GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Portable Travel Router, Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Internet Router, Portable VPN Routers WiFi for Travel, Public Computer Routers, Business, Moblie/RV/Cruise/Plane
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AI Verdict
This is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 travel router with 1800 Mbps combined speed, pre-installed VPN clients, and OpenWrt 21.02, designed for securing multiple devices on public networks.
This router is a strong fit for travelers and remote workers who prioritize secure, private internet access for multiple devices. Its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities and pre-installed VPN clients directly address common pain points of public Wi-Fi, like limited device connections and security risks. The OpenWrt operating system also offers extensive customization for users with specific networking needs.
If you need faster speeds or wider 5GHz coverage for a larger home or office, look for routers with Wi-Fi 6E support or higher combined Mbps ratings, typically 2400 Mbps or more on the 5GHz band.
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Pros
- Provides Wi-Fi 6 connectivity with a combined speed of 1800 Mbps (600 Mbps on 2.4GHz, 1200 Mbps on 5GHz).
- Supports connecting up to 120 devices simultaneously using MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and BSS color.
- Includes pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard clients, offering speeds up to 500 Mbps and 550 Mbps respectively, compatible with over 30 VPN providers.
- Functions as a repeater for public or hotel Wi-Fi, converting it to a private network and handling captive portals.
- Runs on OpenWrt 21.02, allowing for extensive customization and application installation.
- Features a USB 3.0 port and a microSD slot (up to 512GB) for file sharing via SAMBA and WebDav protocols.
Cons
- The 5GHz Wi-Fi signal weakens over longer distances.
- Some users report the device runs warm, especially under load.
- VPN setup can be complex for some users, requiring specific configuration to function correctly.
- Firmware updates have occasionally caused issues with functionality, specifically repeating.
- The physical toggle switch for VPN/AdGuard Home requires initial setup in the admin panel to function.
Dimension Scores
It offers 1800 Mbps combined Wi-Fi 6 speed and good 5GHz speeds at close range, but the 5GHz signal weakens over longer distances.
Users report consistent performance for connecting multiple devices and handling captive portals, though some firmware updates have caused issues.
It runs on OpenWrt 21.02, offering extensive customization, but initial VPN setup or connecting to complex hotel networks can be tricky for some.
With pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard, Cloudflare encryption, and a physical toggle for VPN/AdGuard Home, it offers robust security options.
Best For
- Securing multiple personal devices on hotel or public Wi-Fi networks.
- Creating a private network for streaming media from a USB drive while traveling.
- Users who need a customizable router with OpenWrt for advanced networking configurations.
- Connecting multiple devices to a single paid internet connection, like on a cruise ship.
Not Recommended For
- Users needing a router with Wi-Fi 6E or 6 GHz band support.
- Environments requiring consistent high-speed 5GHz Wi-Fi over large areas.
- Individuals who prefer a plug-and-play experience without needing to configure VPNs or OpenWrt settings.
Watch Out For
- Connecting to hotel Wi-Fi can sometimes require specific steps like MAC cloning, which took one user an hour to figure out.
- The Tailscale app installed on the device might be an older version, and updating it via SSH can fail if the file is too large.
- The device can run warm, especially when under heavy use or in hotter environments.
- Firmware updates have been reported to brick repeating functionality for some users, with support not always being helpful.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0B2J7WSDK |
| Brand | GL.iNet |
| Color | white |
| Model Name | Slate AX |
| Item Weight | 8.6 ounces |
| Manufacturer | GL.iNET |
| Special Feature | Guest Mode, QoS |
| Item model number | GDB008W3-050400ZX |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Product Dimensions | 3.23 x 1.42 x 4.92 inches |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet, Type-C |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Home |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ax |
What Buyers Say
Users frequently highlight how this router simplifies connecting multiple devices to hotel Wi-Fi, bypassing the usual single-device limits and captive portal hassles. Many appreciate the pre-installed VPN capabilities for securing their internet connection while traveling. The ability to share files from an attached USB drive is a recurring positive, turning it into a portable media server. However, some users have noted that the 5GHz signal range isn't the strongest, and the device can get warm during extended use.
“This thing saved my cruise internet bill, seriously. Plugged it in, connected once, and suddenly everyone's phone and tablet were online, no more paying per device. VPN was a bit of a headache to get going, but once it was, felt way safer than hotel Wi-Fi.”
Common Praise
- Connects all devices to hotel Wi-Fi without individual logins after initial setup.
- VPN functionality (OpenVPN/WireGuard) works effectively for secure browsing.
- Allows streaming media from an attached USB hard drive to multiple devices.
- The OpenWrt operating system provides extensive customization options.
- Compact size and retractable antennas make it easy to pack for travel.
Common Complaints
- The 5GHz Wi-Fi signal range is limited and weakens over distance.
- The router can run warm, especially when under heavy load.
- Setting up VPNs or navigating complex hotel network connections can be challenging for some users.
- Some users experienced issues with firmware updates breaking functionality.
- The Tailscale app on the device might be an outdated version, with update difficulties.
Ownership Tips
- The physical toggle switch for VPN or AdGuard Home needs to be configured in the admin panel before it does anything.
- While it handles captive portals, some hotel networks might require MAC cloning to get connected initially.
- The internal fan helps with heat, but the device still feels warm to the touch after hours of continuous use.
- You can connect a 4G/5G modem via the USB 3.0 port for cellular internet access.
- The OpenWrt interface, while powerful, has a learning curve if you're not familiar with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this router connect to hotel Wi-Fi that requires a login page?
Yes, the GL-AXT1800 can connect to public Wi-Fi networks with captive portals, allowing all your devices to connect through the router after you log in once.
What kind of VPN speeds can I expect?
You can expect VPN speeds up to 500 Mbps with OpenVPN and up to 550 Mbps with WireGuard, as these are pre-installed and optimized.
Does it support external storage for file sharing?
Yes, it has a USB 3.0 port and a microSD slot (up to 512GB) that support SAMBA and WebDav protocols for creating a private network storage.
Is the operating system customizable?
Absolutely, it runs on OpenWrt 21.02, which is an open-source operating system allowing you to customize the router and install various applications.
How many devices can connect to it at once?
The router is designed to connect up to 120 devices simultaneously, leveraging Wi-Fi 6 technologies like MU-MIMO and OFDMA.
Buying Guide
When looking at a travel router like this, you're primarily buying security and convenience for when you're away from your home network. You want to be able to connect all your devices (phone, laptop, tablet, streaming stick) to one secure network, even if the hotel or public Wi-Fi only allows one device or has a tricky login page. VPN capabilities are key for protecting your data on unsecured public networks, and the ability to share files locally is a bonus for entertainment.
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
This is the latest common Wi-Fi standard, meaning faster speeds and better efficiency when many devices are connected. Think of it like a wider, less congested highway for your data, especially important when you're sharing a connection with multiple gadgets.
1800 Mbps (combined)
This number indicates the maximum theoretical speed across both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. For a travel router, it means you'll have enough bandwidth for streaming, video calls, and general browsing, even with several devices connected simultaneously.
OpenVPN & WireGuard
These are specific types of VPN protocols. Having them pre-installed and optimized means you can encrypt your internet traffic easily, protecting your privacy from snooping on public Wi-Fi. WireGuard is generally faster and more modern than OpenVPN.
OpenWrt
This is an open-source operating system for routers. It means the router is highly customizable, allowing advanced users to install additional features, tweak settings, and have more control than with standard router firmware. It's like having a smartphone that lets you install any app you want, not just the ones from the manufacturer.
Alternatives
If this router doesn't fit, look for models with Wi-Fi 6E for access to the less congested 6GHz band, or those with higher 5GHz speeds (e.g., 2400 Mbps or more) if you need better long-range performance. Consider routers with simpler, more guided setup processes if you prefer minimal configuration.
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