The best 5G modems for laptop and computer
The fifth generation mobile communication standard will change not only smartphones, but also the scenario of using computers and laptops. And the best 5G modems will allow you to do this.

Top 5 rating according to KP

In the 2020s, the digital world is in for a real revolution. 5G will not just be the next generation of cellular communications, but will be able to bring together almost all gadgets that will operate at gigantic data transfer and reception speeds. The widespread emergence of absolutely wireless Internet, the speed of which will be dozens of times higher than even the performance of a modern fast “wire”, will also change the computer market. Many modern PCs and laptops will be able to work at such speeds, and the best 5G modems that will connect via WWAN or USB 3/3.1 will help them with this.

1. Sierra Wireless EM (about 8-10 thousand rubles)

A well-known modem that is used by many owners of laptops and computers with a WWAN connector. Now on sale there is a modification that works in 4G networks, based on Qualcomm hardware. Of course, the modem will be updated and a completely new version will definitely work in 5G networks. The installation principle will remain the same – find a free WWAN port under the laptop cover, install a network card and update the BIOS.

Works with almost all modern Windows devices, inexpensive
Installation requires disassembly of the gadget, not compatible with Apple products

2. Alcatel IK (from 3-4 thousand rubles)

Representative of classic USB modems from Alcatel. In the new generation, the form factor is unlikely to change much – it looks like an ordinary flash drive connected to the port. However, the best 5G laptop and desktop modems will only work with USB 3/3.1 ports. The fact is that the old revisions of USB simply cannot provide data transfer at the speeds of fifth-generation networks.

Availability, easy to install
Perfectionists will be dissatisfied with the “whistle” sticking out of the laptop; adapters will be needed for USB Type-C
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3. Snapdragon X50 (Unknown)

This modem is unlikely to be sold as a separate device, but it will form the basis of many solutions that will work in 5G networks. The matter is that this modem with the antenna module is intended for integration into chipsets from Qualcomm. For example, we will be able to see it in Windows laptops that will be released on ARM processors.

Full integration with the device, will be available in 2018
Does not support work separate from the processor

4. HP lt (from 11 thousand rubles)

Mobile broadband modules from HP are well established in the market. And it is no coincidence that the future novelty from Hewlett-Packard got into the list of the best 5G modems for laptops and computers. Firstly, working through WWAN connectors will allow you to realize the maximum speed of receiving and transmitting the Internet. And secondly, WWAN is gradually becoming the same universal connector as USB Type-C, which means that it will be possible to get a speed of 1 Gbps on a wide range of devices.

Fully compatible with most modern laptops, high speed
Not coming out soon

5. Huawei Balong 5000 (unknown)

Another integrated solution in the ranking of the best 5G modems for laptop and computer. The Chinese company introduced a new modem in January 2019 as a competitor to the Snapdragon X50. Unlike the American competitor, Balong 5000 supports standalone architecture and FDD data transmission, and its maximum speed is fantastic 5Gb/s. When and in what form it will appear for the PC is unknown.

Supports data transfer up to 5 Gb / s, can work not only in fifth generation cellular networks, but also in 2G, 3G and 4G
It is not known when the PC version will be released.

How to choose 5G modems for laptop and computer

Our Country is one of the five countries in the world where fifth-generation mobile networks are deployed. By 2020, the largest cities of our country will be able to develop Internet speeds of more than 100 MB/s. Laptops and computers will be able to work in them with the help of the best 5G modems. So how to choose a 5G modem?

Price

5G modems, like all fifth-generation network equipment, will be expensive in the early years. So, WWAN modules can cost from 10-15 thousand rubles. It will be possible to find a cheaper option with the release of the usual USB modems, the prices for which will be 4-7 thousand rubles.

connection

Giant speeds of receiving and transmitting information of 1 Gb / s in modern computers are not new, but they require the support of specific communication protocols. So, if your choice is among the best 5G modems for a laptop and a computer on a USB model, then you need to consider that your PC supports at least USB 3.0, and preferably 3.1. WWAN connectors, which can be connected as a Wi-Fi module or an SSD drive, are also found only in modern models of computers and laptops.

Speed

It should be noted that the speed of 1-2 Gbit / s, declared in the specifications of fifth generation cellular networks, will initially not be entirely achievable for several reasons. First, the coverage and stability of 5G carriers will leave much to be desired. Secondly, the first models of equipment may have “childhood diseases, for example, suffer from overheating. And finally, modern computers can “cut” too much speed. Therefore, when choosing the best 5G modem for a laptop and computer, you need to focus on real device tests, and not manufacturer statements.

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