Best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card slot in 2025
If you are busy, always in a rush, a workaholic, a traveler, a professional remote worker, or you live in an area without cable or satellite internet, you should consider purchasing a SIM card router. 5G technology is revolutionizing the mobile internet, delivering faster speeds, lower latency, and greater flexibility than ever before. This makes it an ideal solution for those who need reliable connectivity without traditional broadband access.
With so many options available right now, choosing the right 5G Wi-Fi router with a SIM card can be overwhelming. There are several factors to consider, and the variety of choices only makes the decision more complex.
But don't worry. With the help of the Cybernews research team, I have conducted extensive research on over 15 different routers that accept SIM cards to help you determine your best options. In this article, I discuss 6 routers and provide reviews of exceptional results.
Best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card slot – shortlist
- ASUS RT-AX86U Pro (AX5700) Dual Band WiFi 6 – best 5G router with SIM slot for high-speed connectivity
- TP-Link Deco AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System – 5G modem with SIM slot for whole-home coverage
- UOTEK 5G SIM Card Router CPE – affordable 5G router SIM card slot
- GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) Cellular Gateway 5G Router – 5G router with compact design for travelers and remote work
- Cudy N300 WiFi Unlocked 4G LTE Modem Router – 5G SIM card router with simple setup for basic home use
- NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – best SIM card router for gaming and streaming with high-speed Wi-Fi 6
The best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card slots compared
Before diving into detailed reviews, it is useful to compare routers side by side. The table below helps you quickly see the differences in key features, price range, speed, Wi-Fi standard, and best use cases, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your needs.
| Model name | Pricing | Best for | Speed and Wi-Fi standard | Key features |
| Asus 5G NR AX1800 | Mid-range | High-speed connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, dual-band | MU-MIMO, beamforming, robust security features |
| TP-Link Deco AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System | Premium | Whole-home coverage | Wi-Fi 6E, tri-band | Mesh system, seamless roaming, parental controls |
| UOTEK 5G SIM Card Router CPE | Affordable | Budget-friendly option | 5G and 4G LTE | Basic security, simple setup, compact design |
| GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) Cellular Gateway 5G Router | Mid-range | Travel and remote work | Wi-Fi 6, dual-band | VPN support, multiple SIM compatibility, portable |
| Cudy N300 WiFi Unlocked 4G LTE Modem Router | Affordable | Basic home use | Wi-Fi 4, 4G LTE fallback | Simple setup, cost-effective, compact size |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) | Premium | Gaming and streaming | Wi-Fi 6, dual-band | MU-MIMO, low latency, advanced security |
6 best 5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM card slots – our detailed list
1. Asus 5G NR AX1800 – best for reliable connectivity
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | 1.8Gbps |
| Best for: | Reliable performance for homes and small offices |
The first important thing to mention is that this router uses a 5G network and can provide very high internet speeds, which is excellent for streaming, video calling, and playing games without lag. These variables can improve your online gaming experience tenfold.
During my research, I found that users consistently praise the Asus 5G NR AX1800’s stability. With this router, there are no frequent disconnections.
The Wi-Fi 6 feature allows connecting several devices at once without a drop in speed, which is helpful if you have many phones, tablets, laptops, and smart devices in the house. It’s also worth noting that Asus has a pretty good interface for setting it up, so even non-techies can easily install it.
It is important to emphasize that although this router is fast, it does not cover a large area. If your house or apartment is larger, you may have problems with the signal in some rooms.
For the price, some users expect more advanced network controls and security features, which this model lacks. That said, the Asus 5G NR AX1800 remains one of the most powerful options in its price range in terms of speed and reliability.
2. TP-Link Deco AXE5400 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E Mesh System – best for large homes
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz & 6GHz) |
| Max speed: | 5.4Gbps |
| Best for: | Large homes, mesh networking |
The AXE5400 is deservedly number 2 on my table, and that’s for a reason. It is an excellent choice if you have a larger home and want to ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal in every corner.
It's not enough to say that its frequency is outstanding. With 3 frequency bands, including the new 6GHz band, the router can deliver ultra-fast speeds and less network congestion.
Also, advanced security features and parental controls further ensure your family's online safety.
Although the price is slightly higher and some features require an additional subscription, the investment in such a system can pay off through long-term reliability and performance.
3. UOTEK 5G SIM Card Router CPE – best for budget-conscious users
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | 1.2Gbps |
| Best for: | Budget-conscious users |
The UOTEK 5G SIM Card Router CPE is an excellent option for users seeking an affordable solution for basic internet needs. It is perfect if you don't have basic internet at home but use a mobile network.
You insert a SIM card, and the internet works. This solution is simple, easy, and highly affordable.
Although it lacks advanced security features like WPA3 encryption or multi-gig ports, this won't be a problem for users with basic needs. UOTEK 5G SIM Card Router CPE is an excellent choice if you often travel or change locations, soyou can easily take it with you everywhere.
According to my hands-on research, people also like it because it is less expensive than other 5G routers and provides excellent service.
4. GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) Cellular Gateway 5G Router – best for security
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | 3Gbps |
| Best for: | Security-focused users |
The cost-effective GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) Cellular Gateway 5G Router router offers speeds of up to 1500Mbps, which is enough for most home needs.
Also, dual-band support allows for better device distribution on the web, decreasing interference and improving overall performance.
With its modern design and advanced features, GL.iNet GL-X3000 is an excellent choice for people who want to upgrade their network without spending much money.
This outstanding router comes with pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support, allowing you to encrypt all web traffic. To be precise and clearer, you can use the internet safely, even on public Wi-Fi networks, without worrying about potential threats and risks.
Regarding connectivity flexibility, the Spitz AX supports multiple WAN connections, including Ethernet, repeater, cellular network, and tethering. This allows you to use multiple internet sources simultaneously, ensuring a stable and fast connection even if the initial source fails.
5. Cudy N300 WiFi Unlocked 4G LTE Modem Router – best for Simple Use
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) |
| Frequency bands: | Single-band (2.4GHz) |
| Max speed: | 300Mbps |
| Best for: | Basic internet needs |
Cudy N300 WiFi Unlocked 4G LTE Modem Router is ideal for users looking for a simple yet affordable solution for basic internet needs. In addition, it is essential to emphasize that this router is easy to set up and use and provides a stable connection for browsing the internet, e-mail, and social networks. Although it doesn't offer high speeds or advanced features, its simplicity and reliability make it a great choice for those who don't demand much from their internet connection.
I do not mean to undermine the router's performance by mentioning its simplicity. On the contrary, the router is designed for the least complicated installation while delivering great speeds for many users. All you have to do is insert a SIM card, and you're good to go.
If you're after a SIM router 5G with a simple interface, you should definitely put this one on your shortlist.
6. NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router (RAX54S) – best for performance
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | 3Gbps |
| Best for: | High-performance networking |
If you really need top performance and speed of up to 3Gbps, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX54S is an obvious choice. According to my insights, it is ideal for streaming in 4K resolution and gaming.
In my own and my team's extensive research, this router has shown that advanced security features, like NETGEAR Armor protection and WPA3 encryption, ensure that your network remains secure.
Admittedly, its price is a bit higher. Some features require a subscription for users who want the best performance. However, most reviews for this router say that it is worth every penny.
How did we select the best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card slots
To understand why I chose these 6 routers as the best 5G Wi-Fi options with SIM card slots in 2025, here’s a look at the research process.
- Thorough research (30%). First, with help from the Cybernews team, I conducted in-depth research and compared multiple routers. I focused on key factors such as speed, reliability, and ease of use.
- Performance evaluation (30%). Performance evaluations often come up in conversations about technology. For this reason, I decided to do a detailed analysis of the 5G connection, Wi-Fi signal range, and the router's ability to support multiple devices simultaneously.
- Value for money (30%). We could not ignore the price, but we analyzed the price-to-quality ratio and evaluated which functions the router offers relative to its price. The price-to-quality ratio was most apparent through reviews based on user experience.
- Customization options (10%). I opt for routers with advanced options like VPN support and parental controls. Therefore, we focused on routers that offer customization and ranked the providers accordingly.
How routers and SIM cards work together
A 5G router with a SIM card works like a mobile hotspot but on a larger scale, turning a mobile internet connection into a potentially whole-home Wi-Fi service.
Instead of just using that data for your phone, the router turns that connection into a Wi-Fi signal, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet simultaneously – like your laptop, phone, or tablet – all running smoothly off that mobile connection.
This is a game-changer for places where traditional broadband like fiber or cable isn't available. In practice, you’d benefit the most from employing such routers in remote areas or places with limited infrastructure.
Also, many of these routers are compatible with various carriers, so you're not locked into one network. Instead, you can choose the carrier that fits your needs and budget.
Just keep in mind, though, that the quality of your internet can vary depending on your mobile data plan. Some plans offer faster speeds and more data, so you want to choose one that matches how much you use the internet.
It also works well as a backup if your main internet goes down. If your regular internet goes out for whatever reason, the SIM card can keep you connected through mobile data. This means there won’t be any downtime when you’re off the grid.
In short, it's like turning your phone's mobile data into a full-on Wi-Fi hotspot for your whole house or on the go.
What are the key 5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM card slot features?
When deciding between 5G home internet and alternatives such as cable, fiber, and satellite, you must analyze all features to ensure that the best option is chosen. Of course, each 5G router choice has advantages that make it suitable for different purposes and homes.
Below is a breakdown of the key features you should consider when choosing a 5G Wi-Fi router with a SIM card slot in 2025:
- 5G connectivity. This means the router can tap into the latest 5G mobile networks, offering super-fast internet speeds. It's like having the speed of a wired connection without the cables, perfect for streaming, gaming, or working from home.
- SIM card slot compatibility. Think of this as giving your router a phone's ability to connect to mobile data. By inserting a SIM card, you can access the internet anywhere there's cellular coverage, making it versatile for home or on-the-go use.
- Dual or tri-band support. Routers broadcast Wi-Fi signals on different frequencies. Dual-band means 2 (2.4GHz and 5GHz), and tri-band adds another 5GHz or 6GHz.
- Signal boosting technology. Some routers have features to improve signal strength, ensuring better coverage throughout your space. This means fewer dead zones and a more reliable connection, even in larger homes.
- Advanced security. Modern routers often include features like VPN support, firewalls, and WPA3 encryption to protect your data from potential threats.
- LAN ports. These are the physical ports on your router where you can plug in devices directly using Ethernet cables. Wired connections provide faster and more stable internet access, which is great for gaming consoles or desktop computers.
- Optional battery backup. Some routers have built-in batteries, allowing them to function without being plugged into power. This is handy during power outages or when traveling, ensuring you stay connected even without a power source.
Benefits of 5G Wi-Fi routers
5G routers have several advantages that make them an excellent choice for many users. Below, I’ve highlighted the most important benefits to help you decide if a 5G Wi-Fi router is right for you:
- Ultra-fast internet speeds. 5G is way faster than 4G LTE and even traditional broadband in some cases. So, if you're into streaming, gaming, or browsing the web, things load very quickly.
- Mobility. With a 5G router, you can get internet access almost anywhere as long as there's cell service. It doesn't matter if you are in the countryside, on a road trip with your pals, or even camping. You've got an internet connection as long as there's a 5G signal. Simply put, it's like turning your router into a portable hotspot.
- Reliable backup connection. If your regular home internet happens to go down, a 5G router can be your lifesaver and work as a substitute, ensuring there is no downtime in crucial moments when you need the internet the most.
- Supports multiple devices. These routers are built to handle more than a single device. So, whether you've got a house full of friends using phones, laptops, tablets, or smart TVs, they all can connect without the internet slowing down.
- Easy setup. Setting up a 5G router is super simple. You don't need an installer and no messy cables – just pop in your SIM card, turn it on, and there it goes. Your Wi-Fi is up and running. It's one of those things you don't have to stress about.
How to choose the best 5G router
When you’re picking out a 5G router, there are a few things you want to keep in mind to make sure you’re getting the best option for your needs:
- Compatibility with carriers. Make sure the router supports your mobile network. Not all routers work with every carrier, so check if it supports your carrier's bands and network types. Some areas have specific requirements, so don’t forget to double-check this.
- Speed requirements. Depending on what you do online, you need different speeds. For streaming or gaming, look for routers that support higher speeds and faster 5G connections.
- Coverage area. If you have a large home or work in a big office, make sure the router can cover all areas with a strong signal. Some routers are designed for larger spaces, while others may struggle with range.
- Number of supported devices. If you have many devices needing Wi-Fi, you need a router that can handle all of them without slowing down. Pay attention to how many devices the router supports simultaneously.
- Battery life for portable routers. If you plan to use the router on the go, make sure it has a long battery life or supports a battery backup. This is especially important if you’re traveling or need the internet during power outages.
- Security features. Look for advanced security options like WPA3 encryption and VPN support to keep your data safe, especially if you use the router for work or sensitive tasks.
How to set up your 5G router: a step-by-step guide
Setting up a 5G router may sound tedious and difficult, but breaking it down into easy steps might make the process easier.
To make your life easier, here is a quick step-by-step guide I’ve made on getting the best 5g Wi-Fi router with a SIM card slot in 2025:
- Insert SIM card. First, you need to take the SIM card and insert it into the router's slot. It is really important to insert it correctly. Usually, a drawing on the router shows you how to do this. Some routers can be sensitive to this, so check this to install it correctly.
- Power on the router. After that, your next step is to connect the router to a power source. You can do this by pressing the power button, which is usually a simple button or switch. After this, the lights should come on. Sometimes, it can take a few minutes, so don’t despair if they fail to light up immediately.
- Access router settings. When the router turns on, open a browser on your phone or computer. Then, type in the router's IP address. This may be 192.168.1.1, depending on your router and address configuration. Check your manual for the correct address. Some routers have an app for a more straightforward setup, so you can download it and follow the instructions on your phone.
- Enter APN settings. Some providers require you to enter specific APN (access point name) settings for your router to connect to the Internet. If your router asks for these settings, check your router's manual or your provider's website for exact information.
- Secure your network. Now, it's time to protect yourself and your devices. I suggest setting a strong Wi-Fi password. For even better protection, you can turn on additional security options, such as WPA3 encryption.
- Test the connection. Finally, you can test the connection. Try connecting to Wi-Fi with your phone or laptop. If the router receives a 5G signal, you should now have fast internet.
If something doesn't work, try restarting the router or check if the SIM card is inserted correctly.
Final word on best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card slot
Choosing the right router is essential for ensuring a fast and reliable internet connection anywhere and anytime. A great 5G router doesn't just provide Wi-Fi connectivity at all times but gives you the flexibility to stay connected without being tied to a wired network.
According to my research and hands-on evaluation, I can confidently conclude that the popular Asus 5G NR AX1800 is the best 5G Wi-Fi router with a SIM card slot in 2025. It is an ideal option if you’re looking for reliable connectivity without breaking the bank.
Whether you're a tourist, a professional remote worker, or staying in a region without cable or satellite internet, you can rely on this router for a safe and stable internet connection.
FAQ
Can I use any SIM card in a 5G Wi-Fi router?
Yes, you can use any SIM card, but the 5G Wi-Fi router must be compatible with your carrier’s network. Even if you have a 5G SIM card router and a 5G SIM card, you can only get 5G speeds if you live in an area with 5G coverage.
Is a 5G router faster than traditional broadband?
Yes, 5G routers offer faster speeds than traditional broadband, especially in areas with strong 5G coverage. 5G technology can provide upload rates faster than 4G LTE and many standard internet connections. Speeds can reach 1Gbps or more, allowing for flawless 4K streaming, online gaming, and quick file downloads.
How many devices can I connect to a 5G router?
Most 5G routers can support more than 20 devices, but this depends on the router’s capabilities and each device's data usage. Specifically, the 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks can accommodate up to 128 devices.
Can I use a 5G router as my primary internet connection?
Yes, 5G routers can replace traditional broadband, especially if you live in an area with good coverage. If your location does not yet have 5G, you must wait until it is available before selecting a 5G home Wi-Fi plan.
Does a 5G router work internationally with different carriers?
It depends on the router's compatibility with international carriers. Some routers are locked to specific regions, while others are more flexible. So, a 5G router works internationally unless it does not comply with the other country's regulations. Aside from that, most Wi-Fi protocols are global, with a few exceptions.
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