A roughly $20 LTE USB modem stick described by Hackaday in 2022 is more than a cellular adapter if it contains Qualcomm’s MSM8916: OpenStick’s software work can make that version run Debian Linux. But the price is historical, and the enclosure alone does not identify the Linux-capable model—some lookalike sticks use a different chip and are limited to modem and basic WiFi functions.
What is the MSM8916 LTE modem stick?
Hackaday’s August 3, 2022 report describes a compact USB device built around Qualcomm’s MSM8916 platform. It lists a quad-core, 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A53-class CPU, 4 GB of storage, WiFi and LTE. The report’s roughly $20 price is an approximate price from 2022, not a current quote.
In broad platform terms, the device was compared with a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, while adding cellular connectivity. That comparison is not a performance result: the reported sources do not provide independent benchmark results or controlled testing.
How does OpenStick make it hackable?
The OpenStick project documents reverse engineering and software changes for MSM8916 4G modem cards, including bootloader changes, a tweaked Linux kernel and a Debian distribution. That work is what makes the target modem a potential small Linux computer rather than just a plug-in internet adapter.
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- Supports 2G/3G/4G network connection, global band.Supports network protocols such as TCP/IP/IPV4/IPV6/Multi-PDP/FTP/FTPS/HTTP/HTTPS/DNS.Driver provided, for operating systems including Windows/Linux/Android
- Onboard USB port, for directly connecting with ARM/X86 hosts or other industrial computer.Onboard UART port with hardware flow control, for connecting with host boards like Arduino/STM32
- Onboard GNSS connecting, supports GPS, Beidou, Glonass, LBS base station positioning (additional GNSS antenna is required but NOT included)
- Nano SIM card slot, supports 1.8V / 3V nano SIM card.3x LED indicators, easy to monitor the working status.Portable customized enclosure, mini size, nice looking
- Baudrate support: 300bps ~ 4Mbps (115200bps by default).Baudrate auto-negotiation: 9600bps ~ 115200bps
The OpenStick repository labels the project open source and says commercial use is prohibited. Check the repository’s current terms and device-specific instructions before using or redistributing its work.
How can you tell whether a stick is compatible?
Do not rely on the casing or product photos. Hackaday reported that some visually identical sticks contain an MDM9600 instead of the MSM8916. Those variants are described as limited to USB 4G modem use with basic WiFi; they are not the Linux-capable target covered here.
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- Built for Life On the Go — Road trips, RV camping, remote cabins, job sites, coffee shop backup. Anywhere there's cellular signal, there's your WiFi. Fits in your pocket — smaller than a pack of gum.
- Not a USB WiFi Adapter — This creates its OWN internet from cellular data. Doesn't need a cable modem, home broadband, or public WiFi. True mobile internet wherever your phone gets a signal.
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- Confirm the SoC: Ask for evidence that the exact unit contains an MSM8916. A model name or matching enclosure is not enough.
- Check LTE bands: Match the device’s supported bands to the bands used by your carrier in your country. A compatible chip does not by itself guarantee service.
- Check the board revision: Hackaday notes that some variants have a microSD slot, LEDs and an apparent UART header. The exact board determines which of those features are present; there is no solder-friendly GPIO header.
What could you use it for?
The reported power options are a USB power bank or a wall adapter. With compatible hardware and working OpenStick software, the device could serve as a remote Linux node, home-automation hub, compact processor or WiFi hotspot with an LTE uplink. These are possible uses described in the 2022 report, not verified performance or reliability results.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you verify before buying or modifying one?
- Verify the specific listing and board. Get confirmation of the MSM8916 SoC and the exact PCB revision; do not buy on enclosure photos alone.
- Confirm network fit. Compare the unit’s LTE bands with your carrier’s requirements for the country where you will use it.
- Confirm the interfaces you need. If microSD or UART access matters, verify it on the exact revision rather than assuming every variant has it.
- Check current project compatibility. The Hackaday coverage dates to 2022, and firmware compatibility can vary by revision. Consult OpenStick’s device-specific guidance before changing software.
- Preserve the original firmware. Make and retain a complete stock-firmware dump before modifying the device, since revisions may differ and restoration may depend on the original image.
Current listings, stock, revisions, firmware compatibility and carrier support are not established by the 2022 report. Treat the $20 figure and any old purchase links as historical, and verify today’s price and the exact unit before ordering.
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Rank #3
- Worldwide Unlocked Connectivity: 4G LTE USB modem works with any carrier globally (LTE/HSPA+/UMTS in 200+ countries) for true international roaming.
- High-Speed LTE Performance: Delivers Cat-18 speeds up to 480 Mbps (fastest USB modem) for smooth streaming, browsing, and business applications.
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: Compact USB dongle with a 360° swivel hinge; no drivers or software needed for instant internet on laptops or embedded systems.
- Enterprise Security & Tracking: Onboard VPN and enterprise-grade encryption protect your data, while integrated sGPS enables precise mobile asset tracking.
- FirstNet & Public Safety Ready: Designed for mission-critical use with FirstNet Band 14 support, making it suitable for first responders and government deployments.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
