These days, you can buy a Wi-Fi 6E router for home use for a few dozen yen, but that’s not the case with portable routers. Today Netgear announced the launch of a new unlocked version of the Nighthawk M6 Pro (MR6550). It provides faster Internet connectivity for users on the go and for consumers who do not have reliable fixed broadband service at home.
Compared to its predecessor, the M6 Pro adds Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and mmWave support for broader compatibility with 5G networks at speeds up to 8 Gbps (up to 2.5 Gbps). The M6 Pro features a larger 2.8-inch touchscreen (vs. 2.4-inch) and boosts maximum LTE speeds from 1.6 Gbps to 2 Gbps.
The mobile hotspot has 3,600 Mbps of available bandwidth (2,900 MHz 5/6 GHz, 700 Mbps 2.4 GHz) and an integrated 2.5 GbE port on the back (1 GbE port only on M6). There’s also a USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port on the back that’s used for charging and data. Another interesting addition to the M6 Pro is two TS-9 antenna connectors. This allows you to connect an external antenna to improve reception beyond what the M6 Pro’s internal antenna can provide (ideal setup for users needing internet connectivity in remote locations).
The M6 Pro’s internal battery can also last up to 13 hours on a single charge, enough capacity for even the most demanding users, Netgear said in a video call. We also asked how the mmWave connection would affect battery life, but were assured that the impact on durability would be minimal. The M6 Pro’s Wi-Fi coverage is approximately 1,000 square feet on battery power. However, when plugged directly into a power outlet, coverage doubles to 2,000 square feet.
You may wonder why you should use a mobile hotspot like the M6 Pro when you can do the same tasks with your smartphone. According to Netgear, 88% of those who have purchased a dedicated mobile hotspot use it as their primary home internet connection. Many Americans live in rural areas where broadband connections are non-existent or substandard, so cellphone-based solutions are ideal, but smartphones like his M6 Pro support up to 32 devices simultaneously. you can’t.
A Netgear survey also found that 54% of people use a portable router as their “primary” connection at their vacation home, and 50% use a portable router in their car while traveling.
The M6 Pro has one “gotcha”. it’s the price.can get AT&T carrier-locked M6 Pro for $460 (opens in new tab) Or pay $12.78 per month with an installment plan. However, Netgear will refund you $999.99 directly for the unlocked version. (opens in new tab) (and soon from Amazon too). According to Netgear, the unlocked M6 Pro is currently only supported with a previously activated AT&T and Verizon SIM, or a T-Mobile BYOD plan. However, he said AT&T and Verizon’s new BYOD activations will be “coming soon.”
