Best Router With A SIM Card Slot (2024)

Inserting a 4G or 5G SIM card into a router can improve your Internet connection by letting more devices connect to the network and using router features like beamforming and MU-MIMO to make your connection better.

The best SIM card routers use the WiFi 6 standard for improved speed and security, include multiple ports for wired connections, and are compatible with many telecom operators.

SIM card routers should not be confused with mobile hotspot devices. SIM card routers resemble regular routers which require connection to a power source and contain multiple ports.

Mobile hotspot devices are small, portable devices designed for mobile network internet access on the go.

Although most SIM cards are compatible with the majority of SIM card routers, the type of SIM plan you have can affect compatibility.

For example, some prepaid plans or limited internet plans may not work in a SIM card router.

For this article, we have tested 24 SIM card routers, with the top 7 making our product reviews.

7 Best LTE & 5G SIM Card Routers (2024)

Finding the best LTE and 5G SIM card router is essential especially if you are a traveller or living in an area that does not have access to satellite or cable internet.

A quality router containing a SIM card slot should provide a consistent and stable internet connection.

Below are the reviews of the top 7 routers with a SIM card slot that you can choose from.

Each review comprises of design and performance of the router as well as the specifications, who it is made for, pros, and cons.

1. Netgear Nighthawk LAX20 (Editor’s Choice)

Design

The Netgear LAX20 features WiFi 6 technology that delivers faster speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps. This speed enables you to stream, download, and transfer 1.5 times faster than the previous technology.

The four WiFi streams provide reliability and high performance for up to 4 times more smart home devices, allowing for simultaneous and uninterrupted gaming, movies, video calls, and more on all the connected devices.

Performance

For the Netgear LAX20 to work, you need a Nano SIM card from your carrier and activation of a compatible Bring Your Device (BYOD) data plan that meets your data requirements.

The LAX20 comes with download speeds of up to 300 Mbps. You should note that these speeds can change depending on the service and its proximity to the nearest cell tower.

If your current internet service fails, you can use the LAX20 for backup internet by inserting your provider’s Nano SIM card into it and it will seamlessly switch over to 4G LTE. You can protect your entire WiFi using an automatic shield of security on all your devices, which comes with a 30-day free trial.

The Nighthawk app enables you to set up the LAX20 in minutes. You can also use it to easily monitor data usage, manage your WiFi settings, and test internet speed. The four Ethernet ports enable you to connect your computers, game consoles, and other streaming players.

The OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies ensure that you have simultaneous streaming on all your devices. Beamforming technology directs the WiFi signal to devices involved in bandwidth-intensive tasks.

You can use the USB port to create personal cloud storage that is accessible anywhere. The LAX20 features the WPA3 wireless security protocols to ensure that your network is safe.

Who It’s For

The Netgear LAX20 can be used as a backup or primary internet connection and is suitable when service is unavailable or weak.

Specs

• Speed: 8 Gbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11ax
• WiFi Range: 1500 sq. ft.
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Ports: 4 Ethernet, 1 USB
• Supported Carriers: T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon

Pros

• Decent coverage range.
• Fast WiFi 6 connection.
• Nice build design and quality.
• Comes with two external antennas.

Cons

2. Cudy LT700 (Runner-Up)

Design

The Cudy LT700 features the 4G LTE Cat.6 Connectivity with data rates of up to 300/50 Mbps. The built-in 4*4 high-performance antennas have MU-MIMO technology which expands the internet coverage and increases your service capacity.

This 4G router can easily create a connection to the VPN server to transfer all your online traffic and data while securing it at the same time.

Performance

The Cudy LT700 comes with a replaceable cellular antenna interface that offers different installation possibilities. 2*5dBi WiFi antenna and 4*5dBi cellular antenna improve the signal quality of WiFi and 4G LTE and enhance the sensitivity of the router.

Also, the cellular antenna has a detachable design which enables you to use it as an external cellular antenna with the help of the SMA connector, in which you can plug extension cables up to 10 meters. 

The Dual WAN and SIM Failover enables you to always be on the internet. The two SIM slots keep the device always online and provide redundancy. You can choose to use either SIM card 2 or SIM card 1, fill both SIM slots, or auto-select using Cudy. We tested out each variation and they performed very well, giving us a great variety of network options.

Set the LAN/WAN port as WAN to allow Cudy to use landline internet from WAN. The 3G/4G connection can be used as a backup to deliver a reliable and sustained internet connection.  The 4G/5G band lock enables you to lock the 4G working frequency to single or multiple bands to keep the operation stable.

In terms of security, the Cudy LT700 is compatible with 20 DDNS providers making it convenient to manage your remote cameras if you have CCTV installed at home.

Also, the advanced DNS security prevents manipulation and eavesdropping of DNS data through a man-in-the-middle attack.

Who It’s For

The Cudy LT700 is a 4G router that is suitable for users looking to get a stable high-speed internet experience and improved signal quality both inside and outside of your home.

Specs

• Speed: 1200 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 5 (802.11ac)
• WiFi Range: Up to 1200 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Ports: 4 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile

Pros

• Faster and stable connection.
• Multiple VPN server compatibility.
• Advanced security features.
• Improved signal quality.

Cons

• Setting it up is a bit difficult.

3. Netgear Nighthawk MR6150 (Best 5G Router)

Design

The Netgear MR6150 delivers secure and blazing-fast 5G internet and can achieve speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps for on-the-go travel as well as your primary home internet connection allowing you to game, stream, and work simultaneously.

The MR6150 comes with two TS9 RF, one 1 Gbps Ethernet, and one USB Type-C port. It has a greater capacity to provide internet connection for up to 32 devices and has exceptional performance.

Performance

The Netgear MR6150 is a portable hotspot for 4G LTE and 5G around the world and is certified with T-Mobile and AT&T. It needs a 5G compatible SIM card to work, therefore, ask your network provider to give you the best 5G data plan to suit your requirements.

The Ethernet port can be used to extend 5G internet speed to your entire home. Just plug your home’s Orbi mesh system or WiFi router into the port. You can also use the Ethernet port to create a wired connection to your laptop or other wired devices and enjoy speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

Set up, monitor your data usage, share access, and change WiFi settings on the 2.4-inch color LCD touchscreen.

With the MR6150, you get a secure private WiFi connection for your phones, tablets, and laptops in trains, hotels, airports, and other places providing public WiFi.

To ensure that you have premium performance and power, the MR6150 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 5G modem. The powerful battery delivers up to 13 hours of battery life so that you can always stay online.

Who It’s For

The Netgear MR6150 is the best 5G router that provides a secure mobile WiFi connection for you on the go, at home, or while traveling. It is suitable for areas with poor coverage or internet service.

Specs

• Speed: 5 Gbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 6
• WiFi Range: 2000 sq. ft, up to 32 devices
• Bands: Tri-Band
• Ports: 1 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: AT&T and T-Mobile

Pros

• Secure WiFi.
• Portable making it great for the road.
• Great battery life.
• Reliable and fast speeds.

Cons

• Not compatible with all carriers.

4. Cudy LT500D (Budget Friendly)

Design  

The Cudy LT500D is designed with AC1200 dual-band WiFi and an integrated 4G LTE modem. You just need to insert a SIM card, switch the router on, and enjoy stable, fast WiFi at home.

The LT500D delivers download speeds of up to 150 Mbps. It offers a better user experience by allowing you to use both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands. You can use the 2.4 GHz band for easy tasks such as web browsing and use the 5 GHz band for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as streaming or online gaming.

Performance

The Cudy LT500D ensures that you are always online because you can use it as a backup or primary internet connection. To use it as a backup router, just connect an ethernet cable to the LAN/WAN port. Use the port as the primary internet source and the 4G network as backup. If the LAN/WAN internet service does not work, it will automatically enable the 4G service.

The LT500D comes with a built-in VPN that enables the router to connect to the server and transfer encrypted online traffic and data. You can use this feature to create your home network with your school or work network.

You can use the DDNS function to bind your home IP address to a custom domain name, which ensures remote management is possible.

The LT500D is easy to set up. All you need to do is insert the SIM card into the router and enter the PIN on the web configuration page to begin enjoying a fast and stable wireless. The graphical management interface is easy to use and it enables you to manage and monitor the network easily.

The DNS encryption protects your privacy and helps to prevent manipulation and eavesdropping.

Who It’s For

The Cudy LT500D is a budget-friendly 4G modem router that can provide high-speed internet in areas where the signal is unavailable or weak such as rural homes, holiday cabins, a boat, remote cameras, and RVs.

Specs

• Speed: 1200 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 5
• WiFi Range: 1200 sq. ft
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Ports: 4 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: AT&T and T-Mobile

Pros

• Decent speeds.
• Good coverage.
• Stable throughput.
• Great security features.

Cons

• Incompatible with Verizon.

5. NRadio C2000 (Best Portable Router)

Design

The NRadio C2000 works with T-Mobile and AT&T. All you need to do is insert your Nano SIM card and enjoy a reliable connection as it delivers a downloading speed of up to 150 Mbps.

The C2000 is suitable to be used in places where wired networks are not available such as boats, RV, or vacation cabins. It provides a better user experience as it allows you to use both bands and connect to about 128 devices at the same time.

Performance

Setting up the NRadio C2000 is simple and secure. With only two steps, you will enjoy a stable and fast wireless network with just two steps. First, insert the SIM card into the cellular router and then connect it to the router.

The NRadio C2000 comes with high gain 4G antennas and professional built-in WiFi antennas to improve the signal quality of WiFi and 4G LTE, which is needed for creating WiFi connections from long distances.

We compared the coverage of the C2000 and a phone-generated mobile hotspot using the same network and found the C2000 completely outperformed the phone hotspot.  

The C2000 is compact and slim, easy to carry, and light, making it the perfect accessory to take with you when traveling.

It comes with a cellular and wired failover, meaning that you first get access to the wired broadband internet access and then it automatically turns to cellular internet if the wired broadband stops working. When the wired broadband is recovered, it then switches back.

Who It’s For

The NRadio C2000 is the best portable 4G router that is suitable for those traveling a lot and needing a constant connection to the internet.

Specs

• Speed: Up to 1.2 Gbps
• Wireless Protocol: WiFi 5 (802.11ac)
• WiFi Range: 1000 sq. ft.
• Bands: Dual-Band
• Ports: 1 WAN/LAN and 1 LAN
• Supported Carriers: AT&T and T-Mobile

Pros

• Highly portable.
• The port setup is decent.
• Great coverage.
• Easy to install.
• Reliable speeds.

Cons

• It is not compatible with AT&T prepaid cards.

6. Alcatel HH41NH (Best For Multiple Carriers)

Design

The Alcatel HH41NH is compatible with most cellular network providers. It supports upload speeds of up to 50 Mbps and download speeds of up to 150 Mbps.

The HH41NH comes with two antennas that enable you to have a coverage of up to 1000 sq. ft. and connect to 32 devices.

Performance

The Alcatel HH41NH has two-gigabit ports that allow you to connect any wired device including a laptop, tablet, and more. Ethernet speeds are only applicable when the HH41NH is paired with cable internet.

This device comes with a few security features such as WPA2, VPN passthrough, and guest access. Our testers found enabling guest access to be very easy to implement, and a great way to protect your network.

You can use the VPN passthrough to keep your identity safe by staying behind the router’s firewall when accessing a remote network. The VPN keeps your data encrypted while the guest access allows users to access the internet temporarily.

The Alcatel HH41NH is a mid-tier router with a SIM card slot that meets most of your internet needs including email sending, HD streaming, and web surfing.

Who It’s For

The Alcatel HH41NH is suitable for users looking for an affordable device that supports multiple carriers and offers decent features such as multi-device handling capacity and decent coverage.

Specs

• Speed: 150 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11b
• WiFi Range 1000 sq. ft
• Bands: Single Band
• Ports: 2 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: Unlocked For Any GSM Standard SIM

Pros

• Easy to install.
• Good coverage.
• Good device handling capacity.
• Decent speeds.

Cons

7. D-Link DWR-921 (Basic LTE Router)

Design

The D-Link DWR-921 works well with major cellular companies and delivers download speeds of up to 150 Mbps. This level of speed allows you to do mobile gaming, web surfing, HD streaming, and other light tasks.

This LTE router comes with two antennas that enable it to provide a coverage of up to 800 sq. ft and connect to around 15 devices. 

Performance

The D-Link DWR-921 comes with four Ethernet ports which allows you to establish faster wired internet connections. You can use the port to connect bandwidth-consuming devices such as laptops, computers, and more to experience better streaming quality.

This device comes with great security features including WPA2, SPI firewall, and NAT firewall. The WPA2 encrypts most of the data that is transmitted over the network.

The Network Address Translation (NAT) firewall and Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) firewall help to prevent access to any malicious websites and keep away most external threats.

Who It’s For

If you are looking for a basic LTE router that delivers great online connections and is compatible with major cellular networks, the D-Link DWR-921_E is a good option.

Specs

• Speed: 300 Mbps
• Wireless Protocol: 11n
• WiFi Range: 800 sq. ft
• Bands: Single Band
• Ports: 4 Ethernet
• Supported Carriers: T-Mobile, Verizon, & AT&T

Pros

• Easy to install.
• Reliable and stable speed.
• Comes with four ethernet ports.
• Great security features.

Cons  

• Average device-handling capacity and coverage.

 

Factors To Consider When Looking For The Best Router With A SIM Card Slot

5G/LTE SIM Card Support 

To maximize on internet speeds by reducing latency, opting for a router with 5G/LTE SIM support is an ideal choice compared to 4G/LTE.

Given that 5G is now widely adopted, most routers in 2024 that contain a SIM card slot will feature 5G/LTE support. 5G has the potential to be nearly 10 times faster than 4G, due to its use of the high-frequency millimetre wave system. 5G wavelengths vary from 30 to 300 GHz, compared to wavelengths of 6 GHz and below for 4G/LTE.

Additional benefits of 5G/LTE SIM card support include faster download speeds, OFDM encoding, and greater cell density, meaning they can support more users at the same time while maintaining a strong internet connection.

If you own a 4G/LTE SIM but purchase a router with 5G SIM card support, you don’t need to worry as 5G SIM routers are compatible with 4G SIMs. What they are unable to do however is convert the 4G network into a 5G network. To do that, you will have to upgrade your SIM. The router will still operate but use a 4G network.

Carrier Compatibility 

In terms of carrier compatibility, you should prioritize a router that is unlocked and therefore enables you to use any mobile network that operates within the country of use.

Something to look out for is pay-monthly versus pre-paid SIM compatibility. The majority of devices will be compatible with pay-monthly SIMs, but some may not be compatible with pre-paid SIMs, such as those from AT&T.

Also, note that some SIMs with limited data plans may not work in a SIM card router. This is due to carrier data throttling in an attempt to prevent internet overuse.

If you own SIMs from multiple networks, having a router that is compatible with many carriers is advantageous as you can test to see which carrier provides the best speed and coverage in your given location.

WiFi Coverage 

Although the information on WiFi coverage is not always easily available, you should expect a router with a SIM card slot to at minimum cover 1000 sq ft.

The coverage figure can be tricky to estimate, however, and often the figure presented is theoretical. This is due to unknown obstacles (concrete walls, bookshelves) or interferences (microwaves, fridges) which all impact coverage, but can be very specific to a household.

The location of the household is especially important for the coverage potential of a router using a SIM slot. Rural locations typically have weaker mobile networks for example, so the coverage may be weaker in rural areas compared to urban areas.

As a general rule, the real coverage of a router will be anywhere between 70% to 120% of the advertised figure (if available). Try to locate your router in a spot where there are minimal obstacles or interferences to help increase the coverage.

Security Features & Router Management 

Purchasing a device with quality security features is important, as it will enable you to keep your network secure.

Security features to look out for on 5G/LTE routers include WPA3, which is the latest certification standard and is the hardest for intruders to penetrate. The auto-firmware update feature is useful to keep you updated with the latest software developments while having VPN support encrypt most data shared over the network.

Depending on the router manufacturer, you can purchase advanced security settings and parental control features such as those provided by Netgear Armor or TP-Link HomeShield Pro.

In terms of router management, most LTE/5G routers can be controlled via a mobile application. This enables users to restart the device and review usage levels and parental controls. Many routers also enable guest access, which ensures new users don’t connect to your secure network.

LTE/5G SIM Card Router vs. Mobile Hotspot Device 

The main difference between an LTE/5G SIM router and a mobile hotspot is portability. LTE/5G routers are designed to be stationary and provide internet access via a mobile phone network, while a mobile hotspot device is much smaller, and provides internet access on the go.

The advantage of LTE/5G SIM routers is that they maintain the functionality of regular routers, such as having multiple LAN ports for wired connections, and can connect to many devices at the same time.

Mobile hotspot devices do not typically have LAN ports for wired connections and can only establish a few simultaneous internet connections at the same time. Their main advantage is portability, with the devices having a built-in battery to enable internet access when a power source is not available.

Mobile hotspot devices should not be confused with generating a hotspot from your mobile phone. Mobile hotspot devices require the SIM card to be slotted into the device, while a mobile hotspot is generated from your mobile phone, requiring no external device. Generating WiFi from your phone is very convenient, however, it can quickly drain your phone battery and reduce the bandwidth available for you to use on your phone.  

FAQs

Are 4G/LTE Routers Compatible With All Telecom Operators?  

4G/LTE routers are compatible with all telecom operators, but the crucial aspect is the account type and services which may affect compatibility.

For example, if you have a limited data plan the SIM may not work in a 4G/LTE router as the accounts often have carrier data throttling to prevent over-use. Prepaid SIMs may also not be compatible with a 4G/LTE router.  

How Does A SIM Card Router Work? 

Once you slot an active SIM into a card slot in a router, the device will start communicating with the cell towers of the carrier to gain internet access and create a WiFi signal.

Users can then log into the WiFi network to gain internet access.

What’s The Difference Between A 4G/LTE Router and A Mobile Hotspot Device? 

The main differences between a 4G/LTE router and a mobile hotspot device are size, ports, and portability.

4G/LTE routers resemble the appearance and size of a regular router but include a SIM card slot. They need to be permanently connected to a power source and are fitted with various ports for ethernet connections.

Mobile hotspot devices are much smaller, often fitting in the palm. These devices are easy to transport and provide on-the-go internet access. They typically only include a charging port, so cannot enable wired connections.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A 4G/LTE Router Over Mobile Data? 

While using mobile data is sufficient for many personal internet uses a 4G/LTE router is beneficial for users who are doing high-consumption activities such as online gaming, streaming, or video conferencing.

A 4G/LTE router can increase the number of devices connected to the network, and improve internet speeds, and network reliability through features such as external antennas and beamforming.

Final Words

A router with a SIM card allows you to connect to the internet through using mobile networks. It is beneficial when your internet connection is down, traveling, and need to use the internet in rural areas.

If you are having difficulties deciding which router to buy, our recommendation for the best router with a SIM card slot is the Netgear LAX20 which features WiFi 6 technology that delivers faster speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps which enables you to stream, download, and transfer 1.5 times faster than the previous technology. The device is also compatible with most mobile carriers.