4G Modem Router Device for Mobile Broadband Use - under $100

PLA74 on 04/02/2020 - 13:42
Last edited 10/02/2020 - 14:03 by 1 other user

Hi,

Looking for a reasonably cheap 4G modem router device (either portable or mains power doesn't matter) where I can put in a mobile data sim card (Telstra or Optus network), and use it for Wi-Fi. About 4 laptops will be connected to it do office work such as emails, cloud based apps, occasional video conference meetings etc.

Have tried the Kogan device (https://www.kogan.com/au/buy/kogan-n300-4g-lte-modem-wireles…) but it was horrible and didn't work, hence got a refund.

Any suggestions please? Don't mind a locked modem either as I'm flexible with the network provider as it'll only be used within metro CBD area.

Thanks!

Internet Mobile Broadband Modem

closed Comments

  • [Deactivated] on 04/02/2020 - 13:54

    I was in a similar situation and used a tplink router with a usb modem plugged in. Found the 'larger' powered router gave me better wireless connection than connecting directly to the portable wireless router. It also managed multiple connections quite effectively.

    I use the netgear aircard810S for myself when I travel, but find it slows down a bit with multiple connections, when colleagues 'borrow' my internet. The benefit of the aircard is that I can put it under a window and get internet at my desk in some concrete monoliths.

  • JIMB0 on 04/02/2020 - 14:17
    +1

    Cheap android phone.

    • Switchblade88 on 04/02/2020 - 17:19
      +1

      Not too cheap though - most budget handsets can't handle hotspotting particularly well.

      Might be better using an older/spare handset with a 'higher initial price' - one that's been replaced at the end of a 2-year contract, for example. I've got a drawerful of them.

  • iDroid on 04/02/2020 - 14:22

    We use one of these https://www.kogan.com/au/buy/kogan-n300-4g-lte-modem-wireles… (SOLD OUT)

    But I expect these will work just as well: https://www.kogan.com/au/buy/kogan-n300-4g-lte-cat4-modem-wi…

    We use one with a cheap Kogan plan, works really well.

  • BLAIL on 04/02/2020 - 14:31

    Pick up a used AC800S on Ebay for under $120. They're great for 3-4 people

  • wei13 on 04/02/2020 - 14:40
    +1

    I have used the Huawei e5186 , and more recently the Huawei B525. Both reasonably solid machines. Might be able to get second hand ones under your budget.

    Side-note: how did you manage to get a refund from Kogan? Their customer service is close to non-existent.

    • PLA74 on 04/02/2020 - 14:43
      +1

      Just logged a support ticket only via My Orders, then replied to their email explaining all the problems/troubleshooting steps I've performed. Then got a reply saying they have processed a refund and the device doesn't need to be returned.

      • wei13 on 04/02/2020 - 15:00
        +1

        Wow . I am surprised . Good stuff.

  • Switchblade88 on 04/02/2020 - 17:14

    This seems to be perfect if you can find one (or similar). Coles or Woolies seem to have a better range than the telco's stores for these 4G routers!

    $15 bucks, throw in an Optus SIM if you've already got an existing account, and you're set.

    Heck, if you need ethernet for a specialised device (e.g. standalone copier) then a cheap wifi repeater with an enthernet port will be perfect.

    • PLA74 on 04/02/2020 - 17:25

      Great, will see if there’s stock around me. Just wi-fi is fine.

  • unclekenz on 10/02/2020 - 13:06

    Why in the first instance, do you blame the receiving device for a poor 3-4G Broadband service?

    Nowhere have you stated the base concern, it being the signal strength level you tested for and are receiving at the chosen location in your premises. So if you had first tested for level of signal strength and found it to be poor, with or without an external aerial, you might then have reasonably concluded a mobile broadband service is not a sensible option at your premises, confirmed by the crap performance as demonstrated by the device you purchased.

    It's hard to offer worthwhile suggestions based on insufficient yet fundamental criteria from op.

  • Moderatorscrimshaw on 10/02/2020 - 14:25

    Answer found by OP.

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