIM routers is that they maintain the functionality of regular routers, such as having multiple LAN ports for wired connections, and can connect to many devices at the same time.

Mobile hotspot devices do not typically have LAN ports for wired connections and can only establish a few simultaneous internet connections at the same time. Their main advantage is portability, with the devices having a built-in battery to enable internet access when a power source is not available.

Mobile hotspot devices should not be confused with generating a hotspot from your mobile phone. Mobile hotspot devices require the SIM card to be slotted into the device, while a mobile hotspot is generated from your mobile phone, requiring no external device. Generating WiFi from your phone is very convenient, however, it can quickly drain your phone battery and reduce the bandwidth available for you to use on your phone.  

Are 4G/LTE Routers Compatible With All Telecom Operators?  

4G/LTE routers are compatible with all telecom operators, but the crucial aspect is the account type and services which may affect compatibility.

For example, if you have a limited data plan the SIM may not work in a 4G/LTE router as the accounts often have carrier data throttling to prevent over-use. Prepaid SIMs may also not be compatible with a 4G/LTE router.  

How Does A SIM Card Router Work?  

Once you slot an active SIM into a card slot in a router, the device will start communicating with the cell towers of the carrier to gain internet access and create a WiFi signal.

Users can then log into the WiFi network to gain internet access.

What’s The Difference Between A 4G/LTE Router and A Mobile Hotspot Device?  

The main differences between a 4G/LTE router and a mobile hotspot device are size, ports, and portability.

4G/LTE routers resemble the appearance and size of a regular router but include a SIM card slot. They need to be permanently connected to a power source and are fitted with various ports for ethernet connections.

Mobile hotspot devices are much smaller, often fitting in the palm. These devices are easy to transport and provide on-the-go internet access. They typically only include a charging port, so cannot enable wired connections.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A 4G/LTE Router Over Mobile Data?  

While using mobile data is sufficient for many personal internet uses a 4G/LTE router is beneficial for users who are doing high-consumption activities such as online gaming, streaming, or video conferencing.

A 4G/LTE router can increase the number of devices connected to the network, and improve internet speeds, and network reliability through features such as external antennas and beamforming.

Final Words

A router with a SIM card allows you to connect to the internet through using mobile networks. It is beneficial when your internet connection is down, traveling, and need to use the internet in rural areas.

If you are having difficulties deciding which router to buy, our recommendation for the best router with a SIM card slot is the Netgear LAX20 which features WiFi 6 technology that delivers faster speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps which enables you to stream, download, and transfer 1.5 times faster than the previous technology. The device is also compatible with most mobile carriers.

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Best Router with Sim Card for Home, Gaming, and Business in the UK in 2022 | Buyer’s Guide & Comparison | 4G vs. 5G

This guide will tell you about the 4G routers' main types and features to look for when making a purchase. Best 4G routers with external antennas and a SIM card slot.

You will learn about the differences between 3G and 4G routers as well as the main distinctions between 4G and 5G routers.

How to Choose the Best 4G Router: Upload Speeds, WiFi Standard, LAN Ports | 4G vs. 5G

With a variety of 4G routers available on the market, it is essential to pick one from a well-established brand. The manufacturer’s track record will give you an understanding of whether the product is well-made and complies with the advertisement's claims. However, to ensure that a 4G router meets the needs of the most demanded user, you should check the following features.

Download & Upload Speeds

The 4G routers have different speeds for uploading and downloading files. Based on this criterion, there are as many as approximately two dozen LTE categories, the most widespread being CAT4, CAT6, and CAT11. The latter can offer up to 600Mbps of download and 50Mbps of upload speeds.

If you are looking for the fastest possible router, go for the Huawei B818-263 which uses a Category-19 LTE Advanced Pro chipset. Note that in most cases, the speeds indicated in product descriptions are theoretical, meaning that they are typically slower in reality.

WiFi Standard

The best 4G routers generally support the 802.11ac or the 802.11ax WiFi standard. Both of them are backward-compatible and can work with older devices, but at the expense of speed, of course. At present, the majority of 4G routers support 802.11n and run on the 2.4GHz spectrum only. However, there are higher-speed models, too, that use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

If you need a massive throughput due to multiple devices being requiring the Internet connection — your laptop, smartphone, smart TV, gaming gear, camera, and more — the 802.11ax standard will be the best bet for you. It can simultaneously deliver several gigabits per second to numerous devices on a single channel, offering a huge boost in performance. Based on the 802.11ax standard, this ASUS RT-AX56U Wifi 6 AX1800 Dual-Band Router has an ultrafast Wi-Fi speed of up to 1800Mbps and uses cutting-edge OFDMA & MU-MIMO technology.

Routers usually have at least one or, more commonly, four wired network ports for Ethernet cable connection. Cheaper options tend to have only a “Fast Ethernet” feature that allows for the transmission of no more than 100 megabits per second. The choice depends on the purpose of using a router.

Simply accessing the Internet is likely to be sufficient. However, if you plan to transfer files across different devices, you will need to invest in a router that comes with Gigabit ports. For instance, the TP-LINK AC1200 4G+ Router features fully gigabit Ethernet ports that will perfectly suit high-intensive wired devices.

Huawei Routers: 4G vs. 5G

Based on high-level technologies, Huawei equipment is high-capacity, reliable, and offers enhanced features. If you are looking for an advanced router, you have two options to choose from: the Huawei B818-263 with a 4G network module and the Huawei 5G CPE Pro 2 SmartHome Router .

Apart from the price, the main difference lies in two standards for wireless networks, 4G and 5G. The latter offers faster speeds, a lower latency, and higher bandwidth. To be precise, 5G is about 100 times faster, allowing you to download a movie in just 10 seconds. This is because 5G networks are based on a high-band spectrum, enabling you to transmit more data.

Both of these routers have an elegant design and will blend in with any home decor. The Huawei B818-263 model has download speeds of 1600Mbps and upload speeds of 50Mbps, whereas the Huawei 5G CPE Pro 2 can theoretically reach a download speed of 3.6 Gbps1.

The 5G model is dual-band and features the X-Shape Wi-Fi antenna for the utmost gaming experience. Built with a 30dB cooling fan, the router is noiseless and more comfortable to use. The 5G router allows you to connect a total of 128 devices on one network, while the B818-263 will let you connect up to 64 users.

Testing & Customers Reviews

We found reviews from real YouTube bloggers about the products in our article.

Outdoor Dadventure : "I was blown away using the same sim card with the same network, just changing the wi-fi device and getting substantially way way way faster connection speed. What I like even more about TP-LINK AC1200 4G+ is that it's not only usable for your kid's online classes but you can actually bring this along when you're planning to go on a trip going out of town. You can use this inside your car. You can power this through an inverter in your car. Or if you're going on a staycation, maybe in a hotel where they don't have a good internet connection or if you're someone like me that doesn't want to use public wi-fi or even hotel wi-fi for security reasons, this is a good option for you."

Curtis King : "I've been using 5G as my primary source of the Internet at home and I've been very impressed. This is the fastest connection I've ever had by quite a long way. I would highly recommend Huawei 5G CPE Pro if you're lucky enough to be covered at the moment. It's definitely not subtle. It's quite big, but you know it doesn't look out this place. It's not ridiculous. I'm quite really just disappointed with the build quality of this. The plastic feels super cheap and thin. It was probably rushed onto the market. It's one of the first 5G routers out there and quality may be compromised as a result. And you know what? Even if the build quality feels a little bit cheap that's okay because as long as it's quick and it's reliable then hopefully I shouldn't ever really need to interrupt with it.

So far reliability has been great. We have anywhere between three and ten devices connected to this at any one time and we have three people working from home in the house as well and so far in fact we haven't had a single disconnection any issue at all."

Amoeba Man : "I travel a lot globally for work and I use TP-Link M7350 as a Wi-Fi hotspot for all my mobile devices and other devices. I do like the form factor. It's small. It's pocketable. It's got decent battery life of over eight hours.. It's widely compatible with networks in other parts of the world and I haven't had any problems at all with that and the Wi-Fi speed is adequate. The Wi-Fi range is not brilliant. It's a low-powered device. You know really you want to be in the same room maybe in the next room. It's very easy to charge and the convenience of having a micro USB which is basically ubiquitous. Isn't everybody's got it now apart from Apple users? It's relatively cheap to buy in the UK. And the web UI works well and the mobile app works ok.

On the negative side, there's some stuff I don't like about it. The power button thing is more annoying than you think. Not being sure whether you switched it on or not, back up and down again to check whether you powered it up it is annoying. And the limit to 10 devices I think, is gonna be a prom for some people. Occasionally it locks up and needs rebooting. Is this worth it? If you like me and you travel solo around the world, pick up a SIM card at the airport, use data for a few days and then move on. You prefer your Wi-Fi dongle to be separate from your phone for the convenience of having it in one place and multiple devices maybe in a hotel room then I think it's okay."

Damn Good Reviews : "Recently we moved to a more rural area and the high-speed internet connection was not going to be ready for a few weeks and I work from home need high speed to upload and download a lot of big files and things like that even for doing videos and I had to find a really good solution. Netgear Nighthawk MR1100 was a great great solution for that time.

Now, if you're thinking all right well I want to do gaming things like that or want to have multiple people, can I do it? So probably if one person was on a time you could probably handle it. Now the signal that was sending out to the home was really not that great. So I would recommend taking this put an Ethernet cable into another router to cover the home. But don't expect really really fast speeds just throughout if you have multiple people. Now watching on my computer - no problem. Doing anything like Youtube or any other video-type things - really great. Was watching at full HD. No problems very little lag. Now for games. My son did play some XBOX stuff, and that was kind of laggy. So if you're gonna want to do that, just beware that you're gonna have some lag to it. But that's kind of expected."

Products with 5-star rating

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Best eSIM Hotspot Routers in 2023 (For Remote Work & Travel)

Portable WiFi eSIM routers are must-have travel accessories for people who travel in groups or work while they’re exploring new places. Sure, you can set up an eSIM hotspot without a router, but it will drain your device’s battery faster than you can say ‘router’.

The eSIM hotspot routers I’m about to tell you all about are all pocket-sized, have large batteries, and support 4G at the very least. As long as you pair them with an eSIM that supports high-speed internet access and data sharing, you’ll quickly become the favorite in your travel group thanks to the high-speed WiFi coming out from your pocket.

Top Product Overview

Top products, mogo s2 esim global mobile router.

MOGO S2 is a very good router with eSIM support and many functionalities. It’s a 4G router that supports download speeds of up to 150 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 50 Mbps. The router has a battery capacity of 2000mAh, a USB-C port for charging, and it supports wireless charging.

Also, this router has a tiny display on the front that keeps all the important information at a glance. You can see the battery percentage, WiFi speed, data consumption, password, and other important information

However, it works only with MOGO eSIMs. Although the data plans from MOGO are generally inexpensive, the provider doesn’t operate in nearly as many countries as the other providers, so you’d be heavily limited.

Also, MOGO doesn’t offer any unlimited data plans, and for many countries, the largest data package they offer is 10 GB. It might sound like a lot, but if you have 4-5 people browsing TikTok on the WiFi, you can burn through that in a day.

The upside of this design is that you can easily control everything through a single app. The downside is that you’ll have no use for this router in too many countries.

• USB-C charging port
• Fast internet
• Display with important information
• Only supports MOGO eSIMs
• Battery capacity is small

eSunFi eSIM Mobile WiFi Hotspot Router

The eSunFi mobile router supports dual-band WiFi and works in 200+ countries all over the world. It supports both Bluetooth and VPN, and it allows up to 10 devices to be connected to it at the same time.

The router has a USB-C port for quick charging and supports 3G and 4G networks with a maximum WiFi rate of 433 Mbps. It also has a convenient display on the front that offers all the important information at a glance: network speed, password, signal strength, battery percentage, etc.

The downside of this router is that it only works with three eSIM providers: Ubigi, KeepGo, and Links Field. None of those are known as affordable eSIM providers, and although the router is extremely convenient, it’s unlikely to be a money saver because KeepGo and Ubigi have higher prices than most other eSIM providers.

• Dual-band WiFi
• Bluetooth and VPN
• 3G and 4G support
• Supports only 3 eSIM providers

Roam-ON R10 eSim Mifi Router

The Roam-ON R10 router is a very portable 4G router. It has a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh for prolonged battery life, and it can support a connection with up to 5 devices at the same time. The maximum upload speed with this router is 50 Mbps, while the maximum download speed is 150 Mbps.

Additionally, this router also has a slot for a physical SIM card, so it can work with local SIM cards. This is a great way to get coverage in destinations where eSIM is not supported, but also if you want to save money on data packs.

The Roam-ON router only works with eSIM data plans purchased on the company’s website, and those tend to be rather expensive. The cheapest plan is 5.5 Euros per day for just 500 MB of data, which is way too expensive. You’ll need to pay 10 Euros per day for unlimited internet, and that’s not even available in most countries.

• Easy control via the app
• Large battery capacity
• Expensive data plans
• Maximum download speed is 150Mbps

Teltonika Routers

Teltonika is a tech company that manufactures a variety of different internet-related products, including all sorts of routers. This company makes industrial routers that are some of the best on the market, but also some of the most expensive.

This manufacturer offers many routers that support a physical SIM card, and I’ve also seen a version that supports embedded SIMs, but it’s available only upon inquiry. Also, Teltonika routers are not exactly portable or pocket-friendly; not only are they bulky, but they also need to be plugged into an outlet to work.

The upside is that this will probably be the best eSIM router. It should work with any eSIM, but the configuration process won’t be simple. The downside is that the router will cost you a lot of money (regular routers are on sale for $300+), and you can’t actually take it places.

I think this router could be a good solution for van lifers who want an eSIM-compatible router for their home on wheels, but not for travelers who want to have an internet connection while exploring foreign cities on foot.

• Industrial routers
• Physical SIM card support
• eSIM routers available upon inquiry
• Not portable

What Is An eSIM Router & How Does It Work?

An eSIM router is a pocket router with an eSIM chip. It works in the same way as a standard SIM card router but with the benefit of supporting eSIM technology. What this router does is connect to the mobile network provided by the eSIM, and then turn that 4G/5G connection into WiFi that is easily accessible to everyone in your travel group.

Just like with any other WiFi connection, you can set up the name and password for protection. The network speed largely depends on the eSIM data plan you purchase, and I highly recommend referring to our eSIM guides for different countries so you can be certain which network providers offer the best and fastest internet.

Benefits of Using an eSIM Router

If you’ve ever been the designated hotspot sharer during a group trip, I feel your pain. It drains the battery on your smartphone very quickly, so you have to carry around portable chargers lest your phone runs out of battery and you’re left without any internet access.

With a physical SIM card, it’s possible to transfer it to a different device, but this can’t be done with eSIMs.

Another advantage of an eSIM router is that it’s capable of offering a faster internet connection than mobile phones. Well, it depends on the router and the type of network it can connect to, but you can usually get information on the maximum upload and download speeds for each eSIM router.

How to Set Up an eSIM Router

Most eSIM routers have accompanying smartphone apps that let you complete the setup process. The first thing you need to do is purchase data package for the router, which is usually going to be an eSIM from the provider supported by the router.

Unfortunately, you usually have to stick with one or two providers that a specific router supports and it’s usually the providers with the most expensive data plans.

Buy the eSIM plan, but don’t activate it on your phone. When the activation code or instructions arrive, open the app for your eSIM router and find the option to connect to your phone first, usually with Bluetooth.

This should allow you to access the setup of the router, and then you just need to select the option to add an eSIM/data plan/data package and follow the on-screen instructions. Some routers will allow you to scan a QR code, while others might require you to input the eSIM details manually.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an eSIM router

The first thing you should consider when choosing an eSIM router is which eSIM providers it supports. Some providers are better than others, and this is especially important for network coverage in different countries. If you like a router but see that it’s not supported in several of the countries you plan to visit in the near future, there’s no point in buying the router.

Battery is another important factor to consider. Ideally, the router should be able to stay turned on the entire day with multiple connected devices.

Another factor to consider is the type of network supported and maximum WiFi speed. The best routers will support primarily 4G and 5G, but also 2G and 3G as backups. Internet speeds should be at least 150 Mbps for downloads, and I wouldn’t settle for anything less than 50 Mbps for uploads.

Then there’s the number of devices supported. Consider how many people you normally travel with, but also how many devices you plan to use. It’s going to be at least a laptop and a smartphone, right?

Well, if you’re traveling with three other people and all of you want to connect two devices to the router, that’s six devices minimum, so a router that only supports up to 5 simultaneous devices wouldn’t work for you.

Finally, consider whether the router supports a physical SIM card. I know we’re talking primarily about eSIM routers, but the technology is still very much new and expensive. If you get a router that supports physical SIM cards, you can probably save a lot of money by buying and using local SIM cards, instead of purchasing overpriced plans that charge you $70 for just 5 GB of data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i use an esim router for international travel.

Yes, you can use an eSIM router for international travel, but not every router will work in every single country. Double-check the restrictions, and make sure that eSIM is supported in the country you are traveling to, to make the most of your eSIM router.

Can I use an eSIM router with a VPN for added privacy & security?

Yes, you can absolutely use an eSIM router with a VPN. Many routers have built-in VPNs for maximum privacy and protection.

What network types can eSIM routers connect to?

It depends on the specific routers. Some routers support everything up to 5G and emit dual-band WiFi, while others support only 3G or 4G, with a single-band WiFi connection.

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The Best 5G SIM Routers of 2023/2024 – Get It Right Time!

The Best SIM/LTE Routers of 2023/2024 So Far

With the rapid development of portable routers and the increase in cellular data internet speeds, many are wondering whether it’s finally time to cut the cord on wired internet in their homes and businesses. Not long ago, a SIM/LTE router was slightly larger than a phone and only marginally better than using your mobile device as a hotspot. Fast forward to now, and SIM card routers are not only comparable to static wired desktop routers at home but also to enterprise-grade business routers that support multiple incoming internet connections (both cellular and wired). This, combined with the evolution of modern roaming data connections and the increasing global coverage of 5G, makes SIM/LTE routers an attractive primary internet source, rather than just a backup option. In this article, I’ll discuss the best SIM/LTE routers available in 2023 and 2024. A quick glance at your local eShop reveals thousands of options. It’s easy to end up with an inferior product or one that’s cheap but lacking in features.

How Were the Best SIM Routers Chosen?

That’s a valid question. With countless SIM routers on the market and varying user requirements, I’ve categorized the numerous SIM router options into five groups. Additionally, I’ve set some non-negotiable criteria:

Dealbreakers:

• 5G SIM/LTE Support (with plenty of 4G options already available): Due to the global shift from 4G to 5G and the cost of 5G matching 4G’s, any considered SIM router must support 5G. This might slightly raise the price, but the performance boost and the ubiquity of 5G in recent consumer mobile devices justify it.
• Unlocked: Some SIM/LTE devices restrict mobile cellular providers. Any router on this list is unlocked, meaning it accepts any SIM card from any provider. However, users are still subject to the provider’s regional coverage.
• WiFi 6 Minimum: Many modern devices now support WiFi 6 (802.11aX), a high-bandwidth wireless connection that can, in the right setup, exceed wired gigabit speeds. I won’t consider any SIM/LTE router without WiFi 6 support.
• Not Tied to a Phone/SIM Plan: I won’t consider any router available only through a mobile phone plan. While some providers offer data-only SIM cards with a router instead of a mobile phone, such arrangements usually involve binding contracts.
• Minimum Security/Router and Management: Given that SIM/LTE routers now rival domestic wired routers, any considered SIM router must meet standard network security and management protocols, including multiple SSIDs, application-level firewall, NAT/NAPT firewall, LAN/MAC filtering, DoS attack detection, IP filtering, WPA2 and WPA3, URL filtering, and Web/App GUI. Features like parental control and VLAN creation are desirable but not essential.

5G vs. 5GHz – Don’t Get Tricked!

It’s vital to differentiate between 5G and 5GHz. They’re distinct, with 5G referring to the cellular data network from providers like EE, AT&T, and Verizon, and 5GHz being a frequency associated with device-router connections. Some brands misleadingly label their products as 5G SIM routers when they’re 4G SIM routers supporting 5GHz bandwidth. Don’t be fooled by a “5G SIM router” priced at just $40. You might end up with a subpar SIM router mispresented as something superior. Expample below:

With the criteria set, let’s proceed.

Most Affordable Home (but has almost everything) ZTE 5G CPE MC888 – £249

Now, it’s probably worth mentioning upfront that you’re not going to find many routers here for less than $250 across the entire list. Although there are plenty of SIM routers in the market, with many of them priced as low as $25 to $50, many of these lack even the most basic features of a domestic wired router (let alone being comparable to that of a free ISP router these days). If you’re looking to establish a 5G SIM internet connection at home and enjoy the same flexibility, performance, and multi-device support that you’ve become accustomed to with a wired broadband connection, you will unfortunately need to spend a bit more. 5G Wi-Fi 6 SIM-enabled routers that also support physical wired client devices in your home or office typically have a higher price tag. That said, the ZTE CPE MC88 is one of the best value home SIM routers on the market. It supports all of our deal-breaker factors and even boasts very user-friendly software and a GUI, so there’s a lot to like.

Moreover, the system comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports that can be used as individual network LAN connections or to add a secondary wired internet connection as a WAN. Additionally, this device supports up to 64 simultaneous network-connected devices. In contrast, most budget SIM wireless routers may support only up to 8 devices on a good day. This is a mains-powered router, so it’s not a portable option and won’t be powered via USB-C. However, it is a fully featured and well-structured router for the home that’s comparable to most domestic wired internet routers. Indeed, you’ll find the ZTE router being used by many cellular phone providers who offer data-only SIM cards with mobile routers in their contracts, simply rebranding it with their own cellular brand name. Thankfully, instead of committing to a lengthy 12 to 24-month contract, you can purchase a $20 unlimited data SIM and pick this up for just a little over $250. It may not be the most impressive router on this list, but it’s definitely the best home entry point for those wanting to move away from wired broadband for whatever reason.

• 2x 1GbE LAN/WAN
• 3.6Gb / AX3600
• Mains Power

Best Portable 5G SIM Router, The D-Link DWR-2101 – £364.99

We reviewed the D-Link DWR-2101 Router HERE

We reviewed the D-Link DWR2101 almost 2 years ago here on NAS Compares, and despite many other 5G SIM routers arriving in the market space, this router still continues to be, by far, the best portable 5G SIM router I have ever used! If you saw me or Ed at a trade show or brand event, there’s a better than average chance that this router was safely tucked at the bottom of our bag, doing its job. Its price is around 100 quid more than the home ZTE model. It even comes with a physical gigabit ethernet connection, so alongside the 1.8 gigabit network connectivity, you can also physically attach a one-gig device to the router. Given that the D-Link DWR2101 was released 2.5 years ago, it is astonishingly well-featured. It is a portable router that, in addition to supporting a 5G SIM card, offers Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and can support up to 32 devices. It achieves all this on a battery that can last up to 14 hours!

Sure, you can connect a USB-C charger and power this device from a plug point or even an available USB on your laptop or power bank. However, it’s the fact that the D-Link router provides such impressive network coverage for its size, remains portable, and even has a user-friendly LCD that lets you configure the device on the go. It also supports creating secondary SSID network connections and can be configured both via the onboard LCD and remotely on your desktop through a browser. It’s an exceptionally impressive mobile 5G router, and while it might not be the cheapest, it remains one of the best for its price.

• 1.8Gb / AX1800
• LCD and Touch Screen
• 14hr Battery Life

On a side note, if you’re looking for a mobile SIM router with specs similar to the D-Link DWR2101 but don’t need a physical ethernet connection, there’s an alternative in the ZTE MU5120. I haven’t personally used this router, but there are quite a lot of positive reviews online, so it might be worth checking out:

(Alternative with no app/desktop GUI AND NO LAN) ZTE MU5120 https://amzn.to/3qmkXvn

Most Feature Rich 5G SIM Router, The GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) – £489

I really cannot stress enough how much GL.iNet has managed to squeeze into an ostensibly compact 5G SIM router here! On both a hardware and software level, this might be one of the most impressive feats of network engineering I’ve seen in a very long time. Very bold words, I know, but the GL-X3000 offers every single feature of a premium wired router, then doubles down on every appealing feature of SIM routers, and manages to produce the best hybrid solution for both endeavors I’ve witnessed in ages. With the exception of a lack of internal battery and just two physical ethernet connections, in every other regard, this is the dream SIM LTE router. 5G cellular support? Check. Wi-Fi 6? Check. 2.5G network connection? Check. Dual-SIM support? Check. Balanced but capable software? Check. USB port? Check. It boasts all the baseline hardware features of practically every other router on this list, but it doesn’t stop there.

Alongside the USB support for storage, the GL-X3000 comes with 8GB of internal storage and the support of an SD card storage upgrade slot! This storage can be utilized for internal applications that are installed via OpenWRT, or just for making the storage network and remote accessible. This USB port can also be employed for attaching a wireless network dongle, network adapter for adding more physical network ports, and even connecting an existing mobile phone for another cellular data link. This, combined with the physical WAN support, means that the system effectively boasts a four-tier internet failover system. Additionally, it supports VPN/encrypted connections, with native support for several VPNs internally and a physical VPN button on the device itself to activate the router’s VPN exit node exceedingly easily and quickly when required. Finally, in terms of physical coverage, there are six individual external antennas that it features, four of which are for cellular coverage and two for local Wi-Fi 6 dual-band coverage. This, coupled with the comprehensive software managed via the web browser and through a mobile app, results in the GL-X3000 being one of the very best SIM routers I have ever seen!

• 1x 2.5G and 1x 1GbE LAN/WAN
• OpenVPN, WireGuard, and AdGuard Pre-installed + physical switch
• 4 x Cellular Antennas (SMA, 600M6GHz) 2 x Wi-Fi Antennas (RP-SMA, 2.4G2.5GHz, 5.15~5.84GHz)
• 3Gb / AX3000
• USB Storage Share
• SD Card Slot
• 8GB Internal Storage
• 4 Way Failover (SIM/LAN/USB Dongle/Repeat)

The Most User Friendly (but Expensive!) The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 (MR6550) – $999

If you’ve been examining SIM routers over the past few years, one prominent brand in the network hardware industry that has carved a niche within the tech-savvy community is Netgear. With a significant pedigree in the realm of routers and switches, Netgear has been curiously subdued in the domain of 5G cellular SIM routers. It has primarily launched just a single product series that gets updated every few years to accommodate the evolving network hardware landscape. This is, of course, the Netgear Nighthawk M (for ‘mobile’) series of SIM routers. Originally available exclusively through phone company contracts, these routers can now be procured from most leading e-shops. However, akin to purchasing an iPhone or a Google Pixel phone without a contract, the pricing of these devices seems steep. This is because the price point must appeal to those committing to 18 and 24-month phone carrier plans. Even though the Netgear M6 Pro boasts a compact design, sleek production, and user-friendly architecture, its almost $1,000 price tag is quite daunting. Personally, I’m hesitant to assert that this router justifies such a hefty price. Nonetheless, it remains an exceptional piece of hardware. For prospective SIM router buyers seeking a user-friendly and guided experience, it certainly overshadows its rivals.

On the surface, it’s puzzling why this router garners such acclaim, especially when, at first glance, it closely resembles routers priced at a fraction of its cost. So, what distinguishes it? For starters, instead of employing Wi-Fi 6, this router supports Wi-Fi 6E. Although Wi-Fi 6E doesn’t offer speeds superior to Wi-Fi 6, it provides access to the six-gigahertz frequency. This enables more active client hardware to maintain 160-megahertz connections to the router, allowing more devices to relish a 1.2 Gigabit wireless connection concurrently. Additionally, beyond the anticipated 5G SIM support, the router features a physical 2.5GbE network port. Thus, a physically connected client device can relish a network bandwidth that’s over double the speed of most other routers on this list. Furthermore, it boasts a 16-hour battery life, which surpasses many of its peers. The device also comes equipped with a responsive LCD touchscreen that offers a remarkable depth of information and control. While there is mobile app control available, having direct physical access to the device’s features is a distinct advantage. The primary attribute that elevates it above many other routers is its user-centric design: it’s highly intuitive and user-friendly, while still being potent and compact. In fact, it’s the most compact router among those listed, approximately 30% lighter than the aforementioned D-Link model, and boasts a longer battery life and is about 25% smaller. This, coupled with its user-friendly software, makes it one of the most consumer-friendly 5G SIM routers available.

• LCD and Touchscreen
• 16hr Battery

Best Static Office Router, The Zyxel NR5101 WiFi6 5G – £319

The Zyxel NR5101 router is priced around 100 quid more than the ZTE home router I mentioned earlier. However, it’s more business-focused and offers additional layers of functionality that cater to small office spaces, startups, and those looking to swiftly set up an office with a few users. Such users will find a solid internet solution at their disposal. With six internal antennas, two physical ethernet ports, and an impressive 4.2Gb of wireless bandwidth spread over Wi-Fi 6, this router not only has the potential to distribute your 5G internet effectively but also provides ample local network bandwidth for connected devices to utilize. Additionally, it features a high-capacity supporting USB port. This allows users to connect a standard USB drive to share its contents with others or even designate it as a backup target for all connected devices as their workload expands. Speaking of increased workload, another reason I recommend this device as a business sim card router is its ability to handle up to 64 devices simultaneously. While it’s unlikely that a single 5G SIM card will provide adequate internet for all those devices, managing over 4 gigabits of wireless traffic and 2 gigabits of wired traffic across them is highly attractive.

Similar to the ZTE home router I referenced earlier, the Zyxel NR5101 is among the few routers that mobile cellular phone carriers have rebranded for inclusion in rather pricey contracts. In fact, if you enter into a mobile router data sim contract with brands like EE or Three, you’ll end up paying more than double for this device, excluding the data plan. Given this backdrop, purchasing this business router for just a bit over 350 quid is a remarkable bargain. Pair it with even a basic $15 network switch, and you’ve got an exceptionally functional network and internet setup weighing less than a kilo. While it’s portable and requires mains power, it remains an excellent alternative to contract-bound wired broadband in rented office spaces.

Also known as the EE SIM Router Plan here – https://broadbandsavvy.com/ee-5g-broadband-review/

• Two external antenna connectors (custom/optional)
• 6 Internal embedded omni-directional antennas
• 4.2Gb / AX4200

Very Good 5G SIM LTE Routers – Honourable Mentions

It’s worth mentioning a couple of SIM/LTE routers that almost meet the requirements. In the past two years, these devices have outperformed many others:

GL.iNet XE3000 5G WiFi 6 SIM LTE Router (Pre-Order)

If you were to metaphorically put a gun to my head (which would be odd) and ask me right this second, “What’s the best SIM router available?” I would almost certainly point to the XE3000 from GLI net. However, there’s a catch: it’s not actually available for purchase yet. Its production has been delayed for the past 6 months or so. Consequently, even though I’d argue it stands out as the best SIM router in terms of both hardware capability and software, I can’t include it in this list at the time of writing since it’s not up for sale. Given its ongoing delays, there are doubts about its eventual full release. Nonetheless, if you’re reading this, consider taking a moment to check if the XE3000 router has been launched and is available for purchase. It truly ranks among the most impressive routers I’ve ever encountered, even without 5G support included. It caters to everything a home, business, student, or mobile user could possibly require.

Price: $428 (early) $556 Features: 2x 5G SIM, WiFi 6, Battery 6400mAh, 2.5G/1G, Dual Band, physical VPN Button, 6 antennas (2 WiFi, 4 Cellular)

We reviewed the GL.iNet Beryl AX3000 (no SIM) router in the video below. This should give you a good idea about the software, failover and VPN switching:

The Teltonika RUTX50 5G SIM LTE Enterprise Router

Another honourable mention for the best 5G SIM router is the Teltonika RUTX50. This industrial 5G router, which I reviewed earlier this year on our YouTube channel, is incredibly impressive. It offers a level of technical sophistication and network management that is simply unmatched by most other routers, whether they are SIM-based or not. However, it doesn’t make the cut for this article or my top five SIM routers because it lacks support for Wi-Fi 6, a deal breaker, I believe, for most users considering SIM routers for long-term use. Everything else about this router is perfect, with the possible exception of its hefty price tag. There are mixed reports online suggesting that this router supports Wi-Fi 6. However, based on my own tests and review from over six months ago, I can confirm that unless they’ve released a newer version (since you can’t add Wi-Fi 6 support via a firmware update – it’s a matter of physical antenna and band design), this device only supports up to Wi-Fi 5.

Price: $428 (early) $556 Features: 2x 5G SIM, WiFi 5, 4x 1G, Dual Band, 6 antennas (2 WiFi, 4 Cellular)

Mixed online reports suggest this router supports Wi-Fi 6. From my testing and a review six months ago, unless a new version includes this (as Wi-Fi 6 can’t be added via a firmware update due to hardware limitations), it supports up to Wi-Fi 5 ( See Here )

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375 thoughts on “ The Best 5G SIM Routers of 2023/2024 – Get It Right Time! ”

think you put one of the antennas for mobile on the GPS input? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I bought the MC888 thanks to this Vid. So far very good. Now I am fiddling with settings to improve my connection speeds to Work from Home. I changed my network to Vodafone because the map says that’s the best signal in my area. But Still can’t have decent upload speeds. Or semi-stable 5G signal. Is there a forum I can ask for more insight? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nice presentation, thanks. For those who already have their home internet setup and just need a good LTE/5G Modem/Router with IP passthrough, I would recommend Zyxel NR7101. Of course, one must contact the sales to check ISP band compatibility before buying from the market. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Did you demo performance? Upload/downloads achieved? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Perfect video REPLY ON YOUTUBE

good morning, I am aware that this router has the “failover” function which is the function when a primary source ceases the connection (ethernet or sim 1) it automatically switches to the other (for example from ethernet to sim 1 or from sim1 to sim 2) . I am aware that it also has the “load balance” function, i.e. with multiple sources connected to the network (e.g. Ethernet, SIM 1 and SIM 2) and multiple connections (e.g. PC, tablet, home automation, video surveillance, etc.) with the load balance the bandwidth coming from the Ethernet is distributed for example to the tablet and video surveillance and that coming from the SIM card(s) instead between home automation and PC). I would like to know if it is equipped with the specific “multiwan” function, i.e. if you connect an Ethernet source to the WAN port at the same time, and 2 SIM cards with related ISPs, it is possible to have the connection from all 3 sources at the same time (or at least from 2 ) to have the total sum of speed and bandwidth on a single connected device (e.g. PC for heavy downloads). Thank you REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What area does it cover? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I am about to buy a 5g wireless sim router to have internet tv in a static caravan with no wired internet, I can’t hotspot off my phone to the tv. A new Vodafone 5g mast about to go live very nearby, so glad I watched this video as I am bamboozled by all the router options on the web. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can we tether all high end gaming routers to mobile data via 3.0 usb ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is it true if a sim router supports a plenty of frequency band then it can be used to different countries? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is it true if a simcard router has plenty of frequency band on the specs , then it has the potential to connect to different country 4G and 5G signal? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

whats the best sim 4g router with 4 lan ports, an external aerial (outdoor) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is it normal that my phone outperforms my router in Ookla speed tests? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does this work with Verizon 5g service? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

ok bots so tell me why it is so slow compared to zte mc801a ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you, by far the best review of the OS, I have a question regarding network shares: does it also support internal FTP, or just the SAMBA protocol ?

My aim is to directly upload photos from my professional camera to a share within the RUTX50. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for the fantastic video, like all of your videos it’s been really helpful. We are looking for a solution to stream the odd film and make occasional Zoom video calls from our iPad whilst away in our camper van, but we are a bit put-off by the high price tags of all of the decent sim routers. We would not really need to connect other devices other than the iPad to a router so are not sure how much we need one, but I have heard that a router would help improve the signal we get. So I wonder if you would know if we would get a much stronger signal with a router like the DWR-2101 compared to a sim directly in the iPad?, or would you advise that we stick to just using the sim in the iPad directly? It’d be great if you could help us out with a quick reply. Many thanks. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great channel and content. New sub. Atb REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi. Great review! Thank you for sharing your experience. ❤ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I have the Zyxel and I just have had so many problems with it getting signal. It connects to everything in the house perfectly, best router I’ve ever had for that and I can finally bin my mesh….. But for whatever reason the signal to the tower is always red and no matter where I put it, my signal is always -110. I’m still getting 250mbps and 30 ping, which is better than BT which maxes out at £30 a month 67mbps or Virgin which wants £55 a month for 125mb, but I can get 600mbps from my phone and so I dunno what is up with the antennas in it. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I just like this brand because it’s not Chinese. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Love this video I’m moving house and internet won’t be setup for another month! Very informative when choosing alternatives thank you!

P.S I think there is a ghost in your house. 21:52-21:55 you can hear a a whisper “hate me”

Whatever this is, I pray you good health friend and please reach out if you ever need to, people like me not too far away <3<3

Farewell and happy travels - into the void of the 4G network I go with this wonderful wizard knowledge you have given LEEROY JENKINS Style. Thank you ???? ???? ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

2.4 actually has a longer wavelength than 5ghz, but yes it carries less data due to the frequency. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hello Nas, I bought the Oppo 5g CPE T1a and it works accordingly through out every aspect but i keep getting cut off and i keep getting disconnected and i cant find any help on this issue. I was wondering if you could shine a light on this matter. I use this router mainly for gaming and i use a wired connection, I also disabled wifi connections hoping it would make it more stable . REPLY ON YOUTUBE

can u use as home Review REPLY ON YOUTUBE

can you please recommend one cheap 4G sim router for a less than three digit price tag ( REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can i ask, would one of these be better than mobile phone tethering thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I can do everything a mobile router can do including 5g for £75. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks. Hoping to get into this space. Wondering about any external routers/modems to maximise speeds?

Intending to connect to connect and use APs around the house. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does it use the phone hotspot data when tethered or the full unlimited data of the phones plan? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

thanks for the video! I get bad 5g in my area/house circa 12mbps on my phone and i use the ‘hotspot’ with the phone by the window. But if I put my phone in a flattened foil metal food container, like what currys come in, folded up like areal, I then get up to 180mbps, true story! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

ายสว REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Will this method activate the lan ports so I can run a game console on the internet with my phone as a hot spot? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Why is the audio desynced…. Gross REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Most important is buying a 4G Router to have LAN ports, preferably 4. Furthermore unlimited Wifi connections or at least 32. More and more appliances have wifi and you wanna have them connected all. Doorbells, wall socket power meters, cell phones, washingmachines, PC’s and Laptops etc. etc. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nothing to do with being old skool techy on a desk top. Phone apps are shyte and will never compare to a desktop machine end of story. Throw those phones away they give me a headache looking at them for more than 10secs REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Ugh… it’s a router, not a rooter. So embarassing that the English butcher our forefather’s language. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Isn’t it just as easy to hot spot your phone if you have unlimited data…. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

You have blown my mind with the technical side. But , i think I’ll be getting one for my house. What would really help, is a similar video on what external 5g Ariel receiver to marry this up with.

This is a big help for my wifi dead spot home REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I have a netgear M1 , and solar panel and battery to run it on a boat. I would like to run a solar camera or something similar to have live viewing and motion detection . That wouldn’t eat data like crazy. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Which sim card router has the best range? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

are they better than usb tethering for ms REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Good day 🙂 Very interesting video. Thou – i am looking at the Teltonika brand. Do you know anything about it? I want to get 5G gateway – TRB500. May be you have some expirience or info on it? I will be very glad to hear your oppinion 🙂 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I forgot to mention that we want a portable router. Can the Netgear Nighthawk M6Pro 5G and DWR-2101 have VPN installed on them? – TK REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for the great video. We are about to RV across the US and Europe for the next couple of years. We have 2 iPhones, an iPad, a SurfacePro tablet, a smart tv. We also want to be able access streaming services from Australia so we need VPN environment for our network. Is there any cellular router on the market where a VPN can be installed on the router so we don’t need to have VPN’s installed on each device? Love your channel – TK REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Video was very helpful!!, from being from the us, im giving one the products to try, as someone who’s needing Wi-Fi while on the road and or away from home constantly doing work, but I do have a question if anyone can help, how does the SIM card work for devices like this?, I know how they work for phones and all but are they different?, or are they the same?, just wasn’t sure if there was more stuff I needed to know about em, when I try the sim routers REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi the is a new router from GL.iNet GL-MT6000 can you do review REPLY ON YOUTUBE

This ZTE 5G router is PURE GARBAGE. I got it with my provider because its the only 5G option available at the moment, and it is loosing packets insanely. Playing video games like CS2 always gives lag. I’ve got a 4G router to test and it was performing far better than this ZTE. DON”T BUY IT. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

As an aside, there is no such thing as “Secure “ Encryption. Extremely Powerful and very Fast Decryption Software that can Decrypt in Real time has been around since at least the 1980’s. Yes that ability applies to VPN’s , Crypto Currencies and Blockchain. There is really no such thing as secure and private in any current technology, and all of it is loaded at every level with backdoors that let anyone onto your devices. At a White Hat Hackers conference a few years ago, it was commented that they had never imagined that the Security Services would be stupid enough to shoot the ground out from under their own feet – which is exactly what they have done. Bob. ???????????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

For where I need to use one, on my boat in the Caribbean, basically anything 5G is a complete bloody waste of time. True also for sailing around most of the UK as you’re going to get Rural Coverage in the places that are really nice to anchor your boat. So this review totally leaves out the very compact 4G sim routers that we actually need- the pocket sized ones that we can mount on the bulkead and direct the air from a fan at. I know that the TP Link M7350 works, but it would be really nice to have some other options to choose from wouldn’t it. Yes I do have a monster sim 4G LTE router with 4 serials on it and an external aerial port, which works brilliantly down in rural Andalucia, but it’s not the sort of thing you want to have on your boat, and frankly 5G isn’t either, due to serious range issues with those radio frequencies . Anyone know of a channel with actually useful comparison tests of compact pocket sized 4G sim routers? I’m still searching. There are an extremely large number of boaters having the same issue of finding affordable alternatives to Starlink by the way, all around the world. Best Wishes. Bob. ????????????????????⛵️ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I had no idea what s ‘sim router” is. Almost no one buys these on the U.S. they are provided by STT, T Mobile or Verizon. They hardly work here, maybe 20 % of locations are viable. BTW, never heard the term sim router. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

1:55 2.4 is not smaller wavelength but frequency, lower frequency means longer waves, bigger wavelength. But yes higher frequency means higher speed, although much more sensitive to obstructions. This is why modern phones still support GSM frequencies. From a basement, or a tunnel, only those long wave or low frequency can pass through thick walls. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi. I found your video very informative and got me thinking. I have family in Latin America and we’re also planning a trip to London in the summer. We’re traveling with others to London. Sims are so pervasive and cheap that I was thinking of buying a sim based hotspot that I could just load up with a sim wherever I go. What are good low cost and effective options for use with London sims or Latin American sims? Thanks mate! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

2.4Ghz has a longer wavelength than 5Ghz because its a lower frequency & less bandwidth is available so it will be slower tha 5Ghz but it can go a bit further than 5Ghz. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nice video. Thanks. A question though – if I use that tp link sim router to the failover connection of my Asus why should it not work? Main wired connection to the WAN port and this to the LAN port which Asus uses for failover. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

ZTE 5G CPE MC888 is trash, its unstable af REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great YT! Would this work on an iPhone? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

LTE GLOBAL STARLINK DIRECT PHONES REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Two of the selling points for me was, it supports both WireGuard, and Tailscale. Excellent! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for this useful vid. Could you explain what the differences are between how sim routers work and how devices like those made by Glocalme (that don’t require a sim card) work? For independent connectivity abroad, Is one better than the other? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Huawei is not on the list ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

*What is a “ROOTER”???* REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi. I’m looking for a 4G Advanced sim router that plugs in the mains (No Battery) that will be on 24/7 Can anyone advise on the best one to go for? Thank you. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Need HELP! I’ve got the ZTE MC888 router. It came today but I can’t get the network light to go white.

Live chat with ZTE said (after countless contradictory and confusing messages) that it didn’t work with my SIM (which is Talkmobile (they went as far to say that Amazon shouldn’t be selling this router as it only works with Livewire, I’m guessing is the SIM it came with)).

What can I do? This seems really strange as other people seem to be using their own networks.

Is this router locked to certain networks or should it be able to work with my service provider?

Can anyone help? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Range tests for the Wifi chip/default antennaes and sensitivity test for the LTE CAT standard (rural areas access) would be great in the future please 😉 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

This is a great video – thanks for mentionning the Puly, it’s the ideal device for my specific needs. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hiya man, do you have any suggestions for a 4 or 5g sim router with 4 connections for an antenna thats a bit cheaper than this? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

BUY IT! for the monies they sell it – like 1EUR for corporate customers is a bargain. The speed, depending on how dense the population is on the place where you use this R219 :), Vodafone sell it for 1EUR for customers. Everything 5G will cost currently – in 2023 much, much more. Guy did not mention anything about Carrier Aggregation, which is the key to speed on LTE. Use LTEInspecteur to see what your chances are of getting good speeds. Vodafone is using a combination of three radio bands – 800MHz, 1,800MHz and 2,600MHz – so you could theoretically get speeds of up to 375 megabytes per second downloading and 50 megabytes per second sending data. Here we get 120+- megabytes per second downloading and 40+- megabytes per second sending data… REPLY ON YOUTUBE

My provider will not allow a SIM router on their network. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

How does it work if you’re at a hotel and they have a captive portal that requires a login? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Love to see a usbc port and 6ghz REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great video very informative, Do you know much about the following router TP Link NX510v 5G WiFi6 Router? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Could have done without the dialup sounds. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Good REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Fixed UK based broadband providers have outpriced themselves from the market. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Are there any sim routers in the 75-150 usd range that is 5g and has an external antenna. That’s what I am looking for. My problem is I’m about 10 miles from the 5G tower and the one T-Mobile gives out doesn’t work good and doesn’t have any kind of external antenna. And certain times of the night I can get upwards of 150mbps I have a friend who lives closer to that tower and gets like 550mbps and I’d be happy with an even 100mbps download speed.. Thanks for any input on one of them.. Just one that does say a max of 1-2gbps and has an external antenna would work grate for me. Cause are hard line internet is horrible with a up to 18mbps and we uselee get around 8-12mbps.. . REPLY ON YOUTUBE

you should dump the firmware and examine it I wouldn’t trust a networking Appliance that’s made by a Chinese company whose CEO is married to someone who literally works for the CCP REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is it time to update this YT? But your information is huge! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Teltonika have so many routers available it’s impossible to make a choice. I just can’t trawl my way through so many options. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’m a Seafarer traveling all over the world by a ship, can you recommend a WiFi Router with Sim Card Slot + e-SIM + 5G + Quad Band. Thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Which ones does he actually recommend can someone tell me REPLY ON YOUTUBE

where to buy in malaysia? can load balance? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve just won a three version of the mc888 on eBay. Is there any drawbacks to this compared to a factory version? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If i get a usb one can i receive phone calls on my Asus ROG ally? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

It’s a router not a “rooter” REPLY ON YOUTUBE

i am not getting good 5g signal home so i am using 4g can i use my 5g sin a 4g router like tp link mr 6400 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great review, thanks. I have poor 4g coverage in house so need an external antenna so apart from the Zyxel NR5101 do any of the others have this facility or can you recommend others please. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for all your super detailed videos. ❤ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve just ordered the ZTE 5G CPE MC888 through your affiliate link to replace a huawei B818 4g router, fingers crossed for some notable performance boosts! I’ve got a cheap 5g sim which really underperforms in the huawei compared a vodafone sim, let’s see if 5g balances things out! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

So I’m guessing you just put a sim card in and away you go? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I couldnt make out which one he recommended at the end. Could someone help please? Thank you. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Digital nomad here: Used the old Bery now for some time and will switch to the newer AX version because of the better WireGuard Speed. The GliNet Devices are fantastic: affordable, leightweight, small, and a clean UI but Luci is available if needed. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

it took him half way on the video to start talking about the options we have REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you put your hands in your pockets, rather than waving them about like a demented runway worker guiding in a plane. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What is a rooter? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I love this little thing. I have two of them and they work great. I also use a Brume 2 at my workshop as a vpn client REPLY ON YOUTUBE

IMO, a proper router doesn’t need to do wifi. That would be a gateway, not a router. Your WiFi should be provided by separate wifi-only access points. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

your voice gets progressively more out out sync thoughout REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What is your opinion about Nokia FastMile 5G Gateway? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is EAP support important when connecting work devices with vpn router ? Mt 3000 does not seem to have one REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Rutx50 honest review. With 4G+ conection my internet is 0.15 down and 0.1 Up Its a worst ever router.

Also.. Default and working fine configuration is missing. I need to learn about every option for find the best configuration.. And after 2 years the router internet don’t work well REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi Nas, thanks a million to the advice , I bought the Puli AX 3000 from Hong Kong and it’s a beast .???? It is working perfectly straight out of the box . I would like to add an external antenna to to it , can you suggest the best external ( out side my house) antenna for this modem . As I said it’s crazy good , I just want to have the best possible set up . I live in limerick Ireland and am using a Vodafone sim. €8 per month incl vat , I was paying €45 per month for there modem that had a wired connection and was terrible REPLY ON YOUTUBE

This is there new revenue model. Routers couldn’t get any pricier, so now they make 5g models with touchscreen etc..

For a good reliable connection (and getting what you pay for) you can’t without external antenna’s. And good antenna’s 4×4 MIMO will cost you another $400,- but you wil see more difference than buying an even more expensive router. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi great review. This is a little out of my price range and probbably more than I need. Would you have a recomendation for a mbl sim router sub £200 thats a bit more plug and play. I am on a steel boat so would most likely need the option of an external antenna connection. Its needed for general internet access, gaming / streaming to smart tv. Any advice would be much appreciated. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

4G is mostly faster than 5G, so I think it is in a lot of places better to have NO 5G router, so you dont have to disable to get full speed. And in my country it is also €2 cheaper p/m. You can test it yourself in your area with your provider. Search for band locking.

On another note, I don’t understand that you are looking for an all in one router (wifi 6 and 4g /5g). It will be more expensive, harder to find, you cant update just one technology and you dont use it for traveling, so why? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

No Mobile phone has the 5G CHIP. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I think you need to include a USB port in requirements for non-mobile routers. Smart devices without a hotspot feature, need to be plugged into a router to be configured. You can do it with a computer, but in my case the computer was on a different 5G network, the home wifi is 4G. So figuring out how to pair (that requires you pick the right device in a list of a million) and be sure the computer is on the 4G network and the phone is on the 4G network, was a bit of a nightmare, would have been easier just plugging the smart device into the USB port of the router, then connecting the phone to the 4G wifi and pair it, so all that could be wrong was picking the wrong device in the list. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

We are looking for something for our static caravan, currently have a ee 5g mifi router but it’s 1 bar in the van and 5 bars outside, metal construct, Can this have an aerial which is mounted outside the building? Abs edgy would you recommend? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

support external antenna, you didn’t even bother mentioning anything like that REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What’s the best way of tracking your data usage with these ?? More to the point can you do it with the mc888 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

You have really helped me! Thanks! (I was wondering if the antennae were for Wifi or 4G signals… as I need to put an antennae outside due to weak signal..) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I have this unit running with a Poynting XPOL-2-5G Antenna and getting great results. Do you think adding a second Poynting XPOL-2-5G Antenna boost the signal yet again? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hello Sir. I need to pick you brain. When traveling to visit my elders back in PR, I don’t have access to reliable internet at my in-laws beach apartment. I’ve noticed that with their T-Mobile family plan, my nieces and nephews can use their phones as hotspots and have reliable internet access at the apartment. This brought me to research on alternatives to the use of cellphones as hotspots, and I stumbled into 5G/4G cellular routers. With this as a possibility, I might be able to take more time each time we travel and perhaps be able to remote work a few weeks at the time throughout the year.

With that said, my father-in-law offered to get an extra T-Mobile line on his family plan so we can use it with a cellular router. Furthermore, my personal family plan is with AT&T. Although limited on that part of the island, I’ve been able to use our phones as hotspots as recently as last month.

So, I’ve been researching for suitable cellular router options, and at this point the top one is from GL-iNet highlighted in your video 18:06 :

https://store-us.gl-inet.com/products/puli-ax-xe3000-wi-fi-6-5g-cellular-router-with-battery

Now, this router requires a hefty investment for untested technology at my end, not accounting for the cost of an exterior antenna, if one was needed (which I think it might due to reinforced concrete construction codes in areas susceptible to Cat 5 Hurricanes and earthquakes.

Have you had the opportunity to test the Puli AX, yet? If I were to purchase this unit, what would I need to do to ensure I’m able to use either AT&T or T-Mobile SIM cards (or maybe both) to get internet access without hiccups? Would I be able to plug and play cellphone nano SIM cards from these two providers and have internet off the gate or would I be required to change advanced settings? I’m not that technologically savvy, but with proper guidance in the past, I’ve been able to modify/jail breakAndroid cellphones. How can I better prepare for this daunting (to me) undertaking and be successful? Do you have a reference I could use that could take me through the steps of getting one of these routers operational, and therefore, minimizing the potential of me “bricking” an expensive gadget.

Thank you Sir in advanced for your insight and cooperation.

Jose L. Ramirez REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If the 5g far away from me about 14 kilos ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

5G? I’m lucky if I can get 3G, or even any signal at all – and why should I – I’m only 5 miles from the highly technological city of Cambridge, and I can’t even make voice calls unless I could get upstairs and hang out of a window so the phone is at least a metre from the wall of the house. Now, that might be fine, but I’m a housebound wheelchair user, and when I could use a disability scooter (which means waiting for the council to sort out a ramp and slight realignment of gates – I can’t complain too much, as I’ve only been waiting four years), as the internal walls of the house are made of cinderblock, which is impenetrable to WiFi signals, they would be pointless for home use. You can use a tablet or cellphone on WiFi if you position yourself so that only a door is between you and the WiFi access point, but clearly, that is far from full coverage or ideal. One in each room would work, but on disability benefits? I’d be saving for a year for any of these, and have to have eight or nine of them wired together and to an external SIM router mounted a full metre out from the outside wall above an upstairs window., or on a very tall pole. It would be a great backup or additional bandwidth to my wired FTTC connection (60Mbit down, 11Mbit up), but I’d be more interested in a single one that added bandwidth or backup/fallback/failover for the network, and a cheap set of wired WiFi Acess points for around the house. There is gigabit locally, but it is locked to a single ISP which would not provide the same features as my preferred one – fixed IP and very low additional charge for a /29 subnet being the major one. That gives me 8 IPs of which one is the network address and another the broadcast, so with one for the router, I have 5 for whatever use I like. The “gigabit” service only provides dynamic IPs which are already run through NAT and their bandwidth is far too thinly shared, so in practice, I’d be very lucky indeed to get a real-world speed greater than I already do, although they prioritise routing to speed test sites to fake the tests – a trick worth watching out for. Try running a bunch of timed, simultaneous downloads from different sites instead for a genuine test of the WAN speed you are actually getting. I get as much as the wires can physically provide between me and the nearest fibre-connected cabinet, which is another reason to prefer my ISP. Actually, according to every speed-over-distance table I can find, I should get less than I do (40/8 is as good as I can find), so kudos to Openreach for having excellent wiring. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Why not just use a VPN directly on the device? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

That was spectacular! I’d never heard of the GL-X3000, and now my finger’s hovering over the checkout button… thank you! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

have you actually tried the netgear m6 pro. in order to use the 2.5 ghz ethernet port you need to take the battery out which means you have to plug it into mains, so no more usb c port. I have 2 of these routers, both using the ethernet port to connect to lans and unfortunately both overheat and lose the internet. even without using ethernet they for some reason turn themselves off randomly at least twice a day. I to had an earlier version which was great for a about 5 years but I would not recommend the m6 pro. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’m pretty sure it does support cellular sims the only thing you have to do is get a quectel lte usb dongle. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Wired connections are still lower latency and are not subject to interference. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Do you have any experience with the TP-Link Deco X80-5G? Any thoughts on that one? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Wow thank you for the video, iwas searching for router sim and most videos have basic overview or programmed voices that makes no sense. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I was just about to checkout with a Zyxel NR5101 however I Figured I may as well buy the Antenna while I’m Purchasing at all. Yhe one major downside to the Zyxel NR5101 is that the external antenna connection does not support the 4G network. Although ideally one would use the 5G Network i Felt that the lack of this was a a major downfall. Would you have any other suggestions of Router with external antenna connection that will cover the 5G and 4G network and meet all the specs in the Video? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I just made my internet better by changing to 5 mega thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Always determine exactly what you need. Don’t buy 5G internet now – it’s not ready for big time yet. Just how much data do you want to consume and at what rate? That’s the question to ask yourself BEFORE you get another SIM router. Just wait for the tech to improve and watch the prices drop. Right now it’s just a Rip off, unless you really NEED ( OK, or want ) the 5G over the air. Spend money on MIMO ( 2 x 2 OR 4 x 4 ) if you must. 4G+ is also ok. There are quite a few routers like the tplink MR600 that provide more than enough for most people for the next few years – unless you suddenly develop a great itch for massive speed. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for the advise – What I’ve found is that it’s nearly always better to just wait for the tech to become more widespread and the prices drop and the technical gremlins get sorted out – so if you don’t have 5G now, don’t buy it. If you don’t NEED wi-fi 6, DON’T buy it! Go with the older tech unless you NEED the new stuff.

EDIT: CAREFUL with the GL-iNet Router – first check that you can change the DNS addresses. The last time I used one I couldn’t do it – I really didn’t want to dig into the superuser account and set it up in the LInux kernel. Plus – that one took forever to boot up and connect and it got HOT! Plus – I found that some financial companies didn’t want to connect to it – possibly because the addresses it presented are from China. Beware of that GL-inet router. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can I trade in my RUT 955 with RUT X50, then pay the cost differential? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’m from Nigeria, I have an RTU 955 and I use MTN SIM CARD with it. I have not really enjoyed the services because it has a very low area coverage though its signal is relatively stable REPLY ON YOUTUBE

a device support 5g does not mean it is 5g device .you ideats. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

actually 2.4 it’s a longer wavelength, which is why it’s a lower freq. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If it’s like the previous model, the usb 3 port is for usb cell service dongles, and external storage. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Just bought one of these and you can’t beat it for the price. If you want more USB ports, add a hub. Worked fine for me with storage and tethering. As far as having battery power, well this router runs fine with the USB power supplied by my laptops.

I live in hurricane country here in the U.S.A. I have a backup generator for power but when city power goes down, so does the wired ethernet. All wired ethernet depends on local boxes in the neighborhood that run on battery backups when power is down. Instead of buying an expensive wireless hotspot, I only need it for emergencies, I can tether my 5G phone using this router. I connect it in place of the cable router on my network and you can’t tell the difference. Plus I can use this with my phone when I travel or even locally. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Any help here folks? If your smart tv is 2.4ghz then what is the point of a home sim 5g router? It won’t work. Am I missing something? Duel band routers seem a lot more useful. All smart tvs seem to be 2.ghz. Wait up- – the:-

GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) 5G NR AX3000 Cellular Gateway Router seems to be a duel frequency router? How???- is it because it’s dual sim? The internet is deaf to all these questions. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

OK, just started looking at these, so which one does all that? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

thanks for the video !! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If you like being an outsider, you’ll love the Turris Omnia. A rather specialist (and expensive) bit of kit. Word is that its successor, the new Turris Omnia Enterprise, will be out this month (Sept 2023). Yes SFP+ 10G transceivers will work in it. Plus… a total of eight antennae! What!

Specs: NXP LS2080 ARMv8 octa-core CPU – 3× M.2 slots – 1× Wi-Fi, 1x NVME, 1× modem – Dual slot RAM up to 64 GB – 5× SFP interface, 1× GbE interface – 2× USB 3.0 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What about the reception of each of these devices? What range/signal strength can you expect for the 5G LTE connection and how do each of these routers compare to each other? It seems to me the Netgear would not perform as well as the GL.iNet devices with 5G LTE antennas. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

For me personally you talk too much s*** at the beginning of your videos you need to cut it out and get to the f****** point,,, REPLY ON YOUTUBE

???????????????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

HUAWEI 5G CPE PRO 5 THE BEST !!!!!!!! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Pronounce “out,” that’s correct. Now pronounce “rout” and finally keep the same pronunciation but add the sound “er.” See that was easy wasn’t it? ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hey i wanted buy nr5101 but on zyxel website i also see model fwa510, can u tell difference between them? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I hope you can also add Cudy P5. It’s almost the same features as GL.iNet Splitz AX (Dual SIM-Single Standby, WAN Failover, Cellular Failover), but it can add another Cudy router to be able to use mesh mode. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Excellent advice.???????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Its’ so cute that you believe them coverage maps , tooth fairy ? flying pigs ? honest PM s ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I don’t understand why one should buy a 5G wifi6 router for 250-500$ when good 4G wifi5 routers cost 100-150$. Spending 100% more for maybe having faster connection in the future does not seem a good deal when considering that 4G will still be more than fast enough for many users REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Best 5g router get a flagship phone second hand uninstall everything that doesn’t have to do with networking , enable hotspot permanent set display at lowest brightness done REPLY ON YOUTUBE

The best router is a laptop with an 5g modem, that device will dance around those e-waste REPLY ON YOUTUBE

You can insert in any home router a lte usb stick and it will work ???? 1:32 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I jst need that small 1 you picked up for my phone at work 13:05 what’s the name of it? How much it cost? Where can I get it from? Do I need to charge it? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you hide the network and make it invisible? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

None of them are 4×4 external antennas ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

can i just put my existing unlimited sim from my phone in? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Would you please review ZTE MC888 ULTRA 5G WiFi 6 AX6000 router? If possible. I would be grateful. Thank you. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

nice video, on the Wan side i have a 4g M1 router, with battery removed and charged to 70% – i use the roo-ter in passthrough mode which has not been rebooted in about 12-15months. for the routing side i use a raspberry pi 2 with Openwrt. anyway the results of the 4G side are as follows 56 Mbps Download 44 Mbps Upload 39ms Unloaded Latency 60ms Loaded Latency i would purchase, if i was in the market the metal enclosed one, or wait untill a 5g hat was available on a Pi4. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi, great video. Why did you not include the Huawei H122-373? Had it for a couple of years and works great. Supports 802.11a,n,ac,ax Also use it for Wireless gaming through steam with the Quest 2. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What about a best budget friendly mobile router for travel in the countryside ie needs to plug in external aerial to get any signal and run off a 12v supply – a 5g signal would be a bonus? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

It’s not “rooter” it’s Router… REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Could you look into the Dreytek range please. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Three uses the Zyxel NR103E REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Where is my Dreytek. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

any featured router woth 4g failiver and battery? just if power goes down. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What’s your thoughts on Tenda 5G router AX1800? The specs are good but my knowledge isn’t comparable to yours about this issue ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

alswom video it is helping me a lot REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Got my dad a second hand Huawei b311 4g router (£17 eBay). He was getting ripped by Plusnet, charging him £30 per month for ADSL which was giving speeds of 1.0 download, 0.2 upload.

Got him smarty SIM £12 per month for 120gb , he’s only a light user – bit of browsing, emails, streams the odd program etc.

Gets 20mb down, 8 upload now.

I was a good move cutting the cord on these rip off ISP’s. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Having lived with 4G LTE internet as my primary house internet for the last 3 years I would not recommend anyone choose it as their primary house internet connection unless it is their ONLY option. For working while mobile then it’s fine, but I would think if you seriously work while mobile you already have an unlimited data SIM in your phone and just tether while mobile, or use public WiFi with a VPN. There’s a lot more research you need to do rather than selecting a router when deciding to use 4G/5G as your primary internet at home – things like physically where is your local mast, what obstacles are between your house and the mast. what providers transmit from the mast and at what frequencies, what are the provider’s plans for the mast (my local EE mast has started to reduce 4G bandwidth/hardware to favour 5G and I’m just too far from the mast for 5G), how busy is the mast during the day because you’re at the mercy of how many people are using the mast and this can significantly impact your speed. So, it’s a minefield of you’re thinking of having it as your primary home internet connection. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I bought the GL.iNet GL-X3000 and did not pre-order the GL-XE3000 router. The reason why I did not buy the GL.iNet GL-XE3000 is because of the battery, Li batteries have problems with cold weather. The Li battery can expand and be damaged. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Do you have any thoughts on the TP-Link Deco X50-5G AX3000. Thanks for the video also, it’s been very helpful as there’s not much info about atm. Cheers. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I already use the version of the Puli AX without the battery and it’s an excellent router. By sheer coincidence I had a power outage whilst watching your review. (Something that happens fairly frequently where I live in the U.K.). This prompted me to order the new router which is delivered from China. Unfortunately, after adding on 20% U.K. VAT and import duty there isn’t much of a saving on price. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

4G is enough. 6Gb in-house is an overkill. Save your money – this is a sells video. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Very helpful thanks. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Which 4G modem would you recommend? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Good video, I am still looking for the 5G Cell SIM gateway with just 2.5 GB Ethernet ports. I don’t care about routing or Wifi since my internal network has a pfSense router and I have Unifi switches and AP’s. AT&T in their broadband access never finished their fiber to the home and the next carrier is only providing fiber to incorporated subdivision so we are left with VDSL. Also, external antenna is necessary for the best performance. My goal would be to use the SIM / Cell network for high speed and keep the low-end AT&T service for its static IP and low speed / inbound services since Cell modems are CGNAT based. Any thoughts? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Some great tech and nice overview shown here but from a financial perspective these routers don’t make sense for normal use scenarios. The capital cost with a data only SIM deal is still more expensive than buyng the cheaper recommended routers on a 24 month contract. At 5:30 you can see a 24 month contract at £20/month with the first 3 months free on the “3 Network” = £420. Buying the cheapest recommended router at £260 plus a data only SIM with unlimited data at £20/month = £740. The only reason for purchasing one of these is if you’re roaming overseas, and for the truely mobile variants with batteries rather than a landline replacement, these are even more expensive. I think most people in a developed country will just tether their mobile to laptop. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’d love to see a list for sim routers, but for the purpose of failover. No need for wifi but ethernet would be mandatory. not sure if there’s much demand for that though. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

cool REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Have a look at MikroTik 5G routers… they are awesome! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Robbie: I have an (now) somewhat older Verizon Jetpack MiFi device (4G/LTE). It’s been an excellent little device but I would like to replace it with an upgraded unit so, yes, 5G cellular and WiFi6, and unlocked. Dual SIM slots would be nice but not essential. Not so concerned about the price. My issue is that the SIM slots need to be compatible with my existing Verizon SIM as it is tied to an grandfathered unlimited data plan that I want to hang on too. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Rooter’s are what you use to clean the toilet pipes out REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Where i live, 5G is still not available (not that i would want to use it for a home network, considering that my phone struggles to pick up a 4G signal half the time when I’m at home, and I suspect 5G will be worse assuming it does ever get put in (or it may be the case that 5G is skipped altogether where i live, in favour of a newer standard that replaces both 4G and 5G, especially as current 5G phones often automatically revert to 4G when the 5G connection is not needed)

I suspect i would be better off with keeping my broadband connection, especially as the one time it did go down, and i tried to use my phone, the 4G connection was PAINFULLY slow (my broadband is 50mbps down, 10mbps up (as stated by BT, and we do get speeds around that or better), my mobile gets about 6.84mbps down, 0.38mbps up when it is near the upstairs window while connected to the charger, and thats from a test i did just now) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Which ones allow 12volt power, an external aerial connection and an ethernet wan input …e.g. for a starlink? I am on a narrowboat. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Rooter, Rauter LOL REPLY ON YOUTUBE

God dam, what the hell you have against Mikrotik, the best 5G routers with WIFI6 and 2.5GB LAN are obvious Mikrotik. Period.Thanks for the video anyway. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

The problem with 5G is it varies from zero to 5 bars within a few meters – I’m in a city centre and the patchiness is very noticeable. 5 bars and 3/400 Mbps downstream is easily achievable. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’m surprised they don’t just make a SIM modem REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Awesome video as always! You’ve become my one-stop shop for all things NAS and routers. Keep up the great work. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

WOW Probably the best video I have view for advice on sim routers. Thank you and now to read your reviews to help me choose the best one ✅ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you very much for this info. I’m in the US and even worse, on a Verizon network so I’m extremely limited as to what sim rougher I could even buy atm. I’m legit just letting my main phone burn as a network provider for now and it aint done any favors for it :(. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Love my Beryl Travel router, so many features and quality of life things in such a tiny and affordable package. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Are there any LTE routers out there that come with its own data bundle? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi! Dumb question, Is it safe to just cut the power when shutting down? Can’t find a shutdown button/function :’) Thanks. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great job, I watched this video before buying a router for my company. I learned that there are many important aspects when buying such a device. Therefore, since my company requires continuous uninterrupted Internet coverage, I opted for an industrial solution such as the F-R200-FL. The devices work great, thanks for your help! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Rooters? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you just plug your phone sim in? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great router products! good quality products????????????❤ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Do they have a global version? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Good videos, Great 4G 5G Router products????????????❤ REPLY ON YOUTUBE

So I got so bored as it appears to miss the fundamentals for why most of us have to buy these devices. The arrogance of the title and introduction annoyed me too. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

The biggest problem I’ve encountered is the battery. I couldn’t find a replacement REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Will it work good with a QNap NAS setup? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve been looking for a sim router for a while and pulled the trigger and purchased the rutx50 not just on your recommendation but through other research. Absolutely brilliant router and does what It says on the tin ????. What I’d like to add is an external antenna to this unit to help increase the signal a bit more. Do you recommend any particular external antenna?? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Will it work with Verizon SIM? How does it compare to Peplink Max BR1 Pro 5G? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nice review ! You made me want to buy this piece of kit lol. Bought one after some research and watching your review. Was looking for a travel router to make life easier on our vacations. Not having to deal with all the hassle of configuring 10 devices separately on a campsite with captive portal crap. Having a WG connection to our safe home network before entering the big bad internet is a great feature. It works like a charm. Been using it a lot on remote locations. It does the job really well. Tried running custom firmware but no proper firmware is available yet with wifi support so left it stock. Other than that. Happy kids, happy wife, happy life ! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Made in china – chinese company – reading company site blogs folks see network traffic going back to china – no thanks! Probably cheap for a reason. HOw about hooking wireshark up to the WAN port and analyzing what chinese domains it is phoning home too? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

How can i configure my router with my family internet i live in a foreign country REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I need a regular Wifi-Router(6 or 6E) + (with 2-5 RJ45 ports) that has 5G fallback function and dosnt cost an arm and a leg. Is that posible to find ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does this work for USA? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What brand and model is the large white 5g router on the table? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Dont use roaming. Get a local sim and swap them out when abroad. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

It does have an active fan cooler that only kicks in when it gets really hot. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Would this be perfect for a hotel situation where the wifi just seems to be too weak from the amount of people? To the point where i can’t really use it. If not what would you suggest? (Gaming involved) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

is this 110 v or 220 volt? Power cable? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

A 5G router with only gigabit LAN ports seems like an oversight to me. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

You talk like you have a mouth full of mush. Form your words REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is it better, I am going to spain should I get a sim router in spain and get a pay as you go dim with data. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Waiting for WiFi 6E ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Half an hour of shilling, what about a speedtest? No? Okay. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Talks to much about nothing get to the point and give us the 411 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is there something similar to this but cheaper? I just want a small device/usb stick or something i can pop my 5g verizon sim in for internet. Currently using a laptop with a 5g card and my sim but j want to be able to use other devices so im looking for a modem or 5g card enclosire etc. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Is this on Amazone? Where did you get yours? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi! Great review! Can you set the Wifi into Client mode aswell? 🙂 Thanks! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Could you please review the Cudy P5 5G SA/NSA AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 CPE as well? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Looking at the video, was helpful but still looking for a direction to go in. Live in a van for work, an would like a SIM router. What would you suggest, for my TV an phone so I can avoid tethered.

Thanks Chris REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I presently use my iPhone (T-Mobile) for watching Netflix when I’m camping a few days every month. I don’t like tying up my cell phone “HotSpot’ when I walk away from the campsite with my phone and then the networks drops when my wife is still watching Netflix. I just ordered a 5g sims card from T-Mobile for $20 a month with unlimited data. I want to buy a cheap cellular router it doesn’t;t have to do 5g but 4LTE is ok. What is some of the best cheap cellular routers on the market? It’s just me and my wife with our 2 cell phones and a laptop. is there any $100 to $200 price range cellular routers that will take a sims card? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you answer my question ? -: my mobile data speed at the house is 55mbps ish…… If I buy a good good sim router am I likely to get more speed than my mobile ? and If so what sort of speed (My sim will be up to 300mbps) ? Thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hello I need your help, what’s the best router to get better signal for SIMCARD REPLY ON YOUTUBE

what is it audio sync? that unkowed! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What’s a rooter some kind of English rooster… ????? I’m just kidding, awesome channel. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Looks like it supports USB tethered connections, but not the iPhone type “Personal Hotspot”? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

No 5G router justifies its price currently, they are all early adopter (read mug) rip offs. Just wait and watch the prices plummet and then buy. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

can I use this to play my PS five on a public hotspot? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

the product just shotup another 30 eurs! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

How well does repeating wifi work on this? I own a GL-AR750 and a bit older gl.inet travel router and they seem to really struggle with many Hotel wifi signals. Throughput is often absolutely terrible, to the point that you can’t even stream simple Youtube videos. And that’s not even with enabling any VPN. Whereas when I connect directly to the Hotel’s wifi using my phone I get at least 3x the throughput. I suppose if it were a regular repeater then 1/2 the throughput would be expected, but I wish there were two wifi chips that can operate on separate frequencies. Anyway, is this performing any better in real world scenarios? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

intelligent people have the ability to explain the most difficult subjects clearly and simply. just putting it out there REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Didn’t seems you talked in this video, I have had multiple sim router but all of them had terrible WiFi coverage in my flat, is there a rating for this spec? Of just need to check the dBm (have no idea of what is this actually) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

A rooter…. ???? nice REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What is your opinion on the Cudy 5g NR AX3000 WI-FI 6 Router REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Should I turn power off when I’m not using ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

sim rooters…lol REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Do you know if there’s An normal Adsl/Vdsl router with Sim card slot REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great video, thank you! I have a question regarding the VPN: I would like to set up a HTTP Proxy and connect it to a VPN. I read that it’s possible with the gl.inet but I would like to have different IP addresses for different phones connected to the router.

My questions are: 1) will it be possible to switch the IPs without a big hustle in-between connecting the phones? 2) do you think social media platforms like TikTok should be able to detect that it’s a VPN or will it be safe since the VPN isn’t on the actual mobile device but on a router? I hope you can share your thoughts on these-would appreciate it a lot ???????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Yo can I use my phone sim card for this routers REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I am experiencing a few package losses and ramdom laggings in using Beryl AX these days. I’m looking for solution, but have not found any yet. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Are you aware you can flash other firmwares. OpenWRT natively supports the device. Might give you the additional admin analytics your looking for REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I want to use a fixed sim router as my main house internet router when I’m away and have small data need, and fall back to another sim router which I use camping and has unlimited data plan. I’m happy with 4G as 5G isn’t as available in rural areas. Device options and a video on how to set it all up please REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hello, 14:56 what router failover dual sim? D-Link DWM-313 4G LTE example? thx REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi, some 4g lte sim routers have a ‘Tel’ connection so you can make calls (if sim enabled),. Do you know wheteher these would stop working when 3G turns off. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’m at the end of my sky contract where I’m lucky if I get 20 mps. Would a sim free router and say a smarty sim card be better REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I found this video really interesting, so much to consider when buying a router. If I buy a normal 4/5G data only sim, will I be able to put it into any router? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

how about dual sim that doubles the bandwitdth??? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you for the information, still considering the Nighthawk vs the other one you mention because I need something pocket friendly for traveling. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you so much for the information man!! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

excellant informative vlog. can you help with my question?. If this LTE router has 2x sim slots for fail over, i gather they should be on different networks. As Vodafone and O2 share masts and Three and EE share mast, would you expect to have external LTE antennas (directional ones) pointing to different locations according to network provider. Would the 4x anttenna be able to carrier aggregate to different channels depending on sim selected. I look forward to your response REPLY ON YOUTUBE

It does actually have an internal fan, but it never kicks in. See the setting at 16:00 next to the CPU average load. Personally I would see more value if the 2.5Gbps were on the LAN side rather than on WAN, and currently the interface doesn’t allow changing their purpose. I’m sure it can be done via LuCI, but I didn’t dig that deep yet. I ran some tests on my unit and it doesn’t seem to consume more than 5V 1.5A under full load (iperf3 16 thread via wifi 6 + phone charging via the USB port + phone WAN speedtest), not sure why a 3A power brick was spec’d for it. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Going down the rabbit hole of Esims for a European trip and have realised that all this will need to be done via my phone and a lot of providers won’t even let you tether so all the data is locked in the phone. Do you know if there is a mifi or router that has esim capabilities? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

The external antennas on my Sercomm LTE2122GR 4G router are for the home WIFI and not for picking up the 4G mast signal, so don’t assume that all routers are the same. The 4G antenna is internal on this router REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Such a pain in there arse getting the sim in ! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I agree with your opinion that it’s the best and then even some. Their RMS remote management tool is absolutely bonkers ! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Wot? no speed test? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Btw the latest update (March 24th 2023) now provides parental controls REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What is the best lte router for home use specifically apartment reason being there isn’t fibre where I live and I get 4mbs down 0.33 up which isn’t good enough for the use of 4 people in the apartment REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hey Robbie thanks alot this is a great review. What are your thoughts on the Netgear LM1200 Router/Modem. Could you possibly do a review on that? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great video.. Would you recommend this over the GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX)? Comparing the two, there seem to be positives and negatives to both. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Seems you didn’t check GL-iNet Mango… it’s smaler, but has surpisingly features, too. Used it for weeks in my caravan with a 4G-Stick to feed my family withtheir loved internet for streaming stuff on several devices in parallel. All run by a small powerbank for hours. Updating of OpenWRT was successful. Thanks for your comprehensive review! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

One thing that is not really spoken about is that you can clone your IP address to help overcome some of those pesky Hotel login pages. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I love the GL product range and have the GL-AR750. Pretty much the entire range is the same in terms of function, the main differences will be things like faster speeds. Software and capabilities like VPN etc are generally standard across the board which is great if you want to get the cheaper options. For those who have trouble with tethering, please check your Mobile device APN settings (probably just google your provider name and the word APN to find the right one). You can also tether with hotspot to free up the USB port if you need to. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’d like a version (at 150ish) that has two 2.5gbe ports for full throughput to whatever’s plugged in. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Been running one of these as the main household router. I’m getting min 300mbps down 60up. Max 450 down 100up. On my previous Huawei device in the same location I was in the 150 down 20 up range. I am guessing this is due to the cat rating? Or just a better modem in there. The config options are amazing. I’ve setup scheduled firewall rules for parental controls to cut off my kids Mac addresses at bed time. Works a treat. Also the crowd support forum is insanely good and tech support super responsive. If 5g is your only option where you live I would say it’s definitely worth the outlay. I’m paying for unlimited 20 quid a month on smarty. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Lol man used his mobile in Germany pmsl I used to live on a base in Holland and Germany. Top unless things changed in the past 20 years if your English and have an English SIM leave it at home. Trust me it cost like fiver a minute to call landline there lol REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Have one of these used it recently as travel router in Cairo tethered to a pixel phone using local sim worked a charm. Have the older version of beryl to as backup internet plugged into my udm pro se using the UniFi failover and a dongle with 4G sim plugged into Beryl works a so well REPLY ON YOUTUBE

How fast can this router go when its in repeater mode ? My macbook pro currently connect to wifi at 866mbps, i was wondering if i can get this to be a wifi repeater connecting to another wifi 6 router, will it connect at 1500mbps, and then i will connect my mac to it via ethernet. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

100 like … i won’t in the near future none of your reviewed items ???? but is good to keep up to date my humble knowledge from your detailed reviews. Thank you REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi I like how you test stuff can you make a video on best mesh or wifi extension and low price REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve been looking at these as well to replace my old TP-Link travel router. But, as to connecting it to your laptop for power, I was warned that there may not be quite enough power available from the laptop’s USB port and dropped connections may occur. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

GL.iNet routers are awesome. I use them for all kinds of projects around my house. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Have one of these, looking to get a second, to have the pair talking to each other. Super easy to use and have fail over built it. Love it! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If I put my phone on e-sim and plug my physical sim into a router, will it work?

My area only still support 4g, open to any rec on router as well, thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

this vs the chester cheetah? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Probably worth mentioning that the nighthawk router in the video can be plugged in with the battery removed completely and still operate as normal, eliminating issue with battery heat REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What about MediaTek t750 5G router, any good, would be nice to have a review on it, many thanks. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Why haven’t you made a video on the best sim routers? Would be nice if you did one and categorising them e.g. best budget, best performance, best overall REPLY ON YOUTUBE

This is amazing for the price. Is there as more basic 5G router with two Antena, for small home use? Because 4G+ home use routers like the Tp-Link AC-1200 are only 120 pounds (allready using this one), but going to 5G is triple or more the cost, seems like there no options. Not interest in moble its for full power home use. Any ideas? Thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

how about increasing the signal strength of my phone and I usb tether it to my laptop? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you change the imei? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

fiber-optical cable connector????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Help heeeeeeelp ! Ok I say in premier inns a lot and the WiFi is total pants ! What 4/5 g sim router would you advise to get thanks REPLY ON YOUTUBE

hello, v-max in 5g? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi would you recommend this router for my situation which is on a canal boat in Liverpool Marina, I currently use an old ee 2017 4g mobile home router which is ok but does drop the internet periodically. Im finding i am needing much faster internet to upload and download large files regularly which my current setup cant handle. Also is there a compatible external antenna you would recommend to go with this as well. Thanks. (I am finding myself holding back on this because of the lack of wifi6 and future proofing but willing to compromise if it is indeed the best unit for my tasks) REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Esim? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

you are definitly bri-ish. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If only they had allowed external antennas and the ability to use it without the battery (as far as I’m aware needs to be in the unit but please correct me if wrong). I would love to see these features in the next build! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Am Told I need A SIM “DATA” Router, want to use for 3 IP Cameras, LAN Connected. I Can Inject my own Power. Can you suggest POE and non POE, also with WiFi with POE and non POE. Appreciate your Time. Supplier suggested a 4G LTE Cell Router W 2X10/100T for $1300. Seems a little high for what I Need. In Florida, want to use Verizon. Thanks. Appreciate you Passing on Your Knowlege of Cell Routers..Don’t see a lot of mention of “DATA” Sim Card. Thanks again. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

The ‘Problem’ is that people have started calling 5GHz WiFi ‘5G’ instead of “5GHz”, making it impossible to discern with ‘5G’ LTE Cellular Wireless. Drives me MAD when trying to search for SIM enabled Modem/Routers! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for review. Do you have any knowlage or opinion about Modem ZTE MU5002 ?? I looking something for livestreaming on the go, sometimes at festivals so nice to have banding REPLY ON YOUTUBE

iP30 is not high. Zyxel 7101 seems better one REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve just bought a tp-link AC1200 and put a Gifgaff sim in it. Didn’t work so I tried my O2 phone sim and that works. So much for plug and play. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Router looks great. Couldn’t help but think of Delboy with the deep sea divers watches when he mentioned it can be used on long ship voyages with fluctuating temperatures. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I’ve just purchased a Zyxel NR2101, would this router in the review improve my ping? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Dwr 2101 is the worst router I ever had. I bought it after I saw ur review and made mistake…my redmi mobile is able to get more signal and mbps than this crap…i bought netgear hawk mr2100 and it’s a beast…So please give genuine info else please don’t make others fall into trap.. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nice thx for this TOP Video 🙂 can you recommend me a Router (5G NSA) with good reception and Speed for Home use , Plesse ? 😉 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Been running this beast past month for testing before moving it to production. By far the best experience and stable. I do like their bridging option and binding it to a MAC address etc. Keep up good work! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

It sounds like a decent root-ah REPLY ON YOUTUBE

lol Rooter your so funny love your work???????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for your video. Do you have any references that support VPN in SIM(4G or 5g) Routers? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Waste of time!!! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great review, fyi people use the gps for time sync / ntp too… REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Serious bit of kit! Thanks for the great video/info mate REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If you had to pick one which should I pick trb500 or this rut50 ??? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Would be really nice to see a performance test using 5g if possible, many thanks. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

One other point, many dual band routers have an automatic system that selects the best band for the device, and then only have one access SSID. This caused me some serious grief when attempting to setup some wireless controlled lighting. Fortunately after some digging I found that you could override this and setup two SSIDs one for each band, it worked for the new device but disabled the auto feature.

Back to the sim routers…. I have just ordered one (£20 per month for unlimited data) after finding out that my iPhone in my study can hit 4G speeds of circa 300Mbps on speedtest when connecting to the mast that is 50 yards away. Fingers crossed that the Three 4G+ sim router will achieve anything like that speed.

My current BT VDSL speed is circa 30Mbps. I’ll post an update after I have tested the new router. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

thanks for the nice presentation, does it support listen-before-talk, which is needed for unlicenced spectra? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thx for a great review, would be really nice to see a performance test using 4g and also 5g if you have that in your area. Regarding the dual sim i guess that is only for failover not loadbalancing -right? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

What does having the second sim card do, does it double the speed of the internet? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

5G SIM CARD WIFI ROUTER KITNE KA HAI REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thanks for such a thorough and positive review @NASCompares. We couldn’t have done it better ourselves! ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great review – I switched to 4G mobile network for my home internet. As I live in rural Lincolnshire BT could only give me 20Mb, I get 60Mb+ using a Huawei B818 and EE unlimited data SIM. Cost for router was circa £200 and EE SIM £18/Mth – RESULT! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I like your reviews, but they’re missing so much detail. Chipset info, supported bands, level of LTE CAT support, speed tests relative to other routers in the same location. Please ,please ,please can you also include whether these routers have IP Passthrough / Bridge mode. A massive percentage of people already have very capable routers and mesh systems and simply want a product like this to offload the 5g speeds to their home network. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Try the CPE Pro 2. I have it and it’s a MONSTER!!!! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Nice, the 4G and 5G not the best in my area REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I have their TRB500 on my wish list, as an upgrade from RUT240 and RUTX11. Love them … and the firmware release frequency and support forum. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

*Notes and Corrections* 6:18 – RUTX50 does not have active PoE, so it cannot power up other devices. RUTX50 has PoE (passive) meaning that other PoE active devices can power up this router through a LAN port 1. 8:52 – GPRS is just for 2G/3G technologies. For 4G / 5G it must be GPS/GNSS support. 12:21 – This Router arrives with 2 years Warranty, not the 18 Months I highlighted 31:35 – Mentioned wrong product name RUTX60 instead of a RUTX50 REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Would love a review of the M4 nighthawk but better get saving your pennies ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I would rather buy phone in same money range REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Weird video..some sections are like they are made for kids (battery)..i mean who doesnt know that, but part about 5g sim card support is confusing even for someone who knows what a hell is he talking about ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can I use one of the routers with a SIM card slot outside the U.S. like in Mexico with a local Mexico SIM card? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I want to move away from contracted broadband provider and just have a sim only router. I can buy a SIM card for £10 with unlimited data so Is it worth buying a sim only router and have an unlimited data sim? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Great info REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If it has single Ethernet port, can you not expand it using an unmanageable switch? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

As of now what lte router would you recommend for an old granfathered Verizon unlimited data plan? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you for this video. I am planning to move into UK next year like many Hongkongers. Consider getting an LTE/5G router for the period during my home internet contract ends in HK, traveling via Netherlands and UK temporary home. Maybe get an EE 5G data SIM as ‘permanent’ home internet if the signal is good enough to save money. Will it works? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hi, i can only get 5mps via phone line. And i cant get 5g either. So im going to try 4g. I live on a hill but surrounded by trees, although i do have line of site in one spot to Canary Wharf in London about 18 miles as the crow flies. Could a good antenna search that far?. Can you recommend a 4g router and antenna pls?

Good, informative video ???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can it be powered via usb only with battery removed? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Anyone know if the tplink Archer Mr200 or 400 is compatible with Deco P9 Mesh devices? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does using a SIM card router give you generally faster upload speeds than the upload speeds you get when using a cell phone’s personal hotspot? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

If I get my phone sim which is 5G, and connect to a 5G modem/router will it work ? Or will it be like a hotspot which has limited data and speed? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Very unstable. This crashed for me regularly. Sent it back to Amazon and replaced it with the ZTE equivalent REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Mujhe lena hai 5G wifi kitne ka hai REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Hello REPLY ON YOUTUBE

???????????????????????? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does it matter the sim card types? Or is it just regular mobile phone sim cards? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Does any one know about a portable (with a battery) SIM Router that can also be configured as a VPN client (OpenVPN)? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I installed Peplink BR series REPLY ON YOUTUBE

In my case, the limiting factor was that my first SIM router supported only 32 clients. When you have a big family, everybody with smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, TV, and some smart home applications, etc, you are soon out of range. I had to update to Archer mr 600, two years ago, with 64 clients max. “Normal” routers usually do not have this kind of limitation. You missed somehow talking about this issue, should be topic number 11. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Currently using a Huawei CPE pro 2. Slows down drastically to around 250mbps during peak times. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I have the Nokia paper towel roll router with my 5G connection. It has both bands, 4 LAN ports & I get about 330mbps+ currently. Australia’s 5G isn’t the best at the moment, but it’s better than our NBN(fibre, HFC & FTTC) for speed & reliability. I can stream 4K 60fps no problems & downloading 100GB takes only a couple hours. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Interesting video. I’ve been running my house internet over 4G for over 2 years now because the physical phone cabling in my village is so poor! As long as you have good line of sight to a 4G mast that supports LTE-A you can get fairly good speeds, with the main consideration being bandwidth drops significantly during busy hours like Friday/Saturday evenings when people are out and using their phones.

Would love a 5G router, but no 5G coverage in my rural area. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Alot of these will be used in RV / Campers / Trucks. To not have a wall mount is silly. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Good review, their website is really short on info. What chipset is it using, I doubt its a qualcomm at this price? What category lte does it support, because most people will still be on 4g+ ? Can the ethernet port be used for passthrough mode, I’d really like to offload this to my Orbi mesh system? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I feel like the sound is desynced from the video ever so slightly… is it only me? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thx for info REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you for your video. I purchased this item based on your great video. Been using as my main router with vodafone sim at home with no issues. Just lately I am getting message to say battery temperature . Is this something you have come across ? thanks for your assistance. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I can not get this thing to work, it is the SIM card, it won’t fit in properly REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Will it allow my lad to play fornight in the camper van, therefore I can have some peace? Regards REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can it charge up on 12 v ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

do you know if i can buy extra battery for this? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

is there any ones like this but also have a 5g antenna port so you can make signal better if u wanted to ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can it power a POE CCTV camera..???? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

This couldve been a ~10min video. Informative but I think the script can be better. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

250 pounds ??? What the hell o.O Its a ripoff ! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

OK, this is news, are you saying USB-3x vs USB-2 there is a difference in charging speed? Really? I thought it was purely for data. Power is controlled by the device and charge point. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you add an Ariel to the D-Link for greater signal? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Pity you couldn’t get your hands on a Netgear M5 to see if it really is worth it. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you do a review of the best 5g receiver to use in a motorhome driving round the UK and Europe. As power is not an issue the unit does it have to have a good battery. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I am looking into getting a 5G router but I probably will not be going for a mobile option. Do you have any views on the Zyxel NR5101, maybe Zyxel could send you one for review? Informative video by the way and nice delivery REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Netgear has ports for Mimo that cannot take aerial can it ? REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Thank you for this video on your recommendation I have purchased one of this. I have a sim card from Voxi and I am getting over 300mbps, so I am hoping this will be the thing to use in my garden office. REPLY ON YOUTUBE

Can you remove the battery and use the device just plugged-in the outlet? Thanks! REPLY ON YOUTUBE

I guess no test REPLY ON YOUTUBE

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Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel

Published on April 24, 2024

Traveling is exciting, but dealing with SIM cards can be a hassle. Thankfully, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are changing the game. You don’t have to put up with long queues for a new SIM or fumble with tiny plastic cards. You can get a local plan while in your country of origin and enjoy seamless connectivity before getting off the plane.

eSIMs are great, but with so many providers, how do you choose the right one? We’ve researched to find the best eSIM for international travel in 2024, whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that works with a chip built into your device. With a supported phone, you can get started from anywhere. Switching operators is as simple as getting a new carrier, scanning a code, and installing and activating the eSIM. This is in sharp contrast to the plastic physical SIM you have to get from the carrier and insert in your phone to get connectivity.

While eSIMs have been around for a while, they caught everyone’s attention when Apple made the bold move to go all-in on them, ditching the traditional SIM card slot altogether.

eSIMs aren’t just about convenience; they’re also eco-friendly. By eliminating physical cards, eSIMs reduce the amount of plastic waste the mobile industry generates. Plus, they free up space inside your device that manufacturers can use to fit in larger batteries or make it more sleek.

The real game-changer is how eSIMs enable 5G connectivity in devices that struggle to fit a SIM card, like smart glasses and fitness trackers . Their compact size makes them perfect for the next generation of connected gadgets.

Best eSIMs for international travel

We’ve covered some of the best eSIMs for international travel, whether you’re taking the trip alone or with loved ones.

• Local, regional, and global plans
• Customizable plans
• 150+ countries, seven regions
• Some plans support data sharing
• Unlimited data, SMS, and call options
• Covers all regions
• Expensive in Africa and America

Airhub is a global marketplace with eSIMs available in over 150 countries. Thanks to strategic partnerships with local companies, it offers several plans per destination that you can use to browse and, in some cases, send texts and make calls.

Local eSIMs cover over 150 countries. Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The Europe regional eSIM, for example, covers 48 countries, while the South American eSIM covers 18 countries. There are multiple global plans covering countries on all continents.

Airhub shows the network you’ll use at your destination. Plus, you can get unlimited data with SMS and voice minutes in certain countries and regions like Europe, North America, and South America. The Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasian eSIMs only offer capped data volumes without voice credits. Meanwhile, the global plans include data-only options and options with SMS and voice minutes.

Prices vary across regions. European and Eurasian plans are generally cheaper, while North and South American plans are more expensive. African plans are not available at the time of writing.

You can get started with Airhub using the company’s website or mobile application. Choose your destination country and prepaid eSIM data plan, and make payment using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM.

• Flexible, customizable plans
• 200+ countries, seven regions
• Supports data sharing
• Data validity up to 180 days
• Data-only local and regional plans
• Expensive in Africa
• No unlimited plans

Airalo is regarded as the first-ever eSIM store globally and is a top choice for eSIMs thanks to its budget-friendly options and worldwide availability. It offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, with prices varying by destination and local data rates.

Local eSIMs cover over 200 countries. Local USA plans, for example, range from 1–20GB and are valid for 7–30 days. However, there are no unlimited plans.

Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America. The Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 European countries and offers as much as 100GB of data for 180 days, while the Island Hopper is good for 24 Caribbean islands.

Prices vary across regions. 1GB of data costs $5 for European and American regional plans, $15 for Caribbean, Latin America, and Middle Eastern regional plans, and $27 for an African regional plan.

The global eSIM plans cover 124 countries simultaneously and are perfect for interregional adventures. Local and regional plans only cover data, while global plans may be data-only or include data, calls, and texts.

To get started with an Airalo eSIM, download the app, create an account, select your destination and package, and install the eSIM. Payment methods include credit and debit cards, Paypal, Apple Pay (in some countries), Google Pay, Alipay (via the app), and Airmoney (Airalo’s reward currency).

• Local and regional plans
• Flexible plans with top-up options
• 175+ countries, 11 regions
• Nifty data calculator
• Free SMS and voice minutes via third-party
• Referral-only loyal points
• No global plans
• No African or Middle Eastern regional plans

aloSIM is a Canadian tech company founded in 2022 that offers low-cost prepaid data eSIMs and a nifty data calculator that estimates data usage based on daily activities. This ensures you only pay for what you need.

aloSIM has local plans covering over 175 countries across all continents. Regional plans cover Europe, America, and some parts of Asia, with unique options for Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. However, regional offers are limited in Africa and the Middle East.

The European regional plan spans 34 countries and lets you buy 1–10GB of data for seven to 30 days, with the option to add more if needed. You can get 5GB of data for around $20. If your journey only takes you to the UK, a cheaper UK-Ireland plan that costs $20 for 10GB of data is available. Prices are more expensive in North and South America, with the same 10GB going for $50 or more.

Like Airalo, aloSIM shows you which networks you’ll be connected to and the speed availability before purchasing a plan. You also can’t get unlimited data. While the eSIMs do not include phone numbers for calling and texting, aloSIM offers free numbers with voice minutes and SMS from its sister app, Hushed.

You can get started with aloSIM on the web or mobile app. There are three installation methods: Automatic, QR code, and manual.

• 170+ countries, 11 regions
• Small regional price disparity
• Prepaid SMS plans
• Some eSIMs support data sharing
• Data-only plans

Nomad was founded in 2020 and has headquarters in Silicon Valley. It has local, regional, and global plans.

Local eSIMs cover 170+ countries across all continents. Regional plans include Asia–Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and smaller three-country combinations. The global plan covers 109 countries.

You can see which network you’ll be connected to within your destination country and the speed. You can also top up your data when necessary. Note that there are no unlimited plans or options with voice minutes, but you can get separate SMS plans in the US and Canada at $4 for 100 texts lasting 30 days.

Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar for American and Asian plans. The African plans are slightly more expensive, starting at $11 for 1GB of data. But this is still significantly cheaper than Airalo’s $27 for 1GB.

• 170+ countries, seven regions
• Two global coverage plans
• Unlimited global and European plans
• Offers eSIMs and physical SIMs
• Pay-as-you-go option
• Pricier in the Middle East and Africa
• No info on destination networks
• Auto-renewal feature
• No data sharing

BNESIM was founded in 2017 in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. It provides eSIMs and SIM cards in several countries and regions, but we’ll focus on eSIMs.

BNESIM offers local eSIM plans in over 170 countries. Its seven regional plans cover Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America. It has a global plan for 102 countries and a mini global plan for 56 countries, mainly consisting of North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia.

Aside from its base plans that renew automatically, BNE offers one-time plans with relatively shorter expiration dates and pay-as-you-go plans that never expire. It also provides unlimited European and global data plans with voice minutes — other plans are data-only.

You can top up your plan anytime using the app. However, you can’t see the network you’ll connect to within your destination country.

Local US plans start at €4.36 for 3GB of data lasting a month. It’s cheaper in European countries, costing about €3.96 for the same 3GB in the UK. Prices are higher in Africa and South America, with a rate of around €18.72/3GB and €15.34/3GB, respectively. Regional plans follow a similar pricing pattern.

• 190+ countries and some regions
• Unlimited data plans in several locations
• Small price disparity across regions

Holafly was founded in 2017 and has offices in Ireland, Columbia, Peru, and Thailand. It offers local and regional eSIMs with unlimited data in several locations.

Holafly eSIMs are available in over 190 destinations worldwide. Coverage includes countries, cities like Barcelona, and regions like Asia and Europe. Plans vary widely, with some places only offering fixed data bundles while others have unlimited volumes.

You can get unlimited data at a rate of €6/day and €19/5 days in Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, and several other places. Prices are slightly more expensive in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, with five days of unlimited data costing €29. The data volume is capped in several other countries.

Finding regional plans on the website is tricky. However, a quick search on the website brought up plans for Asia, Europe, Latin and North America, and the Caribbean.

The Holafly website highlights several details about your purchase, including the available networks in your destination and places that are likely to have high-speed internet. However, the plans are data-only, so you can’t make phone calls or send text messages, except with the Europe eSIM, which gives you 60 minutes of normal voice calls.

Holiday eSIM

• Regional and global plans
• Great European coverage
• Plans include calls, SMS, and data
• Poor coverage of other regions
• Poor website design

Holiday eSIM is a top choice for travelers heading to Europe. Thanks to robust connections in nearly every European country, you can enjoy high-speed data wherever you are.

Holiday eSIM includes a French number in your plan, a rare find among eSIM providers. Its most popular plan costs £17.50 for 12GB of data in Europe, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, and 30 minutes and 200 SMS from Europe to anywhere in the world. There are other plans as well.

While its major offerings cover Europe, Holiday eSIM has Asia-only plans covering several countries. Aside from these two regions, every other location is part of a global plan that covers parts of Europe and other continents.

Thanks to the user-friendly Orange Holiday app, installing the eSIM is simple. Download the app, install the eSIM, and you’ll automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network. However, the Holiday eSIM website interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigating through plans is challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Should you get an eSIM?

One of the most incredible things about eSIMs is their flexibility — you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (up to eight or more in some cases) and activate them as needed without worrying about extra roaming charges.

If your current network offers free roaming, you might not need a travel-specific or local SIM. But if not, the hassle of finding a new operator and dealing with language barriers can be a real headache.

Security-wise, eSIMs have a leg up on physical SIMs. Since they’re not removable, they’re practically impossible to lose. And if your phone goes missing, tracking it through the eSIM is much easier than with a physical SIM that the perpetrator can remove.

While international roaming works the same way with physical and eSIMs, the real advantage of eSIMs is their flexibility. You can have multiple eSIMs from different countries saved on your device, making it a breeze to switch between them when you’re hopping from one country to another.

The best part? Switching between eSIMs is as easy as buying and activating a plan online. There is no need to juggle physical SIM cards or worry about losing your old number.

Which phones support eSIMs?

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology and be unlocked (not tied to any carrier). We’ll cover a list of phones with built-in eSIM support and how you can check if they’re unlocked.

To see if your iOS device supports eSIMs and is carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About .
• Scroll down to Carrier Lock . If the device is unlocked, it will show No SIM restrictions .
• For iOS 15 or higher, scroll down to Available SIM . For earlier versions, look for Digital SIM . If your phone supports eSIMs, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone SE 2 and 3
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 series

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

• iPad Pro 1st generation and newer
• iPad Air 3rd generation and newer
• iPad 7th generation and newer
• iPad Mini 5th generation and newer

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
• Tap on eSIM cards .
• Your device is compatible if you see the “Download a SIM instead?” option.

You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number by dialing *#06#.

Some popular high-end Android phones that support eSIMs include:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series
• Samsung Galaxy Fold series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
• Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
• Google Pixel 4 series and newer (and older Google Fi Pixel phones)
• Google Pixel Fold
• Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13 series
• Oppo Find X5 series
• Huawei P40 series

This list is not exhaustive, and compatibility can vary based on where the device was manufactured. Check with your manufacturer to confirm.

Types of eSIMs

There are two main types of eSIMs: data-only and data with SMS and voice credits. Which one should you choose?

• Data-only eSIM: As the name implies, a data-only eSIM only works for browsing. It connects you to major networks in your destination country so you can surf the web and use your favorite apps. While you can’t make phone calls with it, you can leverage apps like WhatsApp to speak with others over the web.
• Voice, SMS, and data eSIM: This option is perfect for those seeking the whole package — calling, texting, and browsing. It usually comes with a separate phone number for this purpose. While most providers give you a fixed number of SMS messages or call minutes, some add this for free. Meanwhile, most unlimited data plans come with unlimited calls and texts.