Looking Beyond the GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are searching for gl inet gl inetgl xe300 alternatives, you likely want to compare portable routers beyond the Puli. The GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE Router converts cellular signals to Wi-Fi with a nano-SIM slot. It offers up to 300Mbps speeds on 2.4GHz only. The device includes OpenWrt, dual Ethernet ports, and pre-installed VPN support for secure connections. Its compact dimensions of 4.72 by 2.91 by 1.1 inches make it easy to carry. However, the single-band Wi-Fi limit and lack of cellular backup in other models may drive your search.
We selected 6 alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original Puli in key areas. Some options provide faster Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 standards. Others offer tri-band coverage or PoE support for home networks. You might prefer a different size or a brand that focuses solely on wired connectivity. The list includes travel routers with OpenWrt and fixed home access points. Each choice addresses specific needs like higher port speeds or broader frequency bands. Review the specs to find the device that matches your exact requirements.
How alternatives compare to Puli
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router replaces the Puli’s 4G LTE modem with a 2.5G WAN port. You gain Wi-Fi 6 speeds and faster wired connections, but you lose the ability to use a cellular SIM card for mobile internet. This model is larger and heavier than the Puli, measuring 4.7 by 3.2 inches. It runs OpenWrt and supports VPNs just like the Puli. Choose this if you need higher throughput and have access to fast Ethernet, but avoid it if you require portable cellular connectivity while traveling.
Tenda Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router
The Tenda BE12Pro Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router is a home-focused device with Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5G ports. It lacks the compact form factor and cellular capabilities of the Puli entirely. This unit is significantly larger, measuring 10.5 inches in length, and is intended for stationary home use rather than travel. It supports OpenWrt and VPNs, offering similar software flexibility. You should pick this alternative if you need modern Wi-Fi 7 standards and multi-gigabit wired speeds for a fixed location. It is not suitable for mobile internet needs or portable networking scenarios.
GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router
The GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router is much smaller and lighter than the Puli, weighing only 1.41 ounces. It removes the 4G LTE modem and cellular features, focusing instead on secure Wi-Fi bridging for travelers. It runs OpenWrt and supports VPNs, maintaining the security focus of the Puli. The Mango is ideal for users who need a pocket-sized device to secure public Wi-Fi connections. Choose this if you prioritize extreme portability and budget over mobile cellular data. You give up cellular connectivity and wired Ethernet ports found on the Puli.
eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point
The eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point is a stationary device designed for wired home networks. It lacks the Puli’s portability, cellular modem, and USB ports entirely. This unit supports Wi-Fi 7 and tri-band connectivity, offering coverage for up to 2,000 square feet. It requires Power over Ethernet for installation. Select this alternative if you want to expand a wired home network with high-speed Wi-Fi 7 nodes. It is not a travel router and cannot provide mobile internet access. It is best for users seeking clean aesthetics and reliable wired backhaul in a fixed location.
GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router
The GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router is a compact bridge for travelers, similar to the Puli but without cellular support. It lacks the 4G LTE modem and nano-SIM slot, relying instead on existing Wi-Fi or wired connections. This device is small, measuring 2.28 inches on each side, and weighs 1.44 ounces. It runs OpenWrt for secure networking. Choose this if you need a pocket-sized router to tether devices to public networks. It is a budget-friendly option for secure travel networking. You sacrifice mobile cellular data and Ethernet ports found on the Puli for a smaller, simpler form factor.
GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router
The GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router (Ext) is nearly identical to the standard Mini model, sharing the same compact dimensions and weight. It also lacks the 4G LTE modem and cellular connectivity of the Puli. This device is designed for secure travel networking, running OpenWrt for privacy and customization. It is suitable for users who need a small, portable bridge for public Wi-Fi. Pick this if you prioritize portability and security over mobile internet speeds. You give up the cellular modem, Ethernet ports, and larger storage of the Puli. It is a focused tool for secure travel rather than a versatile mobile gateway.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE Router
Best for: portable mobile internet access
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Features
- OpenWrt
- Operating Mode
- Access Point Mode
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 2.91 × 1.1 inches
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE Router Affiliate link
The GL.iNet Puli is a compact travel router that converts 4G LTE signals into Wi-Fi. It offers up to 300Mbps speeds on the 2.4GHz band. The device runs OpenWrt and includes two Ethernet ports. It supports VPNs and IPv6 for secure connections. This unit suits travelers needing a portable mobile hotspot or a backup internet source for remote work.
Pros
- Built-in 4G LTE modem with nano-SIM slot
- OpenWrt operating system for customization
- Two Ethernet ports for wired connections
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support
- Compact dimensions of 4.72 by 2.91 inches
Cons
- Wi-Fi speeds limited to 300Mbps on 2.4GHz only
- No 5GHz or 6GHz Wi-Fi bands available
- Limited to 128MB of RAM
Good fit if
- You need a portable hotspot for travel
- You want to use a 4G LTE connection as a backup
- You require a device with OpenWrt for advanced configuration
Skip if
- You need high-speed Wi-Fi for gaming
- You require multi-gigabit wired speeds
- You want a standard home mesh system
Verdict: The GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE Router is a specialized tool for users who need mobile connectivity or a secure, portable internet source while traveling.
GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router
Best for: secure travel networking with 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 compact Wi-Fi 6 travel router designed for secure connectivity on the go. 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 for extensive customization with over 5,000 plugins. It supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard for encrypted traffic, making it suitable for travelers who prioritize network security and flexible configuration options.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 standard for improved speed and efficiency
- 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support
- OpenWrt 21.02 firmware with 5,000+ plugin options
- WPA3 protocol for enhanced security
Cons
- Only dual-band support, lacking Wi-Fi 6E
- Max VPN speed limited to 300 Mbps
- No mention of cellular or 4G LTE capability
Good fit if
- You need a compact router for international travel
- You want to use WireGuard or OpenVPN for security
- You prefer customizable OpenWrt firmware
Skip if
- You require built-in 4G LTE cellular connectivity
- You need tri-band Wi-Fi 6E performance
- You want a simple plug-and-play setup without configuration
Verdict: The GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router is a solid choice for travelers who need a secure, customizable connection with a 2.5G WAN port, though it lacks cellular support.
Tenda Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router
Best for: Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 with 2.5G ports
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Speed Rating
- BE7200
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 5
- Pack Size
- 1-Pack
View on Amazon: Tenda Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router Affiliate link
The Tenda BE12Pro is a dual-band Wi-Fi 7 router designed for home networks. It features a quad-core 2 GHz processor and supports Multi-Link Operation for improved stability. You get two 2.5 Gbps ports and three 1 Gbps ports for wired connections. The device includes NFC tap-to-connect for guests and OpenWrt compatibility. It is a solid option if you need multi-gig wired speeds and modern wireless standards without tri-band complexity.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard with Multi-Link Operation
- Two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports
- OpenWrt compatible firmware support
- NFC tap-to-connect for guests
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacks 6 GHz band
- No mention of USB port for storage
- Large vertical footprint (10.5 inches deep)
Good fit if
- You want Wi-Fi 7 speeds on a budget
- You need 2.5 Gbps wired uplinks
- You prefer OpenWrt flexibility over proprietary apps
Skip if
- You need tri-band coverage for large homes
- You require 6 GHz band for low latency
- You want a compact travel-sized router
Verdict: Tenda BE12Pro Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router offers strong multi-gig wired connectivity and modern Wi-Fi 7 features for users who prioritize speed and open-source flexibility over tri-band range.
GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router
Best for: secure travel networking on a budget
- 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 wired or wireless networks into private Wi-Fi. It runs OpenWrt and includes a pre-installed OpenVPN client for secure connections. The device features two Ethernet ports and 128MB of RAM. It weighs just 1.41 ounces and operates on 2.4GHz only. This compact unit suits travelers needing a lightweight, programmable connection solution.
Pros
- Weighs only 1.41 ounces for easy portability
- Pre-installed OpenWrt operating system for customization
- Built-in OpenVPN client compatible with 30+ providers
- Two Ethernet ports for wired connectivity
Cons
- Supports 2.4GHz only, lacking 5GHz speed
- Limited to 16MB Flash ROM storage
- No mention of 4G LTE cellular support
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight router for travel
- You want to use OpenWrt for custom setups
- You require a secure connection via OpenVPN
Skip if
- You need high-speed 5GHz Wi-Fi performance
- You require cellular 4G LTE connectivity
- You need extensive local storage expansion
Verdict: The GL.iNet Mango Pocket VPN Router is a practical choice for travelers who prioritize security and portability over speed. It fits users who need a small, programmable device to secure public connections.
eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point
Best for: Wired home networks needing Wi-Fi 7 expansion
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Frequency Bands
- Tri-Band
- Coverage Area
- 2,000 sq. ft.
- Device Capacity
- 200+ devices
- Max Port Speed
- 10 GbE
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
View on Amazon: eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point Affiliate link
The eero PoE 7 is a Wi-Fi 7 access point designed for clean, wired installations. It features a tri-band architecture and includes one 10 GbE port alongside one 10 GbE PoE+ port. This setup supports up to 200 devices across 2,000 square feet. It delivers wireless speeds up to 3.9 Gbps. You should consider this unit if you want a high-performance, mountable node for a larger home or small business network.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard for future-proof speeds
- Dual 10 GbE ports for high-speed backhaul
- Supports 200+ connected devices
- Tri-band design reduces congestion
- Compact, mountable form factor
Cons
- Limited to 2,000 square feet coverage per unit
- Requires Ethernet cabling for primary operation
- Sold as a single access point only
Good fit if
- You need a clean, cable-free power solution via PoE
- You have a wired network backbone with 10 GbE switches
- You want to expand a mesh system with a high-performance node
Skip if
- You need a standalone router without existing Ethernet infrastructure
- You require a portable or battery-powered travel solution
- You are setting up a network in a space larger than 2,000 square feet with only one unit
Verdict: eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Access Point is a solid choice for users who already have Ethernet cabling and want to add a high-speed, tri-band Wi-Fi 7 node. It fits best in homes or offices where clean aesthetics and wired reliability are priorities.
GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router
Best for: Travelers needing secure public Wi-Fi bridging
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- OpenWrt
- Dimensions
- 2.28 × 2.28 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 1.44 ounces
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router Affiliate link
This pocket-sized router converts public or hotel networks into a private Wi-Fi connection. It features dual Ethernet ports for wired connections and supports 3G/4G USB modems for mobile internet. The device runs OpenWrt, allowing for extensive customization and VPN client or server capabilities. Weighing just 1.44 ounces, it fits easily in your pocket and powers via USB, making it ideal for travelers who need secure, portable networking on the go.
Pros
- Dual Ethernet ports for wired connectivity
- Supports 3G/4G USB modems
- OpenWrt pre-installed for customization
- Built-in VPN client and server
- Extremely lightweight at 1.44 ounces
Cons
- No built-in Wi-Fi radio for standalone access point mode
- Only 128MB RAM limits heavy multitasking
- Requires separate power adapter or host device for power
Good fit if
- You need a secure bridge for public Wi-Fi
- You travel frequently with a laptop
- You want to use a USB cellular modem
Skip if
- You need a standalone home Wi-Fi router
- You require high-speed wired gaming
- You want a device with built-in battery
Verdict: GL.iNet GL-AR300M16 Mini Travel Router is a compact, secure bridge for travelers who need to tether a laptop to public or mobile networks. It fits perfectly in your pocket for on-the-go secure browsing.
GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router
Best for: secure travel networking on the go
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Use Case
- Travel
- Features
- OpenWrt
- Dimensions
- 2.28 × 2.28 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 1.44 ounces
View on Amazon: GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router Affiliate link
This pocket-sized router turns any wired or wireless network into a secure private Wi-Fi connection. It runs OpenWrt, offering full control and extensibility. You get two Ethernet ports and support for OpenVPN and Wireguard. Weighing just 1.44 ounces, it fits easily in your pocket. It is ideal for travelers needing a reliable, portable network solution with strong security features.
Pros
- Dual Ethernet ports for wired connections
- OpenWrt firmware for full programmability
- Pre-installed OpenVPN and Wireguard support
- Extremely lightweight at 1.44 ounces
- Compatible with 3G/4G USB modems
Cons
- Only 128MB of RAM limits multitasking
- No built-in battery requires external power
- Small 16MB NOR Flash restricts storage
Good fit if
- You need a secure connection in hotels
- You want to use Wireguard VPN
- You value a pocket-sized travel device
Skip if
- You require high-performance gaming speeds
- You need a built-in battery
- You prefer a large display interface
Verdict: GL.iNet Mini Travel Router is a compact, secure option for travelers who prioritize privacy and portability over raw speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GL.iNet Puli Portable 4G LTE Router | GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router | Tenda Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router | GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router | eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point | GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router | GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | not stated | Wi-Fi 7 | not stated | not stated |
| Speed Rating | not stated | not stated | BE7200 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Frequency Bands | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | 2.4GHz ONLY | Tri-Band | not stated | not stated |
| Coverage Area | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2,000 sq. ft. | not stated | not stated |
| Device Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 200+ devices | not stated | not stated |
| Max Port Speed | not stated | 2.5 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | not stated | 10 GbE | not stated | not stated |
| Ethernet Ports | 2 | 2 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency Band | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated | Tri-Band | not stated | not stated |
| Pack Size | not stated | not stated | 1-Pack | not stated | 1-Pack | not stated | not stated |
| PoE Support | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | PoE | not stated | not stated |
| Use Case | not stated | Travel | not stated | Travel | not stated | Travel | Travel |
| Features | OpenWrt | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN, OpenWrt | VPN, OpenWrt | not stated | OpenWrt | OpenWrt |
| Port Speed | not stated | Gigabit, 2.5G | 2.5G | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Intended Use | not stated | not stated | Home | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Operating Mode | Access Point Mode | not stated | not stated | not stated | Access Point Mode | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 2.91 × 1.1 inches | 4.53 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches | 10.5 × 6.54 × 8.74 inches | 2.3 × 2.3 × 1 inches | 8.27 × 1.69 × 8.27 inches | 2.28 × 2.28 × 0.98 inches | 2.28 × 2.28 × 0.98 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 6.91 ounces | 1.11 pounds | 1.41 ounces | 2.18 pounds | 1.44 ounces | 1.44 ounces |
| Size | Compact | 4.7 x 3.2 x 1.3 Inch | 1Pack | V2 (MTK7628NN SoC) | not stated | not stated | Small |
| Color | EC25-AF | Blue | Black | Blue, Grey, Black | WHITE | Black | Black |
| Model | 2dd77b47-0c6e-45b4-bae7-24693ad81a69 | GL-MT3000 | BE12Pro | GL-MT300N-V2 | NV01 | GL-AR300M16 | GL-AR300M16-Ext |
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a GL.iNet travel router with Wi-Fi 6?
Yes, the GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router supports Wi-Fi 6. It features a 2.5G WAN port for faster wired connections. This model uses OpenWrt for secure travel networking. It is a solid choice if you do not need cellular support.
Which GL.iNet router is best for budget travel?
The GL.iNet Mango Mini Travel Router is the best budget option. It offers secure travel networking with VPN and OpenWrt features. The device is compact, measuring 2.3 inches square. It fits users who prioritize security and portability over high speeds.
Can I use a GL.iNet router for home Wi-Fi 7?
The Tenda BE12Pro Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router is a premium home option. It includes 2.5G ports and supports VPN with OpenWrt. It is designed for home use with dual-band connectivity. It prioritizes speed and open-source flexibility over tri-band range.
What is the smallest GL.iNet travel router?
The GL.iNet Mini OpenWrt Travel Router is one of the smallest options. It measures 2.28 inches square and weighs 1.44 ounces. It acts as a secure bridge for travelers tethering laptops to public networks. It fits perfectly in your pocket for on-the-go use.
Is there a tri-band Wi-Fi 7 access point in this list?
The eero PoE 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Access Point is the only tri-band option. It covers 2,000 square feet and supports PoE. It operates in access point mode for wired home networks. It is ideal for adding high-speed nodes where Ethernet cabling exists.
Does the GL.iNet Beryl AX have cellular data support?
No, the GL.iNet Beryl AX Travel Router lacks cellular support. It replaces the Puli’s 4G LTE modem with a 2.5G WAN port. You gain Wi-Fi 6 speeds but cannot use a SIM card. It is designed for wired or existing Wi-Fi connections.