Peplink has long been focused on connectivity via routers, but Peplink also offers Cellular USB adapters intended to provide a cellular WAN connection via USB to a Peplink router or another device like a laptop.
The original MAX Adapter is retired, though it may still be available through some vendor channels. The latest version is called the 5G Dongle.
Essentially, the 5G Dongle is a single-modem device that provides a 5G WAN interface with Ethernet-over-USB. It supports multiple SIMs, including eSIM, external cellular antennas, and full Peplink management integration, packaged in a very small enclosure.
The 5G Dongle is designed primarily as a WAN source for Peplink routers and PC's (Windows/macOS/Linux).
Specifications
- Model Number: DNGL-5GY-PRM
- # of Connected Devices: 1, via USB-C
- Default Control Panel Address and Password:
- Address: Not Specified
- Password: Not Specified
- USB Tethering Support: No
- Cellular Modem Specs:
- Cellular Modem: Single 5G
- Modem Module or Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon X62
- Supported Networks and Bands: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
- 5G Bands (Sub-6 GHz): n2, n5, n7, n12, n13, n14, n25, n26, n29, n30, n38, n41, n48, n66, n70, n71, n77, n78
- LTE Bands: 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 25, 26, 29, 30, 38, 41, 42, 43, 46, 48, 66, 71
- Carrier Certification: Not Specified
- MIMO Support: 4x4 External
- 5G Cellular Performance:
- Max Theoretical 5G Performance: 3.4 Gbps Down / 500 Mbps Up
- 5G Carrier Aggregation: 2x download and upload - low and mid band can be combined
- LTE Performance:
- LTE Performance Category: Cat-19 (Max Theoretical Speed: 1.6 Gbps Down / 200 Mbps Up)
- LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation: Not Specified
- Cellular Antennas/Ports: 4x SMA ports, Paddle Antennas Included
- SIM Slots: 2x Nano, plus eSIM (Peplink eSIM and 2x BYO eSIM profiles)
- Dimensions: 3.9 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches
- Other Ports: None
- Power Source: USB-C (power and data)
- Outdoor Rated: No
- Special Features:
- Retail Price: $399
View our Peplink product line overview and articles - co-authored with our education & action partner at MobileMustHave (who offers advanced support, guidance and discounts to our members):
News, Videos, & Status
We tested the MAX Adapter (now retired) in 2022.
We plan to test the new 5G Dongle once it becomes available. Here is a first look video from MobileMustHave:
News Stories:
Alternatives to Consider
For other popular mobile hotspots on the market - here are our featured options:
This Review Contains Additional Member Exclusive Content!
We are Honored to be Member Funded! No ads, no sponsors, no selling (but may contain affiliate links)
Our members fund our in-depth independent reviews.
This entry may contain additional member exclusive content such as testing notes, field testing data, user interface tours, comparisons to alternatives, analysis, tips, videos and discounts.
Members also get interactive guidance, alerts, classroom and more.
Other Ways to Support Our Work At MIRC
Member Exclusive Content Below
- Thoughts & Analysis - Favorite Features & Potential Downsides
- Deep Dive
- Hardware Notes
- 5G Device
Purchasing Options
Purchasing Links & Disclaimer
We don't sell stuff, we are primarily member funded. Some links below may be affiliate links (see our disclaimer), which also helps fund MIRC.
The vendors displayed below provide larger discounts to our MIAs that we have negotiated instead of displaying affiliate links while they are logged in.
MIA Discounts - Learn & Save!
Our Mobile Internet Aficionados (MIA) get special discounts from the below vendors. Members please check for discount codes before ordering. With savings up to 11% off, you could save more than your membership cost!
Affiliate vendor links - using these links helps support MIRC's mission (MIAs, please log in to get special discounts):
5G Dongle:
MAX Adapter (Retired):
- MobileMustHave (2 models)
- Onboard Wireless: 5G/Cat-20
- Amazon: Cat-6 | Cat-12
- Other vendors (non-affiliate):
Mobile hotspot devices are small, self-contained units that receive a cellular data signal and transform it into an internet connection. They are a cellular modem and router combined. Most can create their own personal Wi-Fi network.
They are typically designed with a specific cellular carrier in mind and require a suitable cellular data plan of their own to operate. You might see them called Jetpacks (Verizon's term for them) or MiFi (Inseego's name for them).
Here's a quick video going over the features of a hotspot, and what makes one better than another:
The guides below have been hand-picked to help further your education about selecting mobile hotspots and best utilizing them in your mobile internet setup.

Mobile Internet Resource Center (dba Two Steps Beyond LLC) is founded by Chris & Cherie of