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What is a portable WiFi hotspot?

Where can portable WiFi hotspot devices be used?

How is a portable wifi hotspot different than phone tethering, what devices are available from at&t, the newest wireless hotspot routers.

Netgear’s Nighthawk Mobile Hotspot Router is the world’s first commercial Gigabit Class LTE Mobile Hotspot Router to achieve maximum download speeds of 1 Gbps on the AT&T 5G millimeter network*, bringing the fastest possible internet connection to businesses on the go. Combining ultrafast download speeds, and support for the latest networks into one device, this premium mobile hotspot router provides the best internet connection experience possible whether it is used on-the-go, at home, or during your travels. With a very large 5,040mAh battery, the Nighthawk boasts all-day battery life, so businesses are always connected, even when away from the office.

*5G+ millimeter mobile network where available with compatible plan, powered by AT&T.

Compact 4G LTE Wireless Hotspots

The affordable, pocketable business WiFi hotspot from AT&T features 11 hours of battery life to get you through the work day while connecting up to 15 devices on the AT&T high speed LTE network. A sleek design and color display make it a breeze to use virtually wherever your business takes you.

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• Tech Essentials

The 6 Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots of 2024

These handy devices keep you connected with ease.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

We're fortunate to live in an era where cell coverage reaches 95 percent of the population, according to the International Telecommunications Union. And that makes staying connected while traveling to most on-the-grid destinations a breeze. Many cell phone carriers offer some level of international data plans, which allows you to use your devices abroad — for a fee, of course.

But if you're working on the go, traveling in a group, or attempting to preserve your phone's battery, you might want to look into getting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, which often provides more data to more devices. "Portable hotspots will use data just like cell phones do, and coverage will really depend on the carrier and the coverage they offer in the area," Best Buy mobile supervisor Thomas Walker told Travel + Leisure. "Since hotspots require data, they also require a plan, something to remember as you consider buying a portable hotspot."

Best Overall

Skyroam solis lite.

The device comes with a free lifetime global data plan.

1GB of monthly data will go by very quickly; you'll have to pay up for more.

There are many things the Simo Solis Lite does well, but the real showstopper here is the company's lifetime global data plan that gives you 1GB of data each month for as long as your device functions. And this plan truly is global, as the device works in 135+ different countries . That said, 1GB isn't much data at all. Depending on your usage, you might need to upgrade to a more robust data package, which typically costs anywhere from $6 to $109, or potentially more, per month. On the plus side, you don't need to change SIM cards in this hotspot — you can add those plans via an app.

As for the other stats with this device, the 16-hour battery life is well above average. We love that you can charge other devices with this hotspot — although that will reduce its battery life, of course. Up to 10 devices can be connected to the Solis Lite, which is likely suitable for most users, but it's an unremarkable number compared to other products on the market. Similarly, 4G connectivity is serviceable but doesn't earn any special accolades. If you're traveling with a large group of people, you may want to consider other options depending on how connected you need to be.

One other standout feature of this Wi-Fi hotspot is true 24/7 customer support — this is especially valuable for travelers who need internet access at all hours across various time zones. 

The Details: 16-hour battery life | 10 devices | 4G connectivity | 5.98 x 4.69 x 1.73 inches | 10.2 ounces

Best for SIM Cards

Netgear nighthawk m6 pro.

It has Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

13 hours of battery life is good, but not great.

If you need a fast and reliable internet connection just about anywhere, Netgear's Nighthawk M6 Pro might be the solution. It's compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the U.S., and it works in more than 125 countries when swapping in a new SIM card, supporting both 5G and Wi-Fi 6E. You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, allowing an entire team of remote workers to stay connected. And if you're on the move, you'll enjoy a more secure connection with the Nighthawk than public Wi-Fi. 

Beyond its uses for remote work around the world, the Nighthawk M6 Pro could even replace a standard internet connection at your home or office. Because it can function with both a wired and wireless connection, you won't lose connectivity due to internet or electricity outages. And with 13 hours of battery life, you'll have time to wait for the outage to end. That said, increased battery life would be ideal, especially for remote workers and travelers. But whether you're in a home office or off the grid, it's hard to beat this product's speed.

The Details: 13-hour battery life | 32 devices | Wi-Fi 6E connectivity | 4.1 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches | 0.56 pounds

Most Versatile

Glocalme numen air 5g.

There's no SIM card required.

The battery life and number of devices could be better, but are likely fine for most users.

The GlocalMe Numer Air 5G works in more than 140 countries on more than 100 operator networks — that means you'll be covered just about anywhere. It doesn't need a SIM card to work, thanks to its CloudSIM technology. Upon purchase, you'll automatically receive 1GB of global data for a 90-day period, and additional data can be added easily via the mobile app. There are thousands of flexible data plans from which to choose, including pay-as-you-go options with no contract. In other words, this is a convenient mobile hotspot to take with you while you travel, since it's designed to be useful in a wide variety of cellular settings and situations.  

Stat-wise, we consider the 12-hour battery life to be good, but not especially impressive. That said, it may be plenty of time depending on how you intend to use the device. You can connect up to 16 devices, which is probably plenty for most users but may not be ideal for an office setup. 

The Details: 12-hour battery life | 16 devices | 5G connectivity | 6.1 x 2.8 x 0.6 inches | 6.8 ounces

RoamWiFi Portable WiFi Device

It's not just the device that's a good value — some data plans are fairly low-price.

Only five devices can connect to the hotspot at a time.

This 4G LTE mobile hotspot router delivers a surprising amount of power and flexibility inside an affordable package. The device itself is priced under $200, and a variety of data plans are available at all price points, ranging from a $3 day pass to a $299 90-day pass. No SIM card is needed, and the device works in more than 160 countries (there's a complete list about halfway down the Amazon product page). The whopping 18 hours of battery life outperforms every other battery-powered hotspot on our list. 

That said, there are some limitations that come with the lower cost. The device does not connect to 5G networks, so internet speeds won't necessarily be the fastest. Also, you can only connect five devices to this hotspot which is plenty for the average solo user, but may not be suitable for groups or families. 

The Details: 18-hour battery life | 5 devices | 4G connectivity | ‎4.96 x 2.68 x 0.57 inches | 6.3 ounces

Best Unlocked

Netgear nighthawk m1.

It works on all major domestic carriers, including GoogleFi.

Netgear doesn't publish battery life.

Able to connect and share data with 20 devices at once, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot can handle multiple tasks at once without sacrificing power or speed. It's an unlocked device that uses GSM SIM cards, compatible with AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and GoogleFi in the United States, and can serve as a backup internet connection while not traveling. It's equipped with fast 4G LTE broadband and offers up to one gigabit per second (Gbps) of download speed. Worried about how much data you've used? Its LCD screen clearly displays how much data is remaining, calculates when it will run out, and keeps count of the devices connected.

While Netgear doesn't publish the battery life of the Nighthawk M1, it claims it can last "all day" — and you can even buy a battery booster pack for more juice. There is an upgraded version of this hotspot that is 5G-compatible, but it's nearly double the price. 5G connectivity may not be necessary for most travelers.

The Details: "All day" battery life | 20 devices | 4G connectivity | 4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches | 8.5 ounces

Best Router

Gl.inet gl-mt3000 wireless travel router.

It creates a more secure internet connection for your devices.

Routers like this one are not capable of providing internet on their own.

Technically, a Wi-Fi router is not a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. But what it does do is allow you to take one internet connection with a tricky login situation — say, hotel Wi-Fi that asks you to input your room number every time you connect — and streamlines the process for connecting additional devices. In a nutshell, you connect to Wi-Fi via the router, which then creates a more secure network for you to connect to from other devices. This router can also boost Wi-Fi signals throughout a space, so if you're in a vacation rental where the Wi-Fi is strong in one room but not another, a router can help.

This portable router is compatible with more than 30 VPN service providers and can accommodate up to 70 different devices, making it one of the best devices for securely accessing high-speed internet while traveling or on the move. The AdGuard feature helps to protect your devices from malware, phishing, ads, and online trackers. This is an especially important safety feature for using unfamiliar WiFi connections.

The Details: 70 devices | Wi-Fi 6 connectivity | 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches | 6.9 ounces

Tips for Buying a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Consider where and when you'll use it.

Not all portable Wi-Fi hotspots can be used everywhere. If yours is tied to a U.S.–based carrier (like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon), and you're planning on going abroad, you need to make sure you've paid for a data plan that includes international use. If you're only traveling for a short period of time, this might be the most convenient option. 

But if you're planning on traveling internationally for an extended period of time, you might want to opt for an unlocked portable Wi-Fi hotspot — that is, one that isn't tied to a specific carrier. You can then buy a data plan from a company based in your destination, which usually is a more economical decision. "SIM cards are cheap and easy to get in lots of countries worldwide, and going this route ensures you get the strongest signal possible for the lowest price," Peter Holslin, senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com, told T+L.

The duration of your trip should also inform whether you want to purchase an as-you-go data plan (better for shorter tips) or a monthly one (better for longer trips).

Check with your phone carrier

"When you use a portable hotspot, you can choose the carrier it's connected to. So if you want to maximize your coverage, you can use one carrier for your phone and a different carrier for the hotspot," Walker said. It's often cheaper to buy a Wi-Fi hotspot to hook up to a local network while traveling versus paying for an international phone plan with your current carrier as well.

Think about voltage and battery life

For the most part, portable Wi-Fi hotspots use a relatively low amounts of power (about five to seven volts, depending on the size and strength of the device). However, you should still utilize a power converter when plugging your hotspot in during international travels. Not all outlets around the world support the same power output, so using an adapter can prevent blowing a fuse or sparking your devices. If you want a more portable Wi-Fi hotspot that doesn't need to be plugged in, be sure to check its expected battery life to know exactly how long you can use it on the go.

"Wi-Fi hotspots work similar to phones, tapping into your cellular network to provide high-speed data for use with laptops, tablets, gaming systems, etc.," Verizon spokesperson George Koroneos told T+L. "What's more? You can give access to your travel companions, so they can use your dedicated hotspot, similar to a Wi-Fi network."

Yes, it does. "Mobile hotspots connect to cellular networks to provide internet connection allowing customers to connect anywhere," Jeff Howard, AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions, told T+L.

It depends on what type of portable hotspot you have and what type of plan you have. If your hotspot plan is locked to a specific carrier, you'll need to make sure your carrier has an international plan. (Spoiler alert: most do.) It might be as simple as turning your device on and letting it automatically connect to a local cell network. But if your portable hotspot requires a local SIM card to work, you'll have to pick one up at the airport or at a store and insert it into your hotspot to connect to a local cell network.

Many cell phone providers have international plan options for travelers, and you can turn most smartphones into a mobile hotspot under that plan. Then you can connect devices to your cell phone for internet services. But that's not always the best solution. "One thing to consider is carriers may limit the hotspot data amount on your phone, so you may see slower speeds at a certain point," Walker said. "You also don't have to run your cell phone battery when you use a standalone hotspot." On the other hand, portable Wi-Fi hotspots require their own data plans, which costs additional money.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer who has tested cell coverage on all seven continents. (Antarctica is by far the worst.) For this article, she poured over cell service coverage maps and read dozens of customer reviews.

In compiling this list, she also interviewed telecommunications experts to discuss what to look for in a mobile hotspot. Experts she spoke to included:

• Thomas Walker , Best Buy mobile supervisor
• Peter Holslin , senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com
• George Koroneos , Verizon spokesperson
• Jeff Howard , AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions

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Everything You Need to Know About AT&T Hotspots

We’ve got the scoop on AT&T’s best hotspots, data plans, and more.

• Excellent 4G LTE speeds
• Connectivity for 20 devices
• Ethernet port for direct connections
• Lots of data for fair price
• No contract requirement
• Large nationwide network
• Lots of data included
• Unlimited high-speed phone data
• Lower price for family plans

Data effective 3/2/23. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

AT&T is a great source for hotspots. The cell carrier supports a range of excellent mobile hotspots for both 4G LTE and 5G networks, and it has affordable hotspot data plans that give you a ton of gigabytes for a fair price. If you want to keep things simple, get one of AT&T’s unlimited phone plans to get hotspot data for phone tethering.

Read on for all the details on AT&T’s best hotspots, data plans, and mobile plans for your phone’s hotspot.

• Best AT&T hotspots, hotspot data plans, and cellular hotspots
• What to look for in an AT&T hotspot

Best AT&T hotspots

Best at&t hotspot data plans.

• Best AT&T cellular plans
• 5G Home Internet

Your hotspot starter pack: The best AT&T hotspot, best hotspot plan, and best hotspot-friendly cellular plan

Mobile hotspots are typically locked to specific cellular carriers, so you have limited choices about what you can use—which is pretty annoying, to be honest. But AT&T’s wireless network supports a handful of fast and dependable hotspot devices. Plus, AT&T has been improving its hotspot plans and hotspot data on mobile plans to stay competitive with T-Mobile and Verizon.

Here are your best hotspotting options from AT&T

The best hotspot: NETGEAR is AT&T’s go-to hotspot manufacturer, and the Nighthawk M1 4G LTE Mobile Router is a versatile device. Outfitted with a gigabit Qualcomm MDM9x50 modem, it gets you reliable speeds over 4G networks (which are still far more widely accessible than 5G) and features extra ports for direct Ethernet connections and phone charging.

The best hotspot data plan: AT&T’s Prepaid 100 GB plan gives you 100 GB of data to use in a month for a flat fee of $90. It’s hard to find a hotspot plan that gives you that much data upfront. Plus, you don’t have to sign up for a contract term or recurring monthly payments, making this plan perfect for short-term vacation rentals and work trips.

The best cellular plan for your phone’s hotspot: AT&T Unlimited Premium costs $85 for one line, and with that you get totally unlimited cellular data and 50 GB of high-speed hotspot data. All the major cellular companies have ramped up their hotspot data options in the last year, and this robust plan makes it a lot easier and more cost-effective to use your phone’s hotspot on a regular basis in lieu of investing in a pricier hotspot device.

Download our speed test app to see what kind of performance you’re getting on your hotspot. If you’re on a phone hotspot, a mobile hotspot device could give you a major boost.

Take our speed test to see what kind of performance you’re getting on your hotspot. If you’re on a phone hotspot, a mobile hotspot device could give you a major boost.

*Price at time of writing

*Amazon.com prices (as of 3/2/23 17:35 MST). Read full disclaimer .

The Nighthawk M1 is a powerful device that can cover most anyone’s hotspotting needs. But NETGEAR’s Nighthawk M6 Pro really kicks things up a notch with its 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. The M6 can hit much faster speeds and support a lot more users, making this the hotspot to get for big groups, intensive work trips, and vacations on which you anticipate a lot of streaming movie marathons.

ZTE’s MAX Connect MF928 and Alcatel’s LINKZONE are budget hotspots better suited for occasional use and fewer devices. They don’t get the most out of AT&T’s wireless network—there’s no 5G, for example, and you can expect 4G LTE speeds to be slower than normal. But these hotspots cost a fraction of what you’d normally pay for a hotspot and work in a jiffy.

Want the fastest and most secure hotspot around? Take a look at the best 5G hotspots for the most innovative designs and greatest Wi-Fi firepower.

What should you look for in an AT&T hotspot?

You should get an AT&T hotspot that has current Wi-Fi standards, supports enough connections for your needs, and meets your budget.

AT&T sells a few mobile Wi-Fi hotspots on its website, but you can also find unlocked hotspots on Amazon that work with AT&T’s 4G LTE and 5G networks. The most expensive of these devices are meant for hitting extremely fast speeds and serving lots of users. Lower-tier hotspots still work great for vacation rentals or work trips, but the cheapest ones have relatively slow speeds and get sluggish as they support more Wi-Fi devices.

Here’s what you can expect from different kinds of hotspots

What you can do with a 5G hotspot

• Get wireless speeds ranging anywhere from 30–300 Mbps, depending on your location and 5G availability
• Maintain a consistent connection for up to 32 users at a time
• Enjoy functionality and ease of use with the help of a touch screen
• Boost security and improve connection with extra features and ports
• Charge your phone or tablet with USB-C port

What you can do with a high-end 4G LTE hotspot

• Get wireless speeds of 10–40 Mbps for up to 20 users
• Improve speeds with wired Ethernet connection
• Boost signal range when using it as a travel router over hotel and other Wi-Fi networks

What you can do with a budget 4G LTE hotspot

• Get wireless speeds of 1–25 Mbps for up to 16 users

Take a look at the best hotspots you can buy for more details on what to look for—even if you don’t have AT&T, you can still find a great deal.

Data as of 3/2/23. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

*Per connected device with AutoPay. Plus Taxes & fees.

AT&T offers a few prepaid data plans that let you buy a chunk of data in 30-day increments. If you run out of data, you can add another 5 GB for $10. We recommend the 100 GB plan the most because, well, that’s a ton of hotspot data for a pretty good price.

If you’re a monthly hotspot user—say, you regularly travel for work or spend a few days a month in your vacation cabin—then you might want to go for the 20 GB plan. You have to pay a $300 lump sum up front, but it costs you less in the long run, shaking out to $25 a month.

Get a prepaid data plan instead of AT&T DataConnect

In addition to the prepaid plans mentioned above, AT&T also advertises a monthly DataConnect plan—but we advise against it because that plan costs a lot more for less data than AT&T’s prepaid data plans. Stick to a prepaid plan for the best deal.

Best AT&T cellular plans for hotspotting

Data effective as of 3/2/23. Pricing and speeds are subject to change. Not all offers available in all areas.

‡ Unlimited talk, text, and 15GB high-speed data. Taxes and fees extra.

While a phone hotspot can’t connect as many devices or hit the same speeds as a standalone mobile hotspot, your phone is still super easy for tethering and hotspot functions. You can get a ton of hotspot data from AT&T’s flagship Unlimited Premium plan. Or you can save money with AT&T’s prepaid 16 GB plan, which comes with 16 GB total of high-speed data—you can use it for both cellular data and hotspot tethering.

Looking for a hot new phone to set up a hotspot? Take a look at the best 5G phones .

Best hotspots and data plans from MVNOs

MVNO stands for “mobile virtual network operator,” which is a complicated way of referring to budget-friendly cellular brands like Cricket Wireless and Boost Mobile that give you phone service over AT&T’s network.

Phone and data plans from MVNOs are often cheaper than those from major cell companies, and they don’t require things like contracts or credit checks to sign up. Unfortunately, with those lower prices you also get somewhat inferior service, since your cell service always takes a back seat to that of AT&T’s customers. But these plans are worth looking into if you need a quick and easy data plan for occasional hotspottery.

Best MVNO hotspot data plans

Best mvno hotspots.

Amazon.com prices (as of 3/2/23 17:35 MST). Read full disclaimer .

Depending on the MVNO carrier, you may have restrictions on which hotspot you can use with your MVNO hotspot plan. Double check with your carrier to see which hotspots work on its network.

Hotspots can’t replace home internet—but 5G Home Internet can

Data effective as of 05/30/23. Pricing and speeds are subject to change. Not all offers available in all areas.

Read disclaimers.

Cellular companies have ramped up their hotspot options over the past year, but hotspots still aren’t an adequate replacement for home internet—you simply can’t get the same speeds or amount of data from a mobile plan.

But if you’re looking for a wireless solution to home internet, consider 5G home internet. AT&T’s rivals, Verizon and T-Mobile, both offer affordable 5G internet service with unlimited data and respectable speeds at a flat monthly rate—no need to worry about contracts or extra fees. (AT&T has no plans to release a 5G internet service of its own, but we’d be intrigued if it did!)

5G internet is still pretty new, so it might not work for everybody—you may experience occasional internet disconnections or other bugs. But a 5G home internet plan T-Mobile or Verizon is well worth trying out, especially if you’re looking to get away from traditional fiber or cable internet providers.

More about AT&T hotspots

• What Are Hotspots and How Do They Work?
• Best Mobile Hotspots
• Best 5G Hotspots
• Best Hotspot Data Plans
• Best Unlimited Data Hotspot Plans

AT&T hotspot FAQ

Can you get unlimited data from an at&t hotspot.

You can’t get truly unlimited data from an AT&T hotspot—but you can get a lot of data. The prepaid 100 GB plan gives you 100 GB per month for $90, and you can add on an extra 5 GB for $10 at any time.

Looking for a new internet plan? Use your zip code below to find providers in your area.

*w/ Auto Pay. Available in select areas.

† w/ Auto Pay. Regulatory fees included in monthly price for qualified accounts. See full terms.

‡ Price includes $5 Auto Renew discount, starting on the second month. 5G service not available in all areas and requires a capable device.

#Available in select areas only. Price per month with Auto Pay & without select 5G mobile plans. Fios plan prices include taxes & fees.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. HighSpeedInternet.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Author - Peter Holslin

Peter Holslin has more than a decade of experience working as a writer and freelance journalist. He graduated with a BA in liberal arts and journalism from New York City’s The New School University in 2008 and went on to contribute to publications like Rolling Stone, VICE, BuzzFeed, and countless others. At HighSpeedInternet.com, he focuses on covering 5G, nerding out about frequency bands and virtual RAN, and producing reviews on emerging services like 5G home internet. He also writes about internet providers and packages, hotspots, VPNs, and Wi-Fi troubleshooting.

Editor - Rebecca Lee Armstrong

Rebecca Lee Armstrong has more than six years of experience writing about tech and the internet, with a specialty in hands-on testing. She started writing tech product and service reviews while finishing her BFA in creative writing at the University of Evansville and has found her niche writing about home networking, routers, and internet access at HighSpeedInternet.com. Her work has also been featured on Top Ten Reviews, MacSources, Windows Central, Android Central, Best Company, TechnoFAQ, and iMore.

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13 Best AT&T Portable WiFi Hotspots

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best AT&T Portable WiFi…

Planning your next vacation, but you want to stay connected? Then, you ought to pack an AT&T portable WIFI device with you. AT&T mobile hotspot devices can provide internet connection at the remotest places. Thus, your family and friends will never miss you, and you won’t pay a million bucks for roaming charges.

How To Choose The Best AT&T Portable WIFI Hotspots

As the internet is now a must for all travelers, there’re hundreds of AT&T mobile hotspot devices. So, before making up your mind, here are some of the key factors to check for every device.

Wireless speed

Are you going to stream videos and music? Or you need to stay connected and browse your social media accounts? So, according to your needs, you might choose the best product for you. There’re AT&T portable WIFI hotspots that provide up to 2Gbps and others which only offer 150mbps.

Supported network

There’s more than one portable WIFI for traveling . However, they don’t necessarily support AT&T. If you’re traveling to a country covered by AT&T connections, you need one of the below devices. You may need to check each AT&T portable WIFI device as well for the covered countries as some devices work in specific countries only.

Since it’s a portable device, it needs to be small enough to take everywhere during your trip. Most AT&T mobile hotspot devices are compact and small. However, they vary in how small they are.

Battery life

One of the most important points to consider is how long this AT&T portable WIFI device will work. In the end, you don’t want a hotspot that cannot withstand a day trip or camp.

Since we now agreed it’s one of the must-have  travel gadgets , you need to operate it seamlessly. Thus, check whether the AT&T portable WIFI box needs configuration or not. Also, check the admin portal and the particular features it provides to control your internet usage. 

Hotspot Router Link M7

If you need an acceptable internet connection while traveling abroad, the Hotspot Router Link M7 is your choice. You have up to 150 MBPS internet speed. Further, it can accommodate up to 10 devices. As for the battery, it’s a 2000mAh Lion battery that works for 5-8 hours. So, it’s suitable for train or bus trips. When you purchase this AT&T portable WIFI box, you get a battery, USB cable for charging, and a manual telling you how to setup. Speaking of setup, it’s a few minutes to get everything ready to work. Hence, M7 AT&T portable WIFI hotspot is what everyday travelers need.

What we love

A small AT&T portable WIFI device at an affordable price for short trips. Therefore, it serves its purposes without breaking your budget.

• Connects up to 10 devices
• Cheap price compared to similar products
• Easy setup and connection
• Compact size
• Relatively low internet speed
• Short battery life

GlocalME FirstG Mobile Hotspot (404)

GlocalMe FirstG Mobile Hotspot will deliver reliable internet connection for 8 devices at the same time. Moreover, the battery can work for continuous 14 hours, which is a pretty long time. Also, with 24/7 customer service, you’ll never have issues operating this device. In fact, GlocalME has many smart devices that customers were always satisfied with.

In addition, you’ll be able to view and control your data usage through their application or web portal. Luckily, both are very easy to use. So, even those with zero technical experience won’t struggle with this device. When it comes to price, GlocalME AT&T portable WIFI hotspot is on the affordable side.

A high-quality, reliable device that is suitable for long trips.

• User-friendly application
• Affordable price
• Battery can work for 14 hours
• Supports most network carriers
• 24/7 customer support
• Usage fees are a bit high
• Doesn’t work in all countries

KuWFi 4G LTE Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Still with the same inexpensive AT&T mobile hotspot devices. KuWFi offering is a perfect one to slide in your pocket and share the internet connection to a 50m distant user. Furthermore, you can connect 10 different devices at the same time. So, just put it somewhere in your hotel room and connect every smart device you have. Also, you can see how many devices are connected to the portable WIFI screen. Additionally, the screen shows the strength of the signal, the WIFI SSID, and the password.

KuWFi 4G LTE Mobile WiFi Hotspot has a 2400mAh Lithium battery which works for up to 8 hours. Similar to the first product, the battery life is not the longest. However, it’s good enough for short trips and outings.

A sleek and small AT&T portable WIFI box similar to portable chargers that fit pants’ pocket

• Inexpensive
• Small in size
• Has an SD card slot
• Supports up to 10 devices
• Has a screen to show the number of connected devices
• Password shows on the screen
• Different models work in different countries

AT&T Sierra Wireless Mobile Hotspot

No matter where you’re traveling, this AT&T portable WIFI device will work almost everywhere. With the AT&T Sierra Wireless Mobile Hotspot , you can connect to the network you prefer. Either LTE, 4G, or 3G, all are supported. Even more, if you’re traveling to a location with poor connectivity, this mobile hotspot will save your life.

Also, AT&T Sierra cares about your connection security. Thus, you can change your password from the admin console and hide it from the device’s screen. Moreover, there’re several security features as restricting the number of users and enabling secure connections only. Not to forget that AT&T Sierra accepts a maximum of 5 devices at a time and works for 5 hours without charging as well.

Extra security features that keep all the connections secure.

• Works in many countries
• Connects to all major carrier networks
• Screen displays data usage and connectivity strength
• Advanced security features
• Has a MicroSD slot
• Connects 5 devices only

Alcatel LINKZONE MW41TM

If you want a small AT&T portable WIFI device with moderate internet speed and high coverage, here is Alcatel LINKZONE MW41TM . The AT&T portable WIFI hotspot can provide an average 150Mbps. Although it might seem less than what other devices provide, it’s acceptable considering its size and price.

On the other hand, 15 devices can connect to this small device. However, it’s not recommended as more devices mean more streaming which will drain the battery. When it comes to set up, it a very seamless process, create a profile on the admin portal, and you’ll figure everything out yourself.

A small yet, functional AT&T portable WIFI box with moderate speed and good price.

• Fast and easy setup
• Supports 15 devices
• Doesn’t provide very high speeds
• Needs charging every 6 hours of use

Netgear AirCard 797 (AC797)

Coming in a half-inch thickness, this AT&T portable WIFI box will fit into small bags and pockets with no issues at all. Netgear AirCard 797 (AC797) provides a moderate internet speed at a price much lower than other Netgear products. For this particular product, you can get up to 400Mbps download speed. Moreover, it accepts up to 15 devices. However, the more devices, the less speed each one will enjoy.

Perhaps, one of the most significant features of Netgear AT&T mobile hotspot devices is the long battery life. With a 2930mAh battery, you may need to charge the device after 11 hours of use. Finally, the screen has more to do rather than showing the data usage and strength. You can adjust the settings on the device screen itself.

A device with long battery life and a controllable display in addition to a moderate internet speed at an affordable price.

• Can adjust network settings on screen
• Compact design
• Connects up to 15 devices
• Long battery life
• Internet speed is not very high

Huawei E5783B-230

Want something fancy that looks stylish in your hands? Then get the Huawei E5783B-230 AT&T portable WIFI box with its slim and nice design to satisfy your desires. To operate the device, you need to install HUAWEI Mobile WIFI App. Thus, everything becomes easy to configure.

As for the features of the device provide 300 Mbps internet speed on a 4G network. Also, it can connect to 3G and other networks. However, the outstanding feature here is the ability to connect up to 16 devices simultaneously.

A slim, lightweight device that is convenient for travelers in addition to its practicality.

• Small size and lightweight
• Supports up to 16 devices
• Has a mobile app
• Supports 3G and 4G LTE networks
• Battery doesn’t last long
• Not very high internet speed

Huawei E5577Cs-321

Huawei is well known for its high-quality AT&T mobile hotspot devices. Huawei E5577Cs-321 is one of its reliable portable hotspots as it has a download speed of 150 Mbps on a 4G LTE network. Also, 10 users can connect to the WIFI, which provides a relatively high internet speed even on 3G. It has a touch LCD screen where you can adjust some of the settings.

Furthermore, there’s a barcode on the screen to scan and download the mobile application of HUAWEI WiFi. Thus, setting the AT&T portable WIFI hotspot to work takes minutes. In brief, this model from Huawei is a suitable product for travelers who want a good connection at an affordable price.

It’s an AT&T portable WIFI device with all the basic features you want for your next trip.

• Works on 4G LTE and 3G
• Connects 10 devices at the same time
• Touch screen
• Barcode to install mobile app
• Battery life is short

RoamWiFi R10

If the number one priority for you is the battery life, then you should get RoamWiFi R10 . This AT&T portable WIFI box can provide over 18 hours of work with no need to charge, thanks to its 5000mAh battery. In fact, this is one of the most powerful batteries for AT&T mobile hotspot devices on this list.

Not only that, but also the R10 hotspot supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz. So, you can choose your preferred settings using the RomaWIFI application. Regarding the number of devices, it supports a maximum of 5 devices. Whereas the internet speed it’s capable of providing is around 400Mbps.

An AT&T portable WIFI hotspot that works in many regions and doesn’t need too much charging time.

• Powerful battery
• Covers many regions and countries
• Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• Uses much data
• Supports 5 devices only

Netgear Unite Explore AC815S

We are sure that travelers will find Netgear Unite Explore AC815S a perfect portable WIFI hotspot for different reasons. First, its battery life is a long one that lasts for almost a day. Further, it supports 15 devices. More importantly, the internet speed reaches 450Mbps, which is good enough to watch your favorite movies or play video games.

Similar to most Netgear AT&T mobile hotspot devices, it’s not a hectic job to get it to work. In fact, there’re no configuration setups required at all. If all you need is a practical AT&T portable WIFI box that provides a reliable internet connection, then this product is for you.

It supports 2.4G for everyday use and 5.8G for a high-speed connection, making it a perfect option for all travelers.

• Long-life for the battery
• Provides reliable connection
• Supports different networks
• Charging takes time

Netgear Nighthawk MR1100

A one-for-all device; an AT&T portable WIFI hotspot, a home WIFI router, and a WIFI connection booster. This is the Netgear Nighthawk MR1100 . If you don’t mind paying extra money to get a more professional service, get the Nighthawk MR1100 from Netgear.

With a 5040mAh battery and above 100Mbps internet speed, you can use this WIFI hotspot all day long. Even more, you don’t need to recharge it for almost a day. But what makes it stand out among others is the security features you have with this device. For example, you can filter certain content or block certain devices.

Professional WIFI hotspot with advanced features and high capabilities to suit heavy internet users.

• Connects up to 20 devices
• Advanced security and control features
• Can connect to a router to enhance internet connectivity
• Reliable internet speed and connectivity
• Device screen doesn’t provide many features

Netgear Orbi 4G LTE Mesh (LBR20)

Are you on a business trip and need a reliable internet connection for the whole group? Don’t think too much. Here is the answer; Netgear Orbi 4G LTE Mesh (LBR20) . Orbi model can cover an area of 2,000 sq. ft. and accepts more than 20 devices. Moreover, the internet speed can reach 2.2Gbps. Want more? Netgear offers a cyber-protection at additional prices for your network. So, no attackers can invade all the connected prices.

If you use this device at home or office, you can plug in the nearest devices as it has Ethernet ports. On another side, you can schedule the internet connection of this WIFI hotspot to prevent useless streaming. Also, you may filter some websites and set limitations for other devices. However, all come with additional prices.

Powerful capabilities and internet speed suitable for business travelers and groups.

• Very high internet speed
• Connects more than 20 devices
• Everything is controllable on the Orbi app.
• Has Ethernet ports
• Additional cyber-protection features
• Expensive price
• All features are paid

Netgear Nighthawk M1

When you want all the features in one product without trying several ones, go for Netgear Nighthawk M1 . Whatever your needs are, we guarantee this AT&T portable WIFI device will cover all these needs. M1 model hosts 20 devices at a time and offers 1Gbps speed. Further, the battery lasts for a day. Even when it needs charging, it recharges in no time as it’s compatible with Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0.

Other features include the Ethernet port to offload other WIFI connections. Additionally, the USB port allows for connecting other hard drives to share files. Finally, the display shows some useful information where the controls are available on the Netgear application.

A comprehensive WIFI hotspot can connect 20 devices at high speed and stable internet connection.

• USB and Ethernet portals
• High internet speed
• Connects 20 devices
• Low time for recharging
• Relatively large size

Author:  John P

As a blogger, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the most exclusive destinations, indulging in the finest cuisine, accommodations, and experiences that the world has to offer. From the chic streets Paris to the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, readers luxury. my, tips on the most exclusive hotels restaurants, and activities, giving you a glimpse into the world of high-end travel. But luxury travel is not just about extravagance - it's also about immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing the true essence of a destination. With a passion for art, history, and architecture, I seek out the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make each destination truly unique. So whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, my blog is your guide to the ultimate European luxury travel experience. Join me on my journey as we explore the best that Europe has to offer, one luxurious destination at a time.

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Android Police

How to set up an at&t hotspot on your phone.

Give data to your other devices wherever you are

No matter what phone you use, you need data. You need a cellular data plan to get that data when you're not home. AT&T is one of the best carriers . With some AT&T plans, you can use your smartphone, whether it's a budget phone or one of the best, to share data with your other devices using a hotspot. This guide helps you identify if you have an AT&T plan capable of creating a hotspot and how to use it.

Do I have an AT&T plan and a smartphone capable of a hotspot?

Not all plans are created equal. Only certain AT&T plans are eligible to create a hotspot. These plans include both current and grandfathered options:

• AT&T Unlimited Your Way Plans
• AT&T 4 GB Plans
• Unlimited & More Premium
• AT&T Mobile Share Plus
• AT&T Unlimited Plus Enhanced

Some AT&T plans are also eligible for add-on hotspot data. These plans are:

• Unlimited Premium
• Unlimited Extra
• Unlimited Starter
• Unlimited Elite
• Unlimited Plus
• Unlimited Enhanced Plus

Even if your plan is capable of creating a hotspot, you need to make sure your phone is capable. Checking if your phone is capable is different depending on whether you have an Android phone or an iPhone.

• Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Connections . If you see an option for Hotspot & Tethering , your phone is can create a hotspot.
• iOS: Go to Settings > Cellular . If you see the Personal Hotspot option, your phone can create a hotspot.

Now that you know your AT&T plan and smartphone are capable of a hotspot, it's time to set one up. The instructions are different, depending on whether you have an Android phone or iPhone.

How to set up a hotspot on an Android phone

To get your hotspot set up, start in the Settings app.

• Launch the Settings app.
• Go to Network & Internet or Connections , depending on your device.
• Turn on the Wi-Fi hotspot toggle.

Hotspot settings allow you to change the name, password, and other properties of the Wi-Fi network you create.

How to set up a hotspot on an iPhone

Setting up a hotspot on an iPhone is easier than on an Android phone.

• Open the Settings app.
• Select Cellular .
• Tap Personal Hotspot . If you don't see the Personal Hotspot option, tap Settings to see Personal Hotspot .

On the Personal Hotspot page, you'll see the settings for your hotspot, which you can change.

Get connected

Having access to a hotspot is great because it means you can share your cellular connection with all your devices. You need the right data plan, a smartphone, and the know-how to make it happen. Not all plans come with unlimited hotspot data, so it's good to keep track of your mobile data usage .

Home » Mobile

Best AT&T Hotspot Plans: Stay Connected on the Go

Get up to 50GB of hotspot data to use with an AT&T hotspot.

We may earn money when you click our links.

AT&T offers three unlimited plans with designated hotspot data ranging from 3GB with the base Unlimited Starter plan and maxing out at 50GB with the Unlimited Premium plan.

If you plan on using your hotspot data frequently, steer clear from the Unlimited Starter plan and its 3GB hotspot data allotment. There’s only a $20 per month difference between 3GB of hotspot data and a whopping 50GB of hotspot data. That’s about 16x the hotspot power for only about 1.3x more of the base price.

Off the bat we should mention that all of these cost significantly less when bundled together with a family plan. 

Quick guide to this article:

Unlimited Starter: 3GB of hotspot data

Unlimited extra: 15gb of hotspot data, unlimited premium: 50gb of hotspot data.

The first AT&T hotspot plan comes in at $65 a month and hooks you up with only 3GB of hotspot data each month. As a rule of thumb, one gigabyte of data translates to about an hour of internet usage –so, if you see yourself using your Wi-Fi hotspot for more than three hours a month, this plan likely isn’t going to work for you.

For $10 more per month than the Unlimited Starter plan, you get triple the amount of hotspot data. For most folks, 15GB of hotspot data likely hits the sweet spot where you have enough hotspot data to comfortably use it without stressing too much about hitting a data cap.

Every month, you can estimate about 15 hours of Wi-Fi hotspot usage, though that number could reduce dramatically if you use a Wi-Fi hotspot to download big files or install video games. But if you plan on using your hotspot for basic work activities like sending out emails, working out of your Google Drive, and the occasional Zoom meeting , you shouldn’t have too much trouble stretching your hotspot data all month long.

AT&T’s hotspot plans max out at 50GB of mobile hotspot data every month. This much hotspot data only makes sense for folks who routinely need a Wi-Fi connection while out and about. This hotspot plan can’t quite replace a home internet connection (check out T-Mobile 5G home internet if you wish it could), but it comes pretty close. Rest assured, with 50GB of mobile hotspot data, you can run Zoom meetings, play games online, and work from your laptop for hours on end from anywhere your phone can get a connection.

Along with the 50GB of hotspot data, this plan comes with a bunch of extra security features , including public Wi-Fi protection, that will make your hotspot connection safer. Your hotspot connection gets another layer of protection to make sure nobody can hack into your computer via your hotspot connection.

Going the family plan route pushes the price down to $50 a month per line:

Recap: AT&T hotspot plans

You’ve got three options for mobile hotspot data with your unlimited AT&T plans:

• AT&T Unlimited Starter : 3GB of mobile hotspot data for $65 per month or $35 per month with four or more lines.
• AT&T Unlimited Elite : 15GB of mobile hotspot data for $75 per month or $40 per month with four or more lines.
• AT&T Unlimited Premium : 50GB of mobile hotspot data for $85 per month or $50 per month with four or more lines.

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