In the fast-paced world of online gaming, the need for a reliable and high-speed internet connection is paramount. From devices designed for PS5 gaming to those catering to mobile gaming internet needs, finding the best gaming hotspot means seamless play, lower latency, and the freedom to game anywhere. This guide explores the top picks for gamers, ensuring you're always in the game, no matter where you are.
Discover the best hotspots for gaming in 2024, a solution for gamers seeking to elevate their play without being tethered to a fixed location.
Top 5 mobile hotspots for gaming - shortlist
- GL iNet GL XE300 - best mobile hotspot for gaming in 2024
- Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro - top hotspot choice for high-speed 5G gaming
- Alcatel Link Hub 4G - ideal for budget-conscious gamers in 2024
- GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G - offers dual-modem flexibility for uninterrupted gaming
- NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 - renowned for fast 4G speeds and long-lasting performance
How to choose a mobile hotspot for gaming?
When diving into the world of online gaming, choosing the right mobile hotspot is crucial to ensure an optimal gaming experience. Various features need to be considered to make the best purchasing decision. Here's what to look for:
- Internet speed. At the heart of online gaming lies the need for swift, responsive internet. Lag or latency can spell the difference between victory and defeat, making high-speed internet via 4G LTE or 5G essential. Opting for slower connections may lead to frustrating lags and possibly affect your competitive outcomes.
- Battery life. The endurance of your device during marathon gaming sessions cannot be overstated. Seek out hotspots boasting extensive battery lives, preferably those that can sustain over 10 hours of continuous operation. This attribute is particularly critical during extended gaming sessions and competitive play, where an interruption could lead to unnecessary setbacks.
- Connection quality. The robustness of your connection forms the bedrock of a seamless gaming experience. Hotspots featuring dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities and the flexibility to latch onto multiple networks are more adept at providing stable and reliable connectivity and help you avoid unwanted game exits during pivotal moments.
- Number of devices. The capacity to support numerous devices concurrently is a key consideration, especially for households with multiple gamers or for those who game across various devices. Hotspots with limited connectivity options may impede your ability to game on all of your preferred platforms.
- Easy setup. The immediacy with which you can commence gaming is another factor not to be overlooked. A hotspot characterized by a straightforward setup process enables you to dive into gaming without unnecessary delays.
7 best mobile hotspots for gaming – our detailed list
In curating our list of the 7 best mobile hotspots for gaming in 2024, we conducted thorough research and feature tests, focusing on internet speed, connection stability, battery life, device capacity, and ease of use. Each hotspot was evaluated to ensure it meets the high demands of online gaming, providing seamless, lag-free experiences for gamers.
1. GL iNet GL XE300 – premier gaming hotspot of 2024
| ⚙️Main features: | High-speed internet up to 61 Mbps download, 300Mbps Wi-Fi speeds (2.4GHz), nano-SIM card slot, portable IoT Gateway |
| ✨Compatibility: | Supports 4G LTE networks |
| 🔋Battery life: | Long, 5,000 mAh |
The GL iNet GL XE300 distinguishes itself as the ultimate connectivity champ for gamers, offering robust high-speed internet and versatile connectivity options in a compact, portable design.
High-speed internet. With over 61 Mbps in downloads and 17 Mbps in uploads, the GL XE300 ensures gamers can enjoy fast and smooth gameplay, voice calling, and streaming videos without any hiccups. Its capability to switch to a 4G LTE wireless network if Ethernet fails ensures constant data transmission.
Reliable connection. Thanks to its standard nano-SIM card slot and support for up to 300Mbps Wi-Fi speeds on 2.4GHz, the GL XE300 provides a reliable connection, even supporting AT command, manual/automatic dial number, SMS checking, and signal strength checking for comprehensive management and configuration.
Portability. As a highly portable mobile hotspot, the GL XE300 allows gamers to take their internet connection on the go, ensuring they can game, stream, and connect anywhere.
Setup and security. Featuring easy configuration through Web UI 3.0 and GoodCloud, alongside OpenWrt open-source firmware and pre-installed OpenVPN & WireGuard, it offers enhanced security and easy management.
2. Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro – ideal for rapid 5G gaming connectivity
| ⚙️Main features: | Supports AT&T’s 3.45GHz 5G network, speeds up to 8Gbps, connects up to 32 devices, WiFi 6E technology |
| ✨Compatibility: | Unlocked, works with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and in over 125 countries |
| 🔋Battery life: | Long, 5040mAh |
The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro sets the standard as a cutting-edge 5G gaming hub, leveraging AT&T's advanced network for high-speed, low-latency online gaming.
High-speed internet. Support for the n77 band on AT&T’s 3.45GHz network and the use of 5G mmWave internet with WiFi 6E technology powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X65 modem ensures groundbreaking speeds up to 8Gbps, essential for smooth, lag-free gaming.
Reliable connection. Being tied to AT&T's reliable network, certified to work with major carriers, and offering connectivity in over 125 countries, the Nighthawk M6 Pro guarantees a stable connection crucial for uninterrupted gameplay.
Portability. Its inherent portability allows gamers to experience high-quality gaming from virtually anywhere, complemented by the potential to boost WiFi coverage significantly.
Setup & security. The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro offers a seamless setup process facilitated by a 2.8” color LCD touch screen, allowing for straightforward WiFi settings adjustments and data usage monitoring. It enhances security by providing a private connection, significantly safer than public WiFi.
3. Alcatel Link Hub 4G – reliable budget hotspot for gaming
| ⚙️Main features: | Download speeds up to 150Mbps, supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, portable |
| ✨Compatibility: | 4G LTE Unlocked Any GSM Standard Sim Carrier |
| 🔋Battery life: | 2150 mAh |
The Alcatel Link Hub 4G stands out as the go-to choice for gamers on a budget, providing reliable high-speed internet and the capability to support intensive gaming sessions without breaking the bank.
High-speed internet. Offering speeds up to 150Mbps for downloads and 50Mbps for uploads, the Alcatel Link Hub 4G ensures smooth gaming experiences for popular titles like PUBG and Clash of Titans, along with efficient audio and video streaming.
Reliable connection. It provides a dependable 4G LTE connection across any GSM standard carrier, ensuring seamless gaming sessions without interruptions, even when multiple devices are connected.
Portability. This mobile hotspot's design prioritizes convenience, allowing gamers to take their gaming sessions on the go without compromising on connection quality.
Setup & security. The Alcatel Link Hub 4G is designed for ease of use, with a plug-and-play setup that requires minimal effort, making it user-friendly for all levels of tech savviness. It incorporates essential security protocols to protect your online activities, ensuring a safe and secure connection for both gaming and internet browsing.
4. GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G – hotspot with twin-modem versatility
| ⚙️Main features: | Download speeds close to 46 Mbps, supports over 150+ countries, dual-modem |
| ✨Compatibility: | Patent Cloud SIM technology, supports both 2.4GHz & 5GHz |
| 🔋Battery life: | 3000 mAh |
The GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G stands out for gamers who travel frequently, providing fast and stable internet globally in over 150 countries with its innovative Cloud SIM technology.
High-speed internet. With download speeds reaching 46 Mbps and upload speeds at 16 Mbps, the GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G ensures gamers can enjoy their favorite titles with minimal lag, even during international travel.
Reliable connection. Utilizing dual modem and signal enhancement technology, it offers a more stable connection. Its smart network selection dynamically avoids congestion, making it reliable for both gaming and streaming.
Portability. Its cloud SIM feature allows for easy international use without the need for multiple SIM cards, making it a perfect travel companion for gamers.
Setup & security. Setting up the GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive interface and the flexibility of Cloud SIM technology that requires no physical SIM card. It ensures a secure connection with advanced encryption standards, protecting your gaming and online activities from unauthorized access.
5. NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 – durable and fast gaming hotspot
| ⚙️Main features: | Download speeds up to 1Gbps, supports up to 20 devices, Ethernet connectivity |
| ✨Compatibility: | LTE Mobile Hotspot Router |
| 🔋Battery life: | All-day use, 5040mAH battery |
The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 LTE Mobile Hotspot Router is the ultimate gaming companion, offering unparalleled download speeds and the capacity to support multiple devices simultaneously.
High-speed internet. With the ability to achieve download speeds up to 1Gbps, the Nighthawk M1 is perfect for gamers requiring smooth gameplay and quick response times. Its capacity to connect to AT&T's robust network further enhances its high-speed internet capabilities.
Reliable connection. Equipped with Ethernet connectivity, the Nighthawk M1 delivers the fastest and most reliable internet connection, making it ideal for homes with poor service or coverage, as well as ensuring your gaming sessions remain uninterrupted.
Portability. This hotspot is designed with portability in mind, featuring a compact and durable build that makes it easy to carry for gaming on the go.
Setup & security. The NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 boasts an easy setup process, enabling users to quickly establish a secure internet connection. It features robust security options, including password protection and the ability to set up a guest WiFi network.
6. GlocalMe Numen Air 5G – global 5G gaming adventures
| ⚙️Main features: | Download speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, supports over 150 countries, low latency |
| ✨Compatibility: | Supports more than 50 commercialized 5G countries and mainstream 4G networks |
| 🔋Battery life: | 5400 mAh |
The GlocalMe Numen Air 5G is a game-changer for international gamers, offering unparalleled speeds and connectivity in over 150 countries.
High-speed internet. With download speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, the Numen Air 5G ensures that gamers experience the fastest connection speeds available, up to 15 times faster than 4G. Whether streaming or gaming, users enjoy seamless and uninterrupted service.
Reliable connection. This device smartly connects to the best available carrier, providing a stable and reliable connection worldwide. Its support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands minimizes interference and maximizes performance.
Portability. Not only is the Numen Air 5G highly portable, but it also doubles as a power bank, ensuring your gaming devices are always charged and ready for action.
Setup & security. The GlocalMe Numen Air 5G offers a hassle-free setup experience, utilizing its Cloud SIM technology to connect automatically to the best available network. It provides robust security measures, including encrypted connections and the ability to manage connected devices directly.
7. GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE – 4G coverage and portable convenience
| ⚙️Main features: | Total speed of 150Mbps, supports full frequency band, 4G network speed |
| ✨Compatibility: | Supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands |
| 🔋Battery life: | Up to 10 hours, 3900 mAh battery |
The GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE stands out as another go-to hotspot for gamers seeking reliable, high-speed internet without the constraint of geographical boundaries.
High-speed internet. Offering speeds up to 150Mbps, the G4 Pro ensures smooth gameplay and quick response times crucial for online gaming. Its support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands allows for flexible network management and minimized interference.
Reliable connection. With global coverage in over 150 countries and the option to use a SIM card, the G4 Pro offers a secure and dependable connection, ensuring gamers can stay online in any location.
Portability. Designed for gamers who travel, its compact size and long battery life make the G4 Pro a convenient companion for gaming anywhere, anytime.
Setup and security. Featuring a large touchscreen for easy management, the G4 Pro uses Cloud SIM technology for hassle-free setup and offers advanced security features like traffic protection and blacklist management to safeguard your online activities.
Comparison of top 3 mobile hotspots for gaming
Choosing the right mobile hotspot for gaming can significantly enhance your online play. This comparison highlights the top three devices for 2024, focusing on their main features and versatility to help you decide which suits your gaming needs the best.
| Model | GL iNet GL XE300 | Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro | Alcatel Link Hub 4G |
| Compatibility | Supports 4G LTE networks | 4G LTE Unlocked Any GSM Standard Sim Carrier | 4G LTE Unlocked Any GSM Standard Sim Carrier |
| Battery life | Long, 5,000 mAh | 2150 mAh | 2150 mAh |
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How we selected these mobile hotspots for gaming?
Selecting the ideal mobile hotspot for gaming involved a meticulous evaluation based on key criteria crucial for an optimal gaming experience. Here's an overview:
- Internet speed. High-speed internet is non-negotiable for gamers. Lag or buffering can ruin the gaming experience. We prioritized devices like the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro, known for its groundbreaking speeds up to 8Gbps, ensuring smooth gameplay and quick response times essential for online gaming.
- Simultaneous connections. The ability to support multiple devices is vital for gamers who use various consoles and PCs. The GL iNet GL XE300 and Alcatel Link Hub 4G, for instance, cater to this need by allowing multiple simultaneous connections, making them ideal for households with several gamers or devices.
- Connection quality. A stable and reliable connection prevents frustrating disconnections during gameplay. We looked for hotspots with strong signal strength and the ability to automatically switch to the best available network, like the GlocalMe Numen Air 5G, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions.
- Battery life. Extended gaming sessions require hotspots with long battery life. Models like the GL iNet GL XE300, featuring a 5,000 mAh battery, were selected to avoid mid-game power interruptions, highlighting the importance of durability in gaming hotspots.
How many GB hotspot do I need for gaming?
The amount of GB needed for gaming via a hotspot depends on various factors including the type of game, duration of play, and connection quality. Online games consume approximately 40-150 MB per hour, but this can escalate for games with high-quality graphics or those requiring constant updates.
MMORPGs and competitive shooters might use more data due to their real-time nature. Additionally, longer gaming sessions will naturally consume more data. It's essential to consider these aspects and opt for a data plan that accommodates your gaming habits to ensure uninterrupted play without risking overage charges.
Hotspot optimization
Yes, you can just game on a hotspot, but optimizing settings is key for the best performance. To enhance your gaming experience, prioritize your device's connection to ensure it receives the majority of the bandwidth. Adjust the quality settings in your games to lower data consumption without significantly impacting gameplay.
Additionally, use a wired connection if your hotspot device allows it, as this can reduce latency. Managing data usage by keeping track of your consumption is crucial to avoid exceeding your data plan. Regularly updating games on a different network can also save your hotspot data for gaming.
FAQ
Is mobile hotspot strong enough for Xbox Live?
Yes, a mobile hotspot can be strong enough for Xbox Live, especially if it offers 4G LTE or 5G speeds. Ensure a stable connection and sufficient data allowance for the best experience, as gaming and streaming require high-speed internet for optimal performance. We recommend the GL iNet GL XE300.
Can you game on 5G hotspot?
Absolutely, gaming on a 5G hotspot offers lower latency and faster speeds compared to 4G, significantly enhancing online gaming experiences. It supports high-demand gaming sessions with minimal lag, making it ideal for competitive and real-time games.
Is portable Wi-Fi good for gaming?
Yes, portable Wi-Fi can be excellent for gaming, provided it delivers sufficient speed and stable connectivity. Look for devices supporting 4G LTE or 5G to ensure low latency and seamless online gaming experiences, even while on the move.
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