The User interface
Equipped with a 2.8-inch touchscreen, the device allows for easy management without the need for additional software. Users can control settings directly through the touchscreen, which provides a user-friendly interface and displays a QR code for simplified Wi-Fi connections. Additionally, the device incorporates a WEB UI that mirrors the options available on the touchscreen, ensuring flexibility in user interaction.
Battery life is a pressing aspect of the Nighthawks M6 Pro, with a fully charged battery typically lasting about thirteen hours under certain conditions. These conditions include setting the router to operate solely on the 5GHz band, limiting the range, and maintaining a balanced energy profile. Switching to a performance energy mode can impact the duration of battery life, as this setting increases data transfer speeds up to 200 Mbps, thus consuming more power. Using it as a LAN router, by connecting it to our LAN network, it provided ~750 Mbit/s on our fiber connection. Yes, the M6 Pro can switch between networking modes automatically. When traveling, you can set it to rely purely on 5G mobile broadband, but when you’re indoors, you can put it to use either ‘Ethernet+Cellular’ or ‘Wi-Fi+Cellular.’ This tells the router to use your standard broadband connection when available – saving you money on your mobile broadband plan – and then switch to 5G if that’s not available.
The device's physical configuration includes backlit home and navigation buttons that do not illuminate in the dark—presumably to conserve battery power. Although this could be seen as a limitation, it reflects the device’s focus on energy efficiency.
In terms of connectivity, the Nighthawk M6 Pro provides substantial flexibility. It supports high-speed mobile Internet access and includes a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connections. This makes it possible to integrate the router into a stationary setup at home or in an office or to use it as a portable device enhancing Wi-Fi coverage and providing wired internet access in areas with poor wireless signal. Furthermore, a USB-C port offers additional connectivity for devices without an Ethernet interface, ensuring the router’s utility in diverse networking environments.
The mobile router also allows for detailed energy management through customizable settings that help extend battery life. Users can select between different energy modes, such as balanced and performance, directly from the home screen. When the performance mode is activated without a connected power source, the router advises connecting to mains electricity to ensure optimal functionality without draining the battery.
Software updates and firmware enhancements are also easily accessible via the router’s settings menu. These updates are autonomously announced by the device, facilitating maintenance and ensuring that the router operates with the latest software enhancements and security patches.
