Portable travel routers are very popular among the youngsters of today who are always on move. They are the multi-taskers who perform tasks on the internet. So, the portable router enables them to access the internet almost everywhere. Most portable routers basically allow the users to share a single USB 3G/4G modem connection wirelessly.
Your biggest advantage with a portable travel router is to comfortably use your laptop, tablet or smartphone anywhere anytime. If you want to break free of the desk and work incessantly at any place of your choice or share that connection with other devices like your smartphone or tablet or your co-workers, a wireless travel router (commonly known as a pocket router) is a great mobile accomplice to carry along. If you are a travelling professional you must have experienced that in many hotels you have stayed in, they add up huge charges in your bill for the internet usage. For those who have similar needs, the best alternative is to carry your own travel router.
Benefits of portable travel router
The reason that it is more preferred when compared with its usage and that of tethering, is that it is a great accomplice when it comes to traveling.
Larger area of operation. Area of operation refers to the circumscribable area in which you can use this device. It depends upon the operator that you have chosen.
Compact size. Size does matter when you travel. The quality that makes this product worth carrying is its compact size.
Battery powered. Travel routers are battery powered that means you can use them anywhere. By anywhere I mean literally, any place you want to be. It is most suitable for travelers, professionals and nature enthusiasts.
What to look out for in a portable router for travel
What exactly to look out for when thinking of buying a portable WiFi? That is the real question that many people must have encountered when they decided to buy their first portable router system. The features that you must consider while buying a portable router are enumerated here:
Browsing speed. Get a portable router that offers high connection strength irrespective of location or the service provider.
Good battery backup. If you are planning to vacate for hiking, boating or other adventure sport and still want to be connected, get a portable router with a huge battery backup.
Network coverage. The network package that you have chosen must be the ideal one for your internet needs. It should have a strong signal in the area you wish to use the internet. It is the one point that must be considered primarily.
Compatibility. This plays a very important role in picking up the best router. It all depends upon the devices that you wish to connect with the portable wifi. Ex: The TP-Link N Router is compatible with 120+ LTE/HSPA+/HSPA/UMTS/EVDO 3G/4G USB modems.
USB ports. It should have a 2.0 USB port along with the provision of the other ports. It must concede your mobile devices.
Size. It can be pocket-sized or smaller.
3G/4G Connection strength. The signal strength must opt with care and proper knowledge.
Top 5 best portable travel router
Satechi Travel router
The first router can be considered as a smart pack of travel plug adapter, router, wireless access point, repeater, and client. If you have one device to connect then this is the best option but if you have two or more gadgets or you want to share a connection with a buddy, you would not be happy with this router. It can be charged through the adapter plug or the USB charging port.
HooToo Wireless Travel Router
This is a new mini router from Hootoo that comes with a number of features. Hootoo router comes with an inbuilt Ethernet port and you can convert any wired network to wireless. In a wireless network, you can use it as a Wi-Fi extender and share hotspot with others. This is a compact router weighing just 0.55 lb. making it easy to carry while travelling.
It has an inbuilt power bank with the capacity of 10400 mAh which lets you charge your phone at least two to three times. The router is equipped with multiple USB ports for sharing the data or backing up the data of your iPhone or android device. You can directly stream media files from the connected storage device on to the big screen.
Hootoo as a lightweight and multi-purpose router is highly recommended as your complete travel companion.
RAV Power [ EDITOR’S CHOICE]
Before you start packing for the next trip, you might need a pocket gadget that serves as a mini wireless router, a power bank and a file sharer to escort you. RAV Power offers this multi-purpose travel router that acts as a bridge to share Wi-Fi connection with others and also act as an access point if you input a network cable to this router. Besides this, RV Power router also supports Google Chromecast to play videos or music on Led TV.
RAV Power has USB ports and an inbuilt SD card reader to access and share photos or other media files wirelessly. This mini router comes with an upgraded MTK7620N chip for better performance. Reasonable priced this is a must buy for an avid traveler.
TP-Link Portable 3G/LTE mobile router
This mobile router converts Wired Internet or a 3G Mobile Internet connection into a Wi-Fi Hotspot. The added advantage is that your gadgets get the needed Security. It can be powered by USB or a power bank. It is quite easy to setup. Can be used as a bridge between a dongle and Wi-Fi router.
D-link Systems Wi-Fi AC750
This is the handiest portable router that comes with a high capacity battery that lasts more than you expects from a regular router battery. It is compact but highly reliable in providing the strongest Wi-Fi network for the huge coverage area. The only drawback is that it is a bit complex to setup, but once it does you will hardly have any complaints. It is slightly expensive than the other routers discussed.
Are You Ready to Buy a Travel Router?
The technology is easing out the life of travelling businessmen and professionals, who have to connect as they move between places. A mobile router is an ideal device to avail the facility of internet around everywhere and anytime. Today there are many options in the market to choose a best travel travel for you. Portable routers are easy to carry and suit best for the almost everyone on the move. They are sleek, compact, easy to use, and comprehensible than the usual routers. In crux, they are effective, handy and efficient making them highly demanded gadgets worldwide.
Nice Article. Very informative.