4 best 5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM card slot in 2026 (4+ compared)

5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM cards cost between £170 and £595 depending on their specifications.

Entry-level models start near £170 and include basic 5G connectivity with support for a limited number of devices, while high-end models go above £425 with advanced chipsets, broader frequency band support, and higher maximum speeds.

The price increases with features such as support for Wi-Fi 6, stronger internal antennas, and compatibility with both standalone and non-standalone 5G networks. Some models add multiple Ethernet ports and external antenna connections, which also raise the cost.

The chart below shows the price distribution of 5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM cards.

5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM cards can reach speeds up to 10 Gbps in theory, which is far higher than the maximum of 4G routers.

In real use, the speed depends on network coverage, signal quality, and the data plan. In cities with strong 5G infrastructure, you can expect speeds that are several times higher than 4G, with downloads often reaching hundreds of Mbps or even over 1 Gbps.

These routers also use lower latency compared to 4G, which improves real-time applications like video calls, streaming in 4K, or online gaming. The speed varies by frequency band: sub-6 GHz bands deliver wide coverage with moderate speeds, while mmWave bands achieve the highest speeds but with shorter range.

How many devices can connect to 5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM cards?

5G Wi-Fi routers with SIM cards can connect between 32 and 128 devices at the same time, depending on the model and hardware capacity. Entry-level portable models usually support around 32 simultaneous connections, while advanced home and office routers extend the limit to 64 or even 128 devices.

When choosing the best 5G Wi-Fi router with SIM card, you should consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance and compatibility:

• Network compatibility: Check if the router supports your carrier's specific frequency bands for 5G networks. Different cellular providers operate on different frequency bands (such as n71, n260, n41), and the router must match your SIM card provider's bands for proper functionality. This compatibility determines whether you can access 5G networks and affects connection stability.
• Coverage range and signal strength: Assess the router's signal transmission power and antenna configuration based on your space requirements. Smaller apartments may only need basic dual-antenna routers, while larger homes or multi-story buildings require models with external high-gain antennas or multiple built-in antennas. Signal penetration through walls and floors becomes critical in larger spaces.
• SIM card compatibility: Verify the router accepts your specific SIM card size (standard, micro, or nano) and type. Many routers require data-only SIM cards designed for internet use rather than standard smartphone SIMs. Check if your SIM operates on compatible frequency bands and whether any carrier restrictions apply to the router model.
• Dual-SIM capability: Some routers support multiple SIM cards for connection redundancy or carrier switching. This feature allows automatic failover to a backup carrier if the primary connection fails, or you can use different carriers for cost optimization. Dual-SIM routers provide better reliability and flexibility for continuous connectivity.
• Security features: Look for routers with advanced security options including WPA3 encryption, VPN support, and built-in firewalls. These features protect your network from unauthorized access and potential cyber threats. Modern routers often include additional security tools like guest networks and parental controls for enhanced protection.
• Physical connectivity options: Consider the number and type of physical ports you need for wired connections. Evaluate Ethernet ports for gaming consoles or desktop computers, and USB ports for shared storage or other devices. Wired connections provide more stable performance than Wi-Fi for bandwidth-intensive applications.