TOP 6 best routers with a 4G SIM card according to customer reviews

A 4G router with a SIM card is the most convenient option in this situation. They are presented in several versions - from mobile models with a small coverage area and their own battery to devices that can operate from a SIM card or wired connection, which makes them more versatile. However, there is another option - a router with support for a mobile modem. It is convenient if you already have a 4G modem and want to start distributing Wi-Fi through it. Which option you ultimately buy depends on your personal needs. Our selection will tell you about the best routers with support for SIM cards or LTE modems, which will make it easier for you to make the final choice.

HUAWEI E8372H-153

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 150 Mbps

Price: from 3,900 rubles

The HUAWEI E8372H-153 USB router is a fairly inexpensive option for distributing the Internet in small spaces. The device supports SIM cards from any providers and works in LTE networks. The model is quite compact - you can simply carry it with you. In case of poor signal, it is possible to connect an external antenna via the TS-5 connector. The router supports connecting up to 10 devices simultaneously and has a proprietary application for control via a smartphone. The manufacturer guarantees reliable network reception even on the road. HUAWEI E8372H-153 is great for dachas, where the airwaves are not noisy; in city apartments, the quality of the Wi-Fi connection is worse, as there is a lot of interference.

Advantages:

• Reliable signal reception.
• Easy setup.
• There are many firmwares on the Internet to expand capabilities.
• Works with any operators.
• Compact sizes.

Flaws:

• Not the best option for use in the city, as interference degrades the quality of distribution.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router with a SIM card

As we mentioned above, the need for a 4G Wi-Fi router for a long vacation for several days will not be the same as for users who only need it on the way to work or the countryside. Accordingly, it is necessary to purchase the appropriate equipment for different tasks. The router market is essentially divided into three types; we recommend that you familiarize yourself with tips for choosing them:

• The best-selling, simple devices that create a hotspot thanks to a built-in SIM card receive power from the device to which they are connected. The equipment looks like a regular flash drive.
• Another type of popular model is also very portable, suitable for use on the road, it allows you to connect the Internet to several gadgets using a SIM card. They do not need to be plugged into an outlet as they have a built-in battery. These products are perhaps the best in terms of price and quality ratio.
• The best 4G devices have a format similar to traditional routers. They require electricity from the network, can, in addition to a SIM card, work as a standard router, connect to ADSL, have a large number of LAN ports, better power

Below we look at the table of Wi-Fi band standards and the corresponding speed limits:

Standard	Frequencies, GHz	Theoretical maximum speed, Mbit/s
802.11a	5	54
802.11b	2,4	11
802.11 g	2,4	54
802.11n (Wi-Fi 4)	2,4 and 5	600
802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5)	5	1,3
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)	2,4 and 5	10

If mobility is important and you use the gadget only in public places or on the road, it is recommended to use the first option. When you need to move to the country, and the size of the equipment does not matter much, you should rely on the other two models. They allow you to place them fixedly, using non-slip surfaces; furniture will not only fulfill its direct function, but also please the eye.

The outer case must be resistant to shocks and falls, protect the electronic components inside, have sufficient ventilation, and have a beautiful design. If you want your router to be able to access the Internet anywhere, in a park or on a train, it is important that it has a good battery. Buy a router that can work autonomously for about eight hours; as a rule, this will allow you to use gadgets all day. If you intend to purchase equipment for a summer cottage or a tourist trip, you must select a model of Wi-Fi router that connects to the electrical network.

Today, 5G networks are being actively implemented, so it is worth purchasing routers and mobile phones with the prospect of using them. New generation technologies are brought to life by the best manufacturers in 4G LTE (4G+) models. Below you can see the maximum theoretical Internet speeds and minimum delays:

4G	4+G	5G
Speed, Mbps	200	1200	10000
Ping (signal delay), m/sec	100	20	1-2.

When purchasing a product, you should focus on download speeds exceeding 150 Mbit/s. This will allow you to enjoy streaming broadcasts (HD), fast loading of any information or online games that require the transfer of a significant amount of data. Of course, it is important to consider that Internet speed depends on the network (operator) and signal strength. There are 4G routers that are compatible with 3G technology, if you are interested in such a network, it is important to check with the seller for information.

Popular brands are distinguished not only by their advanced ranges and frequencies, but you also need to pay attention to duplex. This technology defines the transmission of information, "FDD" or "TDD" (frequency or time division). "FDD" is used in Europe, and "TDD" is used mainly by China and some US operators.

Depending on the type of equipment purchased, there are some restrictions on the number of gadgets connected to it, so it is important to carefully study the characteristics. If you need a solution for one computer, just look at the simplest models; they can be placed in a case, replacing a traditional router.

The next point that is important to consider is the signal range of the received devices. If you purchase a router that operates on one frequency, and a console, tablet or smart TV operates on another, you will not be able to connect them. In general, it is better to buy equipment with a large number of available frequencies - this will ensure that they operate efficiently. The most advanced models have technologies capable of forming a concentrated beam to improve the signal, thanks to the orientation of the energy emitted by the antennas.

Most SIM card routers designed for home use offer configuration menus similar to traditional routers. In it you can change the bandwidth, network access password, and the number of connected users. The most portable devices have nothing but a USB connector and a SIM card slot. More advanced routers read SD cards, have integrated USB ports that allow you to stream content to other computers, and can be charged from a power bank.

Models with a desktop design, which support connection to the home network via cable, have 1 Gbps Ethernet ports, LAN for connecting TVs, laptops and WAN for the Internet from the operator’s modem.

Alcatel Link Zone

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 150 Mbps

Price: 3,800 rubles.

The 4G router from Alcatel is a portable model with its own battery designed for 6 hours of battery life. The device is compact and supports SIM cards from any providers. The model has built-in antennas, but under the cover there are sockets for connecting two external ones. They will help with unstable reception. Alcatel Link Zone can connect up to 15 devices (16 with a USB connection to a laptop). Useful options include creating a white list by mac addresses, SMS and USSD support. For ease of management, a proprietary application is provided for iOS and Android.

Advantages:

• Compact sizes.
• Own battery.
• Easy setup.
• Reliable signal reception in places with poor coverage.
• Possibility of connecting two external antennas.

Flaws:

• When actively consuming traffic (online games/movies), it gets very hot and may lose connection.

Device features and varieties

It is almost impossible to find such a model in an apartment, so most people prefer standard versions. However, if a person constantly travels and is not present at home much, then this device is worth purchasing. Of course, some are able to create an access point from a smartphone, but the battery will start to drain, and after a couple of hours of use the user will be left without the Internet. A Wi-Fi router with a SIM card solves this problem. In this case, the use of auxiliary peripheral equipment is not required.

Today there are 4 popular types of devices, and the difference is not only in functionality, but also in appearance. The following popular models are distinguished:

• Stationary. This option is practically no different from a regular router, which is found in most apartments and houses. Geometric dimensions and functionality at the same level. A standard socket is used as power supply. A convenient adapter is included.
• Portable (autonomous). A popular model among those who are used to working in a cafe or park. The built-in battery is used as a power source. Because of this, there is one disadvantage - the need for constant charging. All important options and operating range are preserved. The dimensions are two times smaller than previous models, so there will be no problems with transportation.
• USB routers. If a person finds this option in his store, it is recommended to purchase it. The appearance resembles a standard flash drive, so it fits easily in your pocket. To connect, use a laptop or computer, after which the product will begin to emulate its own network, which you need to join. After that, go to the Web interface and configure. The product is practical and convenient, suitable for the garden and for use in public places, such as some buses equipped with USB connectors. But there is also a downside - finding a high-quality option is almost impossible.
• Stationary industrial models. This device is aimed at work applications. They are not suitable for home use, as their performance characteristics are high. In addition, the device has a high-quality element base, so the device has a long service life, but this also increases the cost.

But the division based on appearance is not the only one; routers are also divided into categories based on frequency range. The information transfer speed depends on this parameter:

• 3G. Despite the fact that this range appeared several years ago, its relevance has not lost in 2021. At the same time, the data transfer speed here is normal, it is enough to log into a social network or check email, as well as watch a video (although you should first select a low resolution).
• 4G. A modern method of transmitting information, which is expanding every year and is actively used by all users. Unlike the previous range, here the information transmission speed reaches several hundred Mbits per second. Therefore, the device fully meets modern requirements.
• 5G. This network appeared recently and attracted the attention of many companies, but for some reasons, which are related to the problem of radio frequency, traffic consumption, etc., this range is not available to the mass user in Russia. Perhaps in the future the problem will be resolved, since the throughput speed shows tens of GB per second. Theoretically, a person using a smartphone will be able to enjoy online games through a cloud service and watch videos in maximum resolution.

In 2021, it is better to purchase SIM cards with 4G support and an external antenna, especially if you plan to install a router in the country. Then a person will enjoy the Internet anywhere and will not notice sudden changes. For these purposes, a reliable stationary model is suitable, but the use of autonomous devices is also allowed.

When the goal is to cover 3-4 offices, a stationary device is used. It is equipped with special amplifying antennas that extend the mobile network over a large part of the territory.

With frequent trips to nature, attention is paid to products in the form of a flash drive or autonomous models. It is not necessary to buy models from a mobile network operator. They generally have poor reviews and functionality.

ZTE MF283

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 300 Mbps

Price: from 5,100 rubles

ZTE MF283 is a real combine that has many useful functions and is inexpensive. It can work with any SIM cards in LTE networks, provides connection to up to 32 devices via Wi-Fi and another 4 via LAN outputs. In addition, the router received two RJ11 ports for analog phones and one USB 2.0 for connecting a hard drive. ZTE MF283 is equipped with two built-in receivers, but can also work with an external antenna.

Advantages:

• Easy to connect.
• Good coverage.
• Confident reception.
• Possibility of connecting a USB drive to organize a media server.

Flaws:

• Few settings in the web interface.
• Very bright LEDs can disturb sleep at night.
• No wall mounting.

TP-LINK TL-MR6400

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 300 Mbps

Price: from 6,000 rubles

A 4G router with a SIM card from Tp-Link is a universal solution for many tasks. The model is easy to set up - just install the SIM and you can work. If necessary, you can make changes to the operation through an intuitive smartphone application. The router supports Wi-Fi connections for up to 32 devices, and also has connectors - four LAN and another LAN/WAN. They will allow you, if necessary, to connect to a wired Internet or connect four workstations without a Wi-Fi module. The model is equipped with two internal and two removable external antennas. Features include creating a guest network, remote management, connection monitoring, parental controls and others.

Advantages:

• Easy setup.
• Reliable signal reception and distribution.
• Can be mounted on the wall.
• Possibility to connect an external antenna.
• Does not lose speed when connecting a large number of devices.

Flaws:

• Glossy body - quickly smudges and scratches.
• If the network is lost, GSM does not always reconnect on its own; a reboot is required.

Rating of the best models with port speeds of 1 Gbit per second

TP-LINK Archer MR600

A high-quality option that guarantees high transfer speeds over ports and provides a person with a value of up to 867 Mbit per second when connected wirelessly. It is possible to install a guest network, which will make operation safer.

A firewall will protect against various phenomena and increase the security of your Internet browsing. Installation takes a minimum of time; there is no need to call specialists. Monitoring and configuration occurs using the Web interface.

The average cost is 7,890 rubles.

TP-LINK Archer MR600

Advantages:

• Connection speed;
• High-quality assembly;
• Reliability;
• Easy connection;
• Guest network;
• Safety.

Flaws:

• Not found.

D-link DWR-980

The model recently appeared on the Russian market and received mixed reviews. Some users like the device in all respects, and it copes well with the tasks. Another category does not agree with the high price, since a better solution can be found for the office.

The product has the necessary functionality and supports connections from dozens of smartphones and laptops, with no speed problems observed. Operation is stable throughout the entire period of use. Connection type – wireless and wired.

The average price is 20,000 rubles.

D-link DWR-980

Advantages:

• Connecting multiple devices at the same time;
• Optimal power;
• High service life;
• Convenient connection;
• Port speed;
• Strength.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

ZYXEL LTE7240-M403

A beautiful and stylish device that is suitable for those who connect a computer to the router in order to get maximum transfer speeds. There is support for the necessary modes, which simplifies operation. The only drawback is that there is only one LAN port, so you won’t be able to connect several laptops/PCs. There is a bridge mode.

To bypass the blocking of some sites, there is a built-in VPN. Monitoring and configuration are carried out using a special interface, Telnet is supported. Can be installed indoors and outdoors.

The average cost is 10,100 rubles.

ZYXEL LTE7240-M403

Advantages:

• High-quality execution;
• Long service life;
• Optimal price, since there is a port with a speed of 1 Gbit per second;
• Additional features;
• Powered by Ethernet;
• Easy to use.

Flaws:

• One network port.

HUAWEI B525

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, 2.4/5 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 1300 Mbps

Price: from 11,500 rubles

Huawei B525 is deservedly included in the best routers with a SIM card. This is a multifunctional option with high connection speed. It is possible to connect up to 32 devices wirelessly and another 4 via LAN ports. Moreover, unlike previous models, Wi-Fi networks also operate at a frequency of 5 GHz, and LAN ports have a connection speed of 1 Gbit/s. The device is equipped with two built-in antennas, and there are separate connectors for two external ones. In addition, there is RJ-11 for an analog phone and USB for external drives, which turns the router into a media server. For ease of setup, there is an application for iOS and Android.

Advantages:

• Can act as a media server.
• Provides excellent reception and transmission with external antennas.
• High-speed ports for wired connections.
• Wi-Fi support 5 GHz.
• Convenient application for configuration.

Flaws:

• Quite large.
• Without external antennas, the coverage is weak.
• Cannot be mounted on the wall.

WiFi router or mobile phone?

You often need to leave your cozy home to go on the road or office, and mobile Internet is not always a good replacement for Wi-Fi. There are several disadvantages of using your phone as an access point:

• The information transfer speed is usually lower than that of 4G routers.
• The cost of traffic costs a pretty penny, tariffs usually include 5-30 GB, which can be enough for just a few days. It depends on the frequency, duration of trips, and Internet needs. If you are often away from home, then you should think about purchasing a wide-frequency 3G/4G router with a SIM card that operates in Wi-Fi bands.

A smartphone, like a router, can be used as an access point, a router that is capable of distributing the Internet. As a source, unlike the home Internet, where ADSL or fiber optic technology is used, mobile data is transmitted using 4G networks, which is not always convenient, since they may not cover the entire territory where you are traveling.

Today, prices for gigabytes are becoming more and more competitive; you can find tariffs that exclude unfavorable roaming conditions, which opens the door to using routers throughout the country on favorable terms.

Another benefit of 4G routers is that they offer more stable connections and better maximum wireless connection speeds than phones, allowing users to connect more users, depending on the product.

The Russian market offers both compact, convenient models, affordable, and more advanced universal premium devices for those who intend to intensively use the Internet; such products can simultaneously operate in two bands.

netis MW5230

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 300 Mbps

Price: from 1,200 rubles

Those users who choose the most affordable router with support for LTE modems will like the model from netis. This is a budget device with three external 5 dBi antennas, one USB port for connecting mobile modems or hard drives and four 100 Mbps LAN ports for a wired connection. The device can operate in repeater mode and allows you to configure up to three guest subnets.

Advantages:

• Cheap price.
• Three antennas.
• Quite a decent coverage area.
• Easy to connect and configure.

Flaws:

• It does not work with all providers - a list of supported modems is on the company's website.
• For many users, after a year of operation, the Internet begins to periodically turn off and they have to reboot.

MikroTik hAP ac2

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, 2.4/5 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 1267 Mbps

Price: from 4,300 rubles

MikroTik is widely known for its networking equipment in the professional environment. In addition, the brand has a number of solutions for home use. They combine functionality and a pleasant price tag. This model is budget, but at the same time offers a high-quality build with effective cooling, five Gigabit ports, a customizable button and USB 2.0 for connecting mobile modems. The device can operate from the electrical network or via Passive PoE - the cable must be inserted into the connector with the appropriate name. The advantage of the device is the proprietary RouterOS operating system, which significantly expands the configuration capabilities, but subject to the user having experience working with network equipment. Those who are unfamiliar with this can use ready-made templates, which will allow you to connect and configure the router in a couple of clicks.

Advantages:

• High quality build.
• Affordable price tag for device parameters.
• Possibility of flexible settings.
• Two ranges of Wi-Fi operation.
• Gigabit ports.
• Stable wireless network distribution.

Flaws:

• Deep settings require experience with network equipment.
• Some users were unable to configure even through ready-made templates.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any complex technical device, routers with SIM card support have a number of strengths and weaknesses. The main advantages of the device include the following:

• Possibility of creating a local network;
• Port forwarding option;
• Organization of additional protection against hacking using a firewall;
• Limiting adult content. In most products, the feature is called “Parental Controls”;
• Create a network share.

In addition to the listed functions, autonomous models have one main advantage - independence from the electrical network. All you need to do is charge and turn on anywhere. This is a practical solution that is suitable for every user, and the dimensions are not as large as standard versions.

There are also disadvantages. Most people don’t like the fact that some models do not have an Ethernet port, and this greatly reduces the functionality and deprives the device of its “universal” status.

The disadvantage of autonomous models is their advantage - the battery, or rather its capacity. Today it is difficult to find a router that can distribute the Internet throughout the day and not be discharged from use. And if you buy an option with long-term operation from a battery, you should prepare for the fact that the case will not be compact and you will have to leave some space; simply placing the product on top will not work.

The maximum number of connected users is 8, which also affects the purchase, especially if a person has many acquaintances or friends who come to visit and connect to the router.

TP-LINK Archer C7

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, 2.4/5 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 1750 Mbps

Price: from 4,900 rubles

Tp-Link is widely known among Russian users for its inexpensive but functional routers. Archer C7 V5 has high connection speeds - 1300 Mbps in the 5 GHz band and 450 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band. The model received three non-removable antennas, 4 gigabit LAN ports, USB 2.0 for printers or a modem. There is also the possibility of working in Mesh systems with other company devices.

Advantages:

• High connection speed.
• Easy setup.
• Two operating ranges.
• Wide coverage.

Flaws:

• Overcharge.
• Support for LTE modems starts with version 2 of the model; this should be taken into account when purchasing.

ASUS RT-AC58U

• Wireless standard: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, 2.4/5 GHz
• Maximum speed: up to 1267 Mbps

Price: from 6,200 rubles

The Asus RT-AC58U router offers good functionality at a fairly low price tag. The device has USB 3.0 on the front panel for connecting LTE modems, hard drives or printers. At the back there are four gigabit ports for wired connections. The model has a powerful quad-core Cortex-A7 processor, which provides stable connection to a large number of devices. The device is equipped with four external antennas with a gain of 5 dBi; according to the manufacturer, this is enough for stable network distribution to a two-story private house. Among the functions is support for the Asus proprietary cloud, which can be accessed from devices on Windows, iOS and Android.

Advantages:

• Stylish design.
• Reliable coverage of large areas.
• Simplicity and flexibility of settings.
• High-speed USB 3.0 port.
• Powerful processor.
• Three guest subnets can be configured.

Flaws:

• The second version of the model is often found on sale, which can be distinguished by its box - its functionality has been reduced.
• Some users have problems setting up 5 GHz distribution - it doesn’t work out of the box.