While we await the arrival of the infamous 5G, 4G routers are, to date, a great option to connect to the Internet via mobile phone networks, especially in areas without access to ADSL or fiber-optic connections.
Also, many of these devices are designed to travel with you, ensuring you can always connect your devices to the network. Also, as the first genuinely unlimited data rates are already starting to appear on the market.
These routers are also a fantastic alternative to connect to the Internet from your own home. However, despite the many and significant advantages of their use, it is a fact that they are still very unknown to the general public.
Right below we had listed out the best models of 4g routers.
Everything You Need to Know About 4G Routers
What Exactly Are 4G Routers?
4G routers are electronic devices that allow you to connect to the Internet via 3G and 4G mobile networks. In this way, they use SIM, micro SIM, or nano-SIM cards to join, just like mobile phones. They can also be used as portable routers, with all the advantages and conveniences of the case.
What Are the Main Advantages of 4G Routers?
4G routers are starting to become popular due to their significant advantages, and their price very similar to that of traditional models. For this reason, more and more people are opting to enter into 4G Internet contracts in their homes. If you want to know in detail what kind of advantages they offer, read on.
- They don’t need you to have a traditional phone line.
- They allow you to connect to the Internet in areas without ADSL and optical fiber.
- They are ideal for traveling, as you can connect to the Internet wherever you are, even in other European Union countries.
- They offer fast and very stable connections, superior to ADSL type connections.
- Unlike connections via ADSL or optical fiber, they do not require any installation and are extremely easy to configure. Just insert the SIM card to be able to navigate.
- You have an Internet connection even when you don’t have access to the power supply, as many models run on battery power.
- You can also use them with a prepaid rate. You don’t need to pay a fixed fee, as happens instead in the case of ADSL or fiber-optic connections.
Who Is Recommended to Buy a 4G Router?
It may be interesting for you to buy a 4G router for two main reasons: if you travel often, and you need to connect your devices to the Internet at any time, and if the area where you live does not have access to the network via ADSL or fiber optic, but is instead covered by 3G or 4G networks.
Also, it may be convenient to replace your fixed ADSL or fiber-optic connection with a 4G network connection if your usual data consumption is rather low. 4G routers are often used also in workshops and to connect boilers and thermostats so that they can be managed remotely via the 4G connection.
If I Already Have the Internet on My Mobile Phone, Do I Need a 4G Router?
If you usually need to connect multiple devices to the Internet via your SIM card’s 4G network, the answer is obviously yes. Connecting to your mobile phone can help you quickly when you need it.
But it doesn’t offer you the same performance and possibilities that a 4G router ensures, also allowing you to have your smartphone free for other purposes.
In this way, you will not consume the battery, you will be able to connect multiple devices at the same time, also, in some cases, via Ethernet cable, and the connection will be much more stable since generally the antennas of 4G routers are better than those of smartphones.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing
When buying a 4G router, it is essential to consider several purchase criteria to make sure you are purchasing the right product. To make the selection process easier.
We have chosen those that, in our opinion, is the most important. We did it to provide you with a practical guide that allows you to take full advantage of the value of money.
- Design and dimensions
- Data transmission speed
- Connections
- Battery autonomy
Design and Dimensions
In general, 4G routers are small in size; there are even smaller and lighter than a mobile phone. This aspect is of particular importance in case you want one to travel. In addition, some models come with a design that includes a practical screen, from which you can quickly access the essential information.
Data Transmission Speed
The data transmission speed is linked to the WiFi standards that are compatible with routers. Our advice is that you orient yourself on a product that offers, at a minimum, 802.11n WiFi compatibility. Remember that this standard has a speed range between 150 and 600 Mbps.
Obviously, even better if the router you purchase has 802.11ac WiFi connectivity, which can reach 1,300 Mbps. On the other hand, there are also some devices that allow the so-called dual-band, dual-band connection. In this way, some devices can be connected to the 2.4 GHz band and others to the 5.0 GHz band. Also, you can take advantage of both.
Connections
In addition to connecting via WiFi, it may be useful for the product to have an Ethernet cable connection. Another exciting option is that it includes a slot to insert a card and one or more USB ports. This will make it much easier for you to share some files with multiple users.
As for the number of devices that you can connect to, in general, you should have no problems. Most routers that are on the market give the possibility to connect numerous devices. There are even products that cover up to 32 external devices to connect.
Battery Autonomy
This is one of the most critical aspects when choosing a 4G router. In general, the maximum battery life you’ll find on the market is around ten hours.
However, it will also depend on the use you will make of the device, and in any case, ten hours should be enough for “emergency” situations where you do not have access to the electricity network.
