The Benefits of Portable WiFi Mobile Hotspots
How many pockets do frequent travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads need in 2025? Only a couple it seems, including one pocket for your portable WiFi hotspot router.
NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 and M6 Pro & AT&T M7 portable hotspots are the smart alternative to public WiFi and smartphone tethering.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Why Use a Portable Hotspot Instead of Tethering?
Phone tethering, AKA “WiFi Sharing” or “Personal hotspot” is the ability for phones with the appropriate cell plan to share their Internet connection through WiFi to other devices. Phone tethering is generally used for essential devices such as iPads, android tablets and laptops lacking 5G radios, or when the public WiFi is unreliable, or potentially unsafe. Phone tethering technology can work in a pinch, but if you find yourself relying on it often, you might consider the alternative – a dedicated 5G Mobile Hotspot or Mobile Router.
5G Mobile Hotspots are the superior choice to tethering for speed, security and reliability, and even compared to earlier mobile hotspot devices. The latest NETGEAR Nighthawk mobile routers can connect with up to 32 devices in a secure and private network at multi-gigabit speeds. NETGEAR portable hotspots are technically advanced and cost-effective for anyone who needs internet access while on the move for travel, business, or remote living.
Portable WiFi Hotspot Advantages
There are a lot of technical and practical advantages that come with owning a NETGEAR portable WiFi hotspot router.
Nighthawk Hotspots benefits:
- Compact, battery-powered mobile routers for 24/7 internet connection
- Powerful battery endurance compared to sharing with a phone
- SIM-enabled for 4G/5G connectivity in 125 countries worldwide on select models
- Ideal for use in vehicles, hotels, airports, and remote sites
- Optional In Home Performance Mode or “Plugged in Mode” can double hotspot WiFi range
- Optional Add-on Omnidirectional Antenna with up to 2.5dB gain to squeeze ever last drop cellular range
Phone Tethering Disadvantages
You might be asking – “Why not just use Phone Tethering?”. WiFi networks in 2025 are getting bigger and more complex. The latest 5G portable hotspots can access blazing-fast WiFi 6E and WiFi 7, while phone tethering can only support a few devices at short range and might struggle to keep up with the needs of modern WiFi devices.
Disadvantages of cell phone tethering include:
- Battery drain and overheating on phones
- Limitations on connections and data throttling
- Possible interruption during calls or texts
- Costly international roaming charges
Top Features of the NETGEAR M6, M6 Pro & M7 (ATT&T)
M6 and M6 Pro are ideal for high-speed internet on the go. They are so powerful they can even be used as the primary home, apartment or hotel WiFi network router, perfect for people who relocate often. Today’s deals from internet service providers include affordable unlimited data usage plans for mobile WiFi hotspots, the superior alternative to public WiFi, or even your wired ISP.
Nighthawk M6 Mobile Hotspot
The Nighthawk M6 mobile hotspot delivers high-performance and secure 5G internet with blazing-fast WiFi 6 technology at home or on the go. This device is unlocked and certified to work with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Swap SIM cards and data plans in seconds.
- WiFi 6, up to 2.5Gbps speed
- Connects up to 32 devices
- 13-hour battery life
- Coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft.
- Perfect for work, streaming, or smart home backup
Nighthawk M6 Pro – Advanced Connectivity
The Nighthawk M6 Pro offers secure and lightning-fast 5G mmWave internet with WiFi 6E technology at home or wherever your travels take you. This device works in over 125 countries and via the best international carriers, keeping you connected around the world. Swap SIM cards and data plans in seconds.
- WiFi 6E + 5G mmWave up to 8Gbps
- Supports 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Global SIM support (125+ countries)
- Ideal for high-traffic environments or mobile businesses
Nighthawk M7 WiFi 7 Hotspot for AT&T
Introducing the world’s First WiFi 7 5G Mobile Hotspot, the Nighthawk M7 Pro MR7400! The Nighthawk M7 Pro AT&T Mobile Hotspot Router includes 5G Sub-6 with up to 6Gbps and WiFi 7 speeds up to 6.4Gbps. Nighthawk M7 Pro is challenging the norms of mobile wireless internet.
Extend Your Coverage with External Antennas
Cell tower coverage continues to grow at a rapid rate worldwide, but occasionally you might be in a place with less than ideal reception, even for a hotspot. In this case an unlocked 5G WiFi hotspot with a removable external antenna can dramatically improve WiFi reception and increase wireless coverage. NETGEAR Omnidirectional MIMO antennas are particularly useful in remote and rural areas where cell tower reception is weak. Omnidirectional MIMO Antennas also improve internet connections in buildings and built-up areas. Simply connect the antenna to your 3G/4G/5G modem or mobile hotspot.
Portable Nighthawk WiFi Use Cases:
- Best portable WiFi routers for remote workers and freelancers
- WiFi 6E/7 travel routers with long battery life for RV and van life
- Emergency internet backup with strong connectivity
- Smart home support and optional power bank for 24/7 connectivity
- Secure mobile hotspot for international travel
Why NETGEAR Nighthawk Hotspots Lead the Way
NETGEAR Nighthawk Hotspots offer the speed, security, and convenience needed for modern living. NETGEAR has been a wireless technology pioneer since the 1990s, when WiFi was first introduced to consumers on a commercial scale. The NETGEAR reputation remains strong, including market-leading mobile WiFi technology. The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 and Nighthawk M6 Pro are the latest in the evolution of seamless mobile WiFi hotspots for high-demand applications and environments.
What’s the difference between M6 and M6 Pro?
The M6 offers excellent 5G WiFi Hotspot sub-6 performance and WiFi 6, while the M6 Pro 5G router supports mmWave 5G, faster speeds (up to 8Gbps), and WiFi 6E. M6 Pro is best for high-demand environments.
Can I use these hotspots internationally?
Yes, especially the M6 Pro, which supports roaming in over 125 countries. Make sure to check for a compatible SIM card and data plan.
How many devices can connect to these hotspots?
Both M6 and M6 Pro support up to 32 devices simultaneously – ideal for families, small teams, or tech-heavy households.
Is a portable WiFi router better than using my phone as a hotspot?
Yes. Portable routers like the M6 deliver stronger signals, higher data throughput, longer battery life, and do not interrupt your phone’s other functions.
Do I need a specific carrier?
No. These devices are unlocked and compatible with major U.S. carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Simply insert a SIM and you’re ready. Check with your provider for further details.
Can I use the M6 or M6 Pro as my home internet?
Absolutely. Many users use these as a primary connection or as a backup for when fixed broadband fails. Especially handy in this case is the plugged-in In-Home Performance mode.
