For serious gamers and those just trying to have a little fun, a good internet connection is usually key. There are a lot of offline game options, but with today’s increasingly connected world online games are growing more and more popular.
You may not always be at your home or near a reliable Wi-Fi connection, so you will need to invest in a mobile hotspot. This will ensure that you always have an internet connection at your side.
The best mobile hotspots for gaming are not all alike and there are several features you will want to look out for. You want it to provide reliable and fast processing.
You should also think about how it would support other devices, since you can use these for more than just gaming. This will help you get your money’s worth.
Mobile hotspots have a few different features to look for. Most importantly for gamers on the go are the speed and battery life. Features such as range, compatibility, and the number of devices the mobile hotspot can support at a time are also worth checking out.
Below is a table showcasing the best mobile hot spots for gaming.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | SPECIFICATION | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall |
Netgear Nighthawk M1 |
|
Check Best Price →Read Our Review |
Runner-Up |
ZTE Velocity |
|
Check Best Price →Read Our Review |
Value Pick |
Reliance WD670 |
|
Check Best Price →Read Our Review |
1. Netgear Nighthawk M1 – Best Overall
Our Pick
Pros
- Connect up to 20 devices
- 4G LTE and 1 gbps download speed
- Very long battery life (24 hours)
- Ethernet, USB, and SD ports
- Works with a variety of phone carriers
Cons
- Set up may be difficult
- May have issues with battery charging
Max Download Speed: 1 Gbps | Max Upload Speed: 150 Mbps | External Display: 2.4” LCD Panel | Battery Life: 19 Hours – 5040mAh Battery | Weight: 240 g (with battery) | Service Provider: Unlocked (Best On AT&T) | Wireless Type: 802.11ac | Number Of Devices Supported: 20 | Number Of Ports: 2
This is the best overall mobile hotspot for gaming on this list as well as the most expensive. That said, there are two different options for purchase. The more expensive option, Hotspot 4G LTE Gbits/s, is the more popular one. The Hotspot 4G/AC1200/Ecran Tacticle is much cheaper.
This mobile hotspot for gaming is unlocked meaning that it can connect to a variety of cell carriers. It allows you to connect up to 20 devices at a time. It also has a 1 GB Ethernet port so you can offload broadband usage where it is available.
It has a USB port and an SD port for data sharing and using external data.
This mobile hotspot is 4G LTE and has a download speed of 1 Gbps (gigabits per second). It has a much longer battery life than many other mobile hotspots, with 24 hours of active use battery life
2. ZTE Velocity – Runner up
Runner-Up
Pros
- Connect up to 10 devices
- 4G LTE and 150 mbps download speed
- Guest and dual band Wi-Fi
Cons
- Short battery life
- Does not work with all phone carriers
- May not work in some international locations
Max Download Speed: 150 Gbps | Max Upload Speed: 150 Mbps | Battery Life: 10 Hours Of Use – 2,800mAh Battery | Weight: 4.6 Ounces | Service Provider: Unlocked (Will Not Work On Verison Or Sprint) | Frequency Band Class: Dual-Band | Number Of Devices Supported: 10
The ZTE Velocity hotspot is another great option for a mobile hotspot. This mobile hotspot is GSM unlocked, meaning that it works with any GSM network micro SIM card. It will not work with CDMA carriers that do not use SIM cards. This includes Sprint, Verizon, Boost, and Virgin.
This mobile hotspot is a 4G LTE that can support dual band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). It has a download speed of 150 mbps and can support up to 10 devices at a time. It also has a separate guest Wi-Fi to enhance security.
It has a slightly shorter battery life than some others (10 hours) but can still support many hours of gaming.
3. Reliance WD670 – Best Value
Value Pick
Pros
- Connect up to 31 devices
- 4G LTE and 150 mbps download speed
- Average battery life
Cons
- Does not work with CDMA carriers
- Does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi
Max Download Speed: 150 Gbps | Max Upload Speed: 50 Mbps | Weight: 3.68 Ounces | Service Provider: AT&T And Cricket | Wireless Type: 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency | Number Of Devices Supported: 31
The Reliance WD670 is the cheapest mobile hotspot on this list but this does not take away its quality. This is a 4G LTE hotspot that is unlocked for all GSM carriers. It will not work with CDMA carriers. It does need a SIM card to work.
This mobile hotspot has a download speed of 150 mbps and connects to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. It has an upload speed of 50 mbps. It can support a variety of 4G LTE bands.
This mobile hotspot also has more connectivity options than others on this list. It is able to support the most devices of any hotspot reviewed here. You can connect up to 31 devices at a time. It has an average battery life that gets good reviews.
4. Skyroam Solis X – Best International
International Pick
Pros
- Connect up to 10 devices
- Built in 8MP camera
- 4G LTE
- Good battery life (16 hours)
- Multiple data plans available
Cons
- Speed decreases after 20 GB
- No SIM card slot
Speed: 4G LTE| Battery Life: 16+ Hours Of Use – 4700 mAh Power Bank | Weight: 10.2 Ounces |Connectivty: 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE| Number Of Devices Supported: 10 | Wi-Fi Network: 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4GHz+5GHz) | Size: 88mm x 23mm
The Skyroam Solis X Smartspot is a great mobile hotspot choice for gamers. It does not have a SIM slot, which is a trade-off, but this also means that it is not connected to any particular cell carrier. It has great coverage and provides 4G LTE is over 130 countries.
This mobile hotspot has a great battery life at 16 hours. This has a pay-as-you-go data plan. Unfortunately, the speed does slow down after 20 GB used. However, this resets every 30 days. You can also get a plan for unlimited connectivity.
This hotspot is able to connect up to 10 devices at a time. It is also unique as it has a camera built in for recording, live streaming, and more. It is an 8MP camera with viewing angles, flash, and a self-timer.
5. GlocalMe G4 Pro – Best For Travel
Best For Travel
Pros
- Connect up to 5 devices at a time
- Multiple data plans available
- 4G and 150 mbps download speed
- Good battery life (15 hours)
Cons
- No SIM card slot
- Data plans are more expensive than usual
Maximum Download Speed: 150 MBps | Maximum Upload Speed: 50 MBps | Connectivity: WLAN | Wireless Communication: 802.11b | Operating System: Android | Control Method: App | Battery Life: 15 Hours Of Use | Weight: 14.4 Ounces | Number Of Devices Supported: 5
The GlocalMe G4 Pro comes from a popular mobile hotspot brand. It is a good choice for gamers for its fast speed and great data plans. It is 4G and has a download speed of 150 mbps and upload speed of 50 mbps. It has 15 hours of battery life.
This hotspot comes with 1 GB of global data and 8 GB of North American data. It also has an app where you can manage data plans and access special offers. Like the Solis X, the G4 Pro has a pay-as-you-go plan available.
This hotspot allows you to connect up to 5 devices at a time. It has network optimization to reduce congestion and ensure continued connectivity. It does not have a SIM card slot.
6. Nommi Mobile Hotspot – Best Battery Life
Best For Battery Life
Pros
- Fantastic battery life (48 hours)
- Connect up to 10 devices at a time
- VPN
- Can work as a Wi-Fi extender
- Pay-as-you-go data plan
Cons
- Only 10-25 mbps
- Does not work with all cell carriers
Speed: 10-25 MBps Depending On Mobile Operator | Weight: 8.3 Ounces |Battery Life: 48 Hours – 10000 mAh Power Bank| Service Provider: Unlocked (Works With Verizon, T-Mobile, Mint SIM Cards) | Number Of Devices Supported: 10 | Extra Features: Wi-Fi Extender, Powerbank, Built-in VPN
The Nommi Power is a great choice for gamers with a need for long battery life. This mobile hotspot has a 48 hour battery life and is also able to charge your other devices. It has a built in VPN and can connect up to 10 devices at a time. It is unlocked to be compatible with Verizon, T-Mobile, and Mint SIM cards.
This hotspot does have slower speeds than other hotspots on this list, but they mostly fall within the suggested range for gaming. Depending on your data plan, the speed will be different. They are in the range of 10-25 mbps and there is a pay-as-you-go data plan available.
The built in VPN helps to ensure additional security. This mobile hotspot can also act as a Wi-Fi hotspot extender for already established signals.
7. MightyWifi V2 Cloud – Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
Pros
- Decent battery life (13 hours)
- Free 50 GB US data and 3 GB global data for first 30 days
- 4G LTE
- Connect up to 5 devices at a time
Cons
- No SIM card slot
- Speeds slow after GB cap is reached
Max Download Speed: 150 Gbps | Max Upload Speed: 50 Mbps | Battery Life: 12-14 Hours – 5000 mAh rechargeable battery | Weight: 7 Ounces |Wireless Communication: 802.11n, 802.11a, 802.11ac | Number Of Devices Supported: 10 | Connectivity Technology: USB, WLAN | Frequency Bands Supported: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
The MightyWifi V2 Cloud is a good choice for gamers. It has a variety of data plans available. It also comes with a free 50 GB of US data and 3 GB of global data for the first 30 days. This hotspot has to be activated through the company’s website in order for it to work. There is an app available to manage your data plans.
This hotspot does not require a SIM card to work. Speed and strength of the signal will vary depending on your specific area but you can check their website to determine coverage. In general, it does provide 4G LTE.
This mobile hotspot for gaming has a decent battery life at 13 hours. It is able to connect up to 10 devices at a time.
8. GlocalMe U2S – Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
Pros
- Decent battery life (13 hours)
- Connect up to 5 devices at a time
- Speed 4G and 150 mbps download
Cons
- No SIM card slot
- Data plans are more expensive than usual
Max Download Speed: 150 Gbps | Max Upload Speed: 50 Mbps | Battery Life: 13 Hours – 3,500 mAh Li-ion battery | Weight: 5.3 Ounces |WLAN Standard: IEEE802.11b/g/n | Number Of Devices Supported: 5 | Ports: USB 2.0 Port/ MicroUSB 2.0 Port | SIM Slot: 1 x Standard SIM Slot, 1 x Micro SIM Slot | Size: 127 x 65.7 x 14.2mm
The GlocalMe U2S is another popular mobile hotspot from the GlocalMe company. It provides 4G internet and has a download speed of 150 mbps and upload speed of 50 mbps. Again, this company focuses on network optimization so as to reduce congestion.
This mobile hotspot does not have a SIM card slot. You are able to connect up to 5 devices at a time. It has a 13 hour battery life.
This hotspot comes with 8 GB of North American data and 1.1 GB of global data. There are a variety of data plans available, including a pay-as-you-go data plan.
Best Mobile Hotspot For Gaming Buying Guide
You have just been given a list of 8 great suggestions for the best mobile hotspots for gaming. But, you might be wondering what exactly makes them so great. There are actually several key features to be on the lookout for when shopping for mobile hotspots.
Data Transmission Speed:
This refers to the process of transferring data between devices. In this case, we are talking about the hotspot connection. These speeds are generally labeled in terms of generation of technology. When buying mobile hotspots for gaming, you should look for one that is either 4G or 4G LTE. 4G is faster so that would be the better option, but both are sufficient for most games.
Mbps:
This stands for megabits per second and refers to the way that bandwidth and throughput are measured. In laymen’s terms, this simply refers to internet speed. The more mbps you have the better, especially for gamers. However, at minimum, you should have at least 3-6 mbps.
Battery Life:
This just refers to how long the device will work before needing to be charged. This comes down to personal preference but you should not have any issues as most mobile hotspots can last for at least 10 hours or more.
Compatibility:
Some of the best mobile hotspots for gaming require a SIM card in order to work. These are provided by your cell phone carrier. Not all hotspots are compatible with all SIM cards, though. You will need to check the specific product for compatibility with your SIM card.
Price:
This can vary depending on the specific product and its features. In general you can expect to spend between $100 and $150 for your hotspot.
Data Usage:
Games will use a lot more data (measured in GB) than your typical internet activities. For this, you should simply try to find a plan with as much data available in your price range. This will allow you to play longer.
Device Connectivity:
You may also wish to connect multiple devices to the hotspot at once. Most of the best mobile hotspots can support 5 or 10 devices at a time, but some can support even more. This also goes back to compatibility where, for example, not all phones can be connected to all hotspots.
Security tools:
Does the device offer data monitoring, WPA3 or VPN to protect your data? If so how long is the activation password for each of those security features and what kind if encryption does it use (Wired Equivalent encryption)?
Network Coverage:
What are the coverage speeds in your area? Is it too slow for you, or does everyone else seem fine with their connection? These questions can tell if a certain network is right for you and others may need something faster than what’s available where they live!
Plan Offerings:
The best way to ensure your gaming experience is smooth and without lag, it’s important that you find an internet plan with fast and unlimited download speeds. A lot of people play games on their computer or laptop so having bandwidth-heavy applications can cause buffering for others in the household who use less powerful devices such as smartphones, tablets.
Try looking at plans which offer generous data allowances but also have lower peak hour usage charges when they’re busiest!
Ease of Use:
The best way to enjoy your high-speed WiFi is by using a hotspot that’s simple and easy. Some mobile hotspots can be too complicated in their setup, so make sure you know about all of the steps beforehand!
Related: Best Ethernet Adapter for Nintendo Switch
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Mobile Hotspots Good For Gaming?
A: It is not the ideal or best way, but if you don’t have a good wifi connection at home or want to game on the go a mobile hotspot is a great solution.
Q: How Long Does 10GB Of Hotspot Data Last For Gaming?
A: It depends on what game you are playing, but some games like World Of Warcraft can use as little as 10MB per hour when playing alone in the world. When you are playing with and around other players that number can increase to around 40MB per hour. On the other hand, the popular game developer Bungie claims “the average data usage for Destiny is up to 1GB per hour”. So if you want to find out if 10GB of data will last you a month you will need to find out the data usage of the games you will be playing and how many hours you play in a given month.
Q: Is 4G Fast Enough For Online Gaming?
A: The average download speed for a 4G LTE connection is between 5 and 12 Mbps with outliers reaching up to 50 MBPS. The minimum download speed to play online games is 3 MBps which means you can fairly comfortably game using a 4G connection. The download speed required will differ from game to game so make sure to keep that in mind.
Q: Who Has The Best Mobile Hotspot Plan?
A: If you are looking for the best coverage you should go with Verizon and if you are looking to get the most data allotment per month you should go with AT&T. Both service providers are fairly expensive, but if you go with a budget option like Visible you will be sacrificing both speed and coverage.
Conclusion
So you can see you do have a wide variety of choices for the best mobile hotspot. These will likely not match up to home internet connectivity, but they can still provide a great connection for gamers. Keep in mind features that will enhance the connectivity speed and battery life and you should be set for success.
We highly recommend the Netgear Nighthawk M1 if you are serious about your gaming internet speed.
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