Rating of TOP 12 4g Wi-Fi routers of 2021: review of models and tips for choosing

Among the routers for wireless Internet distribution there are 4G models , which are distinguished by the presence of a built-in 4G module.

To put the router into working condition, just place a SIM card with mobile Internet in it or connect an external modem, after which you can connect to the resulting Wi-Fi connection from any device.

How to choose a 4G router and how do they differ from each other? We will figure it out in this article.

Rating of the TOP 12 best 4g Wi-Fi routers

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MikroTik wAP LTE kit

Equipment of an expensive price segment with advanced capabilities and the possibility of outdoor use. The sophisticated operating system of this device allows you to configure settings that meet the owner’s requirements. An Ethernet cable is used to power the router, which greatly simplifies its use. The high-quality housing of the device with increased moisture resistance indicates the possibility of outdoor placement. Thanks to the built-in firewall protection, the user's PC will prevent viruses from entering the system.

The advantages of this universal router include:

• flexible settings system;
• using a router outdoors;
• Power over Ethernet.

Many users consider the high cost of the equipment to be a disadvantage of this model.

What to look for when choosing a 4G router?

When purchasing a device to provide wireless Internet to your home or office network, you need to consider several basic technical characteristics of the router.

1. Wi-Fi standard. The most modern and promising standard is 802.11ac, which provides the highest data transfer speed and a wide coverage area of ​​up to 100 meters.
2. Frequency ranges of Wi-Fi connections. There are two of them: 2.4 and 5 GHz. At the 2.4 GHz frequency it is convenient to read online, view the news feed, and communicate on social networks. The 5 GHz band is suitable for watching videos and movies and playing games. There are devices that support both frequencies.
3. Maximum connection and reception speed. The higher this indicator, the better.
4. Maximum number of connected devices. There are routers designed to connect only one device, and they are practically not popular. More modern and expensive models allow several dozen gadgets to be connected simultaneously.
5. Availability of ports and connectors. If your mobile Internet traffic runs out, you can choose an alternative connection method: using an Internet cable or modem. Then it is necessary that the device be equipped with LAN ports and a USB connector.
6. Battery capacity. Routers that can operate without being connected to electricity have their own battery. The larger its capacity, the longer it will work.
7. Additional functions. The functionality of the model increases its final cost, but also gives the user more options. The most popular functions are the presence of a display, a slot for a memory card, the ability to work in Power Bank mode, a web interface and control via an application.

What is the device

The rapid development of 3G and 4G networks allows users to stay connected anywhere in the country. Currently, popular providers provide portable network equipment to meet the needs of their subscribers. You can get a router with a SIM card for rent or in installments from the following service providers:

• Rostelecom;
• MTS;
• Beeline;
• MGTS;
• Megaphone.

Portable routers with a SIM card are suitable for both desktop computers and laptops or tablets.

Network devices work according to this principle:

• the user needs to insert a SIM card with the connected service into a special slot;
• after connecting to a PC, laptop or tablet, the equipment will connect automatically;
• The owner of the router receives access to the global network through the network of a specific operator.

The main condition for such an organization of the Internet space is the presence of an operator network coverage area with a good signal level. To connect to the Internet at your dacha, you need to buy a router with a SIM card that supports a 4th generation network. This will ensure stability, high quality connection at high speed.

The best models in terms of price and quality ratio

Optimal devices with good technical characteristics, comfortable data transfer speeds and convenient controls.

TOP 4 best 4G routers with wi-fi in terms of price and quality ratio.

Netis MW5230

A budget router with an elegant body, three external antennas and a USB connector for connecting a modem.

The wireless router provides a stable and high-speed connection created using a USB 3G/4G modem, Ethernet cable or WISP system.

The device supports the 2.4 GHz frequency range and allows data transfer at speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s.

The device can be used to create a file server.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• RAM volume: 64 MB.

Advantages

• bridge mode;
• interesting design;
• ease of setup;
• price.

Flaws

• unstable connection;
• limitation on the number of connected devices;
• takes a long time to reboot.

Keenetic 4G (KN-1210)

An impressive, inexpensive router with the ability to connect via an external modem or cable connected via a WAN port.

The device provides a high-speed and stable Wi-Fi connection with a frequency of 2.4 GHz using an LTE modem or a standard wire connected to the WAN port.

The router is compatible with more than 150 modem models and has 2 external high-gain antennas.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 3;
• RAM volume: 64 MB.

Advantages

• design;
• convenient setup via the application;
• regular automatic updates;
• high connection speed;
• powerful signal.

Flaws

• non-removable antennas;
• easily soiled white body;
• Internet slows down when more than 3 devices are connected at the same time.

Keenetic Omni (KN-1410)

Web navigator with two external reception amplifiers, a USB port and a 5-port SMART communicator.

The compact router with Mesh Wi-Fi support provides a good Internet connection with the ability to comfortably surf the web at speeds of up to 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz frequency range.

The model has 4 LAN ports with a speed of 100 Mbit/s, operates in bridge mode and supports IPv6 technology.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• compactness;
• good signal quality;
• multifunctional USB port;
• you can set up virus protection and set parental controls;
• You can configure a domain name for external connection.

Flaws

• no 5 GHz Wi-Fi;
• inconvenient location of antennas;
• there is no switch on the case.

MikroTik RB951Ui-2HnD

A multifunctional Wi-Fi router with support for Power over Ethernet and a powerful Atheros processor with a good supply of RAM.

The model is equipped with three internal antennas with a gain of 2.5 dBi and a transmitter with a power of 30 dBm, providing a high-speed and stable Internet connection at a frequency of 2.4 GHz with speeds up to 300 Mbps.

The device has a functional USB port, five Ethernet connectors and a power of 1000 mW.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 5;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• performance;
• large coverage area;
• powerful processor with a frequency of 600 MHz;
• wall mounting possible;
• doesn't heat up.

Flaws

• no 5 GHz Wi-Fi;
• no Russian menu;
• PoE power standard.

HUAWEI E5573C

The autonomy of this device is ensured by a battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh. This is enough for 4 hours of continuous operation.

The advantages of this router with a 4G SIM card for a summer residence include the following indicators:

• compactness;
• ease of setup;
• ease of use;
• connection stability.

It does not take up much space in your pocket and receives the signal well within the network coverage area.

The best models with wireless connection speeds up to 1000 Mbps

The routers from this selection are suitable for lovers of high-speed Internet, even under high load .

Rating and review of the best models with high data transfer rates.

Keenetic Giga (KN-1010)

Premium router with support for Mesh Wi-Fi AC1300 in the 2.4 and 5 GHz range, dual-core processor, SFP ports, USB 3.0 and 2.0.

The device has a thin white body and 4 external antennas with a gain of 5 dBi, is equipped with multifunctional USB ports for connecting modems, a printer, disks and a DECT station and reaches speeds of up to 1267 Mbit/s.

The router can operate in bridge and repeater mode, and also supports VPN tunnels.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 1267 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4/5 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• RAM volume: 256 MB.

Advantages

• good amount of RAM;
• powerful dual-core processor;
• L2TP/PPTP support;
• SFP connection possible;
• extensive customization options;
• connection stability.

Flaws

• inconvenient location of USB connectors;
• price;
• There is no power off button.

MikroTik hAP ac2

Compact installation with a convenient stand, a powerful 27 dBm transmitter, USB ports for connecting an external modem and support for simultaneous operation in two frequency bands.

The most powerful access point is equipped with five Gigabit LAN ports, so it is quite suitable not only for installation in a large house, but also for office tasks.

The USB port can be used to connect a modem and install a storage device.

Two amplifying antennas are located internally, so the router can be installed even in the smallest niche.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 1167 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4/5 GHz;
• LAN ports: 5;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• price;
• withstands heavy loads well;
• large coverage area;
• 5 LAN ports;
• ergonomics;
• functionality and flexibility of settings.

Flaws

• heats up;
• low speed in the 2.4 GHz band;
• faded indication.

Keenetic Extra (KN-1711)

Web center with amplifying antennas with power up to 23 dB in the 5 GHz band and a universal USB port.

The device develops wireless connection speeds of up to 1167 Mbit/s, and also allows simultaneous operation in two bands.

The model has a UPnP AV server, operates in bridge and repeater mode, and also supports IPv6.

The router is equipped with a web interface, suitable for downloading files and creating a file server.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 1167 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4/5 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• price;
• excellent connection speed;
• simple setup menu;
• high response speed;
• L2TP/PPTP support;
• multifunctional USB port.

Flaws

• heats up;
• restriction of downloading files via torrent;
• There is no on/off button on the case.

Keenetic Viva (KN-1910)

Dual-band router with a powerful processor, four external antennas with 5 dBi gain and two functional USB ports.

The model distributes wireless Internet at a speed of 1267 Mbit/s in the 2.4/5 GHz frequency range when connecting any external modem or Ethernet cable.

It can work in bridge and repeater mode, and supports IPv6 and Dynamic DNS.

There is also a standalone torrent client for downloading custom files.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 1267 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4/5 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• compact;
• easy to operate;
• parental control through a proprietary interface;
• own torrent client;
• good connection range;
• high internet speed.

Flaws

• price;
• lack of activity indicators on the body;
• no USB 3.0.

TP-LINK TL-MR6400

A popular model of a portable router in the mid-price segment for a summer house or country house. This is easily explained by the excellent connection quality even at a great distance from the city.

This device is equipped with the following parameters:

• 4th generation network support;
• the presence of internal and external antennas;
• excellent internet signal reception;
• Data transfer speed reaches 300 Mbit/s.

Such features provide the user with high quality connection, even at a great distance from the tower.

Models with the ability to connect a SIM card directly

These routers do not require an external modem to operate : a SIM card with mobile Internet will be sufficient.

Keenetic Runner 4G (KN-2210)

Web center for distributing the Internet received via an Ethernet cable or SIM card at speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s.

The model is equipped with a built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon X5 LTE/4G/3G modem, compatible with SIM cards of any operators, and supports Mesh Wi-Fi in the 2.4 GHz band.

The device has 2 external antennas with 5 dBi gain for Wi-Fi and non-removable LTE/4G antennas.

With the help of official support, you can set up parental controls or enable protection against cyber threats.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 3;
• RAM volume: 128 MB.

Advantages

• VPN support;
• web interface;
• own OS;
• ease of setup;
• connection stability;
• compatible with SIM cards of any operators.

Flaws

• no 5 GHz band;
• no bridge mode;
• price.

HUAWEI E5576

A compact modem that provides a high-speed stable connection in the 2.4 GHz band with the ability to configure and control via a mobile application.

The router is equipped with a built-in 3G/4G LTE module and is a powerful access point that allows you to connect up to 16 devices.

The model has compact dimensions and is perfect for installation in the country or outdoors, as it has a built-in 1500 mAh battery, designed for 6 hours of operation.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• battery capacity: 1500 mAh;
• weight: 72 g.

Advantages

• price;
• black or white body color;
• compactness;
• own 1500 mAh battery;
• can work as a router and as a repeater;
• convenient control via the application;
• signal range.

Flaws

• no 5 GHz band;
• heats up;
• no power supply included.

HUAWEI E8372H-153

Compact installation with the ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously and convenient control via the application.

The router is a small device in the form of a large USB flash drive with a similar connector, with which it connects to a laptop, computer or tablet, as well as car charging.

Thanks to this, the model can distribute the Internet to 10 gadgets at a speed of 150 Mbit/s.

The device is available in black and white and is only 94mm high. There is a TS-5 connector for an external antenna and MIM support.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 150 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• Wi-Fi standards 802.11: b, g, n;
• weight: 40 g.

Advantages

• price;
• black or white body color;
• light weight and size;
• there is a slot for microSD;
• Compatible with SIM cards of any operators.

Flaws

• no 5 GHz band;
• unstable connection;
• Antennas are not included.

HUAWEI B315S

Stylish, easy to set up and manage router with connection speeds of up to 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band.

The router has a built-in 3G/4G LTE module, which, when installing a SIM card from any operator, turns into an access point with a connection of up to 300 Mbit/s.

It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b, a, g, n standards, has 2 detachable external antennas and 4 Gigabit LAN ports.

Also in the design of the case there is a light indication of the status and a multifunctional USB 2.0 type A port.

Specifications:

• speed up to: 300 Mbit/s;
• connection frequency: 2.4 GHz;
• LAN ports: 4;
• Wi-Fi standards 802.11: a, b, g, n;
• weight: 275 g

Advantages

• signal quality;
• data exchange speed;
• spectacular design;
• compactness and lightness;
• ease of setup.

Flaws

• no wall mounting;
• price;
• no 5 GHz band.

Mobile means autonomous

One of the most popular characteristics of a mobile router is its battery life, which can range from 2 to 9 hours, depending on the model and manufacturer. Also, the period of operation depends on the intensity of use of the device; if it is used occasionally and in the so-called “sleep” mode, then it will last longer.

In order for the router to start functioning again, you need to charge the battery, the capacity of which, as a rule, does not exceed 1500 mAh. Batteries located inside allow recharging quickly and efficiently. Although recently the manufacturer began to produce larger routers with a capacity of up to 3000 mAh.

Among these manufacturers, Huawei and Alcatel should be noted. Such a router can work offline for 6-10 hours, depending on the duration and frequency of use. In addition, the mobile router can simultaneously connect up to 10 Wi-Fi users and to connect with them it is not necessary to enter a password - just scan the QR code.

A mobile router allows you to access the network even without power. A modem may be built into the device, but some models are available without it. The peculiarity of such a router is that it allows you to transform the signal of your existing mobile provider (MTS, Megafon, Yota, Beeline) into high-speed Wi-Fi Internet.

To insure against such situations, you can spend several thousand more rubles and purchase a portable battery. Compact portable devices such as iconBIT Funktech FTB9000LED will allow you to charge your router in any conditions. Its small size allows you to store this additional device in any accessible place - a bag, a desk drawer, a car glove compartment.

But such nuances do not diminish the importance of such a necessary gadget in the modern world. This is the only device that allows users to access the network without being tied to the wired Internet and without experiencing discomfort from low speed. While the router is running, you can watch movies in HD quality even from your smartphone!

conclusions

When purchasing a 4G router, you need to study in detail all the parameters of the device and make sure that it meets the requirements and expectations.

Using a simple reminder, you can make the right choice.

• All routers are designed for a limited number of devices. This must be taken into account if the router is installed in an office or in a house where each family member has several devices.
• Having a USB port is very important for a router. It allows you to connect an external modem, printer or flash drive.
• Wi-Fi support in the 5 GHz frequency range is necessary if your wireless connection requirements include fast launch of games and comfortable viewing of movies , TV series and videos in high definition.
• Some models do not have a Russian menu or are equipped with a specific interface for configuration. Therefore, you may need the help of a specialist to ensure the smooth operation of the router.

Checking the compatibility of the router and modem

When purchasing a modem router, the first thing you should make sure is that they are compatible. You need to check whether the router you plan to purchase supports a modem.

What are the differences between 3G and 4G networks: features, advantages and disadvantages

To check compatibility, it is recommended to look at the list of compatible devices on the router manufacturer's website. The first thing you need to do is find out the model of your modem, which is indicated on the case, and find your modem in the list on the website.

Important! After purchasing the router, all you have to do is connect it; you can do this yourself or use the help of specialists. If preference is given to self-connection, then, in this case, you must carefully follow the instructions. After all, correct installation is the key to further uninterrupted operation.

Flaws

Connecting your tablet to the Internet - which method is better to choose?

The disadvantages of some models include, for example, the lack of connection via an Ethernet port, which sharply limits the device’s versatility. Also, for devices with batteries, their operating time is a significant factor. Another unpleasant point for compact routers is a significant limitation on the number of connected users; this figure can be lower than 8; such a router is not suitable for an office.

Advantages

Which Internet is better to choose for your dacha: wired, wireless

Any router, in addition to its standard function of providing general Internet access, has some additional features, such as:

1. organization of local computer network;
2. creating a shared network resource;
3. personal additional firewall to enhance information protection;
4. a set of online tools, including parental controls;
5. port forwarding function.

At the same time, for autonomous models, the most important advantage will be independence from a stationary power source; they can be used wherever there is reliable signal reception. Another positive aspect is its compactness.

Alcatel LinkHUB HH40V

This Internet center is ideal for users who are faced with frequent lack of cable Internet. This is due to the presence of a connection reservation function.

Router characteristics:

• The data transfer speed in the 4th generation network reaches 150 Mbit/s;
• Ethernet data transfer speed reaches 100 Mbit/s;
• the speed when distributing traffic over a wireless channel is 300 Mbit/s.

Wireless connection allows you to connect up to 32 clients simultaneously.

Tenda 4G185

Compact Wi-Fi router with support for budget segment SIM cards. Despite its small size, this device easily works for 8 hours without recharging. The design includes a slot for a memory card up to 32 GB.

The undeniable advantages of this model include:

• low price;
• small size;
• long period of continuous operation.

Users consider the lack of Russian language to be a shortcoming of the device.