Looking Beyond the GL.iNet GL-A1300? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a travel router designed for secure mobile networking. It runs OpenWrt and supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard for encrypted connections. If you are looking for gl inet gl a1300 alternatives, you might want different wireless standards or port speeds. This device uses Wi-Fi 5 and lacks a 2.5G WAN port. Some users prefer the newer Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 standards found in other options.
The alternatives listed here overlap with the original in key areas. They all support travel use cases and offer VPN features. You might choose a different model for its compact size or specific port configurations. For example, some routers include 2.5G Ethernet ports for faster wired connections. Others provide Wi-Fi 7 speeds for modern devices. We selected these options because they share the core attributes of the GL-A1300 while offering distinct specifications. This allows you to compare features like wireless standards and physical dimensions directly. The goal is to help you find a device that matches your exact needs.
Our top pick: GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router with Case.
How each alternative compares
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
The GL.iNet Beryl AX upgrades the wireless standard from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6, reducing interference in crowded travel spots. It adds a 2.5G WAN port, which is faster than the Slate Plus’s typical Gigabit connections. This helps when your hotel or cafe internet is very fast. It keeps the OpenWrt open-source platform for customization. You give up the included carrying case. Choose this if you need higher throughput and modern wireless speeds while traveling.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go uses Wi-Fi 6 for better performance than the GL-A1300’s Wi-Fi 5. It offers AX3000 speed ratings, which is significantly faster for local device connections. It supports mobile tethering, allowing you to use your phone’s data connection easily. The design is compact and white. It lacks the physical case included with the Slate Plus. It is a practical choice if you prioritize speed and portability over the specific open-source customization features of the GL.iNet device.
ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Travel Router
The ASUS RT-BE58 Go introduces Wi-Fi 7, the latest wireless standard, offering much higher potential speeds than the GL-A1300. It supports dual-band connections and is designed for compact travel. This router focuses on modern connectivity and mobile tethering capabilities. You do not get the included carrying case or the same level of open-source firmware flexibility. Pick this model if you want the newest technology and fast wireless performance while on the move, rather than the older Wi-Fi 5 standard.
TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 Travel Router
The TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 also features Wi-Fi 7 technology, providing a significant speed advantage over the GL-A1300. It includes a 2.5G WAN port for faster internet input. The device is compact and black, designed for secure travel networking. It supports strong encryption for your data. You sacrifice the open-source OpenWrt platform and the included carrying case. This is a solid option if you prioritize modern Wi-Fi standards and high-speed wired connections over software customization.
GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router
The GL.iNet Slate AX moves to Wi-Fi 6, offering better wireless performance than the GL-A1300. It retains the GL.iNet brand’s focus on security and VPN features. The device is black and compact. It does not include a carrying case like the Slate Plus. You gain faster wireless speeds but lose the specific model’s included accessories. Choose this if you want the same trusted security ecosystem and open-source flexibility but with improved Wi-Fi 6 standards for better reliability in various environments.
TP-Link Omada Multi-Gigabit Wired VPN Router
The TP-Link Omada ER707-M2 is a stationary router, not a travel device. It features 2.5G WAN ports and SFP ports for high-capacity home networks. It is much larger and heavier than the portable GL-A1300. It lacks battery power and compact design. This model is for users who need a powerful gateway for a fixed location with fiber connections. It is not suitable for travel. Pick this if you need stationary high-speed networking with extensive VPN options and multi-gigabit wired speeds.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router with Case
Best for: Secure mobile networking with open-source flexibility
- Frequency Bands
- Dual Band
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router with Case Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Slate Plus is a dual-band AC travel router designed for secure mobile networking. It features an IPQ4018 processor and runs OpenWrt 21.02 for full customization. You get pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support, with speeds up to 190 Mbps on WireGuard. It includes a USB port for network storage via SAMBA or WebDav. This grey unit suits travelers needing encrypted connections in public spaces like hotels or airports.
Pros
- Dual-band AC speeds up to 867 Mbps on 5 GHz
- OpenWrt 21.02 operating system for custom application installation
- WireGuard VPN support with max speed of 190 Mbps
- USB port supports SAMBA and WebDav network storage
Cons
- OpenVPN max speed limited to 28 Mbps
- Dual-band AC standard lacks WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 speeds
- No mention of 4G/5G cellular modem support
Good fit if
- You need a portable router with open-source flexibility
- You want to connect multiple devices to public WiFi securely
- You require basic network storage capabilities on the go
Skip if
- You need WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 performance
- You require high-speed OpenVPN connections above 28 Mbps
- You need a router with built-in cellular data support
Verdict: The GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router offers solid security and customization for travelers who prioritize open-source software over raw wireless speed. It fits users who need to secure public WiFi connections and manage basic network storage without needing the latest WiFi standards.
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing 2.5G WAN and custom firmware
- 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 featuring a 2.5G WAN port and a 1G LAN port. It runs OpenWrt firmware with pre-installed VPN client and server capabilities. The device supports WPA3 security and DNS over HTTPS. You get high wireless speeds of 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band. It is designed for secure, portable internet access while traveling.
Pros
- 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure networking
- OpenWrt firmware with over 5,000 available plugins
- WPA3 security protocol for stronger password protection
- Physical toggle switch to enable VPN or AdGuard Home
Cons
- Max VPN speed limited to 150 Mbps for OpenVPN
- Only dual-band Wi-Fi 6, lacking Wi-Fi 6E or 7
- Single 1G LAN port limits wired device connections
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5G WAN port for fast internet
- You want to run custom OpenWrt plugins
- You require both VPN client and server functions
Skip if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for maximum wireless speeds
- You require multiple gigabit LAN ports
- You prefer a simpler setup without firmware customization
Verdict: GL.iNet Beryl AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router offers strong security and a fast 2.5G WAN port for travelers who need to customize their network with OpenWrt plugins.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
Best for: Portable internet with mobile tethering
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX3000
- Frequency Bands
- Dual Band
- Device Capacity
- up to 70 devices
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN
View on Amazon: ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router Affiliate link
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go is a portable Wi-Fi 6 router rated AX3000. It supports up to 70 devices on dual bands. You can connect via 4G LTE or 5G tethering. The unit includes a toggle switch for WISP mode. It also offers comprehensive VPN features and AiProtection security. This compact device fits travelers needing reliable mobile internet access.
Pros
- AX3000 speed rating with Wi-Fi 6
- Supports up to 70 connected devices
- 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering
- Toggle switch for WISP mode
- Comprehensive one-touch VPN activation
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6 standard instead of newer Wi-Fi 7
- Dual-band configuration limits total throughput
- No mention of Ethernet ports for wired connections
Good fit if
- You need 5G or 4G LTE tethering for internet
- You require a compact router for travel
- You want built-in VPN and security features
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 7 speeds
- You need multi-gigabit wired ports
- You prefer tri-band connectivity
Verdict: ASUS RT-AX57 Go AX3000 Travel Router suits travelers who need mobile tethering and strong security. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing portability over the latest Wi-Fi standards.
ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing Wi-Fi 7 and 5G tethering
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 7
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5 Gbps
- Use Case
- Travel
- Dimensions
- 4.4 × 3.9 × 1.4 inches
- Weight
- 8 ounces
View on Amazon: ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Travel Router Affiliate link
The ASUS RT-BE58 Go is a dual-band Wi-Fi 7 travel router delivering up to 3600 Mbps. It supports Multi-Link Operation for lower latency and uses USB-C Power Delivery for portable power. This unit includes 4G LTE and 5G tethering capabilities and features AiMesh technology for scalable coverage. It is designed for users who need secure public WiFi access and high-speed mobile connectivity on the go.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard with 3600 Mbps speed rating
- USB-C Power Delivery for universal charging
- 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering support
- AiMesh technology for network expansion
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacking tri-band capacity
- No dedicated Ethernet WAN port listed
- Smaller physical size limits antenna performance
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 speeds in a compact form
- You rely on 5G mobile tethering for internet
- You want USB-C charging for travel convenience
Skip if
- You require tri-band WiFi for heavy interference
- You need a dedicated wired WAN connection
- You prefer a router with more Ethernet ports
Verdict: ASUS RT-BE58 Go WiFi 7 Travel Router offers next-gen Wi-Fi 7 speeds and versatile mobile tethering for travelers who prioritize compact size and modern connectivity standards over wired port variety.
TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 Travel Router
Best for: Secure travel networking with Wi-Fi 7
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Speed Rating
- BE3600
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Device Capacity
- 90 devices
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
View on Amazon: TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 Travel Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 is a Wi-Fi 7 travel router designed for secure connections on the go. It features a 2.5 Gbps WAN port and supports up to 90 devices. You get OpenVPN and WireGuard encryption for safe browsing. It powers via USB-C PD, making it easy to use with power banks. This model is dual-band and does not support the 6 GHz band or OpenWrt.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard with BE3600 speed rating
- 2.5 Gbps WAN port for fast wired connections
- Supports OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure tunneling
- USB-C PD power input for portable use
Cons
- Does not support the 6 GHz band
- No OpenWrt firmware support
- Limited to 90 device capacity
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 speeds in a travel router
- You want to power the device from a power bank
- You require strong VPN encryption for public networks
Skip if
- You need tri-band Wi-Fi with 6 GHz support
- You prefer open-source OpenWrt firmware
- You need more than 90 simultaneous device connections
Verdict: The TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 Portable Router fits travelers who want modern Wi-Fi 7 speeds and secure VPN tunneling without the bulk of larger systems. It is a solid option for those who prioritize portable power and strong encryption over open-source flexibility.
GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: Secure travel networking with physical controls
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AXT1800
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Device Capacity
- 120 devices
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN, MU-MIMO
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router. It offers dual-band speeds up to 1800 Mbps and supports up to 120 devices. You get pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure browsing. The device runs OpenWrt 21.02 for customization. It includes a USB port for file sharing and a physical toggle switch for quick feature activation. This model suits travelers needing privacy and portability.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 standard with 1800 Mbps combined speed
- Supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard with high throughput
- Physical toggle switch for easy feature toggling
- USB port for NAS file sharing capabilities
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6 standard is older than Wi-Fi 7 models on this list
- Dual-band configuration limits speed compared to tri-band options
- OpenWrt 21.02 is an older kernel version than current releases
Good fit if
- You need a compact router for secure public Wi-Fi use
- You want to customize your network with OpenWrt applications
- You require a physical switch to quickly enable VPN or AdGuard
Skip if
- You need the latest Wi-Fi 7 speeds and capacity
- You require multi-gigabit wired ports for high-speed internet
- You prefer a router with modern, up-to-date firmware versions
Verdict: The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX Travel Router delivers solid Wi-Fi 6 performance and strong security tools for travelers. It fits users who prioritize privacy and customization over the newest wireless standards.
TP-Link Omada Multi-Gigabit Wired VPN Router
Best for: stationary homes needing 2.5G WAN and SFP ports
- Device Capacity
- 1000+
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5 Gbps
- Features
- VPN
- Dimensions
- 12.9 × 9.5 × 3.1 inches
- Weight
- 2.43 pounds
View on Amazon: TP-Link Omada Multi-Gigabit Wired VPN Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Omada ER707-M2 is a desktop router built for high bandwidth. It features one 2.5G WAN port and one 2.5G WAN/LAN port alongside four Gigabit ports. It supports over 1,000 connected clients and 500,000 concurrent sessions. You can manage it via the Omada app or cloud interface. This unit suits users who need robust port variety and strong VPN capacity for their home network.
Pros
- Includes a dedicated 2.5G WAN port for fast internet connections
- Supports over 1,000 connected devices simultaneously
- Allows up to 100 LAN-to-LAN IPsec VPN connections
- Features a Gigabit SFP port for fiber or SFP uplinks
Cons
- Physical dimensions of 12.9 x 9.5 x 3.1 inches require significant desk space
- Weight of 2.43 pounds makes it heavy for portable use
- Requires the Omada app or cloud account for full management
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5G WAN port to utilize speeds above 1 Gbps
- You want to manage your network remotely via the Omada app
- You require a dedicated SFP port for fiber connectivity
Skip if
- You need a portable router for travel or on-the-go use
- You prefer a compact device that fits easily on a shelf
- You want to manage the router without using a mobile app
Verdict: The TP-Link Omada ER707-M2 Multi-Gigabit Router fits users who need a stationary, high-capacity gateway with 2.5G ports and extensive VPN options. It is ideal for homes with many devices and fiber connections.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router with Case | GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router | ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router | ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Travel Router | TP-Link Roam 7 BE3600 Travel Router | GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router | TP-Link Omada Multi-Gigabit Wired VPN Router |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 6 | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6 | not stated |
| Speed Rating | not stated | not stated | AX3000 | not stated | BE3600 | AXT1800 | not stated |
| Frequency Bands | Dual Band | Dual-Band | Dual Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated |
| Device Capacity | not stated | not stated | up to 70 devices | not stated | 90 devices | 120 devices | 1000+ |
| Max Port Speed | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | not stated | 2.5 Gbps |
| Ethernet Ports | not stated | 2 | not stated | not stated | 2 | not stated | not stated |
| Frequency Band | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated |
| Use Case | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | not stated |
| Features | VPN | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN | not stated | not stated | VPN, MU-MIMO | VPN |
| Port Speed | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated | 2.5G | 2.5G | not stated | Gigabit |
| Dimensions | not stated | 4.53 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches | 4.7 × 4.7 × 0.8 inches | 4.4 × 3.9 × 1.4 inches | 4.96 × 3.68 × 1.5 inches | 3.23 × 1.42 × 4.92 inches | 12.9 × 9.5 × 3.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 6.91 ounces | 7.36 ounces | 8 ounces | 8.8 ounces | 8.64 ounces | 2.43 pounds |
| Color | Grey | Blue | WHITE | WHITE | Black | Black | Black |
| Size | not stated | 4.7 x 3.2 x 1.3 Inch | 0.8" x 4.7" x 4.7" | Dual-Band | Compact Design | 125 x 82 x 36 mm | 2.5 Gigabit |
| Model | not stated | GL-MT3000 | RT-AX57 Go | RT-BE58 GO | TL-WR3602BE | GDB008W3-050400ZX | ER707-M2 |
If you plan a custom hardware build, you can examine shangzhaoyuan a520m gl motherboard alternatives to compare platform specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which GL.iNet travel router offers Wi-Fi 6 and a 2.5G WAN port?
The GL.iNet Beryl AX provides Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and a 2.5G WAN port. It runs on OpenWrt, allowing you to install custom plugins for network customization. This model suits travelers who need faster wired uplinks and modern wireless standards for secure mobile networking.
Is there a budget-friendly travel router with Wi-Fi 6 support?
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go is a practical budget option featuring Wi-Fi 6 and AX3000 speed ratings. It supports dual-band connections and includes VPN features for secure internet access. This router is ideal for users prioritizing portability and mobile tethering over premium hardware specs.
What is the best travel router for Wi-Fi 7 speeds?
The ASUS RT-BE58 Go and TP-Link Roam 7 both offer Wi-Fi 7 standards. The ASUS model supports dual-band connections and versatile mobile tethering. The TP-Link variant adds a 2.5G port and strong encryption. Both are compact choices for travelers seeking next-gen wireless performance.
Does the GL.iNet Beryl AX support open-source firmware?
Yes, the GL.iNet Beryl AX runs OpenWrt firmware. This allows you to customize your network with various plugins and scripts. It is designed for users who want full control over their security settings and network behavior while traveling with their devices.
Which router is best for stationary homes with fiber connections?
The TP-Link Omada ER707-M2 is designed for stationary use. It features 2.5G ports and SFP options, making it suitable for high-capacity home networks. This multi-gigabit wired router supports extensive VPN options and fits users who need a robust gateway for fiber internet connections.
How does the GL.iNet Slate AX differ from the Slate Plus?
The GL.iNet Slate AX upgrades to Wi-Fi 6, while the Slate Plus uses older standards. Both models support VPN tunneling and run OpenWrt for security. The Slate AX offers better wireless performance for travelers who prioritize privacy and customization without needing the absolute latest Wi-Fi 7 specs.
Which travel router includes a carrying case?
The GL.iNet Slate Plus Travel Router comes with a protective case. It is designed for secure mobile networking with open-source flexibility. This bundle suits users who need to manage basic network storage and secure public WiFi connections while traveling with their portable devices.