Sierra Wireless Overdrive Mobile Hotspot

What:
Bought in conjunction with a Sprint contract, the Overdrive Mobile Hotspot provides internet access via Sprint’s 3G—and growing 4G—network. The hotspot box emits a wifi signal that netbooks, iPads or other wifi devices can use to surf the web..

LCD info screen	Universal wifi capability	Useable by 5 devices simultaneously
4.5 ounces (128g)	3 hour battery life	150 foot (45 meter) range
Tends to run hot	Slow startup time	4G speeds (where available)

Our take:
We really want to love the Sierra Wireless Overdrive Mobile Hotspot—the concept of having portable internet access is awesome.

Sadly, there’s no way we can recommend this product, at least for now. The slow start-up time, short battery life and bulky form factor limit its use. The device tends to run hot, meaning you can’t really leave it running in your car on a sunny day. But most of all the Overdrive Mobile Hotspot doesn’t currently seem to take advantage of Sprint’s network. In our trials, 4G downloads with the Overdrive were no faster (and sometimes, inexplicably, a bit slower) than 3G mobile hotspots offered by other companies.

If you are looking for a mobile hotspot to keep in your car we recommend the Autonet Mobile Wi-Fi Router instead. Unlike most all other mobile hotspots devices, the Autonet isn’t linked to a particular company’s network; instead finds the strongest, fastest data signal available.