Among external devices to connect to the Internet using 3G or 4G technology, USB modems and routers can be distinguished. Modems provide a connection for only one device (usually a laptop or desktop PC). Routers differ in that they support WiFi and are usually equipped with a battery for battery life. The editors of WiNetwork have prepared a rating of such devices that allow you to access the global network without a cable connection to the provider.

5th place in the ranking: ZTE MF65

Inexpensive model of a mobile router with 3G support. Autonomous operation is provided by a built-in battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh. It lasts for 280 hours in standby mode or 4 hours of active use of ZTE MF65. The router does not have a connector for connecting an external antenna, but if you have certain skills, you can add it yourself. The forums dedicated to mobile devices have step by step instructions on disassembling the MF65 and adding this connector.

The design of the device is as simple as possible: there are only two buttons on the case - turning the router on / off and activating WiFi mode Protected setup. LED indicators works are on a black glossy strip at the top of the case. Nice addition to this budget model- card slot microSD memory that supports drives up to 32 GB. When you install a memory card on the router, a file server is turned on, which opens file sharing on microSD via WiFi.

4th place: Xiaomi ZMI 4G

An unusual device that combines the functions of a 3G / 4G router and a universal mobile battery (power bank) at 7800 mAh. Despite the absence external antennas, ZMI 4G stable reception of the signal from the base stations of mobile operators. On the top side of the case there are connectors and indicators:

• USB connector for charging external devices;
• Micro USB port for charging Xiaomi ZMI 4G;
• Network reception level indicator;
• WiFi module operation indicator;
• Battery charge indicator.

Like many others network devices Xiaomi, this model has a drawback in the form of the absence of the Russian language in the web interface. To set up and monitor the status, you can use mobile app for Android or iOS. It is available in English, Chinese and Japanese, and there is no translation into Russian either.

Note! When ordering Xiaomi ZMI 4G in Chinese online stores be sure to consider the hardware version of the router. Model MF815 is for the Chinese market, so will not work with mobile networks in Russia or other CIS countries. Suitable frequencies are used in the international version - MF855.

3rd place: TP-Link M5250

Compact 3G router with long battery life and nice streamlined design. Supports simultaneous connection of up to 5 different wireless devices via WiFi. Can be used to receive and send SMS through the built-in control panel. Easy to use, has user-friendly interface settings.

The disadvantages include the lack of a power supply in the package and the WPS button on the router case. The router is equipped with a microSD card slot, the full use of which is difficult due to the lack of file server. Information from the memory card can only be read when the M5250 is connected via a cable. Network sharing on microSD is not possible. Also, this TP-Link model cannot work in USB modem mode. Even if the router is connected to the computer via USB, Internet access is available only via WiFi.

2nd place: Huawei E5330

Reliable 3G router with the ability to send text messages that supports modem operation. Differs in fast inclusion — the device is completely ready to work in 5 seconds after pressing the power button. Allows you to simultaneously connect to WiFi up to 10 devices at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide for the possibility of sending USSD requests through the router's web interface. Of course, most mobile operators allow you to track the balance or balance of packet traffic through Personal Area on the site. But if your operator does not provide such an opportunity, in order to clarify the necessary data, you will have to send SMS or remove the SIM card from the router, and then install it in mobile phone.

Important advice! Model E5330 can also work in repeater mode wireless network(repeater). This method of use is relevant in conjunction with the main router if it does not provide sufficient WiFi coverage.

1st place: NETGEAR AC785

Wireless 3G/4G router with built-in display and two slots for connecting external antennas. They are connected via TS9 connectors hidden under the plugs on the bottom panel. The most expensive model among routers in this rating, the price of which is fully consistent with the high technical specifications and a large number of supported features.

Unlike most other mobile routers, it supports WiFi broadcasting at a frequency of 5 GHz in addition to the standard 2.4 GHz. Among wireless features It is also worth noting the possibility of creating a guest network. AC785 works up to 10 hours after full charge batteries with a capacity of 2000 mAh. The screen diagonal is about 1.8 inches, it displays:

• Network signal strength mobile operator;
• Type of network used (2G, 3G or 4G);
• Current data transfer activity (download or upload);
• The name of the operator;
• Notification of unread SMS;
• USB connection status;
• Battery level;
• Current charging status (charging or discharging);
• Number of devices connected to AC785 via WiFi;
• Wireless network name (SSID);
• WiFi password;
• The amount of traffic used.

Important! NETGEAR has also developed two docking stations to connect the AC785. They are not included in the package, but can be purchased separately. The docking stations are equipped with reinforced antennas and Ethernet ports for connecting to wired devices home network.

Summing up

As the best among the presented devices, the WiNetwork editors choose NETGEAR AC785. This router is easy to set up and easy to use. And when connected to a docking station, it turns into a full-fledged router for an apartment or house. If only 3G networks are supported in your region or you do not need a dual-band router, pay attention to the Huawei E5330 model, which occupies the second place in this rating.

In this article, I want to talk about ASUS router models that support 3G and 4G modems. I recently published an article in which I wrote about routers with support for USB modems. But, there I considered models different manufacturers, and in this article we will only talk about ASUS routers, and in more detail.

In a nutshell, what does support for 3G / 4G modems mean in general. This is when we can connect to the router regular USB a modem through which it will connect to the Internet, and distribute this Internet to our devices via a Wi-Fi network. Such a router is suitable for those who connect to the Internet via a 3G USB modem. If you have such an Internet, then you probably know that we can connect the modem itself to only one computer. And accordingly, Internet access will be from one device.

And what if we have several computers, and even phones with tablets. In this case, you can buy a special router with modem support, connect the modem to the router, and set up the Internet. And all our devices (laptops, PCs, smartphones, tablets) will already receive Internet from the router via Wi-Fi, or network cable. I myself use such a connection, and by the way, I also have an ASUS router. Model RT-N18U. Only the modem I have now is Huawei EC 306-2. I didn’t take a picture of it, I took another one, it’s all rewound with electrical tape. It looks something like this:

And if for some reason you do not want to buy a router, and you have a laptop or PC with a Wi-Fi module, you can try to distribute the Internet from your computer. Here is the instruction: how to distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop, if the Internet is via a USB modem.

There would be no point in this article if you could just buy any router, connect a USB modem to it, and everything would work. The fact is that not all router models support connecting to the Internet via 3G / 4G modems. And even if the router has such an opportunity, it is not a fact that it will work specifically with your modem.

Now we will figure out which ASUS router model you can buy to work in tandem with a USB modem. I will write how to determine whether the router is suitable for your modem (since you probably already have a modem) and how to set it all up.

Which ASUS router to choose to work with a 3G modem

In this regard, I really like ASUS. They have almost all routers (and maybe all) that with USB ports support 3G / 4G modems. I think it's very cool. After all, if there is a USB port, then the matter is most likely only in software. So why not make modem support. That's how it is with other companies. There are USB connectors, but there is no support. Only on some models.

Once again, I want to highlight two important points that I wrote about above. We will deal with them:

• Selecting a router model that supports 3G modems.
• Compatibility check ASUS router with modem.

As for the support of USB modems, in the characteristics of routers, this moment is usually indicated by the item "WAN: 3G / 4G". At the same time, routers support connecting to the Internet via a regular network cable.

Let's list all models of ASUS routers to which you can connect 3G / 4G modems (information taken from the official website): RT-N14U, RT-N10U B, RT-N18U (I have one), RT-N56U, RT-AC68U, RT-AC56U, RT-AC87U, RT-N56U B1, RT-AC51U, RT-AC55U, DSL- AC56U, RT-AC1200G+, RT-AC88U, RT-AC3100.

As you can see, the choice is very large. For any request, and for any wallet. The only thing I would advise is to take a router that already supports Wi-Fi 5G. I got a little excited by buying my ASUS RT-N18U. He does not support new standard. If interested, you can read a detailed article on choosing routers.

How to determine the compatibility of the router with the modem

This is very important point. Otherwise, the router may simply not see your USB modem after connecting. Or, not connect to the internet. Therefore, before buying, be sure to make sure that the router supports your modem.

First of all, find out the model of your modem. The model is usually indicated on the modem case. The official website has a page that contains all the modems that ASUS routers are compatible with. Here is the link: https://www.asus.com...s_3G4G_support/ . We pass, and look for our modem in the list. You can use page search Ctrl+F.

If you don't find your model, you can google something like "router model + modem model". Perhaps you will find something interesting and useful. Next, you can call ASUS support and check with them. Well, if not, then look at routers from other manufacturers.

I can say for sure that the router will work with the Huawei EC 306-2 modem and Novatel U720 (Intertelecom). It's been verified. Everything works very stable. True, it all depends on the modem and operator. Because wireless Internet itself is not very stable.

Setting up a connection via a 3G/4G modem on an ASUS router

Everything is very simple there. In addition, the control panel on all models is the same. Therefore, everything can be configured according to the instructions that I wrote using the example of setting up the ASUS RT-N18U router.

As far as I remember, the router immediately started distributing the Internet after connecting the modem to the USB connector. The settings there look like this:

Choose, buy, customize, you will succeed. Even if you live in a village, outside the city, and you have the opportunity to connect only wireless 3G / 4G Internet, then you can easily make a Wi-Fi network in your house and connect all your devices. Moreover, the Internet is now fast, especially 4G. Yes, and 3G is enough even for Smart TV, if there is a good tariff, modem, signal and base station not loaded. For greater speed, you can install an antenna for the modem, or set the modem itself for better reception through the AxesstelPst EvDO BSNL program.

You can ask in the comments. Always happy to help. And I will be very grateful if you write about the compatibility of your router and modem. If you have already configured and everything works.

The review presented to your attention on how to connect a Wi-Fi router via a mobile 3G, 4G modem is generic method absolutely for any model wifi router and does not depend on the brand of the manufacturer. The only differences are in the design of the interface of the settings section, in the names and location of the settings sections themselves. Attention! Make sure your router is supported mobile modems the operator of your choice. This information can be found in the instructions section "device specification" or on the manufacturer's website. This guide suitable for any provider providing services mobile internet- Megafon, MTS, Beeline, Yota, Tele2, SkyLink and all other mobile operators!

Setup steps

1. We take your USB modem from the mobile Internet operator and insert and insert it into the USB port on the router, and the Ethernet cable (or patch cord) that comes with the router, the first end into the LAN connector on the router, the second into network card your computer.

2. On your personal computer(under Windows control 7) go to the section network settings, we do it in this way: Start => Control Panel => Network and Internet => Network and Control Center and public access=> Management network connections=> Change adapter settings.

Click right click mouse on the item "Connection by local network"further "Properties" then to the menu item Internet Protocol which is "TCP / IPv4" and select the following items "IP automatically" and "DNS servers automatically"

Save, click "OK".

3. On the router (from its reverse side) we find the IP address that is used to enter the router's admin panel (usually it is 192.168.0.1), and accesses (often login: admin, password: admin)

4. Open your favorite browser and write where address bar- 192.168.0.1 (or the one indicated on the router), and log in.

5. We look at the menu of the router and find the item “USB modem” (or maybe 3G / 4G or USB settings, etc. options), activate it and enter the data for your operator in the fields indicated in the image.

I will give a list of settings for most mobile operators, but I will remind you to look for the current settings from your mobile operator.

Megaphone

API: internet Username: gdata (optional) Password: gdata (optional)

Beeline

APN: internet.beeline.ru or home.beeline.ru Access number: *99# or *99***1# Username: beeline Password: beeline

MTS

APN: internet.mts.ru Access number: *99# or *99***1# Username: mts Password: mts

Tele2

APN: internet.tele2.ru Access number: *99# or *99***1#

U-Tel (Rostelecom)

Access point: internet.usi.ru Username/password: blank Call number: *99***1#

Yota

APN: yota.ru Access number: *99# Username: (blank) Password: (blank)

sky link

APN: empty Call number: #777 Username: mobile Password: internet

Smarts

APN: internet.smarts.ru Access number: *99# or *99***1# Username: internet (optional) Password: internet (optional)

MTS-Belarus

Access point/APN: mts Username: mts Password/Password:

mts Life

Access point/APN:internet Username/password: not required Access number: *99#

Beeline Ukraine

Access point(APN): internet.beeline.ua Access number: *99#, *99***1# or *99**1*1# for some phone models User: optional parameter - can be left blank; Password: optional - can be left blank.

Kyivstar

API: For prepaid subscribers - www.ab.kyivstar.net For contract subscribers - www.kyivstar.net Access number: *99# or *99***1#

Tele2 (TELE2 KZ)

Access point: internet Call number: *99# Login: (empty) Password: (blank) Modem initialization string (optional): AT+CGDCONT=1,"IP","internet"

Beeline (Beeline KZ)

Access point: internet.beeline.kz Call number: *99# Login: beeline Password: beeline Modem initialization string (optional): AT+CGDCONT=1,"IP","internet.beeline.kz"

Kcell-Activ

Access point: internet Call number: *99# Login: (empty) Password: (blank) Modem initialization string (optional): AT+CGDCONT=1,"IP","internet"

Some router models support automatic tuning depending on the operator mobile communications.

When you want to connect a computer to the Internet, first of all you have to deal with two basic concepts: “modem” and “router”. Although they denote the means for creating and maintaining a communication channel between a PC and a network, they refer to different devices and applied in different situations.

What does a modem do

A modem is a device that looks like a USB flash drive. It provides a single device connection (usually desktop computer or laptop) with internet. When the user activates the modem, the following happens: the modem determines which Internet operator to work with, connects to it, starts transferring user data and downloading information from the network to the computer. The modem is only responsible for maintaining the Internet connection for one device.

The modem looks like a USB flash drive and is also inserted into the computer's USB port.

There are two types of modems: 3G/4G and ADSL. Today, the first type is mainly used, as it provides a more stable, faster, cheaper and more affordable connection to the network.

3G/4G modem

Modems of this type are connected to the Internet using a SIM card. Almost all popular operators cellular communication(MTS, Beeline, Megafon, Yota, Tele2 and others) offer their services and special rates for modems. At the same time, most modems are ready to work with SIM cards connected not to a special tariff for computers, but only to a tariff with a mobile traffic package.

4G modems provide faster connection than 3G modems

Connecting to the Internet via a 3G / 4G modem is as follows: a SIM card with a pre-selected and paid tariff is inserted into the modem, the modem is connected to a computer and using special program supplied with the modem establishes a connection to the network.

The price of a modem can range from one to several thousand rubles. An important factor affecting the price is 4G support: modems that support this standard are more expensive.

The difference between 4G modems and 3G modems

When buying a SIM card and a modem, remember that a 3G-enabled modem can only provide a connection in 3G and 2G cellular standards. If 4G support is declared in the name of the modem, then the device can provide communication in 4G, 3G, and 2G standards.

4G modems can cost more, and 4G internet plans are also usually more expensive than 3G. But for more high price you will get a fast Internet connection that is several times faster than the best 3G standards. The average speed of a 4G connection is 40–50 Mbps, and a 3G connection is 5–15 Mbps.

Cons of 3G/4G modems

When choosing a modem, be sure to pay attention to the coverage area. All 3G/4G modems are dependent on it.

The term "coverage area" refers to the area where the cellular network is available in your area. People living in Moscow and St. Petersburg, most likely, will not face the problem of lack of communication, since operators usually concentrate their forces on the territory of these cities. But if you do not live in a large city, then before buying a modem, be sure to look at the official website of the operator to see if your region is in the coverage area. If the SIM card does not see the network, that is, it is outside the coverage area, the modem will not be able to work. The coverage area must be determined separately for 3G and 4G networks.

On the website of the mobile operator, you need to find out where the network "catches"

Video: comparison of 3G and 4G modems

An ADSL modem is a device that will connect your computer to the Internet via a telephone line. Such a modem appearance resembles a router and can also distribute the Internet to several computers, as it has Ethernet ports for outgoing cables.

The ADSL modem has an input for connecting to a telephone line

Internet connection via ADSL modem

The connection is carried out as follows: the modem is connected telephone cable and connects to a special port connector, and a USB or Ethernet cable is connected to the other port, which is connected to the computer at the other end. The modem in this case serves as an intermediary, providing a suitable frequency range for data transmission. Sometimes there are more complex designs that connect a computer to an ADSL modem using a router or access point.

Cons of ADSL modems

ADSL technology is practically not used these days for two reasons: it is more difficult to connect to a telephone line than to an Internet cable, and maximum speed with such a connection - only 24 megabits per second. For comparison: a 3G modem under ideal conditions can reach speeds of up to 63.3 megabits per second.

What does a router do

The router connects to the Internet via a modem or an Internet cable and connects to the Wi-Fi network via a Wi-Fi network. world wide web» multiple devices: computers, tablets or smartphones. Often, in relation to the router, you can also hear the word "router" - it means that the router is engaged in the distribution of traffic coming from different devices.

The router has inputs for modem, Ethernet cable and WLAN cables

Let's say to WiFi networks connected two computers and one phone. On each device, the user does something on the network, sends some data to the Internet and receives information from the Internet. All these data streams pass through the router, which must independently determine which part of the information to send to a particular computer, and which to a mobile phone, and not confuse anything.

The main characteristics of the router

When preparing to buy a router, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• price: most cheap options- from 1 thousand rubles, the most expensive - over 10-20 thousand rubles;
• list of supported modems: a list of models that the router can work with;
• support for 3G / 4G technology: all modern routers can work with a 3G network, but not all of them support a 4G connection; if you try to distribute 4G Internet from a router that does not support this technology, it will happen automatic switching to the 3G protocol, the router will continue to work, but high speed will not work;
• range: it determines the radius over which the wifi signal; manufacturers usually indicate the range in ideal conditions (without rain, with excellent satellite connection quality, without concrete and other obstacles), but in reality, walls and other obstacles will interfere with the router, as well as, possibly, a low level of Internet signal (its quality depends on the modem), so feel free to cut the declared range by 5–10 m; the average range of routers is 100 meters under normal conditions and 300 meters in open areas, and the connection speed drops as you move away from the router.

Pros and cons of a router

Using a router has two main advantages: signal amplification and the ability to distribute the Internet to several devices. All routers have antennas that help the modem catch a signal from the satellite, and the better the signal, the higher the speed of receiving and sending traffic.

The disadvantages of the router include:

1. Its size. A standard device occupies an area of ​​about 300 cm 2 (about the size of a book).
2. In addition, the router requires a constant connection to a power outlet, while the modem is powered by a USB port.
3. When connecting wired Internet to a router, problems may also arise: it is not possible to lay an Internet cable everywhere.

Does a router replace a modem

The router does not replace the modem, they work in pairs. The router itself does not know how to establish a connection with the satellite, this is done by the modem. The modem is inserted into the router and takes on the task of receiving and sending data, and the router only sorts what to give to which of the connected devices, and from which to receive and where to send.

A modem with a router together create a home Wi-Fi network with Internet access

The router can work not only with a wireless modem, but also with wired internet. In this case, the connection to the network will be provided by the Ethernet cable, but the functions of the router will not change.

Video: what is a router

What to choose: router or modem

Selecting only the router will not work for the reasons described in the paragraph “Does the router replace the modem”. When choosing a specific connection configuration, it is recommended to proceed from the following considerations.

1. If you need Internet for one device, while not tied to one point, buy a modem. You can plug it into a laptop and use it anywhere in your region (and abroad too, but outside your home region, special conditions provided by the tariff usually begin to operate).
2. If you need internet throughout your house for two or more devices at the same time, buy a modem and connect it to your router. At any time, you can remove the modem from the router and start using it outside the home. In addition, modern routers are so small and light that, if necessary, you can always take them with you on the road.
3. If you need to provide a large number of devices with the Internet, for example, in an organization or a club, you need to install a router and connect to it either a powerful modem capable of providing speed sufficient to work on all computers at the same time, or an Internet cable.
4. If you are going to travel with a device that has a USB port or supports a SIM card (you can remove the SIM card from the modem and put it in your phone or tablet), then it is better to buy a modem and pick up suitable tariff for traveling.

Table: differences between a router and a modem

Video: differences between a router and a modem

The modem provides data exchange with the Internet: receiving and sending information. The router provides access to the Internet via a Wi-Fi network. The modem allows you to use the Internet on only one device, the router - on two or more. Bandwidth The router is installed by the manufacturer.

Nowadays, the Internet is needed almost always and everywhere. And this applies not only to urban everyday life, when we can catch 3G or 4G from a smartphone or tablet almost anywhere in the city. If we talk about a laptop, then we can, of course, find a Wi-Fi network or distribute the Internet from a smartphone. But you must admit that it is not possible everywhere and not so convenient. And what can we say about country trips, when catching 2G is already not bad, but free networks We can only dream of Wi-Fi. Okay, even a smartphone or tablet, but what about a laptop? And if there is a stationary computer in the country? Will they call from work? It would be possible to complete urgent tasks right outside the city, but there is no Internet, you have to go home.

On long trips, you also need the Internet: on business trips - for work, on tourist trips - to study maps, search interesting places, publication of photos in Instagram and others social networks. Do you really have to always look for Wi-Fi or distribute the Internet from your phone?

Modems and mobile routers will come to the rescue. The principle of their work is simple: insert a SIM-card and enjoy the Internet. The signal strength depends only on the coverage area of ​​your operator. “Excellent!” - you will say and open the page with modems. And there are so many of them ... And such different prices ... How to choose? It all depends on how exactly you want to use the gadget. It is important what devices you will connect to it, as well as where you will use it.

An important point is the choice of the operator. The signal level, and, consequently, the data transfer rate depends on it. Many operators offer their own "branded" modems. They have two drawbacks. First, they are often more expensive. Second, you can only use the services of this operator. If in the place where you are, its networks do not work - well, alas. Therefore, we suggest considering third-party modems and mobile routers.

How are modems different?

USB modem or mobile router

A USB modem is a transceiver that uses the networks of mobile operators to transmit and receive information. It connects to the USB port of the computer and after a little setup allows you to use the Internet. It can also be used with a regular router. A SIM card is inserted into the USB modem, the choice of which depends only on the coverage of the operator's network in the place you need. All USB modems are very small and light, allowing you to carry them in your bag or pocket.

A mobile router is a device that works on the principle of an ordinary modem. A SIM card is inserted into it, the device receives a signal from a mobile operator and, unlike a USB modem, provides mobile Wi-Fi. Such a gadget is usually powered by a battery that requires regular charging. Mobile routers are not as small as USB modems. Some models can be put in a pocket, and some will only fit in a bag.

To choose from these two types of gadgets, answer the question: what do you need this device for? If you only want to use it with a laptop to have internet anywhere, or with desktop computer, purchase a USB modem. If you are interested in portable Wi-FI - an access point for connecting a number of devices, it is better to purchase a mobile router.

3G or 4G

3G and 4G are technologies wireless communication, which allow you to get high-speed Internet access from mobile devices. The letter G in their names is from the word "generation", that is, "generation". Therefore, 3G is the third generation of wireless communication, and 4G is the fourth.

The main difference between these two generations is the data transfer speed. 3G networks are capable of transmitting data at different speeds, which depends on the operating frequency of the mobile operator. The leading operators have an operating frequency of 15 MHz, while some smaller ones have only 4.5 MHz. Therefore, the speed range of 3G networks ranges from several hundred kilobits to several tens of megabits per second.

The main advantage of 3G networks is their coverage area, which covers most of the territory of Russia. Also, the low cost of modems that work only with 3G will be a plus.

4G networks are capable of transmitting data at much higher speeds - up to 1 Gbps. True, it depends on the type of device: for example, not all mobile devices It will also be possible to achieve speeds of 100 Mbps.

The downside of 4G networks is poor coverage in Russia: it only applies to large cities. Also, because of the high-speed data transfer, devices that work with 4G have a higher power consumption.

So when choosing a gadget for a summer residence or trips, it is better to stop at a 3G modem, since you are unlikely to catch 4G anyway, and spend less money on the device. For the city, a 4G modem is better suited.

GSM, GPRS, EDGE, HSPA, LTE

All these terrible abbreviations are nothing but communication standards and technologies of different generations.

GSM is the main communication standard of the second generation. For it, a GPRS packet data transmission technology has been created, the transmission speed of which can reach 115 kbps.

EDGE is a packet data transmission technology that uses the second generation CDMA communication standard. The speed with it reaches 384 kb / s. By the way, this is the same E,

which is displayed on the screen of a smartphone or tablet when it does not catch either 4G, or 3G, or H.

HSPA is a third-generation communication standard that allows packet data rates of 42.2 Mb/s to be achieved. And this is the same H.

LTE is a fourth-generation data transmission technology with a speed of up to 1 Gb / s.

All these standards and technologies are actively used Russian operators connections. In the absence of the latest and fastest networks, devices typically switch to the previous generation networks. Therefore, it is better that all of them are supported by the modem, although this is almost always the case.

Food

As we already mentioned, USB modems do not need a separate power supply. Thanks to this, they can be used at any time, you just need to insert them into the USB port of your computer.

Mobile routers run on batteries. The larger their volume, the longer the gadget will work. However, do not forget about such important factors of battery consumption as work in 4G networks and the presence of additional sensors and functions.

Ethernet port

This is the connector that will allow you to connect your modem to your computer using an Ethernet cable. Such a connection will ensure stability and maximum high speed between the device and the modem. This function is only available for mobile routers, since USB modems are already connected to a computer.

Interface for external antenna

An external antenna is needed in order to better catch the network. After all, the signal is unstable, especially outside the city; it depends on time of day, weather and many other factors. The main disadvantage of the antenna is its low mobility. Therefore, this option is suitable only for those who decide to equip a stationary Internet point, for example, in the country.

Additional functions

Mobile modems have additional functions. But they may not be useful to everyone. In addition, many of them are quite energy-intensive. So decide right away which of the following you need.

Connector under microSD card useful for owners of laptops with a small number of USB connectors. By inserting a flash card into the modem, you can use it as a drive and, for example, store programs related to the Internet and connecting to it (to free up space on your computer and be able to immediately launch all desired programs on another device by simply inserting the modem).

Support for the SMS service allows you to receive and send SMS messages using a special program installed on your computer. This feature is only available for USB modems.

Sensors and a display will help determine the level of charge, the presence of networks, the number of connected users, etc. But you need to remember that with them the battery runs out faster.

An application for smartphones and tablets helps to control the level of charge, connected users, transfer data to the modem's flash drive. This feature is only available on mobile routers.

Dimensions

If we talk about USB modems, then they are all no more than 100 mm in length and 40 g in weight. With mobile routers, everything is different. Their weight can reach 700 g, and dimensions - 250 x 100 mm. But there are also compact models that can be easily carried in your pocket.

Setting

For many users this will be important parameter. After all, you want to launch the gadget and immediately use it. Moreover, for many it will be a real problem to set up a modem - not everyone is fluent in technology. Therefore, based on this parameter, it is better to give preference to USB modems, and the simplest ones.

Criterias of choice

We examined the main parameters of mobile modems and found out that the selection of characteristics depends on the needs of the user. It is necessary to determine where and with what devices the modem will be used, as well as what additional functions will be needed. Based on the needs of users, we classified mobile modems.

For use in the city with a desktop computer It is worth buying a 4G USB modem.

With laptop it will be convenient to use a 3G or 4G USB modem with a microSD card.

For the modem to work with several devices in the country or in the apartment it is better to purchase a 4G mobile router with an Ethernet cable.

If you want to wear wifi hotspot with myself, pay attention to small-sized mobile 4G routers.