Head-to-head · Best Travel Routers

GL.iNet GL-S1300 (Beryl) vs TP-Link TL-WR902AC

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

GL.iNet GL-S1300 (Beryl) comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.1 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about Security-conscious travelers needing expandable storage — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Travel Routers

GL.iNet GL-S1300 (Beryl)

4.1

$98.99as of Jul 9

The GL.iNet Beryl AX (GL-MT3000) is a compact, feature-rich travel router designed for security-conscious users. Reviewers praised its pre-installed VPN and TOR services, dual-band Wi-Fi, and compact form factor. WalkingDroid noted its performance with high-speed internet and multiple device connections, while a YouTube reviewer highlighted its affordable price point and OpenWRT base. However, some users were disappointed by the lack of 6 GHz support and noted it's bulkier than its predecessor, the Slate model. This router is ideal for frequent travelers and remote workers seeking secure, portable internet access.

Strengths

— Compact design that fits in the palm of your hand
— Dual-band with IPv6 support and 2.5 gigabit WAN/LAN ports
— Pre-installed VPN servers and clients (OpenVPN, WireGuard)

Watch-outs

— Lacks 6 GHz Wi-Fi support
— Slightly larger and heavier than the Slate model
— Speeds may be slower when using VPN or WireGuard encryption

$98.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Travel Routers

TP-Link TL-WR902AC

3.9

$34.99as of Jul 9

The TP-Link TL-WR902AC is a compact travel router designed to extend and improve Wi-Fi connectivity while traveling. Reviewers praised its portability, dual-band wireless capabilities, and USB functionality for external devices. However, users noted the router requires a detailed setup process and needs a power outlet, which can be limiting. One reviewer specifically recommended it for families with tech-averse members who need seamless device connectivity. It's best suited for travelers seeking reliable signal extension rather than advanced networking features.

Strengths

— Small and portable design that fits in a pocket
— Improves weak Wi-Fi signals by extending range
— Supports both 2.4GHz (up to 300Mbps) and 5GHz (up to 433Mbps) bands

Watch-outs

— Requires an 8-step configuration process that can be time-consuming
— Needs to be plugged into an outlet, consuming power space
— May have compatibility issues with local network encryption settings

$34.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

GL.iNet GL-S1300 (Beryl)

The GL-S1300 Beryl offers more expandability with its USB 3.0 port and micro SD card slot compared to the GL-MT1300 Beryl 2, which is more compact but lacks these features. Unlike the GL-MT2500, it doesn't support Wi-Fi 7 but provides pre-installed VPN servers and TOR services. The GL-SFT1200 Slate is smaller and more affordable, but the Beryl offers better performance and additional privacy features.

TP-Link TL-WR902AC

The TP-Link TL-WR902AC is more portable and easier to set up than the GL-MT2500 Flint, which has more advanced features but a complex configuration process. Unlike the GL-SFT1200 Slate, it lacks built-in VPN support and has slower Wi-Fi speeds. Compared to the GL-MT1300 Beryl 2, it's larger and less efficient but offers better signal extension for weak Wi-Fi areas.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	GL.iNet GL-S1300 (Beryl)	TP-Link TL-WR902AC
Wi-Fi Standard	Dual-band	802.11acn 5GHz \| 802.11bgn 2.4GHz
WAN Ports	1 x 2.5 Gigabit	10/100Mbps WAN/LAN port, USB 2.0 port
LAN Ports	2 x 2.5 Gigabit	—
Form Factor	Pocket-sized	—
Wireless Speed	400Mbps(2.4GHz) + 867Mbps(5GHz)	5GHz up to 433Mbps \| 2.4GHz up to 300Mbps

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