Looking Beyond the GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The GL.iNet Slate AX offers strong Wi-Fi 6 speeds and built-in VPN support for secure travel networking. If you are searching for gl inet gl axt1800 slate ax pocket sized alternatives, you may need different specifications for your specific use case. This router handles up to 120 devices and includes physical toggles for features like AdGuard Home. However, some travelers might prefer a smaller form factor or a higher-speed WAN port. Others may want a single unit instead of a two-pack or a different brand ecosystem. These alternatives were chosen because their core specs overlap with the original, ensuring you get comparable performance. The list includes options with 2.5G ports for faster wired connections. It also covers models with varying physical sizes and device capacities. You can find routers that prioritize extreme portability or those that offer more advanced firmware flexibility. Each option addresses a specific gap left by the Slate AX. This guide helps you compare the practical differences between these devices. You will see how each model handles speed, size, and security features. The goal is to help you find the right tool for your travel needs without compromising on essential networking capabilities.
Our top pick: GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router 2-Pack.
How each alternative compares
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
The GL.iNet Beryl AX replaces the Slate AX’s dual-pack convenience with a single, faster unit. It adds a 2.5G WAN port, which the Slate AX lacks, allowing you to handle higher-speed internet connections. Both run OpenWrt, but the Beryl AX is slightly larger at 4.7 by 3.2 inches. You gain processing power and wired speed, but you lose the ability to share two devices with a travel companion. This model suits users who prioritize high-speed wired backhaul and custom firmware flexibility over portability or multi-device sharing.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go offers AX3000 speeds, doubling the combined wireless throughput of the Slate AX’s AX1800 rating. It supports more devices, making it better for groups. The ASUS unit is wider at 4.7 inches but thinner at 0.8 inches. It includes mobile tethering features that the Slate AX does not list. You trade the Slate AX’s physical toggle switches for a different control interface. This router is ideal for travelers who need to connect many devices simultaneously or rely on mobile data tethering rather than just public Wi-Fi security.
Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router
The Cudy TR3000 provides AX3000 speeds, significantly faster than the Slate AX’s AX1800 rating. It includes a 2.5GbE WAN port, a feature absent in the Slate AX. The Cudy is compact at 4.21 inches square but heavier. It runs OpenWrt, offering similar customization to the Slate AX. You get higher wireless capacity and faster wired connections, but you lose the Slate AX’s physical hardware switch for VPN toggling. This option fits travelers who value high-speed data handling and flexible firmware over the specific dual-unit sharing capability of the Slate AX.
TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Wi-Fi 6 Router
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 offers lower AX1500 speeds compared to the Slate AX’s AX1800 rating. It is lighter at 6.72 ounces and slightly smaller in height. It focuses on secure travel networking without listing OpenWrt support, unlike the Slate AX. You sacrifice some wireless speed and customization flexibility for a simpler, more portable design. This router is best for users who prioritize basic portability and encrypted connections over the higher device capacity and advanced firmware options found in the Slate AX.
TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Pocket Router matches the previous model’s AX1500 speed rating, which is lower than the Slate AX’s AX1800. It is the lightest option at 5.44 ounces and highly portable. It lacks OpenWrt support, limiting customization compared to the Slate AX. You give up some wireless performance and advanced features for extreme compactness. This choice suits light travelers who need a small footprint for hotels or airports and do not require the higher device capacity or firmware flexibility of the Slate AX.
TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 provides AX3000 speeds, exceeding the Slate AX’s AX1800 rating. It includes file sharing capabilities, similar to the Slate AX’s NAS feature. It is lighter at 5.28 ounces and lacks OpenWrt support. You gain higher wireless throughput and a compact form factor, but lose the Slate AX’s physical VPN toggle switch and open-source firmware. This router is ideal for travelers who need fast wired backhaul and file sharing without the need for custom operating system modifications.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router 2-Pack
Best for: travelers needing dual units or shared access
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Device Capacity
- 120 devices
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- VPN
- Dimensions
- 3.23 × 1.42 × 4.92 inches
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router 2-Pack Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Slate AX is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router sold as a pack of two. It delivers 1800 Mbps combined speed across dual bands and supports up to 120 connected devices. You get pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure browsing, plus a USB port for file sharing. Running OpenWrt 21.02, it allows deep customization. This bundle is ideal for travelers needing reliable, secure connectivity for multiple devices or for sharing with a companion.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 with 1800 Mbps dual-band speed
- Supports up to 120 simultaneous devices
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard with hardware toggle switch
- Runs customizable OpenWrt 21.02 operating system
- Includes USB port for NAS and file sharing
Cons
- Sold as a pack of two, which may be excess for single users
- OpenWrt 21.02 kernel is older than current stable releases
- Physical toggle switch requires initial admin panel configuration to function
Good fit if
- You need two units for separate trips or to share with a travel partner
- You require high device capacity for families or groups
- You want hardware-level VPN control without relying solely on software
Skip if
- You only need a single router for personal use
- You prefer the latest kernel version for security updates
- You want a plug-and-play experience without initial configuration
Verdict: GL.iNet Slate AX Pack of 2 is a practical solution for travelers who need redundant secure connections or want to share a high-capacity Wi-Fi 6 network with another person.
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
Best for: Users needing 2.5G WAN and OpenWrt flexibility
- 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. It delivers up to 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. The device runs OpenWrt 21.02 firmware, allowing access to over 5,000 plugins. It supports both VPN client and server modes simultaneously. You get a USB 3.0 port and WPA3 security. This compact unit suits travelers needing high-speed wired uplinks.
Pros
- 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections
- Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 2402Mbps on 5GHz band
- Runs OpenWrt 21.02 with 5,000+ available plugins
- Supports simultaneous VPN client and server operation
- Physical toggle switch for quick feature activation
Cons
- Maximum VPN speed limited to 150 Mbps for OpenVPN
- No mention of 4G or 5G cellular support
- Lacks a built-in battery for portable use
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5G WAN port for fast uplinks
- You want to run custom OpenWrt plugins
- You require simultaneous VPN client and server functions
Skip if
- You need built-in cellular 4G or 5G connectivity
- You require a battery for off-grid travel
- You prefer a pre-configured interface without plugin management
Verdict: GL.iNet Beryl AX 2.5G Travel Router fits users who need a 2.5G WAN port and OpenWrt flexibility. It is ideal for travelers who want to run custom plugins and manage VPN connections simultaneously.
ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router
Best for: high device capacity and 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 an AX3000 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 travel router. It supports up to 70 devices and includes 4G/5G tethering for mobile internet. The device features WISP mode for public networks and comprehensive VPN security. Its compact 0.8-inch height makes it easy to carry. This router suits travelers needing high capacity and secure connections on the go.
Pros
- AX3000 speed rating with 160 MHz channels
- Supports up to 70 connected devices
- 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering
- WISP mode for public WiFi hotspots
- One-touch VPN activation with site-to-site support
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacking Wi-Fi 6E 6 GHz support
- No mention of Ethernet LAN ports for wired connections
- No mention of a built-in rechargeable battery
Good fit if
- You need to connect many devices simultaneously
- You frequently use public WiFi networks
- You require 5G mobile internet tethering
Skip if
- You need Wi-Fi 6E for less interference
- You require wired Ethernet ports for devices
- You need a battery for off-grid use
Verdict: ASUS RT-AX57 Go Portable Router is a high-capacity travel router for users who prioritize device count and mobile tethering. It fits travelers who frequently switch between private and public networks.
Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing 2.5GbE WAN and OpenWRT
- 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 with AX3000 speeds. It features a 2.5GbE WAN port and supports six operating modes. The device runs OpenWRT 24.10 and includes VPN capabilities. It is designed for travelers needing reliable connectivity in hotels or temporary offices. The compact form factor fits easily in a bag while delivering multi-gig networking performance.
Pros
- AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 with 160 MHz channels
- 2.5GbE WAN port for high throughput
- Runs OpenWRT 24.10 for advanced control
- Supports six modes including WISP and Extender
- Compact size smaller than a smartphone
Cons
- Only dual-band Wi-Fi 6, not Wi-Fi 6E
- No mention of cellular 4G/5G modem integration
- Limited to 128 MB flash storage
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5GbE WAN connection for fast internet
- You want to run custom firmware like OpenWRT
- You require multiple operating modes for different travel scenarios
Skip if
- You need tri-band Wi-Fi 6E for maximum range
- You want a built-in cellular modem for instant connectivity
- You prefer a larger device with more storage
Verdict: Cudy TR3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router fits travelers who need a compact, high-speed router with advanced firmware options. It is ideal for those who value a 2.5GbE port and flexible operating modes over tri-band performance.
TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: secure travel networking on public Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1500
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Device Capacity
- 60 devices
- Max Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
View on Amazon: TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Roam 6 is a pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 travel router with AX1500 speeds. It features two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports and supports up to 60 devices. You can power it via USB-C with a power bank. It includes OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure connections on public networks. This compact unit suits travelers needing reliable wired and wireless connectivity on the go.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 standard with AX1500 speeds
- Two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports
- Supports up to 60 simultaneous devices
- USB-C power input for portability
- OpenVPN and WireGuard encryption support
Cons
- Lower AX1500 speed rating compared to AX3000 competitors
- No 2.5G WAN port for faster wired connections
- Only two Ethernet ports limit wired device connections
Good fit if
- You need a compact router for hotel or airport Wi-Fi sharing
- You require USB-C power from a portable battery bank
- You want built-in VPN encryption for public network security
Skip if
- You need speeds higher than AX1500 for heavy streaming
- You require a 2.5G WAN port for fast internet plans
- You need more than two wired Ethernet connections
Verdict: The TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Travel Router fits travelers who prioritize portability and security over raw speed. It is a practical option for connecting multiple devices to public Wi-Fi with encrypted tunnels.
TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router
Best for: Light travel use and secure public Wi-Fi access
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1500
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Use Case
- Travel
- Dimensions
- 4.09 × 3.54 × 1.1 inches
- Weight
- 5.44 ounces
View on Amazon: TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 travel router designed for portability. It delivers 1201 Mbps on 5 GHz and 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz. The compact body measures 4.09 by 3.54 by 1.10 inches and weighs 5.44 ounces. It supports router, hotspot, and client modes for flexible connectivity. It powers via USB-C and includes VPN support for secure connections on the go.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 dual-band speeds up to 1201 Mbps on 5 GHz
- Compact pocket-sized design measuring 4.09 x 3.54 x 1.10 inches
- Multiple operation modes including router, hotspot, and AP/client
- USB-C power input supports 5V/3A PD sources
Cons
- AX1500 speed rating is lower than the AX3000 options on this list
- No support for OpenWrt firmware
- Single Gigabit Ethernet port limits wired expansion
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight router for hotel or airport use
- You want to extend a wired Ethernet connection to Wi-Fi
- You require VPN support for secure public network access
Skip if
- You need high throughput for multiple 4K streams
- You prefer custom firmware for advanced network control
- You require 2.5G WAN speeds for fast broadband
Verdict: The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Pocket Travel Router fits travelers who prioritize portability and basic security over raw speed. It is a solid choice for light usage in hotels or airports where a compact form factor matters most.
TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing 2.5G wired speed and file sharing
- 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: TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Roam 6 is a compact travel router with AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds. It features a 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN port and a 1 Gbps LAN port. You get versatile modes for routing, hotspot, or access point use. The device supports VPN encryption and file sharing via USB 3.0. It powers via USB-C PD, making it ideal for mobile professionals needing fast, secure connectivity on the go.
Pros
- AX3000 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with up to 2402 Mbps on 5 GHz
- 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN port for high-speed wired connections
- Supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, PPTP, and L2TP for secure browsing
- USB 3.0 port for external drive and microSD file sharing
- Powered by USB-C PD or included adapter
Cons
- Only two Ethernet ports limit wired device connections
- No 4G or 5G cellular modem for mobile data
- No 10 Gbps port for future-proofing
Good fit if
- You need a fast wired connection via the 2.5 Gbps port
- You want to share files from USB drives while traveling
- You require strong VPN encryption for public Wi-Fi security
Skip if
- You need cellular data connectivity without an existing internet source
- You require more than two wired Ethernet connections
- You prefer a router with built-in 5G modem support
Verdict: TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router fits travelers who prioritize high-speed wired backhaul and file sharing over cellular connectivity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router 2-Pack | GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router | ASUS Portable WiFi 6 Travel Router | Cudy Pocket-Sized AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router | TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Wi-Fi 6 Router | TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Travel Router | TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Speed Rating | not stated | not stated | AX3000 | AX3000 | AX1500 | AX1500 | AX3000 |
| Frequency Bands | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band |
| Device Capacity | 120 devices | not stated | up to 70 devices | not stated | 60 devices | not stated | not stated |
| Max Port Speed | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps | not stated | 2.5 Gbps |
| Ethernet Ports | not stated | 2 | not stated | 2 | 2 | not stated | 2 |
| Frequency Band | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated | Dual-Band |
| Use Case | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel | Travel |
| Features | VPN | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN | VPN, OpenWrt | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Port Speed | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 3.23 × 1.42 × 4.92 inches | 4.53 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches | 4.7 × 4.7 × 0.8 inches | 4.21 × 1.1 × 4.21 inches | 4.09 × 1.1 × 3.54 inches | 4.09 × 3.54 × 1.1 inches | 3.6 × 1.18 × 4.13 inches |
| Weight | 1.08 pounds | 6.91 ounces | 7.36 ounces | 7.76 ounces | 6.72 ounces | 5.44 ounces | 5.28 ounces |
| Size | 125 x 82 x 36 mm (Pack of 2) | 4.7 x 3.2 x 1.3 Inch | 0.8" x 4.7" x 4.7" | Small | Portable | Pocket Size | Compact |
| Color | Black | Blue | WHITE | Blue | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | GDB008W3-050400ZX | GL-MT3000 | RT-AX57 Go | TR3000 | TL-WR1512X | TL-WR1502X | TL-WR3002X |
If you assemble a custom router, gigabyte a620i ax motherboard alternatives offer compact form factor hardware specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which travel router offers the best dual-band Wi-Fi 6 performance?
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go Portable Router delivers AX3000 speeds, making it a strong choice for high device capacity. It supports dual-band connectivity and includes VPN features for secure connections. This model is ideal for travelers who need to manage multiple devices while switching between private and public networks frequently.
What is the most compact Wi-Fi 6 travel router available?
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Pocket Travel Router is designed for maximum portability. It features a pocket-sized form factor that fits easily in bags or pockets. While it offers AX1500 speeds, its small size makes it perfect for light travel use in hotels or airports where space is limited.
Which alternative provides a 2.5G WAN port for faster wired speeds?
The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router includes a 2.5G WAN port, allowing you to handle higher-speed internet connections. It also supports OpenWrt for custom plugins and VPN management. This makes it suitable for users who need advanced flexibility and faster wired backhaul compared to standard gigabit ports.
Are there travel routers that support OpenWrt firmware?
Yes, the GL.iNet Beryl AX and the Cudy TR3000 both support OpenWrt firmware. This allows you to run custom plugins and manage VPN connections simultaneously. These models offer greater flexibility for technical users who want to customize their network settings beyond standard stock interfaces.
Which router is best for sharing a network with another person?
The GL.iNet Slate AX Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router 2-Pack is practical for sharing access. It provides two units, allowing you to create redundant secure connections or share a high-capacity Wi-Fi 6 network. This pack is ideal for travelers who need dual units for collaborative use or backup connectivity.
Which travel router prioritizes security on public Wi-Fi?
The TP-Link Roam 6 Portable Wi-Fi 6 Router focuses on secure travel networking. It creates encrypted tunnels for connecting multiple devices to public Wi-Fi safely. This model is a practical option for users who prioritize security and portability over raw speed, ensuring your data remains protected while traveling.
What is the lightest Wi-Fi 6 travel router on the list?
The TP-Link Roam 6 AX3000 Travel Router weighs 5.28 ounces, making it one of the lightest options. It offers AX3000 speeds and dual-band connectivity. This compact and lightweight design is ideal for travelers who need high-speed wired backhaul and file sharing without adding significant weight to their luggage.
Which Cudy model is recommended for budget-conscious travelers?
The Cudy TR3000 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router is the best budget option. It features a compact design and a 2.5GbE WAN port for high-speed connections. It also supports VPN and OpenWrt, offering advanced firmware options in a small package for travelers who value flexibility and speed over tri-band performance.