Module combinant WiFi et bande passante haut débit sur M.2
Module combinant WiFi et bande passante haut débit sur M.2
Hey there! I'm considering purchasing a laptop suitable for both professional tasks and gaming. After researching some trusted manufacturers, I've decided on the Lenovo Legion 5pi. The only drawback I see is its lack of SIM card support—it only includes a WiFi 6 2x2 M.2 module. While browsing Amazon, I noticed many budget options (around 17-18 USD) that seem low-quality, especially since they often mention AT&T in the title, which isn't available in Germany. That's where my main question comes in: Are there reliable WiFi/Broadband M.2 modules from reputable brands? Yes, it is possible to find such products. I'm open to sacrificing full 4G/LTE or 3G support if it means keeping WiFi 6 or 5GHz functionality. Regarding the second point: If these modules work with German SIM cards, could I simply use one of the two Wi-Fi antennas for the SIM card connection? Looking at the Legion 5Pi's specs, Lenovo describes its WiFi module as "Wireless-AX (Wi-Fi 6) (2x2) WLAN, Bluetooth 5.0 or higher." The image reference is available here: https://www.windowscentral.com/how-upgra...gion-5i-15. Thanks in advance for your feedback! P.S.: I'm also curious about other laptops under 1100€ (1300 USD) that might better fit my needs—I don’t have much experience with general laptops yet, and I’m not sure if the Legion 5Pi has any hidden issues I missed.
You're asking about using your Lenovo laptop to take calls. It seems you're wondering if you need a SIM card for that. You mentioned being in California and that most laptops today have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The confusion might be about how these features work together.
I’d simply connect my phone to Wi-Fi or have it linked via tethering, allowing any computer to access the internet through it. I rely on this method more with the built-in SIM in my ZBook. Even if such a module were available, where would the SIM be stored? It wouldn’t just be for making calls—it’d serve as a backup network source.
Thanks for your message. I understand you're still trying to grasp the explanation. After reviewing the reply from TotallyNotGigabit, it seems similar in concept. When using a device like an iPhone 8+ without Wi-Fi or internet, you can activate HotSpot on your laptop to gain connectivity. This method works for both of us. I'm confident you'll find a solution. Best of luck! Let's hope this helps when we're near the end. Mark Twain
While im at work/school im not allowed to charge my phone, and i dont want to charge it off of my laptop while using my phone's hotspot. Thats why a prepaid sim card with only mobile data in my laptop would be great. Sorry for the confusion In that m.2 module, obviously Heres a picture from one of those shady cheap ones from amazon:
I don't think this is a good idea. There are chips for LTE connectivity that fits inside an M.2 slot. For example Sierra has some M.2 4G modules and they are a trusted and reliable brand. Here is a link to the MC7455 for example . The problem is that you can't just buy a module and expect it to work. See those "main" "gps" and "aux" pins on the card? They are suppose to hook up to antennas. If your laptop doesn't have those antennas built in, you can at best expect really horrible reception even in perfect situations. It also doesn't have WiFi built in. It's also worth remembering that the card has to support the specific LTE bands used in your region. It's just not a good idea to try and add LTE support yourself. Too many things that can go wrong.
Consider a laptop designed for cellular use or one set up with that capability. Dell offers models featuring 4G connectivity, which should match your requirements. For school use, a Dell Latitude 5510 could be a solid choice. The RAM will likely be single-channel at installation, though it can be upgraded later—unlike some other brands such as Lenovo where RAM is permanently soldered. When purchasing from Dell, you're more likely to receive a SIM card compatible with your location.
Other choices exist with USB 4G adapters. Their signal quality might be lower unless you use an external antenna.
There isn't a specific reason mentioned, but you might consider a USB power bank to prevent that issue.