Portable Modems That Keep You Online Anywhere
The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro is our top pick for most travelers because it combines fast 5G speeds with a robust battery and user-friendly touchscreen. It supports up to 32 devices, making it ideal for families or small teams. However, it is heavier and costlier than many 4G alternatives.
Portable modems, also known as mobile hotspots, are lifesavers when Wi-Fi is unreliable or absent. They use cellular networks to create a personal Wi-Fi bubble for your laptop, tablet, and other gadgets.
This roundup covers seven of the best-selling models on Amazon, each with different strengths. We evaluated them on specifications, user feedback, and suitability for various scenarios such as frequent travel, remote work, or emergency connectivity.
What we recommend
Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro
The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro is a high-end 5G mobile hotspot that delivers exceptional download speeds and supports Wi-Fi 6E. Its 2.8-inch touchscreen simplifies setup and monitoring. With a long-lasting battery and support for up to 32 devices, it is perfect for power users and group travel.
Pros
- Blazing 5G performance
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Supports many devices
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Premium price tag
GlocalMe G4 Pro
The GlocalMe G4 Pro is a 4G LTE hotspot that works in over 140 countries with no SIM card required when using its cloud SIM service. It offers a pay-as-you-go data model, making it flexible for international trips. The device can also share a wired internet connection via Ethernet.
Pros
- Global coverage without SIM
- No contract or monthly commitment
- Ethernet port for wired sharing
Cons
- 4G only, no 5G
- Data rates can be higher than local SIMs
TP-Link M7350
The TP-Link M7350 is a compact and affordable 4G LTE hotspot that handles everyday connectivity needs. It supports up to 10 devices and has a decent battery life. Its simple OLED display shows signal and battery status. A microSD card slot allows media sharing.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and pocket-friendly
- MicroSD slot for storage sharing
Cons
- Only 4G and older Wi-Fi standard
- Limited range for larger areas
Inseego 5G MiFi M2000
The Inseego MiFi M2000 is a 5G hotspot designed for Verizon’s network. It delivers impressive speeds and can also connect to 4G LTE. Its rugged design and large battery make it suitable for outdoor work sites. The device includes a USB-C port for charging and tethering.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- Supports Verizon 5G ultra-wideband
- Rugged build
Cons
- Locked to Verizon
- Bulky compared to other hotspots
SIMO Solis Lite
The SIMO Solis Lite is a pocket-sized 4G LTE hotspot that uses a virtual SIM to connect in over 130 countries. There is no contract, and you buy data plans as needed. It is especially handy for short trips or as a backup. The battery lasts about 10 hours.
Pros
- Works in many countries without a physical SIM
- Flexible daily, monthly data plans
- Compact design
Cons
- No 5G support
- Battery life is moderate
Huawei E5577
The Huawei E5577 is a classic 4G LTE hotspot known for its dependable performance and excellent battery life. It supports up to 10 devices and offers dual-band Wi-Fi for better throughput. Its simple design and easy setup make it a favorite among budget-conscious users.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for less interference
- Stable connection
Cons
- No 5G support
- Limited to 10 devices
Alcatel Linkzone 2
The Alcatel Linkzone 2 is an entry-level 4G LTE hotspot that prioritizes simplicity and affordability. It creates a Wi-Fi network for up to 15 devices, which is generous at this price. The device has a small display for signal and battery information. It is best for light web browsing and email.
Pros
- Very low price
- Supports up to 15 devices
- Simple to operate
Cons
- Basic Wi-Fi standard
- Shorter battery life
Side by side
| # | Model | Network | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro | 5G sub-6 GHz, 4G LTE | Fastest 5G speeds and premium features | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | GlocalMe G4 Pro | 4G LTE, global bands | Global travelers needing multi-country coverage | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | TP-Link M7350 | 4G LTE Cat4 (150 Mbps) | Budget-friendly 4G hotspot for occasional use | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | Inseego 5G MiFi M2000 | 5G mmWave and sub-6 GHz, 4G LTE | Verizon subscribers wanting fast 5G | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | SIMO Solis Lite | 4G LTE, global coverage | International travelers seeking flexible data plans | 8.2 | Check price |
| 6 | Huawei E5577 | 4G LTE Cat4 (150 Mbps) | Reliable 4G hotspot with long battery | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Alcatel Linkzone 2 | 4G LTE Cat4 (150 Mbps) | Simple, low-cost hotspot for basic needs | 8.0 | Check price |
How to choose
Frequently asked questions
What is a portable modem?
A portable modem, also called a mobile hotspot, is a device that connects to a cellular network and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal so multiple devices can access the internet. It is useful when you are away from home or office and need reliable connectivity.
Do portable modems require a data plan?
Yes, you need a data plan from a mobile carrier. Some devices come with a built-in eSIM or virtual SIM that allows you to purchase data plans without a physical SIM card, which is convenient for international travel.
Can I use a portable modem with any carrier?
It depends on whether the device is unlocked. Unlocked modems can be used with any carrier as long as the network frequencies are compatible. Some modems are locked to a specific carrier, especially if purchased through that carrier.
How many devices can connect to a portable modem?
The number varies by model, typically ranging from 10 to 32 devices. Keep in mind that connecting many devices will reduce the speed for each one and may drain the battery faster.
What is the difference between 4G and 5G portable modems?
5G modems offer significantly faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and can handle more simultaneous connections. However, 5G coverage is not as widespread as 4G, and 5G devices tend to be more expensive and power-hungry.
How long does the battery last on a portable modem?
Battery life ranges from about 8 to 24 hours depending on the model, usage, and number of connected devices. Some modems can also be used while plugged into a power source, serving as a stationary router.
Are portable modems secure to use?
Yes, they are generally secure if you set a strong Wi-Fi password. Most support WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Avoid open networks and always use a VPN for sensitive transactions when on any public network, including your own hotspot.
Can I use a portable modem while traveling abroad?
Yes, but you need to ensure the device supports the network bands used in the countries you visit. Some models offer global coverage with a built-in virtual SIM, allowing you to purchase local data plans without changing SIM cards.
Do portable modems have a monthly contract?
No, the device itself is not tied to a contract if you buy it outright. However, the data plan you choose may have a contract or prepaid options. Many providers offer flexible prepaid plans that can be canceled anytime.
What is the difference between a portable modem and a smartphone hotspot?
Smartphones have a built-in hotspot feature that shares their cellular data, but it drains the battery quickly and may not support as many devices. A dedicated portable modem has a larger battery, better antennas, and can handle more connections, providing a more stable connection.
The bottom line
For most users, the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro is the best portable modem because it offers the fastest speeds and most features, albeit at a premium price. If you are on a tight budget, the TP-Link M7350 provides reliable 4G performance at a fraction of the cost. For frequent international travelers, the GlocalMe G4 Pro eliminates the hassle of SIM cards with its global cloud SIM.
