As someone who spends a lot of time away from the desk for business meetings, events and travel, a stable internet connection is critical to stay connected. I often use my mobile hotspot rather than connecting to public Wi-Fi connections, but it’s never been an ideal solution.

Enter the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G Wi-Fi 6E Hotspot Router – a game-changer in portable connectivity that’s economical, convenient and secure.

The integration of Wi-Fi 6E technology (versus Wi-Fi 6 standard) brings faster speeds, lower latency and greater network security for an enhanced browsing and streaming experience. Wi-Fi 6E expands the Wi-Fi spectrum into the 6GHz frequency band, which reduces interference and improves connectivity.

Using the M6 Pro, download and upload speeds are impressive with support for 5G mmWave in addition to Wi-Fi 6E capabilities. 5G mmWave provides ultra-high throughput and ultra-low latency, making it ideal for applications that require real-time data transmission such as livestreams and Zoom meetings. NETGEAR claims the M6 Pro can reach internet speeds of up to 8Gps but of course this depends on various factors including your plan, your location, product placement, the number of connected devices and so on.

Beyond speed, the M6 Pro features a compact design and a robust build making it perfect for travel use. With the 2.8-inch colour touch screen, you can monitor data usage, view and change Wi-Fi name/password, check mobile signal strength, and manage network settings.

There are three power modes to choose from – Balanced for optimum battery life, Performance for optimal performance and Plugged In to optimise performance and Wi-Fi range when used as a home wireless router. The latter mode can be activated when the battery is removed, boosting Wi-Fi coverage up to 90 square metres.

Setting up the device is a breeze thanks to an intuitive interface, easy to follow step-by-step guide and a simple connection to the internet using a 5G or 4G SIM card. With a long-lasting battery life of up to 13 hours on a single charge, it ensures uninterrupted connectivity throughout the day.

Like most people – if not everyone – privacy is a priority, and the M6 Pro’s advanced security protocols are a welcome inclusion. Built-in VPN support and WPA3 encryption safeguard data from potential threats and cyberattacks for peace of mind. There’s a built-in firewall for up to 32 devices simultaneously in any place that has cellular coverage.

The M6 Pro also offers versatile connectivity options including Ethernet and USB-C ports to connect various devices from laptops to gaming consoles, enhancing both productivity and entertainment on the go.

It supports global connectivity in more than 125 countries and is unlocked to work with all major carriers in Australia including Telstra, Optus and Vodafone.

Verdict: The Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G Wi-Fi 6E hotspot router delivers unmatched speed, portability, security features and versatility making it a must-have for anyone seeking reliable high-speed internet on the go. For a reliable and high-performance hotspot router, especially for those who spend a lot of time away from a home (or other secure) network, look no further than the M6 Pro.

The M6 Pro Hotspot Router is available for MSRP $1,299 on the NETGEAR website.