The Best Mobile Hotspots of 2024

The Netgear Nighthawk is one of the best options you have for connectivity on the go. It can handle up to one-gigabit download speeds, as many as 20 connected devices, and upload speeds as high as 150 Mbps. And it’s got an all-day rechargeable battery, which should perform well for at least a year or two of regular use. With the exception of Sprint’s legacy network (and possibly AT&T), it should work with most SIM cards and carriers; just note that it doesn’t come with one installed.

The GlocalMe G4 Pro works in over 140 countries worldwide, offering great battery life and support for up to 10 connected devices. It’s contract free, so a SIM card’s entirely optional; simply toggle it to the cloud-data mode to access GlocalMe’s network. It may not work well in stormy conditions, and some users have complained about the customer service, but this should get you online in any region that hasn’t banned satellite-based Wi-Fi. It comes in five different color schemes, too.

Skyroam’s Solis Lite lets you connect up to 10 devices, SIM free, across North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. It’s user-friendly, but requires the Solis Wi-Fi app (on Android or iOS) to control. Speeds will vary depending on where you are, and you can’t use your usual network; you have to purchase data plans through Skyroam. The good news there is that you can get as little as a gigabyte of data for $6—or an unlimited 30-day pass for just $49 in the U.S. (or $99 globally).

The Jetpack MiFi hotspot is a safe bet for Verizon users, working well with your existing plan or a variety of other networks like AT&T and T-Mobile. It comes with built-in QuickCharge technology and should last for up to 24 hours. It’s reportedly great for rural areas with spotty coverage, and supports up to 15 devices. User reviews mainly warn that the customer service can be pretty poor. And you’ll have to purchase a SIM card separately.

This charming yellow gizmo costs less than $30, but its hotspot mode will let you connect to pretty much any public access point for secure, reliable Wi-Fi. It supports up to 300 Mbps download speeds, and comes with OpenVPN pre-installed for added privacy. It’s small and lightweight, but it doesn’t use a battery. You’ll have to power it with a USB cable, power bank, or 5V DC adapter, which means it’s best for hotels or restaurants where Wi-Fi and power outlets are abundantly available.