Travelers, RVers, students, and remote workers stay connected from anywhere with mobile hotspot devices. Will a hotspot work for you?
Jump to:
- Best mobile hotspot devices
- Best Verizon hotspot
- Best AT&T hotspot
- Best T-Mobile hotspot
- Best hotspot for international travel
- Best mobile hotspot data plans
- Our verdict
- Mobile hotspot FAQ
If you’re a frequent traveler or road warrior, a mobile hotspot can be an excellent way to carry your own secure Wi-Fi with you wherever you go. You can stay connected when you’re working or studying remotely, on vacation, or traveling coast to coast in an RV with this handy device.
Some companies offer reimbursement for mobile hotspots and data plans. If you’re required to work from home and don’t have good internet service in your area, check with your employer to see if your company will cover some or all of your plan.
The COVID-19 pandemic has enabled a lot of professionals to work remotely—from doctors to designers—and sent many students home to learn remotely. This has created a gaping need for better bandwidth in America’s homes. Mobile hotspots can help solve this issue, particularly for those who live in remote areas and don’t have cable or fiber networks running to their homes.
Best mobile hotspot devices
| Best Verizon hotspot | Best AT&T hotspot | Best T-Mobile hotspot | Best hotspot for international travel |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |   |
| Ellipsis® Jetpack® MHS900L | NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot | Franklin T9 Mobile Hotspot | Skyroam Solis X WiFi Smartspot |
| $79.99 or $3.33/mo.* | $349.99 | $90 or $3.75/mo.* | $179.99 (buy) or $8.99/day (rent) |
| View on Verizon | View on AT&T | View on T-Mobile | View on Amazon |
*with a 2-year contract.
Data as of 2/11/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
What is a mobile hotspot?
A mobile hotspot is a small device you can use as a Wi-Fi connection and carry with you wherever you go. It’s essentially a mobile router for cellular data. To use one, you’ll need to pay for data service in addition to purchasing the mobile hotspot. Most hotspots can be purchased up front or paid for through a monthly device payment plan.
A mobile hotspot devices give travelers and mobile workers a reliable way to stay connected while on-the-go. A hotspot delivers secure internet anywhere you have a cellphone signal. Since they require their own data plan, mobile hotspot devices won’t eat up your cellphone’s data allowance. Some mobile hotspots, like the Skyroam Solis X, are designed for international travel and can be purchased or rented on a daily basis.
All of our recommended mobile hotspots permit simultaneous Wi-Fi connection to 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands, which gives you the flexibility to find the fastest connection in your area.
Ellipsis® Jetpack® MHS900L
Best for Verizon customers
If you’re traveling around the US—or just working from home for a bit—the Verizon Ellipsis® Jetpack® MHS900L is an excellent option. It’s lightweight and easy to pack with you, whether you’re doing homework in Central Park or traveling the country in an RV.
This Wi-Fi mobile hotspot connects you to the most powerful mobile network in the country—although a heads up: hotspot data with Verizon is a little pricey. Getting 40 GB of data for your Verizon hotspot will cost $150.
- $79.99 or $3.33/mo. for 2 yrs.
- Connects up to 8 devices
- 10 hour battery life
- Bright LED display
- 4G LTE, 4G, and 3G
- Works with dual-band Wi-Fi
Pro tip
If you’re a Verizon customer, you can get the best price on data for a mobile hotspot by adding a second line. You’ll get a 50% discount on a line used for a device. The mobile hotspot data limit will apply to any data plan used with a device, though. So 30 GB is the most data you can get this way through Verizon. Still, it’s much cheaper than paying for data by the GB.
NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot
Best AT&T hotspot
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot is a robust travel router that connects up to 20 devices simultaneously. It supports 4G LTE and 5G speeds (where available), although it is quite a bit heavier and clunkier than other devices on our list. Still, that extra weight comes mostly from the long-lasting battery, which is helpful while traveling.
One unique feature to the NETGEAR Nighthawk is that it includes antenna ports. We really like this because it gives you a way to strengthen weak signals with a booster or antenna. Also, it can run off battery or be plugged directly into an outlet, which is handy for folks planning to park it in a stationary location for long-term use. (“I love having to remember to crawl under my desk every night to charge my router,” said no one ever.)
Like many carriers, AT&T offers monthly data packages to use with your hotspot, or you can get contract-free data service called AT&T prepaid data just for times when you need it. AT&T will probably try to sell you on a monthly data plan, though, which will lock you into paying for data service every month for 2 years. If you’ll be using the device intermittently for traveling, we recommend buying the device up front and using AT&T prepaid data, since it’s contract-free.
*Data as of 2/17/2020. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
- $277.99*
- Connects up to 20 devices
- Features hyperextended 24-hour battery life
- Includes full-color display
- Supports data speeds up to 1 GB
- Features internal memory storage up to 512 MB
- Can be used outside the US (but roaming charges apply)
Pro tip
AT&T prepaid data plans are a great way to avoid paying a monthly fee for a mobile hotspot you use only for vacations or other seasonal travel.
Prepaid is more expensive per GB of data than a monthly data-only plan, but most people save a lot of money using prepaid because they only use the hotspot for part of the year.
Franklin T9 Mobile Hotspot
Best for T-Mobile customers
For remote workers and frequent travelers, the Franklin T9 Mobile Hotspot is worth investigating. It offers affordable data packages that can keep business travelers, remote workers, and RVers connected as they explore the country.
It doesn’t work anywhere outside of the US though. And since it operates on the T-Mobile network, the coverage area is smaller than you’d get with Verizon or AT&T. In major cities and metro areas, you’ll get great coverage but it may not be the best option if you do a lot of off-roading or camping. Also, it’s worth noting that this affordably-priced mobile hotspot isn’t 5G enabled. 4G LTE data is fast enough to watch a movie during a layover, but it isn’t going to knock your socks off like 5G speeds.
* Data as of 2/17/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
- $90 or $3.75/mo. for 24 months
- Connects up to 15 devices
- Pocket sized
- 3G, 4G, 4G LTE
- Includes 256 MB internal memory
- Affordable device and data packages
Pro tip
T-Mobile hotspot data is much more affordable than data with AT&T or Verizon. And, T-Mobile gives you enough data that you could actually use it as your home internet connection.
You can get 100 GB of data with T-Mobile for $50 per month. To compare, Verizon charges $150 per month for just 40 GB of data. Pink just got even more attractive, right?
Skyroam Solis X WiFi Smartspot
Best for international travel
The Skyroam Solis X is our top pick for frequent international travelers. Although this portable Wi-Fi device doesn’t include quite as many countries as the Verizon Jetpack (130 versus 185), Skyroam’s data is more affordable. You can buy data by the gig, by the day, or in 1-month or 2-month packs. And for those who make frequent trips every month, there’s a monthly price that beats Verizon’s Jetpack hands down.
You can buy a Skyroam Solis X for under $200, or rent one for $9 per day (which includes daily unlimited data). We really like the rental option and recommend it to people who travel internationally.
Within the US, Skyroam’s data rates are rather expensive. So, if you primarily travel within the country, we recommend a mobile hotspot device with AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, since you’ll get more data at lower rates. But if your travel extends into South America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, you’ll have a better experience with Skyroam Solis X.
*Data as of 2/17/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
- Connects up to 10 devices
- Works in over 130 countries around the world
- Permits simultaneous Wi-Fi connection to 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands
- Features battery life of 16+ hours
- Offers flexible data packages: pay by the day, gig, or month
- Includes bonus features like like smart assistant, remote camera, and power bank to charge your devices
Pro tip
If you use a lot of data, data on Skyroam is cheaper by the month than by the GB.
You can get unlimited data for a month for $49, but if you buy your data by the GB, it’s $6/GB. If you use 50 GB of data in one month, you’ll run up a $300 bill.
So, for most folks, it’s less painful to pick Skyroam’s unlimited data plan from the start.
Choosing a mobile hotspot data plan
The most economical data plan you can get for your mobile hotspot is usually bundled with your cellphone carrier. For instance, Verizon offers a mobile hotspot data plan for $10-$15 per month to current Verizon customers. But if you get it alone, it will cost $60 per month.
If you travel to parts of the country where a different carrier offers better coverage than your cellphone carrier, getting a hotspot plan with another carrier can be a good idea. This would give you multiple data choices wherever you go. Often, RVers who travel through different parts of the country have phone and hotspot plans with different carriers to get the widest combined coverage area between both devices.
Best mobile hotspot data plans
Pricing current as of 2/17/2021 and includes auto-pay discount, when applicable.
Our verdict
Within the US, T-Mobile offers the most economical mobile hotspot and data packages—data averages 33 cents for each GB of data. We recommend T-Mobile to folks looking for an affordable mobile hotspot for Wi-Fi on the go.
But, Verizon and AT&T offer better coverage than T-Mobile, so you might get better service with a hotspot through one of these carriers. After all, if you are trying to use a mobile hotspot in an area without T-Mobile service, it won’t matter how much data you have left on your monthly plan—it just won’t work.
So even though data caps matter, check out cellular coverage maps in areas you’ll be using the mobile hotspot. Sometimes, you’ll just get a better experience with AT&T or Verizon. For those who travel outside T-Mobile’s major coverage areas, we’d recommend going with another carrier. AT&T and Verizon are best for far-ranging travelers within the US (including small towns and rural areas), while Skyroam is our top pick for international travelers.
Pro tip
Sprint is currently offering a special on their MiFi 8000 device, which is usually $10/mo. for 24 months. Right now, you can get it for $2.50/mo. Add a 30 GB data plan for $10/mo. and you’ve got a mobile hotspot for less than $15/mo.
Another thing we like about the Sprint MiFi plan is that you can rollover up to 50 GB of data per month, so you can stock up a bit before heading out on the road. Plus, if you have cellphone service with Sprint, you may have up to 100 GB of additional personal hotspot data on some plans.
But Sprint’s mobile hotspot isn’t good for everybody. Sprint’s coverage area is smaller than Verizon or AT&T. If you travel outside major metro areas, you may not have good service. For those who travel outside Sprint’s major coverage areas, we’d recommend going with another carrier. AT&T and Verizon are best for far-ranging travelers within the US, while Skyroam is our top pick for international travelers.
Mobile hotspot FAQ
How does a mobile hotspot work?
A mobile hotspot device works like a portable modem and router. It captures available mobile data and broadcasts the internet connection to multiple devices. You need to have a cellular data plan to use a mobile hotspot.
When do I need a mobile hotspot?
You need a mobile hotspot when you want a reliable internet connection that can travel with you. Mobile hotspot devices are popular with business travelers because many companies reimburse for mobile hotspot service but not mobile phone expenses. RVers and people with vacation homes also rely on mobile hotspots to stay connected. Remote worksites use portable hotspots to connect up to 20 employees with one device.
Can I use my mobile phone as a hotspot instead of getting a mobile hotspot device?
You can use your mobile phone as a hotspot if you turn on the hotspot feature. (Check out this article for more details: Should You Use Your Mobile Phone for Home Internet?) It’s not a free-for-all: mobile providers restrict the amount of data you can use while hotspotting, but it can work for some people.
If you travel only occasionally, you might not need a separate mobile hotspot device—using your cellphone’s hotspot may be all you need. But if you work on the road or take road trips in your RV every weekend, we recommend getting a mobile hotspot device and a flexible data plan.
Can I use a mobile hotspot in backcountry areas?
A mobile hotspot won’t work in backcountry areas unless you have a cellphone signal. Some hotspots have antenna ports, such as the NETGEAR Nighthawk. It’s possible to boost service and strengthen a weak signal by attaching an extender or antenna to your mobile hotspot, but you can boost service only if you have a signal in the first place. For more information, check out the Portable Internet Guide.
How much is a mobile hotspot?
Mobile hotspot devices range in price from about $50 to $350. Data fees are billed separately, starting around $10 per month.
How can I use a mobile hotspot without paying for a data plan every month?
You can avoid paying for a data plan every month by getting a prepaid or pay-as-you-go data plan. Some plans offer data by the gig, by the day, or by the month. Some devices can even be rented on a daily basis like the Skyroam Mobile Hotspot, which gives you the use of the device and unlimited data for $8.99 per day.
Where can I get an unlimited mobile hotspot plan?
Sprint offers an unlimited hotspot plan—but before you get too excited let’s explain what “unlimited” means. You’ll get a metered amount of full speed data, and then your data will be slowed to 2 G speeds (remember the early 2000’s, when you had a flip phone you used for calls and text messages?). Once you hit the data threshold, and your data slows to these speeds, you’ll still get to use an unlimited amount of data but it will be really slow..
If you’re looking for unlimited mobile hotspot data, you’ll come across several plans that are marketed as unlimited, but this just means that after you’ve used up your monthly data allotment, you can still use reduced-speed data until the next billing cycle.
Which mobile hotspots have the best battery life?
The Sprint MiFi 8000 and the NETGEAR Nighthawk mobile hotspots have the best battery life—up to 24 hours on one charge. Some portable Wi-Fi devices have a battery life of 8 hours or less, which often isn’t practical for full-time travelers and road warriors. A few devices (like the NETGEAR Nighthawk) give you the option of plugging into the wall or using battery power, which is helpful while traveling or when using a mobile hotspot for home internet.
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. SatelliteInternet.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.
