Portable WiFi Hotspots for Travel & Everyday Use in the UK (2026 Buyer’s Guide)
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Portable WiFi hotspots let you connect multiple devices to the internet anywhere you have mobile data coverage — whether you’re travelling, working remotely, staying in holiday accommodation, or as a home broadband backup.
This buyer’s guide explains what makes a great portable WiFi device and shows you the best options to buy in the UK in 2026.
What Is a Portable WiFi Hotspot?
A portable WiFi hotspot (or mobile WiFi router) is a compact device that creates a personal WiFi network using a mobile data SIM card. It’s perfect for:
- Travel and holidays
- Working on the go
- Caravans and campervans
- Temporary accommodation
- Home backup internet
Most hotspots support multiple devices at once (phones, tablets, laptops), and many now offer long battery life and fast 4G or 5G connectivity.
4G vs 5G Portable WiFi
Both 4G and 5G hotspots provide wireless internet — but there are differences:
| Feature | 4G Hotspot | 5G Hotspot |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Good for everyday browsing and HD streaming | Faster speeds for UHD streaming and downloads |
| Latency | Reasonable for most apps | Lower — better for gaming or real-time apps |
| Battery Life | Often longer due to lower power usage | Can vary—great on larger batteries |
| Future Proof | Reliable today | Better long-term investment |
Best Portable WiFi Hotspots to Buy Right Now
🌐 Best 5G Portable Hotspot – ZTE MU5120
The ZTE MU5120 is a powerful 5G portable hotspot with a large battery, ideal for travellers, remote workers and everyday use when you need strong mobile internet on the go.
- 5G connectivity for faster internet speeds
- 10000mAh battery — long-lasting usage
- Supports multiple devices simultaneously
- Great for travel, work and home backup
View ZTE MU5120 5G Portable WiFi Hotspot
⚡ Best High-Speed 4G+ Hotspot – ZTE U10S Pro
The ZTE U10S Pro combines fast 4G+ connectivity with compact portability — great for everyday travel and flexible WiFi wherever you go.
- 4G+ speeds for reliable internet
- Portable and easy to carry
- Connect multiple devices at the same time
- Ideal for trips, events, and remote work
View ZTE U10S Pro 4G+ Portable WiFi Hotspot
📶 Best Everyday Travel Friend – ZTE U10 White
A bestselling portable hotspot with simple design and dependable performance, perfect for everyday travel or as a handy WiFi backup.
- Reliable 4G connectivity
- Compact and lightweight
- Supports several devices at once
- Easy setup and use
View ZTE U10 White 4G Portable WiFi
💼 Best Value 4G Hotspot – Huawei E5586
The Huawei E5586 is a solid, easy-to-use 4G portable hotspot that offers reliable speeds and good battery life at an affordable price point.
- Stable 4G connection for browsing and streaming
- Great battery life for long trips
- Supports multiple devices
- Strong value for money
View Huawei E5586 4G Portable WiFi Hotspot
Accessories and Extras
To get the best experience from your portable hotspot, consider adding these useful extras:
- Mobile data SIM: A data plan with generous allowances (unlimited where possible).
- Power bank / portable charger: Ideal for extended days out without mains power.
- Protective case: Keeps your hotspot safe on the move.
- USB-C cables: Extra cables for travel and spares.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many devices can a portable hotspot support?
Most portable hotspots can support 5–15 devices, depending on the model and network conditions.
Do I need a SIM card for a portable hotspot?
Yes — you’ll need a mobile data SIM with a suitable data plan to provide internet access.
Is 5G portable WiFi better than 4G?
5G hotspots offer faster speeds and lower latency where 5G coverage is available, but 4G is still more widely supported and reliable in many locations.
Can I use a portable hotspot as home internet?
Yes — many users use portable hotspots as temporary or backup home internet solutions, especially where fixed broadband isn’t available.
How long does the battery last on a portable hotspot?
Battery life varies by model, but devices with larger batteries (like the ZTE MU5120) can last well over a full day of moderate usage.