10 Best Personal Hotspot Devices in 2026

Personal hotspot devices provide a private Wi-Fi connection for phones, laptops, tablets, and other compatible equipment. A good unit balances cellular performance, battery life, portability, security, and straightforward setup, with the right features depending on whether you travel internationally, commute, or need a dependable home-office connection.

The products in this guide were compared using their stated network technology, supported bands, connection limits, battery capacity, portability, security features, and connection methods. The list covers unlocked devices that use a personal SIM, prepaid global hotspots, travel routers that work with public Wi-Fi, and compact USB-powered models.

Each review explains the device's most useful characteristics, practical trade-offs, and ideal buyer. The top selections highlight different priorities, from straightforward everyday connectivity to faster international access and broader wired connectivity. Pricing, plans, availability, and promotional offers can change, so confirm current details before purchasing.

Top 3 Picks for Best Personal Hotspot Devices

Top 10 Best Personal Hotspot Devices in 2026 Compared

This side-by-side comparison highlights the major differences in cellular generation, bandwidth, data access, battery endurance, wired connectivity, and supported-device count across all ten products.

1. Unlocked 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot – Best Overall Value

5.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Unlocked 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

300Mbps 4G LTE

Up to 28 devices

3000mAh battery

Qualcomm chipset

This unlocked 4G LTE hotspot combines a pocket-friendly design, Qualcomm-based cellular hardware, and a stated capacity of 28 connected devices. Its 5.0 rating places it among the strongest customer-rated products in the guide, while the personal SIM format gives experienced travelers control over their cellular provider and data plan.

Pros

• Impressive 28-device capacity
• Simple personal SIM setup
• Broad US band support
• Compact travel-ready design
• Five-star customer rating

Cons

• Requires compatible SIM service
• Battery life varies by use

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The main attraction is unusual connection capacity for its class. A stated maximum of 300Mbps 4G LTE performance is suitable for everyday browsing, messaging, video calls, streaming, and remote work when carrier conditions permit. Support for major US 4G LTE bands also makes it suitable for use with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and other compatible US networks.

Setup is refreshingly direct: insert a personal SIM and power the unit on. The 3000mAh internal battery provides up to eight to ten hours of continuous use according to the product information, while WPA2-PSK encryption helps protect connected traffic. The principal trade-off is that performance and access depend on the SIM, carrier, local coverage, and the user's data allowance.

This is a compelling general-purpose choice for domestic travel, family connectivity, business trips, camping, and temporary backup internet. Choose it when device capacity, simple operation, and broad US carrier compatibility matter more than a physical screen or bundled international data. Its 5.0 rating and generous stated connection limit make it an especially attractive starting point.

Room for an Entire Traveling Group

Supporting up to 28 devices distinguishes this model from the many portable hotspots limited to eight or ten simultaneous users. That makes it useful for families, work groups, and travel parties carrying several phones, tablets, and laptops.

Straightforward Cellular Connectivity

The personal SIM approach keeps the device independent of a single prepaid service. Buyers should still verify carrier bands, coverage, and current plan compatibility before relying on it in a particular destination.

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2. Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router – Best for Public Wi-Fi

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router

AX1500 dual-band Wi-Fi

Up to 60 devices

Dual 1Gbps Ethernet

USB-C 3.0 connectivity

The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 is a portable travel router rather than a traditional cellular hotspot. It creates a private Wi-Fi 6 network using an existing connection, such as public Wi-Fi, wired internet, or phone tethering. Its 4.2 rating reflects a versatile and capable design, especially for travelers who want more than a simple phone hotspot.

Pros

• Excellent multi-device capacity
• Useful wired Ethernet ports
• OpenVPN and WireGuard support
• Several operating modes
• Compact travel-router design

Cons

• Not a cellular hotspot
• Requires existing internet source

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Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 supports stated speeds of up to 1,201Mbps on the 5GHz band and 300Mbps on 2.4GHz, although real results depend on the source connection, distance, obstacles, and nearby interference. The device can serve up to 60 clients at once, and its two 1Gbps Ethernet ports provide useful wired options for a laptop, game console, or other network equipment.

Security is a major strength. OpenVPN and WireGuard support help protect traffic, while a one-step captive portal feature simplifies the repeated login process encountered on many public networks. The router also supports AP, range-extender, and client modes, but OpenVPN is not supported on this model, which is an important limitation for certain remote-access arrangements.

Buy this router when you regularly use hotel, airport, café, campus, or other public Wi-Fi and want one protected network for multiple devices. It is not designed to create cellular internet from a SIM, so travelers who need connectivity in areas without Wi-Fi should choose a dedicated mobile hotspot instead. It is otherwise a flexible, compact security tool for trips and temporary workspaces.

Private Networking on Public Wi-Fi

Connecting a hotel or airport network once through the router allows phones, tablets, and computers to join a single private network. This reduces repeated captive-portal logins and makes secure remote work more convenient.

Flexible Connections for Work

The combination of 1Gbps Ethernet and multi-mode operation makes the router useful beyond ordinary hotspot duties. It can support wired clients, extend an existing network, or act as an access point when travel arrangements call for more control.

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3. USB 4G Travel Modem – Best for Minimalist Travel

5.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

USB 4G Travel Modem

150Mbps 4G LTE

Up to 10 devices

Only 28 grams

USB powered design

This USB 4G Wi-Fi travel modem is built for travelers who want cellular internet without carrying another full-size hotspot. At only 28 grams, it is easy to place in a pocket, laptop bag, or vehicle. Its 5.0 rating indicates strong customer reception, while the direct USB design minimizes charging and setup concerns.

Pros

• Exceptionally light design
• No battery to recharge
• Driver-free setup
• Broad listed band support
• Five-star customer rating

Cons

• Needs external USB power
• Lower stated speed

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The modem supports 4G LTE speeds up to 150Mbps, subject to carrier coverage, and can share its connection with up to ten users. Broad listed support includes numerous US 4G bands and 3G fallback. A compatible 4G SIM is required, after which users connect to the broadcast SSID without installing a driver or navigating a complicated configuration process.

The most important design choice is the absence of an internal battery. Power comes from a laptop, power bank, car charger, or another suitable USB source. That removes charging anxiety but also means the modem cannot maintain a network independently when no power source is available. Its stated maximum speed is lower than the 300Mbps models in the guide.

This modem is a strong fit for road trips, car travel, work at temporary locations, and anyone who already carries a USB power bank. It is less suitable for users wanting a self-contained hotspot with a long internal battery or a screen for monitoring service status. For its intended minimalist role, it offers a compelling balance of size, simplicity, and performance.

Pocket-Size Cellular Convenience

At 28 grams, the modem is among the smallest cellular options in the guide. Its size makes it particularly useful for travelers who prefer to carry a separate power source rather than a larger hotspot with an integrated battery.

No Separate Charging Cycle

Because the device draws power from a connected USB source, users do not need to monitor an internal battery. A laptop or power bank can power it during work sessions, while a car charger serves road trips and extended driving.

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4. 3000mAh 4G LTE Hotspot – Best Compact Unlocked Alternative

2.6Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

3000mAh 4G LTE Hotspot

300Mbps 4G LTE

Up to 10 devices

3000mAh battery

WPA2-PSK security

The 3000mAh 4G LTE Hotspot is a compact, unlocked mobile router designed for travel, camping, and everyday connectivity. It carries a 2.6 rating, the lowest in this comparison, so buyers should weigh the detailed specifications carefully rather than treating its customer feedback as uniformly strong.

Pros

• Pocket-friendly construction
• Quick SIM-based startup
• Qualcomm cellular chipset
• Long stated battery runtime
• Broad US band support

Cons

• Lowest customer rating
• Ten-device connection limit
• Requires compatible SIM service

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Its Qualcomm chipset and stated download speed of up to 300Mbps align with the performance level of the leading unlocked model in the guide. It can support ten simultaneous devices, includes WPA2-PSK encryption, and lists compatibility with the principal US 4G LTE bands used by major providers. Setup involves inserting a personal SIM and powering it on.

The 3000mAh internal battery is listed at up to 12 to 14 hours of steady use, which is longer than the stated continuous-use figure for the first unlocked hotspot. Nevertheless, the lower 2.6 rating is a meaningful drawback, and real-world satisfaction may be affected by compatibility, signal behavior, or other factors not visible in the core specifications.

This product makes the most sense for buyers who prioritize a tiny form factor, Qualcomm hardware, and a long stated battery life in an unlocked design. It is less compelling than the higher-rated first model when a larger simultaneous-device capacity is important. Checking recent customer feedback and confirming carrier support can help determine whether it suits a particular trip.

Long Stated Battery Runtime

A stated 12 to 14 hours of steady use makes this compact hotspot suitable for full-day travel and camping. Actual runtime varies with signal strength, device count, screen use, and the demands placed on the cellular connection.

Security for Shared Connections

WPA2-PSK encryption provides a basic layer of protection for phones and computers joining the hotspot. Users should still use HTTPS, updated operating systems, and secure credentials when handling sensitive work.

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5. M5 Global Travel Hotspot – Best for Simpler Global Service

5.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

M5 Global Travel Hotspot

4G global connectivity

Up to 10 devices

3000mAh battery

Type-C charging

The M5 Global Travel Hotspot is designed to reduce the complexity of obtaining cellular service abroad. It offers 4G connectivity in more than 160 countries, includes 1GB of global data each month, and eliminates the need to manage a physical SIM. Its 5.0 rating supports its appeal as a simple travel-focused service.

Pros

• Service in 160-plus countries
• No physical SIM required
• Flexible prepaid data options
• Automatic strongest-signal selection
• Five-star customer rating

Cons

• Six-hour stated battery life
• Registration may fail on weak signals

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The prepaid model allows users to select day, weekly, or monthly data packages without a long-term contract. The hotspot reportedly switches to the strongest available local 4G signal, which can be useful when coverage varies between operators. Up to ten devices can connect simultaneously, covering typical family and small-team needs.

Its 3000mAh battery provides up to six hours of nonstop use, and Type-C charging simplifies replenishment. The product information warns that a poor local signal may prevent the device from registering on the network. That limitation is important: global service does not guarantee uninterrupted coverage in buildings, remote areas, or locations without a supported network.

This hotspot is a practical choice for international vacationers and business travelers who would rather avoid physical SIM logistics. It is less suitable for people who need all-day battery life or an independently powered cellular connection in remote areas. Travelers should review the available plans and supported destinations before departure.

International Service Without SIM Logistics

Prepaid global service removes the need to find, insert, and configure a destination-specific physical SIM. The included monthly allowance and flexible plan choices make it easier to match usage to the length and demands of a trip.

Automatic Local Network Selection

Switching toward the strongest available 4G signal can improve the odds of finding usable service in a covered area. SignalScan-style behavior does not overcome the absence of local coverage, so travelers should still plan for offline periods.

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6. 5GB US Data Hotspot – Best for US and Mexico Road Trips

5.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

5GB US Data Hotspot

4G LTE eSIM service

Up to 10 devices

3000mAh battery

US and Mexico coverage

This prepaid eSIM hotspot is aimed at travelers who want a ready-to-use private network without handling a physical SIM. It includes 5GB of US data and supports networks in the United States and Mexico. The 5.0 rating indicates strong customer reception, and its no-contract format suits flexible trip planning.

Pros

• No physical SIM needed
• Automatic carrier-network selection
• Useful for RVs and road trips
• Ten-device sharing capacity
• Five-star customer rating

Cons

• Six-hour stated battery life
• Focused on US and Mexico

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After powering it on and connecting to the SSID, the hotspot can share its connection with up to ten phones, tablets, or laptops. It automatically selects among major US and Mexican carrier networks to find the strongest available 4G LTE signal. That approach is especially helpful on road trips, where coverage and network conditions can change quickly.

The 3000mAh rechargeable battery supports up to six hours of continuous use, while Type-C charging allows convenient recharging from compatible power banks and wall adapters. Advanced security protocols and a private network help reduce reliance on open public Wi-Fi. The main constraint is the service geography: travelers going beyond the US and Mexico should not assume international operation.

This is a strong match for families or small teams traveling by car, RV users, and remote workers seeking temporary connectivity. It is less suitable for international travel or long workdays away from a charger. Users should verify how additional service is structured and whether the included data and network terms suit their intended itinerary.

A Private Network for Road Travelers

Sharing one cellular connection among navigation, music, streaming, learning, and remote-work devices reduces dependence on individual phone data allowances. The ability to connect ten clients suits families and small travel groups.

Automatic eSIM Network Switching

The eSIM approach avoids physical card handling and allows the service to choose among supported local networks. Users benefit most where multiple carriers offer complementary coverage, particularly across changing road-trip conditions.

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7. SIMO Solis Edge – Best for Fast Global Connectivity

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

SIMO Solis Edge

5G and Wi-Fi 6

140-plus country coverage

SignalScan technology

78.8-gram design

The SIMO Solis Edge combines 5G cellular service with Wi-Fi 6 in a lightweight international travel hotspot. Its 4.0 rating reflects a modern feature set, while the stated ability to reach more than 300 mobile carriers across 140-plus countries gives it broad geographic relevance.

Pros

• Modern 5G cellular performance
• Wi-Fi 6 device support
• Extensive global carrier access
• Automatic strongest-signal selection
• Lightweight pocket design

Cons

• Higher category cost
• International service depends on plans

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SignalScan automatically scans for and connects with the strongest available mobile signal, which is useful for international travel where local carrier quality can vary. The device weighs 2.8 ounces, making it easy to carry, and its battery is described as lasting multiple days. The included Explorer Bundle combines a recurring 1GB monthly allowance with 30GB of global data.

No physical SIM or locked-in contract is required, which reduces administrative friction for international trips. The main trade-off is that global access is service-dependent: local network availability, regulatory restrictions, and selected plans still determine where and how the hotspot operates. The 5G and Wi-Fi 6 combination also places it above simpler 4G models for demanding connected devices.

This is the top choice for frequent international travelers, remote workers, and users who want faster cellular and Wi-Fi performance without managing a SIM. It also suits RVs, campers, and road trips where automatic signal selection is valuable. Choose it when global reach and modern wireless standards justify a more premium travel device.

5G Performance for Modern Devices

Pairing 5G with Wi-Fi 6 makes the Solis Edge better suited to high-data activities such as video calls, large file transfers, and connected laptops. Real performance still depends on local network conditions and the data service selected.

Global Coverage Without Physical SIMs

Access to 300-plus carriers in 140-plus countries offers wide potential coverage, while SignalScan automates the process of finding a strong connection. The absence of a physical SIM also reduces setup and roaming-card logistics.

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8. SIMO Solis Hero – Best Built-In Power Bank Hotspot

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

SIMO Solis Hero

4G mobile hotspot

5250mAh power bank

Up to 10 devices

Global carrier service

The SIMO Solis Hero differentiates itself with a 2-in-1 design that combines a 4G mobile hotspot with a 5250mAh power bank. Its 4.0 rating reflects a capable global travel product, and the larger battery gives it a distinct role for travelers who want one device to supply both connectivity and backup power.

Pros

• Large built-in power bank
• No physical SIM required
• SignalScan carrier selection
• Broad global service
• Useful 10-device capacity

Cons

• 4G rather than 5G
• Bulkier than compact hotspots

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SignalScan AI searches across multiple mobile carriers to locate the strongest available signal, and the device can connect up to ten clients. It operates across 140 countries and 300-plus carriers without a physical SIM or a locked-in contract. The included data consists of 1GB free each month and a one-time 30GB global pack that expires after 30 days.

The built-in power bank is the primary advantage, though it also makes the Hero less compact than a basic 4G unit. It remains a 4G product rather than a 5G model, and its charging performance is most reliable with the included cable as stated in the product information. International access still depends on local coverage and applicable service choices.

The Solis Hero is a sensible choice for long international trips, camping, and road travel where charging several devices is a concern. It is less attractive for users prioritizing the smallest possible body or the latest cellular generation. For those priorities, the Solis Edge offers 5G while the M5 and PocketFi X emphasize more compact travel designs.

Connectivity and Charging in One Device

The 5250mAh power bank adds useful backup for a phone, tablet, or other accessory while the hotspot itself is away from an outlet. Carrying one device instead of a separate battery pack can simplify travel packing.

Reliable Global Signal Hunting

SignalScan AI removes some of the uncertainty involved in selecting a local network while abroad. It is particularly helpful for road trips and destinations where one carrier may offer much stronger service than another.

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9. NomadsFi PocketFi X – Best Premium Travel Hotspot

4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

NomadsFi PocketFi X

Dual-modem 4G LTE

Up to 10 devices

3500mAh battery

2.4-inch touchscreen

The NomadsFi PocketFi X combines dual modems, a Qualcomm chipset, and a 2.4-inch touchscreen in a premium mobile hotspot. Its 4.4 rating is the second-highest in the guide, and the information display gives it a more polished, approachable experience than basic button-operated models.

Pros

• Informative touchscreen interface
• Dual-modem Qualcomm chipset
• Automatic carrier switching
• Long stated battery life
• Broad destination support

Cons

• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
• Service depends on NomadsFi plan

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Automatic Switching chooses an available carrier network according to the user's NomadsFi plan and local coverage across more than 200 destinations. CloudSIM Smart Connect provides access without a physical SIM, while the included 10GB US starter allocation can be followed by PayGo, monthly, global, or unlimited options. Up to ten devices can join the 2.4GHz network.

The 3500mAh battery provides up to 14 hours of stated operation, and USB-C charging adds convenience. The touchscreen shows signal, data use, connected devices, and Wi-Fi settings, which is useful for troubleshooting and monitoring. The trade-offs are a 2.4GHz-only Wi-Fi network and reliance on NomadsFi plans, plus a larger footprint than the lightest modems.

The PocketFi X is a strong premium pick for travelers who want clear status information, flexible global service, and long battery life without carrying a separate power bank. It works especially well for RV trips, camping, remote work, dorms, backup internet, and travel to many international destinations. Check plan coverage and data allowances before buying.

Useful Information at a Glance

The 2.4-inch touchscreen makes it easier to check signal quality, data consumption, connected clients, and Wi-Fi settings. This visibility is valuable when managing a group connection or watching limited service data.

Dual-Modem Carrier Flexibility

A Qualcomm chipset with dual modems supports automatic switching among available carrier networks. That architecture is intended to improve stability by giving the device more than one cellular path to work with.

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10. Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router – Best for High-Speed Wired Networking

4.1Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router

AX3000 dual-band Wi-Fi

2.5Gbps WAN/LAN

Wi-Fi 6 connectivity

USB 3.0 file sharing

The TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 is the most speed-focused travel router in this guide. It uses dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with stated rates of up to 2,402Mbps on 5GHz and 574Mbps on 2.4GHz. Its 4.1 rating is solid, although actual throughput depends on the source connection and local wireless conditions.

Pros

• Fast 2.5Gbps wired port
• Excellent local Wi-Fi speed
• VPN client and server support
• File-sharing via USB storage
• Flexible operating modes

Cons

• Not a cellular hotspot
• Requires another internet source

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A 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN port and a 1Gbps LAN port make it more capable than many pocket routers for wired devices. The device also supports USB 3.0 storage, including microSD cards up to 512GB, allowing files to be backed up and shared across the private network. Router, hotspot, and AP/RE modes cover common travel and temporary-network arrangements.

Security features include OpenVPN and WireGuard as both client and server, plus PPTP and L2TP support. The Tether app simplifies one-step captive-portal authentication and network management. As with the AX1500 model, OpenVPN is not supported, and this is a router rather than a cellular modem, so it cannot independently provide mobile internet.

Choose the AX3000 for a hotel, rental, RV, or temporary office that benefits from fast Ethernet and strong local Wi-Fi 6. It is particularly suitable for laptops, gaming consoles, and users transferring files through USB storage. Travelers who need cellular service away from Wi-Fi should choose a SIM-based or global mobile hotspot from the guide instead.

High-Speed Wired and Wireless Networking

The 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN port offers substantially more headroom than a basic 1Gbps connection, while dual-band Wi-Fi 6 handles compatible clients at high local rates. The combination suits demanding temporary workspaces.

Practical File-Sharing Storage

The USB 3.0 port supports external drives and microSD cards up to 512GB for backup and local sharing. It turns the travel router into more than a basic connection tool and can reduce the need to move files physically.

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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Personal Hotspot Devices

Start with the kind of internet access, coverage region, and number of devices you need, then compare battery life, security, size, and setup requirements. A hotspot that works well for a short domestic trip may not suit international travel or a group of power users.

Cellular Generation and Speed

Prioritize newer cellular standards when your destinations have reliable 5G service.

Coverage and Carrier Compatibility

Verify bands, countries, and local carrier support before every extended trip.

Battery Capacity and Runtime

Match expected runtime to the longest period between charging opportunities.

Number of Connected Devices

Count every phone, tablet, laptop, console, and smart device that may join.

Portability and Power Method

Choose a power design that suits your trips rather than judging only by weight.

Security and Privacy Features

Use strong credentials, current firmware, and encrypted protocols for sensitive work.

Setup, Plans, and Manageability

Favor the setup model you can comfortably manage during every trip.

How to Use and Care for Your Personal Hotspot Devices

Begin by charging the device fully, installing the required SIM or activating its prepaid service, and confirming that your carrier, data plan, and destination are supported. For a router-based model, connect it to Ethernet, a phone's USB tethering, or public Wi-Fi instead. Change any default administrator password, use WPA2-PSK security, and keep the network name and password private before joining clients.

Power on the hotspot, allow it to acquire a cellular signal, and connect phones, tablets, or computers through its Wi-Fi network. The travel routers can be managed through the Tether app or web interface, where users can select router, hotspot, access-point, or range-extender modes as appropriate. Update firmware, monitor data use, and disconnect unfamiliar devices when using the service in shared spaces.

For longevity, keep the device within its recommended temperature range, protect it from moisture and impact, and avoid leaving a rechargeable battery depleted for long periods. Update the system and carrier software when instructed, and monitor the remaining charge during heavy use. Securely erase saved Wi-Fi credentials or device data before returning, selling, or recycling a hotspot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Personal Hotspot Devices

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