Portable Travel Router Review GL.iNet Beryl AX Unlocks Secure Wi-Fi Anywhere

Description

Compact and Powerful Design

The GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Portable Travel Router packs a punch in a small package. Measuring just 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches and weighing a mere 6.9 ounces, it effortlessly fits into my pocket or travel bag. Its dual-band capabilities allow for wireless speeds of 574Mbps on 2.4GHz and a whopping 2402Mbps on 5GHz. The sleek design doesn’t just look good; it also provides a 2.5G multi-gigabit WAN port and a 1G gigabit LAN port, making it versatile for different connectivity needs. I found the compact nature of this router particularly advantageous during my travels, where space is always at a premium.

Performance That Excels

Performance-wise, this portable router truly shines. Utilizing Wi-Fi 6 technology, it offers more than double the total Wi-Fi speed compared to previous generations. I tested the OpenVPN and WireGuard capabilities, and the speeds were impressive, with 150 Mbps (OpenVPN) and up to 300 Mbps (WireGuard). This feature proved invaluable while accessing public Wi-Fi networks in hotels and cafes. The pre-installed VPN client and server allowed for secure browsing without any complicated setup. My relatives traveling with me enjoyed the peace of mind knowing their data was safe.

User-Friendly Setup and Customization

Setting up the Beryl AX was straightforward. Following the detailed setup guide available online, I connected it to my existing VPN account quickly. The OpenWrt 21.02 firmware not only supports over 5,000 ready-made plug-ins but also offers a no-code interface for managing packages easily. This made it simple to customize the router to suit my needs, whether for personal use or while helping friends.

Security Features That Matter

Security is a key focus for this router. It supports the WPA3 protocol, which is a significant upgrade in preventing password brute-force attacks. The inclusion of DNS over HTTPS and DNS over TLS ensured my browsing was shielded from prying eyes. Additionally, the built-in IPv6 support provided extra authentication for privacy protection. These features gave me confidence, especially while using public networks that can often be risky.

Travel-Friendly Features

As a frequent traveler, I found the Beryl AX to be an indispensable companion. Its portability is enhanced by its easy-to-use features, including a physical toggle switch to enable or disable the VPN or AdGuard Home. This switch simplifies the process of switching networks, especially when hopping between different locations. I used it in various environments, from airplanes to RVs, and it performed flawlessly.

Positive Attributes of the Beryl AX

• Compact size for easy travel.
• Dual-band speed capabilities for fast internet.
• Robust security features to protect data.
• User-friendly setup with extensive customization options.
• VPN client/server capabilities for secure access.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While the GL.iNet GL-MT3000 shines in many areas, a few aspects could be improved.

• Limited battery life when used without a power source.
• Initial setup may confuse users unfamiliar with VPNs.
• Physical toggle switch requires configuration before use.

Comparing with Competitors

In the realm of portable routers, the Beryl AX competes with other well-known products like the TP-Link TL-WR902AC and Netgear Nighthawk M1. The TP-Link offers great portability but lacks the extensive security features of the Beryl AX. Meanwhile, the Nighthawk M1 provides robust performance but can be bulkier and more expensive. The Beryl AX excels with its Wi-Fi 6 support and cost-effective price range, making it a compelling option for travelers seeking a balance of performance and security.

Value for Money

Evaluating the Beryl AX in terms of value, it stands out as offering excellent cost-effectiveness. Given the advanced features, including high-speed connectivity, robust security, and user-friendly interface, it presents itself as a wise investment for anyone frequently on the go. The features provided justify the price, ensuring that users receive worth every penny in performance and security.

The GL.iNet GL-MT3000 has indeed been a game-changer for my travel experiences. Its compact design, stellar performance, and robust security features have allowed me to stay connected wherever I go. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh them, making this portable router a reliable choice for anyone needing secure internet access on the move.

Additional information