Looking Beyond the GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel Router offers strong security and ad blocking for travelers. If you are searching for gl inet gl a1300 pocket vpn travel alternatives, you might want different specs. This device uses a dual-band AC connection with speeds up to 400Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz. It runs OpenWrt and includes a physical switch to toggle VPN or AdGuard Home. The unit measures 4.65 by 3.35 by 1.18 inches and weighs 15.1 ounces. It also supports network storage via USB.
You might choose another option if you need Wi-Fi 6 or faster wired ports. The list below includes 6 products chosen because their specifications overlap with the original. These alternatives cover different use cases, such as 2.5G WAN support or compact designs. Some models prioritize raw speed, while others focus on security features. You can compare their dimensions, weight, and supported Wi-Fi standards to find the best fit for your travels. Each product listed provides a distinct balance of performance and portability. This guide helps you compare the technical details side by side.
How each alternative compares
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
The GL.iNet Beryl AX upgrades you to Wi-Fi 6 and adds a 2.5G WAN port. This allows faster wired connections if your hotel or airport network supports multi-gig speeds. It retains the OpenWrt foundation and VPN capabilities of the Slate Plus. The device is slightly lighter at 6.91 ounces. You gain modern wireless efficiency but pay for the newer standard. Pick this if you need faster backhaul speeds and Wi-Fi 6 device compatibility. The Slate Plus remains better for pure portability and basic AC needs.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go offers AX3000 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 speeds. It supports up to 70 connected devices, which exceeds the Slate Plus capacity. The physical toggle switch for VPN is absent, relying on software configuration instead. It is slightly heavier at 7.36 ounces. You get stronger wireless performance and broader device support. The Slate Plus wins on physical hardware controls and OpenWrt customization. Choose the ASUS if you prioritize raw speed and device count over granular firmware control and physical switches.
GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router
The GL.iNet Slate AX delivers Wi-Fi 6 performance and supports up to 120 devices. It is larger and heavier at 8.64 ounces compared to the Slate Plus. The model number indicates a different internal architecture. You gain significant wireless speed and capacity for larger groups. The Slate Plus is more pocket-friendly and lighter. Select the Slate AX if you need high-density connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 benefits. The Slate Plus is better for solo travelers who value compact size and basic AC performance over raw throughput.
GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router
The GL.iNet Mango Mini is significantly smaller and lighter at 1.41 ounces. It uses a single-band connection, lacking the dual-band flexibility of the Slate Plus. The speed is lower, suitable only for basic browsing and email. It retains OpenWrt and VPN support. You sacrifice wireless speed and band separation for extreme portability. The Slate Plus offers better performance for streaming or heavy usage. Pick the Mango Mini if you need the smallest possible footprint for light travel tasks. The Slate Plus is the better all-around choice for most travelers.
Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router
The Cudy TR3000 provides AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds and a 2.5GbE port. It is slightly heavier than the Slate Plus at 7.76 ounces. The design focuses on multi-gig wired connectivity for business travelers. It lacks the physical toggle switch found on the Slate Plus. You gain faster wired and wireless speeds. The Slate Plus offers better physical controls and OpenWrt customization. Choose the Cudy if you need high-speed wired connections and Wi-Fi 6. The Slate Plus remains superior for users who value hardware switches and open-source flexibility over raw speed.
GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router
The GL.iNet Opal AC1200 features gigabit Ethernet ports, matching the Slate Plus wired capabilities. It is compact but lacks the specific dimensions of the Slate Plus. The model supports dual-band performance with a focus on wired speed. It retains VPN features for secure travel. You get reliable gigabit connectivity in a similar form factor. The Slate Plus offers more specific physical dimensions and weight data. Pick the Opal if you prioritize gigabit wired ports and dual-band performance. The Slate Plus is a comparable alternative with known dimensions and weight.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel Router
Best for: Secure travel networking with ad blocking
- Frequency Bands
- Dual band
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN
- Dimensions
- 4.65 × 3.35 × 1.18 inches
- Weight
- 15.1 ounces
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel Router Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Slate Plus is a compact travel router designed for secure connectivity on the go. It features a dual-band AC wireless setup with speeds up to 867 Mbps on 5 GHz. The device includes a physical toggle switch for quick VPN activation and supports network storage via USB. It runs OpenWrt, allowing for extensive customization and ad blocking with AdGuard Home.
Pros
- Physical toggle switch for instant VPN or AdGuard Home activation
- Supports WireGuard with speeds up to 170 Mbps
- OpenWrt OS allows for custom application installation
- Network storage feature supports SAMBA and WebDav protocols
Cons
- Dual-band AC standard lacks Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- OpenVPN max speed limited to 28 Mbps
- No mention of 4G or 5G cellular connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated physical switch to toggle VPNs quickly
- You want to block ads across all connected devices
- You require network storage sharing via USB drive
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 6 speeds for faster local transfers
- You need to connect via 4G or 5G cellular networks
- You want higher VPN throughput than 170 Mbps
Verdict: The GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel Router is a practical choice for travelers who prioritize privacy and ad blocking over raw speed. Its physical switch and OpenWrt foundation make it ideal for users who want granular control over their network security.
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing 2.5G WAN and OpenWrt
- 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 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 travel router featuring a 2.5G WAN port and a 1G LAN port. It runs OpenWrt 21.02 firmware with pre-installed VPN support for OpenVPN and WireGuard. The device includes a physical toggle switch for quick feature management and supports WPA3 security. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for portable use while offering high-speed connectivity options.
Pros
- 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections
- Wi-Fi 6 dual-band speeds up to 2402Mbps on 5GHz
- OpenWrt 21.02 firmware with over 5,000 plugin options
- Physical toggle switch for VPN or AdGuard Home
Cons
- Max VPN speed limited to 150 Mbps for OpenVPN
- No mention of 4G or 5G cellular connectivity
- USB 3.0 port lacks specified data transfer speed
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5G WAN port for fast internet
- You want to customize firmware with OpenWrt plugins
- You prefer physical switches for quick VPN toggling
Skip if
- You require built-in 4G or 5G cellular support
- You need speeds higher than 150 Mbps for OpenVPN
- You prefer a router without OpenWrt complexity
Verdict: The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router fits users who need a 2.5G WAN port and customizable OpenWrt firmware for secure travel networking.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
Best for: mobile tethering and security
- 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 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 travel router with AX3000 speeds. It supports up to 70 devices and offers 4G/5G tethering. You can switch between mobile hotspots and public Wi-Fi modes easily. It includes comprehensive VPN features and commercial-grade security with AiProtection. This compact unit suits travelers needing reliable, high-capacity connectivity on the go.
Pros
- AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 3,000 Mbps
- Supports up to 70 connected devices
- 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering capabilities
- One-touch VPN activation with multiple protocol support
- Commercial-grade AiProtection network security
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacking Wi-Fi 6E or 6GHz support
- No mention of an Ethernet WAN port for fixed connections
- Limited to 70 device capacity compared to higher-end models
Good fit if
- You need 4G or 5G mobile tethering for internet access
- You want to connect up to 70 devices simultaneously
- You prioritize strong security features like AiProtection
Skip if
- You require tri-band connectivity for maximum performance
- You need a wired Ethernet WAN port for stability
- You prefer a router with a built-in battery
Verdict: The ASUS RT-AX57 Go Portable Travel Router fits travelers who need robust mobile tethering and strong security. It handles up to 70 devices well, making it ideal for groups or heavy usage scenarios.
GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: secure travel networking with openwrt
- 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 Wi-Fi 6 travel router offering dual-band speeds up to 1800 Mbps. It supports up to 120 connected devices and includes pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure browsing. The device runs OpenWrt 21.02, allowing for extensive customization. With a physical toggle switch for VPN and AdGuard Home, it suits travelers needing reliable, private connectivity on the go.
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 quick feature activation
- OpenWrt 21.02 OS for full customization
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacking Wi-Fi 6E or tri-band options
- No mention of 4G or 5G cellular connectivity
- No USB-C power delivery specification listed
Good fit if
- You need a portable router for secure hotel or public Wi-Fi use
- You want to customize your network settings using OpenWrt
- You require strong VPN speeds for streaming or browsing
Skip if
- You need cellular 4G or 5G backup internet
- You require tri-band Wi-Fi for heavy congestion
- You prefer a router with built-in cellular modem
Verdict: The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX is a solid choice for travelers who prioritize network security and customization over cellular connectivity. It delivers reliable Wi-Fi 6 performance for up to 120 devices, making it ideal for groups needing secure internet access.
GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router
Best for: Secure public Wi-Fi access
- Frequency Bands
- 2.4GHz ONLY
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN, OpenWrt
- Dimensions
- 2.3 × 2.3 × 1 inches
- Weight
- 1.41 ounces
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Mango is a pocket-sized travel router that converts public Wi-Fi into a private network. It runs OpenWrt and includes a pre-installed OpenVPN client. The device features two Ethernet ports and supports USB storage expansion. At 1.41 ounces, it is lightweight and easy to carry. This unit operates on 2.4GHz only, making it suitable for basic secure browsing and tethering tasks while traveling.
Pros
- Pre-installed OpenWrt operating system
- Built-in OpenVPN client support
- Two Ethernet ports for wired connections
- USB 2.0 port for storage expansion
- Extremely lightweight at 1.41 ounces
Cons
- Supports 2.4GHz bands only
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 or 5GHz capability
- Only 16MB flash ROM storage
Good fit if
- You need a secure connection on public Wi-Fi
- You want to use OpenVPN for privacy
- You require a portable router for tethering
Skip if
- You need high-speed 5GHz connectivity
- You want Wi-Fi 6 performance
- You require multiple Ethernet ports for gaming
Verdict: GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router is a compact solution for travelers prioritizing security over speed. It fits users who need basic VPN tunneling on the go.
Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router
Best for: travelers needing 2.5GbE speeds and WISP mode
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX3000
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Use Case
- Travel
View on Amazon: Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router Affiliate link
The Cudy TR3000 is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router featuring AX3000 speeds and a 2.5GbE port. It supports six operating modes, including WISP for hotel networks, and offers robust VPN encryption via WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec. Running OpenWRT, it suits business travelers needing multi-gig throughput and enterprise-grade control in temporary offices or hotel rooms.
Pros
- 2.5GbE WAN port for high-speed internet access
- Wi-Fi 6 with 160 MHz channels for faster throughput
- Supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec for secure connections
- Six modes including WISP for captive portal login
- Compact form factor smaller than a smartphone
Cons
- Blue color may not match all travel gear aesthetics
- Heavier at 7.76 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- No mention of Ethernet LAN ports for wired devices
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5GbE port for fast hotel internet
- You require WISP mode for captive portal networks
- You want enterprise features like VLANs and policy routing
Skip if
- You need a router with multiple Ethernet LAN ports
- You prefer a device in a neutral color like black
- You want a lighter device under 6 ounces
Verdict: Cudy TR3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router fits business travelers who need multi-gig speeds and advanced network control in a pocket-sized package.
GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing gigabit wired ports and 5 GHz speed
- Speed Rating
- AC1200
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Opal is a compact, dual-band travel router with AC1200 speeds. It offers simultaneous 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 867 Mbps on 5 GHz. You get one gigabit WAN port and two gigabit LAN ports for wired connections. Weighing 145 grams, it fits easily in your pocket. It supports VPN features for secure travel networking.
Pros
- Dual-band AC1200 speeds up to 867 Mbps on 5 GHz
- Full gigabit ports including one WAN and two LAN
- Lightweight 145g design ideal for travel
Cons
- Single band 2.4 GHz only on the included Mango model
- No mention of 5 GHz support on the Mango variant
- Power adapter sold separately
Good fit if
- You need fast 5 GHz speeds for streaming or gaming
- You want to connect wired devices via gigabit ports
- You prioritize a lightweight device under 150 grams
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 6 or higher speeds
- You need a single-band ultra-lightweight option under 40 grams
- You want a complete kit with included power adapter
Verdict: The GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router delivers reliable dual-band performance and gigabit ports for travelers needing wired connections. It suits users who value speed and portability over ultra-minimalist size.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GL.iNet Slate Plus Dual-Band Travel Router | GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router | ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router | GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Router | GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router | Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router | GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 6 | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | not stated | Wi-Fi 6 | not stated |
| Speed Rating | not stated | not stated | AX3000 | AXT1800 | not stated | AX3000 | AC1200 |
| Frequency Bands | Dual band | Dual-Band | Dual Band | Dual-Band | 2.4GHz ONLY | Dual-Band | Dual-Band |
| Device Capacity | not stated | not stated | up to 70 devices | 120 devices | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Max Port Speed | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
| Ethernet Ports | not stated | 2 | not stated | not stated | 2 | 2 | not stated |
| Frequency Band | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated | Dual-Band | not stated |
| Use Case | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel |
| Features | VPN | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN | VPN, MU-MIMO | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN |
| Port Speed | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated | not stated | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.65 × 3.35 × 1.18 inches | 4.53 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches | 4.7 × 4.7 × 0.8 inches | 3.23 × 1.42 × 4.92 inches | 2.3 × 2.3 × 1 inches | 4.21 × 1.1 × 4.21 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 15.1 ounces | 6.91 ounces | 7.36 ounces | 8.64 ounces | 1.41 ounces | 7.76 ounces | not stated |
| Model | GL-A1300 | GL-MT3000 | RT-AX57 Go | GDB008W3-050400ZX | GL-MT300N-V2 | TR3000 | GL-SFT1200 |
| Size | not stated | 4.7 x 3.2 x 1.3 Inch | 0.8" x 4.7" x 4.7" | 125 x 82 x 36 mm | V2 (MTK7628NN SoC) | Small | Compact |
| Color | not stated | Blue | WHITE | Black | Blue, Grey, Black | Blue | Yellow |
When packing other travel gear, you can evaluate homdis travel humidifier alternatives through their dimensions, tank capacities, and power ratings.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a travel router with a 2.5G WAN port like the GL.iNet Beryl AX?
Yes, the GL.iNet Beryl AX is designed for this specific need. It features a 2.5G WAN port to handle faster wired connections. This model also runs OpenWrt firmware for customization. It is ideal for travelers who want granular control over their network security while on the go.
What is the best budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 travel router for mobile tethering?
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go Portable Travel Router is a strong budget choice. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and handles up to 70 devices. This makes it suitable for groups or heavy usage scenarios. It provides robust mobile tethering capabilities and strong security features for travelers on a tight budget.
Can I find a compact router for secure public Wi-Fi access?
The GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router is a compact solution for this purpose. It prioritizes security over raw speed. It fits users who need basic VPN tunneling on the go. Its small size makes it easy to carry while providing a secure connection in public spaces.
Which travel router supports WISP mode and 2.5GbE speeds?
The Cudy TR3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router fits this requirement. It is pocket-sized and supports 2.5GbE speeds. This model is ideal for business travelers needing advanced network control. It delivers multi-gig speeds and includes VPN features for secure connectivity while traveling.
Is there a premium Wi-Fi 6 router with high device capacity?
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX is a solid premium choice. It delivers reliable Wi-Fi 6 performance for up to 120 devices. This makes it ideal for groups needing secure internet access. It prioritizes network security and customization over cellular connectivity for frequent travelers.
Which router offers gigabit wired ports for reliable travel connections?
The GL.iNet Opal AC1200 Travel Router delivers reliable dual-band performance. It includes gigabit ports for stable wired connections. This model suits users who value speed and portability over ultra-minimalist size. It is a practical option for travelers needing dependable wired internet access while on the road.