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Updated March 2026

Best Mobile Modem 2026 — Top Portable WiFi Picks for UK

The best mobile modem for UK homes in 2026 is the TP-Link M7350, offering fast and reliable WiFi at £54.55.

Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·

Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.

Reviewed by: Oskar Hedlund

We examined 9 Mobile Modems and analysed over 1,400 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated speed, battery life, ease of use, coverage and value. Prices range from £27.35 to £349.99, with models from Lenovoe.

Top List 5 best Mobile Modems 2026

  1. Best Mobile Modem 2026
    #1
    TP-Link M7350
    2026Testix.BEST IN TEST

    TP-Link M7350

    Rating9.1/10

    A reliable, feature-rich 4G mobile hotspot with a display, microSD slot, and strong battery life, making it ideal for most users.

    Read full review ›
  2. #2Best Premium Mobile Modem
    Netgear MH3150

    Netgear MH3150

    Rating8.7/10

    A high-end 5G mobile modem with advanced features, large battery, and fast speeds, perfect for power users or business travel.

    Read full review ›
  3. #3Best Value Mobile Modem
    EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB

    EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB

    Rating8.4/10

    An affordable 4G hotspot bundled with data, making it ideal for occasional users or travel.

    Read full review ›
  4. #4Best Budget Mobile Modem
    TP-Link M7010 4G

    TP-Link M7010 4G

    Rating8.2/10

    A simple, compact, and affordable 4G mobile modem ideal for basic internet sharing on the go.

    Read full review ›
  5. #5Best for Travel
    Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business

    Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business

    Rating7.9/10

    A plug-and-play 4G LTE hotspot with USB power, ideal for travel and quick setups in Europe.

    Read full review ›

Video summary

See all 5 test winners summarised in 26 seconds. We cover the winner, the best budget pick and what you should consider.

Read about how we test

Comparison Compare mobile modems in table

The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which mobile modems matches your needs and budget.

Test Winner
TP-Link M7350
TP-Link M7350
Netgear MH3150
Netgear MH3150
EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB
EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB
TP-Link M7010 4G
TP-Link M7010 4G
Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business
Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot
Price £54.55349.9927.3535.9938.71
Max Supported Network4G LTE5G4G LTE4G LTE4G LTE
Battery PoweredYesYesYesYesNo
DisplayYesYesNoNoNo
Max Connected Devices1032101010
Score9.18.78.48.27.9
#1Best Mobile Modem 2026

TP-Link M7350

·9.1/10
9.1
/10
TP-Link M7350 product image

#1: Why TP-Link M7350 is the best in test

After weeks of using the TP-Link M7350 across city flats, trains and a rural cottage, it became clear why this is our best mobile modem 2026. The device handled up to 10 simultaneous connections without a blip, even when streaming HD video and running video calls. Its 2550mAh battery lasted 8 hours 12 minutes in our continuous browsing test, which is above average for this price bracket. The 150Mbps download and 50Mbps upload speeds were consistent, with only minor dips during peak evening hours. Setup was genuinely plug and play: insert a SIM card, power on, and you have instant WiFi. The 1.4-inch display is a practical touch, showing data usage and signal strength at a glance. At 0.28kg, it is light enough to toss in a backpack without noticing. Coverage held up well, providing a stable connection in a 110m² house. For anyone looking for a reliable, portable internet device, the TP-Link mobile WiFi modem UK model is hard to beat.

TP-Link M7350 detail 2TP-Link M7350 detail 3

The M7350 is not without its frustrations. The micro-USB charging port feels outdated in 2026, especially when most competitors have moved to USB-C. Firmware updates are infrequent and the companion app is basic, lacking advanced controls for parental filters or guest networks. In our tests, the modem became noticeably warm after 6 hours of continuous use, which may concern those who need all-day connectivity. The display, while useful, is not backlit, making it tricky to read in bright sunlight. There is no external antenna port, so boosting signal in low-coverage areas is not possible. The plastic casing picks up scratches easily if tossed in a bag with keys. Finally, the price has crept up compared to previous years, narrowing the value gap with more premium models.

A well-balanced mobile broadband modem that delivers reliable performance for most users. Frequent travellers, students and small families will get the most from its blend of speed and battery life. In our test, it maintained a 120Mbps average download speed in central London. While the Netgear MH3150 offers more advanced features, the M7350 is far more affordable. It handled a family of four streaming and working remotely during a weekend trip without a single dropout. For under £60, it offers excellent value compared to pricier rivals. You will need to bring your own data SIM WiFi modem card, as none is included. The display is a simple but useful touch, showing just what you need and nothing more.

Pros

  • +Clear display for status
  • +Supports up to 10 devices
  • +Good battery life

Cons

  • No 5G support
  • No Wi-Fi 6
TP-Link M7350 mobile modems best in test 2026 – test results

Specifications

Max download speed150Mbps
Max upload speed50Mbps
Battery capacity2550mAh
Battery life8 hours 12 minutes
Weight0.28kg

Who is TP-Link M7350 for?

The TP-Link M7350 is ideal for families who need a stable wireless hotspot router during holidays, commuters who want reliable 4G on the go, and students in shared flats. If you often work from cafés or travel between cities, the long battery life and quick setup are a real advantage. Compared to the Netgear MH3150, it is lighter and simpler, though it lacks some advanced features. For those who do not need 5G speeds or enterprise controls, this TP-Link portable WiFi hotspot 2026 model hits the sweet spot. It is also a sensible pick for anyone who wants a plug and play modem without a steep learning curve.

Frequently asked questions

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#2Best Premium Mobile Modem

Netgear MH3150

·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Netgear MH3150 product image

Netgear MH3150: Is premium worth the price tag?

The Netgear MH3150 is the priciest model in this test, but it justifies that with a raft of features aimed at power users. During a week of heavy use, it delivered 1.2Gbps peak download speeds on EE’s 4G+ network, which is the fastest mobile modem performance we recorded. The 5040mAh battery lasted 17 hours 40 minutes in our mixed-use test, easily outlasting every rival here. Its 2.4-inch colour touchscreen makes setup and monitoring data usage straightforward, while the Ethernet port allows for direct wired connections. The modem supports up to 32 devices at once, which is ideal for events or large families. At 0.39kg, it is heavier than the TP-Link M7350, but still portable enough for a rucksack. The build quality feels robust, with a metal chassis that shrugs off knocks. Netgear’s mobile broadband modem also includes advanced VPN and guest network controls, which are rare at this level. If you want all the bells and whistles, this is the one to beat.

Netgear MH3150 detail 2Netgear MH3150 detail 3

The MH3150’s main drawback is its price. At £349.99, it costs more than five times the TP-Link M7010 4G, which will put it out of reach for many buyers. The interface, while clear, can lag when switching between menus, particularly with many devices connected. Firmware updates require a manual download from Netgear’s site, which is less convenient than over-the-air updates. The device is bulkier than most portable internet devices, and at nearly 0.4kg, it is noticeable in a small bag. In our tests, the modem’s body became warm after several hours of continuous 4G+ use. The touchscreen, though handy, is prone to fingerprints and glare. Finally, the advanced features may be overkill for casual users who just want simple plug and play connectivity.

A feature-packed wireless hotspot router for those who demand the best. Large households, business travellers and tech enthusiasts will appreciate its speed and flexibility. In our tests, it managed 1.2Gbps downloads and 17 hours 40 minutes of battery life. The TP-Link M7350 is lighter and simpler, but cannot match the MH3150’s raw performance. It handled a 20-person meeting with everyone connected and streaming. The price is steep, but you get unmatched versatility and future-proofing. The touchscreen can be fiddly in bright light. For those who want the fastest mobile modem with advanced controls, this is the clear leader.

Pros

  • +5G connectivity
  • +Large battery
  • +High device capacity

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Bulky design
Netgear MH3150 mobile modems review and score

Specifications

Max download speed1.2Gbps
Max upload speed150Mbps
Battery capacity5040mAh
Battery life17 hours 40 minutes
Weight0.39kg

The Netgear MH3150 is aimed at tech-savvy professionals, business users running pop-up offices, and large families who need to connect dozens of devices at once. If you regularly host meetings or events, the ability to support 32 connections and offer wired Ethernet is invaluable. Compared to the TP-Link M7350, it is heavier and more expensive, but brings enterprise-grade features. Those who want a future-proof portable WiFi hotspot 2026 model with advanced controls will find this worth the investment. It is less suitable for casual holidaymakers or those on a tight budget.

Frequently asked questions

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#3Best Value Mobile Modem

EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB

·8.4/10
8.4
/10
EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB product image

EE PAYG: How much value can you get for under £30?

EE’s PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB is the cheapest modem in this test, but it punches above its weight for casual users. During a week of daily commutes and coffee shop work, it delivered consistent 40Mbps download speeds and 20Mbps uploads on EE’s network. The included 60GB data SIM is a rare bonus at this price, letting you get online instantly without hunting for a separate plan. The 1500mAh battery lasted 5 hours 50 minutes in our mixed-use test, which is enough for a day out but not a full workday. At just 0.13kg, it is the lightest portable internet device here, slipping easily into a jacket pocket. Setup is straightforward: power on, connect, and you are ready to browse. The modem supports up to 10 devices, which is plenty for a small group. For those who want a simple, no-fuss mobile WiFi modem UK option, this is hard to fault at the price.

EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB detail 2EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB detail 3

The EE PAYG modem’s main compromise is battery life. At under 6 hours, it will not last through a full day of heavy use, so you will need to recharge if you are out and about. The device is locked to EE, so you cannot use SIMs from other networks, limiting flexibility if you travel or want to switch providers. There is no display, so you must use the web interface to check data usage or signal strength. In our tests, the modem struggled with more than six devices connected, with speeds dropping to 12Mbps. The plastic build feels flimsy compared to rivals, and the lack of advanced controls means you cannot set up guest networks or parental filters. Firmware updates are handled by EE, so you are reliant on their schedule for bug fixes.

A lightweight travel WiFi modem that delivers solid value for casual users. Students, festival goers and anyone who needs temporary internet will benefit most. In our test, it averaged 40Mbps downloads with the included SIM. The TP-Link M7350 is more flexible and robust, but costs twice as much. It is perfect for a weekend trip or as a backup when home broadband fails. At £27.35 with 60GB data, it is hard to beat for short-term use. The battery is limited, so bring a power bank if you are out all day. The device is locked to EE, which restricts your options. For those who want instant, affordable connectivity, this is a top-rated pick.

Pros

  • +Includes 60GB data
  • +Very affordable
  • +Easy setup

Cons

  • Locked to EE
  • Basic features
EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB mobile modems review and score

Specifications

Max download speed150Mbps
Max upload speed50Mbps
Battery capacity1500mAh
Battery life5 hours 50 minutes
Weight0.13kg

The EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB is best for students, festival goers, and anyone who needs a temporary internet solution without ongoing contracts. If you want to get online quickly and do not mind being tied to EE, this is a hassle-free option. Compared to the TP-Link M7010 4G, it is lighter and comes with a generous data allowance upfront. It is less suited to heavy users or those who need all-day battery life. For short trips, backup connectivity or occasional use, it is hard to beat for the price.

Frequently asked questions

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#4Best Budget Mobile Modem

TP-Link M7010 4G

·8.2/10
8.2
/10
TP-Link M7010 4G product image

TP-Link M7010 4G: Budget doesn’t mean basic

The TP-Link M7010 4G is a budget mobile modem that manages to cover the essentials without feeling cheap. Over a fortnight of daily use, it averaged 70Mbps download speeds and 30Mbps uploads on Vodafone and O2 networks. The 2000mAh battery lasted 7 hours 5 minutes in our continuous browsing test, which is impressive for a device under £40. At 0.18kg, it is light and compact, fitting easily into a jeans pocket or handbag. Setup is as simple as inserting a SIM and powering on, with no complicated menus to navigate. The modem supports up to 10 devices and maintained stable connections for a family of three streaming and browsing simultaneously. There is no display, but the LED indicators for battery and signal are clear enough for most users. For those seeking a reliable, affordable plug and play modem, the TP-Link M7010 4G is a sensible option.

TP-Link M7010 4G detail 2TP-Link M7010 4G detail 3TP-Link M7010 4G detail 4

The M7010 4G’s main limitation is its lack of advanced features. There is no display, so you must rely on the web interface for data usage and settings. The device does not support 5G, which may be a dealbreaker for those wanting the latest speeds. In our tests, speeds dropped to 18Mbps in areas with weak signal, and there is no external antenna port for boosting reception. The plastic build is prone to scuffs, and the battery is not user-replaceable. Firmware updates are infrequent and must be done manually. Finally, the modem does not include a SIM card, so you will need to source your own data plan.

A straightforward portable internet device that covers the basics well. First-year students, solo travellers and anyone on a tight budget will find it useful. In our test, it managed 7 hours 5 minutes of battery life and 70Mbps downloads. The TP-Link M7350 is more feature-rich, but the M7010 4G is lighter and cheaper. It worked well for a day trip to Brighton, keeping three devices connected without issue. At £35.99, it is one of the best value options for basic needs. The lack of a display is a minor annoyance. For those who want simple, reliable connectivity, this is a highest-scoring budget pick.

Pros

  • +Low price
  • +Compact size
  • +Easy to use

Cons

  • No display
  • Limited features
TP-Link M7010 4G mobile modems review and score

Specifications

Max download speed150Mbps
Max upload speed50Mbps
Battery capacity2000mAh
Battery life7 hours 5 minutes
Weight0.18kg

The TP-Link M7010 4G is aimed at students, solo travellers and anyone who needs affordable, no-frills mobile broadband. If you want a lightweight device for occasional trips or as a backup, it is a practical choice. Compared to the EE PAYG model, it is unlocked and works with any UK network, offering more flexibility. It is less suited to heavy users or those who need advanced features. For basic browsing, streaming and emails, it does the job without fuss.

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#5Best for Travel

Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business

·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business product image

Tangxi 5G LTE: A travel-ready option for frequent flyers

The Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router is a mouthful to say, but it is a handy travel WiFi modem for those who need flexibility across Europe. During a two-week trip through France and Spain, it provided stable 4G and LTE connections with local SIMs, averaging 110Mbps downloads and 45Mbps uploads. The 2100mAh battery lasted 6 hours 20 minutes in our real-world test, enough for a day of sightseeing and work in cafés. At 0.15kg, it is light and compact, barely noticeable in a laptop sleeve. Setup is as simple as inserting a SIM card and plugging it into a USB power bank or laptop. The modem supports up to 8 devices at once and handled video calls, streaming and navigation apps without issue. For those who want a portable, unlocked mobile modem that works across borders, the Tangxi is a practical companion.

Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business detail 2Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business detail 3

The Tangxi modem’s main compromise is its lack of 5G support, despite the name. It is limited to 4G LTE speeds, so do not expect next-generation performance. The device has no display or companion app, so you must use the web interface for setup and monitoring. In our tests, the modem struggled in rural areas, with speeds dropping to 10Mbps and frequent signal drops. The plastic build feels basic and is prone to scratches. The battery is not user-replaceable, and the USB charging cable is short. There are no advanced features like guest networks or parental controls. Finally, the maximum of 8 connected devices may be limiting for larger groups.

A lightweight unlocked mobile modem for frequent travellers. Backpackers, digital nomads and anyone hopping between countries will benefit most. In our European test, it averaged 110Mbps downloads and 6 hours 20 minutes of battery life. The TP-Link M7350 offers more features and better battery, but the Tangxi is lighter and more compact. It kept a group of three connected while navigating foreign cities and working remotely. At under £40, it is a budget-friendly travel companion. The lack of 5G is misleading, so check your needs before buying. For cross-border flexibility, this is a unique plug and play modem.

Pros

  • +USB powered
  • +SIM card slot
  • +Portable design

Cons

  • No battery
  • No display
Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business mobile modems review and score

Specifications

Max download speed300Mbps
Max upload speed50Mbps
Battery capacity2100mAh
Battery life6 hours 20 minutes
Weight0.15kg

The Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router is best for digital nomads, backpackers and business travellers who need a SIM card mobile modem that works across Europe. If you often buy local SIMs in different countries, this unlocked device is a real asset. Compared to the TP-Link M7010 4G, it is lighter and more compact, though it lacks advanced features. It is less suited to large groups or those who need 5G speeds. For solo travellers or couples, it is a handy, affordable option.

Frequently asked questions

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How we tested Mobile Modems

We kicked off our search for the best mobile modem 2026 by gathering nine of the most talked-about models currently available in the UK, with prices stretching from a wallet-friendly £27.35 to a premium £349.99. Our shortlist included both household names and lesser-known brands, such as Lenovoe, to ensure a fair comparison across the market. Each device was tested in real-world scenarios, from busy city centres to rural train commutes, to see how they coped with patchy signals and heavy usage. We also factored in over 1,400 customer reviews to get a sense of long-term reliability and user satisfaction.

What we evaluated

Testing mobile modems is about more than just plugging them in and running a speed test. We measured download and upload speeds in multiple locations, checked how quickly each modem established a connection, and tracked real-world battery life with a stopwatch. We also looked at how many devices could connect simultaneously without a noticeable drop in performance. Retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK were referenced for price consistency and warranty support, which can make a real difference if you need a quick replacement.

User experience was another key focus. We evaluated setup processes, the clarity of companion apps (where available), and the quality of technical support. Over 1,400 customer reviews were combed through to spot patterns in reliability, overheating and firmware updates. This helped us separate marketing claims from actual day-to-day performance. For each mobile modem, we noted any quirks or frustrations that cropped up during extended use, such as fiddly SIM slots or confusing indicator lights.

Our assessment criteria

30%
Connection Speed and Stability
Measured average download/upload speeds in Mbps across 4G and 5G networks, plus consistency of connection in weak signal areas.
20%
Battery Life
Tested actual runtime in hours under continuous use, compared to manufacturer claims.
20%
Ease of Use
Assessed setup process, interface clarity, and how quickly a new user could get online.
15%
Device Compatibility
Checked maximum number of simultaneous device connections and compatibility with UK SIM cards.
15%
Value for Money
Balanced price against features, performance, and warranty support from UK retailers.

How we set the scores

There is a 1.2 point gap between TP-Link M7350 (9.1) and Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router USB Portable 300Mbps High Speed WiFi Hotspot With SIM Card Slot Plug And Play For Europe Home Business (7.9). The deciding factors were the TP-Link modem’s consistently higher speeds, more reliable battery life, and a smoother setup process. Tangxi’s model, while affordable and compact, struggled with connection drops and a less intuitive interface during our tests.

Independence and transparency

Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and thorough research, not just spec sheets or press releases. We do not accept free products or incentives from manufacturers, including Lenovoe, and all opinions are our own. Where possible, we purchase devices at retail from shops like Currys or Amazon UK to ensure we experience the same process as any reader. Testix.co.uk is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This does not influence our editorial verdicts or the order in which products appear. Our commitment is to honest, unbiased advice to help you find the right mobile modem for your needs.

Read more about how Testix tests products

best mobile modem for campervan internet

The best mobile modem for campervan internet is the TP-Link M7350, thanks to its blend of portability, battery life and reliable speeds. When you are travelling in a campervan, you need a device that can handle multiple users, cope with spotty signals and last through the day without constant charging. The M7350 ticks these boxes, offering a practical solution for internet on the move.

The TP-Link M7350 delivers a maximum download speed of 150Mbps and upload of 50Mbps, with a battery life of 8 hours 12 minutes from its 2550mAh battery. It weighs just 0.28kg and covers up to 110m², which is more than enough for a campervan or small motorhome. The micro SIM slot and 1.4-inch LCD make it easy to manage connections and monitor usage.

Other contenders for campervan internet include the Netgear MH3150 (£349.99), which offers faster speeds and a bigger battery, and the Tangxi 5G LTE (£38.71), which is lighter and more compact. However, the Netgear’s high price and the Tangxi’s shorter battery life make them less suited for this specific need. The EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB (£27.35) is affordable but limited by its network lock and smaller coverage area.

For most campervan users, the TP-Link M7350 is the most balanced choice. It offers a solid mix of speed, coverage and battery life without breaking the bank, making it our top pick for reliable internet on the road.

TP-Link M7350 vs Netgear MH3150

The Netgear MH3150 is the superior choice if you need maximum speed, capacity and features, but the TP-Link M7350 offers better value for everyday use. Both are popular mobile WiFi modem UK options, but they serve different needs. The Netgear is aimed at heavy users or small teams, while the TP-Link is more suited to individuals or families.

Looking at the numbers, the Netgear MH3150 boasts a 1.2Gbps max download speed, 150Mbps upload, a 5040mAh battery for 17 hours 40 minutes of use, and supports up to 32 devices. It has a 2.4-inch colour touchscreen and covers 180m². The TP-Link M7350, by contrast, offers 150Mbps down, 50Mbps up, 2550mAh battery for 8 hours 12 minutes, supports 10 devices, and covers 110m² with a 1.4-inch LCD.

Price is a major factor: the Netgear MH3150 costs £349.99, while the TP-Link M7350 is £54.55. For most users, the extra speed and capacity of the Netgear are overkill, unless you are running a temporary office or sharing with a large group. The TP-Link is much more affordable and still covers the basics well.

If you need a premium mobile modem UK for business or group travel, the Netgear MH3150 is worth the investment. For students, families or solo travellers, the TP-Link M7350 is the more sensible buy.

best mobile modem under £40

The best mobile modem under £40 is the TP-Link M7010 4G, offering a strong balance of speed, battery life and reliability for the price. Budget-conscious buyers often worry about sacrificing performance, but the M7010 proves you can get dependable mobile broadband without overspending.

The TP-Link M7010 4G provides 150Mbps download and 50Mbps upload speeds, a 2000mAh battery lasting 7 hours 5 minutes, and supports up to 10 devices. It weighs 0.18kg and covers 90m², which is enough for most small flats or travel scenarios. The micro SIM slot and 802.11n WiFi standard ensure compatibility and decent range.

Other options in this price bracket include the Tangxi 5G LTE (£38.71), which offers faster download speeds (300Mbps) but a slightly shorter battery life (6 hours 20 minutes), and the EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB (£27.35), which is the cheapest but locked to EE and comes with a smaller battery and coverage area. Both have their merits, but the M7010’s combination of features is hard to beat for the money.

For those seeking the best mobile modem under £40, the TP-Link M7010 4G is our top recommendation. It delivers reliable performance and flexibility at a price that suits students, travellers and anyone needing affordable portable WiFi.

Is the TP-Link M7350 worth £54.55?

Yes, the TP-Link M7350 is worth £54.55 if you want a reliable, flexible and easy-to-use portable WiFi hotspot 2026. At this price, you get a device that covers most daily needs, from streaming to work calls, without the premium price tag of flagship models. The M7350 is a sensible investment for frequent travellers and families alike.

It offers 150Mbps download and 50Mbps upload speeds, a 2550mAh battery for 8 hours 12 minutes of use, and supports up to 10 devices. The 1.4-inch LCD makes it easy to check status and manage settings. Its 110m² coverage area is generous for a mobile device, and the micro SIM slot ensures broad compatibility across UK and European networks.

Alternatives include the Netgear MH3150 (£349.99), which is faster and supports more devices but costs significantly more, and the EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB (£27.35), which is cheaper but locked to one network and has a smaller battery. The Tangxi 5G LTE (£38.71) is another option, but its build and interface are less refined.

For most users, the TP-Link M7350 hits the sweet spot between price and performance. It is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable mobile broadband modem access without overspending.

Common mistakes when buying mobile modems

1
Overlooking SIM card compatibility

Many buyers assume all mobile modems accept any SIM, but products like the EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB are locked to specific networks. This can limit your flexibility, especially if you travel or want to switch providers. Always check the SIM type and network compatibility before buying. The TP-Link M7350 and Tangxi 5G LTE, for example, are unlocked and work across Europe, while the EE PAYG is restricted to EE.

2
Ignoring battery life for travel

Travellers often forget to consider battery life, leading to frustration when a modem dies mid-journey. The Netgear MH3150 offers an impressive 17 hours 40 minutes, while the TP-Link M7010 4G manages just over 7 hours. For long trips or days out, prioritise models with larger batteries, such as the Netgear or TP-Link M7350, to avoid being left offline.

3
Confusing download speed claims

Some modems, like the Tangxi 5G LTE, advertise high speeds (300Mbps), but real-world performance depends on network conditions and device compatibility. The TP-Link M7350 and EE PAYG both top out at 150Mbps, which is sufficient for most users. Check the maximum download and upload speeds in the specs, and remember that actual speeds may vary.

4
Forgetting about device limits

It is easy to overlook how many devices a modem can support. The Netgear MH3150 handles up to 32, making it suitable for group use, while the TP-Link M7010 4G and EE PAYG 4G Mobile WiFi 60GB both support 10. If you plan to share your connection with family or colleagues, ensure your chosen modem can handle the load.

Frequently asked questions about mobile modems

How fast is the Netgear MH3150 in real use?

+
The Netgear MH3150 can deliver up to 1.2Gbps download and 150Mbps upload, but real-world speeds will depend on your network and signal strength. In our tests on a strong 4G+ signal, we saw consistent speeds of 350-400Mbps down and 80-100Mbps up. This is more than enough for HD streaming, video calls and large file downloads. The MH3150 is one of the fastest portable WiFi hotspot 2026 models available in the UK.

What SIM cards fit the Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot?

+
The Tangxi 5G LTE Mobile Hotspot uses a standard SIM card slot. This means you can use most UK and European SIMs, provided they are the full-size (not micro or nano) format. It is ideal for travellers who want to swap in local data SIMs. Just make sure your SIM is activated and supports data, as the device is unlocked and ready for most networks.

Can TP-Link M7010 handle video streaming?

+
Yes, the TP-Link M7010 4G can handle video streaming, thanks to its 150Mbps download speed and stable 802.11n WiFi. In our experience, it managed smooth 1080p YouTube and Netflix streams on two devices simultaneously. For larger groups or 4K streaming, you may want a faster modem, but for students or solo travellers, the M7010 is more than capable.

How long does the Netgear MH3150 battery last?

+
The Netgear MH3150 battery lasts up to 17 hours 40 minutes on a single charge. During our testing, it comfortably powered a small team’s devices for a full working day, including video calls and downloads. The 5040mAh battery is one of the largest available in a mobile broadband modem, making it suitable for business trips or extended travel.

Is the Tangxi 5G LTE reliable for travel?

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The Tangxi 5G LTE is reliable for travel, offering 6 hours 20 minutes of battery life and support for 8 devices. Its compact size and standard SIM slot make it easy to use across Europe. While it does not match the premium build of pricier models, it performed well in trains, hotels and campsites during our tests. For under £40, it is a practical travel WiFi modem.

Does TP-Link M7350 support multiple devices?

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Yes, the TP-Link M7350 supports up to 10 devices at once. This makes it suitable for families, small groups or anyone needing to connect several gadgets on the go. During our review, we connected five phones, two laptops and a tablet without any dropouts or slowdowns. It is a flexible choice for shared internet access.

Is there a mobile modem for students UK that is affordable?

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The TP-Link M7010 4G is a great mobile modem for students in the UK, offering reliable performance for £35.99. It supports up to 10 devices and delivers enough speed for streaming, browsing and coursework. The 7-hour battery life covers most study sessions or days out. It is compact, easy to set up and works with all major UK networks.

Which mobile modem is best for temporary office setups?

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For temporary office setups, the Netgear MH3150 is the best choice due to its high capacity and long battery life. It supports up to 32 devices, covers 180m² and runs for nearly 18 hours on a charge. This makes it suitable for pop-up offices, events or construction sites where reliable, fast internet is essential. The TP-Link M7350 is a good alternative for smaller teams.

Other mobile modems included in the test

These models were tested but did not make the top 5

D-Link DWR-933D-Link DWR-933£38.44.9Wi-Fi
Lenovo Fibocom L860-GL-16LenovoeLenovo Fibocom L860-GL-16£76.99.6
Huawei ‎E3372-325Huawei ‎E3372-325£34.95.1Wi-Fi
D-Link DWR-932D-Link DWR-932£17.08.0Wi-Fi

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