GL.iNet Beryl AX Opal Travel Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How Alternatives Compare to Beryl

GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with Case

The GL.iNet Slate AX offers a similar Wi-Fi 6 travel experience but focuses on OpenWrt flexibility. It shares the compact size and gigabit port speeds found in the Beryl AX set. However, it lacks the dual-device bundle structure. You get a single router with a protective case, which simplifies packing for solo travelers. This option suits users who prioritize deep customization and secure networking tools over having a secondary travel router. The hardware remains small and portable, fitting easily into a bag. It provides reliable VPN support similar to the Beryl AX, making it a strong choice for security-conscious travelers who do not need the extra Opal unit.

GL.iNet Slate 7 and Beryl AX Travel Router Bundle

The GL.iNet Slate 7 and Beryl AX bundle targets advanced users who need more robust wired connectivity. It replaces the single 2.5G WAN port of the standard Beryl AX with dual 2.5 Gbps ports. This allows for more complex network setups, such as bonding connections or high-speed file transfers. The Slate 7 also includes a touchscreen for direct device management, a feature absent in the Beryl AX set. You gain enhanced control over network settings but sacrifice some portability due to the larger Slate 7 device. This combination is ideal for users who treat their travel router as a mobile office hub. It offers superior wired performance and interactive control, making it better for technical users who require maximum flexibility and speed.

GL.iNet Beryl AX and Flint 2 Wi-Fi 6 Router Set

The GL.iNet Beryl AX and Flint 2 set provides a significant upgrade in wireless performance. The Flint 2 router supports Wi-Fi 6 with AX6000 speeds, far exceeding the dual-band AC1200 and AX11000-class speeds of the Beryl AX and Opal. This bundle is designed for users who need high-throughput networking in larger spaces or for bandwidth-heavy tasks. You get a pocket-sized travel router paired with a more powerful home-style router. The Flint 2 maintains the hardware VPN support and secure networking features found in the Beryl AX. However, the set is larger and less portable than the Opal combination. It is best for travelers who need a high-performance secondary network for work or streaming, prioritizing speed and range over minimal footprint.

TP-Link AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router

The TP-Link Archer AX55 is a dedicated home router rather than a travel device. It offers AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds and gigabit ports, similar to the wireless capabilities of the Beryl AX. However, it lacks portability, VPN hardware support, and travel-friendly features. The device is larger, weighing 1.66 pounds with external antennas, making it unsuitable for carrying in a bag. It is designed for fixed home use where range and stability are paramount. You should choose this if you need a reliable primary router for a home under 2,000 square feet. It provides consistent coverage without the need for a travel case or VPN configuration. This option is for users who prioritize home network performance over the flexibility and security features of a portable travel router.

GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router

The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router is the standalone version of one half of the original set. It features the same Wi-Fi 6 speeds, 2.5G WAN port, and hardware VPN support as the Beryl AX in the bundle. You get a compact, blue device measuring 4.7 by 3.2 inches. This option is ideal if you already have a travel router like the Opal or prefer a single device. It offers the same OpenWrt customization and secure networking capabilities. The main difference is the absence of the secondary Opal router. You save space by carrying only one unit, but you lose the ability to create two separate networks or use the Opal as a range extender. This pick suits solo travelers who need maximum portability without sacrificing speed or security.

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 is an all-in-one cable modem and Wi-Fi 6 router. It combines internet connectivity and routing in a single black device. Unlike the Beryl AX set, it lacks portability, VPN hardware support, and travel-specific features. It is designed for home use with cable internet connections. The device offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds and gigabit ports, suitable for modest speed needs in smaller homes. You gain convenience by eliminating the need for a separate modem. However, it is not suitable for travel due to its size and fixed installation requirements. This option is for users who want to consolidate home hardware and do not need a portable router. It provides reliable home coverage but lacks the flexibility and security features essential for mobile networking.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

GL.iNet Beryl AX and Opal Travel Router Set

Best for: frequent international travelers needing hardware VPN encryption

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6

Speed Rating

AC1200

Frequency Bands

Dual-Band

Max Port Speed

2.5 Gbps

Use Case

Travel

View on Amazon: GL.iNet Beryl AX and Opal Travel Router Set Affiliate link

This package pairs two travel routers to cover portable Wi-Fi networking. You get Wi-Fi 6 support with speeds reaching 2402 Mbps on 5 GHz, a 2.5 Gbps WAN port, and built-in WireGuard VPN speeds reaching 300 Mbps. The secondary unit adds a 145-gram lightweight option with AC1200 speeds, suiting travelers who need flexible wired and encrypted setups.

Pros

• 2.5 Gbps WAN port for multi-gigabit wired connectivity
• Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band
• Hardware WireGuard VPN throughput up to 300 Mbps
• Includes interchangeable US, UK, and EU plug adapters
• Compact secondary unit weighing 145 grams

Cons

• OpenVPN speeds reach a maximum of 150 Mbps
• Secondary router is limited to older AC1200 Wi-Fi standards

Good fit if

• You need 2.5 Gbps WAN support alongside Wi-Fi 6 bandwidth.
• You require pre-installed WireGuard or OpenVPN client support.
• You travel internationally and need US, UK, and EU power adapters.

Skip if

• You require OpenVPN throughput higher than 150 Mbps.
• You want Wi-Fi 6 performance on both portable units.

Verdict: GL.iNet Pocket Travel Router Set with 2.5G WAN delivers multi-gigabit wired input, Wi-Fi 6 throughput, and hardware VPN support for travelers managing separate portable networks.

2 Also great

GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with Case

Best for: Secure travel networking with OpenWrt

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6

Speed Rating

AXT1800

Frequency Bands

dual-band

Device Capacity

120 devices

Max Port Speed

Gigabit

Use Case

Travel

View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with Case Affiliate link

The GL.iNet Slate AX is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router. It delivers dual-band speeds up to 1800 Mbps. The device supports up to 120 connected devices. It runs OpenWrt 21.02 for customization. You get pre-installed WireGuard and OpenVPN. It also includes a USB port for file sharing. This makes it a strong option for secure mobile networking.

Pros

• Wi-Fi 6 dual-band support with 1800 Mbps combined speed
• Pre-installed WireGuard (up to 550 Mbps) and OpenVPN (up to 120 Mbps)
• OpenWrt 21.02 operating system for full customization
• USB port enables NAS file sharing via SAMBA or WebDav
• Supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections

Cons

• Only includes Gigabit Ethernet ports, lacking a 2.5G WAN option
• Wi-Fi speed rating is lower than AX3000 or AX5400 competitors
• No mention of 5GHz band steering or advanced mesh features

Good fit if

• You need strong privacy features like WireGuard and OpenVPN built in
• You want to customize your router settings using OpenWrt
• You require a portable device for secure public Wi-Fi use

Skip if

• You require Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
• You need multi-gigabit speeds exceeding 1 Gbps
• You are setting up a large home mesh system

Verdict: The GL.iNet Slate AX Travel Router is a capable tool for travelers who prioritize security and customization. It fits users who need reliable VPN speeds and OpenWrt flexibility in a small package.

3 Also great

GL.iNet Slate 7 and Beryl AX Travel Router Bundle

Best for: advanced users needing dual 2.5G ports

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7

Frequency Bands

Dual-Band

Max Port Speed

2.5 Gbps

Use Case

Travel

View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate 7 and Beryl AX Travel Router Bundle Affiliate link

The GL.iNet Slate 7 combines Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities in a portable travel router. It features dual 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports and a USB 3.0 interface. A unique touchscreen allows you to scan QR codes, monitor speed, and toggle VPN settings directly on the device. This model supports OpenWrt firmware with over 5,000 plugins. It suits users who want advanced network control without relying solely on a mobile app.

Pros

• Dual 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections
• Integrated touchscreen for direct network management and VPN toggling
• Supports Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 standards
• Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard with 30+ compatible providers
• Runs OpenWrt 21.02 firmware with extensive plugin support

Cons

• Higher cost compared to basic travel routers
• Bulkier design due to integrated touchscreen display
• Touchscreen may be less durable than physical buttons in travel scenarios

Good fit if

• You need dual 2.5 Gbps ports for fast wired connections
• You prefer managing network settings via a built-in screen
• You want extensive customization through OpenWrt plugins

Skip if

• You require a single-band router for basic use
• You need a router with no touchscreen interface
• You are looking for a budget-only travel option

Verdict: The GL.iNet Slate 7 Portable Router offers robust dual 2.5 Gbps ports and a unique touchscreen for direct control. It fits users who prioritize advanced network management and high-speed wired connectivity over compact simplicity.

4 Also great

GL.iNet Beryl AX and Flint 2 Wi-Fi 6 Router Set

Best for: High-speed secure travel networking

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6

Frequency Bands

Dual Band

Max Port Speed

2.5 Gbps

Use Case

Travel

View on Amazon: GL.iNet Beryl AX and Flint 2 Wi-Fi 6 Router Set Affiliate link

The Flint 2 is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router designed for high-speed connectivity. It features dual-band AX speeds up to 6 Gbps and includes a 2.5 Gbps WAN port for rapid internet access. The device supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, offering pre-installed encryption for secure browsing. With 1GB of DDR4 RAM and 8GB of eMMC storage, it handles multiple connections smoothly. It suits travelers who need robust performance and strong security features in a compact form factor.

Pros

• Wi-Fi 6 standard with speeds up to 6 Gbps
• 2.5 Gbps multi-gigabit WAN port
• Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support
• 1GB DDR4 RAM and 8GB eMMC storage

Cons

• Dual-band configuration limits total wireless capacity compared to tri-band models
• Max VPN speed capped at 300 Mbps for WireGuard
• Smaller eMMC storage may restrict extensive custom software installations

Good fit if

• You need a compact router with high-speed 2.5G WAN capability
• You require pre-configured VPN encryption for secure travel networking
• You want a device with ample RAM for stable multi-device connections

Skip if

• You require tri-band Wi-Fi for maximum wireless throughput
• You need VPN speeds exceeding 300 Mbps
• You prefer a router with larger internal storage for custom firmware

Verdict: GL.iNet Flint 2 AX6000 Travel Router delivers high-speed Wi-Fi 6 and robust VPN security in a pocket-sized design. It is ideal for travelers who prioritize fast wired connections and strong encryption over maximum wireless capacity.

5 Best budget

TP-Link AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router

Best for: Standard home Wi-Fi 6 coverage

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6

Speed Rating

AX3000

Frequency Bands

Dual-Band

Max Port Speed

Gigabit

Features

VPN, MU-MIMO

Intended Use

Home

View on Amazon: TP-Link AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link

The TP-Link Archer AX55 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router rated AX3000. It delivers 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz. Four external high-gain antennas and beamforming technology help extend coverage throughout your home. This model is designed for general home use. It supports OFDMA to reduce latency and includes Target Wake Time to improve battery life for connected devices.

Pros

• AX3000 speed rating with Wi-Fi 6 standard
• Four high-gain external antennas for expanded coverage
• Beamforming technology focuses signal to devices
• OFDMA reduces latency and jitter
• Target Wake Time improves device battery efficiency

Cons

• Large physical footprint compared to travel routers
• Heavy 1.66 pound build limits portability
• No mention of 2.5G WAN port

Good fit if

• You need stable Wi-Fi 6 coverage for a standard home
• You want a router with external antennas for better range
• You prefer a device with improved cooling design

Skip if

• You need a portable travel router
• You require a compact device for small spaces
• You want a router with a 2.5G WAN port

Verdict: TP-Link Archer AX55 AX3000 Home Router is a solid choice for users who prioritize range and stability over portability. It fits homes where external antennas and consistent coverage are more important than a small footprint.

6 Best openwrt

GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router

Best for: secure travel networking with 2.5G WAN

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6

Frequency Bands

Dual-Band

Max Port Speed

2.5 Gbps

Ethernet Ports

2

Use Case

Travel

Features

VPN, OpenWrt

View on Amazon: GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router Affiliate link

The GL.iNet Beryl AX is a compact Wi-Fi 6 travel router designed for secure, portable connectivity. It features a 2.5G WAN port and dual-band speeds up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. The device runs OpenWrt firmware, allowing extensive customization with over 5,000 plugins. It supports both VPN client and server modes simultaneously, making it ideal for users who need robust network encryption and flexible routing options while traveling.

Pros

• Wi-Fi 6 standard for improved speed and capacity
• 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections
• Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure traffic
• Supports simultaneous VPN client and server modes
• OpenWrt 21.02 firmware with 5,000+ plugin options

Cons

• Max VPN speed limited to 150 Mbps for OpenVPN
• Physical toggle switch requires admin panel setup to function
• No mention of a built-in battery for off-grid use

Good fit if

• You need a portable router with a 2.5G WAN port
• You want to run both a VPN client and server simultaneously
• You prefer customizable OpenWrt firmware over locked-down systems

Skip if

• You require a router with a built-in battery
• You need speeds higher than 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band
• You want a device that works out of the box without firmware configuration

Verdict: The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router fits travelers who need a 2.5G WAN port and simultaneous VPN capabilities. It suits users comfortable with OpenWrt customization who prioritize network security and portability over plug-and-play simplicity.

7 Best premium

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router

Best for: cable internet users wanting an all-in-one device

Wi-Fi Standard

WiFi 6

Speed Rating

AX2700

Frequency Bands

Dual-Band

Coverage Area

2,000 sq ft

Device Capacity

25+ devices

Max Port Speed

1 Gbps

View on Amazon: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router Affiliate link

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a Wi-Fi 6 router. It delivers AX2700 speeds and covers up to 2,000 square feet. The unit supports over 25 connected devices and features four Gigabit Ethernet ports. It works with major ISPs like Xfinity and Spectrum. This all-in-one device suits renters or users who want to replace separate modem and router hardware with a single unit.

Pros

• DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and Wi-Fi 6 router in one device
• AX2700 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 standard
• Covers up to 2,000 square feet
• Supports 25+ connected devices
• Four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections

Cons

• Limited to Gigabit port speeds, lacking 2.5G WAN options found in some competitors
• Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, or fiber internet plans
• ISP activation is required after setup

Good fit if

• You have cable internet service from providers like Xfinity or Spectrum
• You want to simplify your setup by using a single device for modem and routing
• You need reliable coverage for a small to medium-sized home up to 2,000 sq ft

Skip if

• You use fiber, DSL, or satellite internet services
• You require 2.5G WAN ports for speeds exceeding 1 Gbps
• You have a large home exceeding 2,000 square feet

Verdict: NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 Modem Router is a practical all-in-one solution for cable internet users who want to consolidate hardware. It fits those with modest speed needs and a home under 2,000 square feet.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• gl inet comet x alternatives
• gl inet flint 3 tri band wi fi alternatives