The Best Travel Routers, SIM/LTE Routers and Gateway Devices I Have Ever Used

I think it would be fair to say that in 2025, unless you are travelling within your own country, chances are that you are definitely going to need some kind of internet connection in order to get around when travelling around the world. Unfortunately, the age when you could get by with an A to Z book and a handful of local phrases has long gone, and alongside the complexity of most cities growing exponentially, a lot of shops, restaurants and services are moving towards 3D barcode menus and digital-only point of sale resources. Add to that the enormous benefits of translation tools and Babel Fish-level communication services that are internet-assisted, and it’s almost impossible to imagine travelling around the world now without any kind of internet connection at all times. However, whether it is barriers from requiring a local phone number for authentication, or simply that you are going places without a reliable public Wi-Fi access point at your fingertips, many users have started hopefully relying on the use of portable routers, mobile access point devices and SIM card routers. In the last few years, I’ve travelled to numerous trade shows and public events around the world, and in that time required different kinds of mobile router device in order to get things done professionally. Sometimes I’ve needed a simple router that allows me to safely and securely use public Wi-Fi services in coffee shops and train stations. Other times I’ve needed a dedicated internet connection from a cell phone provider via SIM card to be available 24/7. Over the years, I’ve used numerous devices, good and bad, and to save you a lot of trouble, I’m going to go through the ones that I (and professional colleagues that I’ve met) have come to rely upon in their day-to-day professional travel. I will also include a router that has consistently let me and a number of my professional colleagues down on a regular basis, in order to help you avoid making the same mistake we did. Let’s go.

IMPORTANT – You Might Not Need a SIM Router!

Before I go any further, it’s worth highlighting that none of the physical travel routers that I recommend below have paid for this article, and all of the opinions provided are my own, those of my professional colleagues, and are based on years of genuine use together. I have included links to purchase these items, and doing so will result in a small commission that helps me keep doing what I do, but the brands themselves have no influence over the content of this article.

Using Airport Routers – Are They Safe?

It’s also worth mentioning that it has become increasingly common, especially in the East, for users to be able to rent travel routers with a dedicated cellular internet connection from a local airport. These can be incredibly affordable and very convenient, as they often eliminate the need for purchasing a whole router device for your travel. I have used these a couple of times when travelling to Hong Kong and Taipei, Taiwan, when I’ve needed to travel especially light and with only hand luggage. However, be aware that these do arrive with some caveats. Firstly, you will need to supply the vendor with a passport, documentation, as well as provide a deposit for security purposes. Secondly, be aware that the level of control that you have over your network will be extremely limited, and you will have zero admin control of the router. That means that not only can you not adapt the router in terms of quality and priority of service for different devices, but you cannot utilise an in-router VPN or be 100% certain that the data and passwords that pass through the router are not being collected in some way. I am not suggesting that all mobile router providers are inherently untrustworthy, I am simply saying that these options are limited, and I would only recommend them as short-term, ad hoc options at best.

You Might Not Need a Travel Router in Europe!

Last point, and this is mainly for Europeans but does also apply to some other regions of the world, in some cases, if you already have an existing cellular contract for your phone data, it may still be supported in the region you intend to visit. For example, even though the UK chose to leave the EU, there is still shared coverage of cellular providers across the majority of Europe, and your O2/EE/Vodafone data plan may well work in the majority of other European countries, still within your own data allowances. It is by no means a solid rule, but it is worth checking before you travel, as it may save you the need for a travel router at all.

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GL.iNet Slate 7

Pros – Wi-Fi 7, dual-band, physical VPN switch, fully functional software, mobile app, physical RJ45 2.5GbE connections, touchscreen LCD, USB NAS storage sharing support, app centre, multiple VPN support, USB tethering, USB phone tethering.

Cons  Requires USB power, no SIM card slot, no eSIM support.

Currently, this is the newest addition to my travel kit when going anywhere in the world. Although it has only been physically present in my travel bag for a little over 6 weeks, I have known about this device for almost half a year, and GL.iNet made a lot of noise in their early development of the device and received a lot of early praise. Touted as one of, if not the first, Wi-Fi 7 travel routers, this device allows you to take advantage of bandwidth enhancements like Multi-Link Operation and faster data supported in Wi-Fi 7. Although it lacks support for the 6GHz band, it has still been an ever-reliable source of connectivity to me when I need to use public Wi-Fi services and I need to ensure that they are as secure as possible. GL.iNet has been in the business of making travel routers for a while, and indeed there is a second router mentioned later in this article, but even in the short time I’ve utilised this travel router, it has been something of a game changer when I need to travel light.

It features a touchscreen LCD that allows me to configure and connect on the go without the app, the open-source software allows me to use third-party applications, create storage shares with a USB, and it also supports multiple simultaneous internet connections for both failover and load balancing. That means that you can utilise a local USB-connected phone or dongle, connect to a third-party Wi-Fi connection, and even repeat an existing connection, giving you a 2-tier failover for when you need it. Additionally, it features two physical RJ45 ports that support both WAN and LAN utilisation, and both are 2.5Gb bandwidth.

All that said, keep in mind that this is a gateway device and not a SIM/LTE router. The device does not support eSIM usage and does not have any physical SIM card slot. This is a device for securely and conveniently connecting multiple devices at once to a single existing internet connection via a connected cable or via a third-party available Wi-Fi point. You are still going to need an existing internet connection going in, in order to really take advantage of the features and facilities of this router on your travels.

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Solis 5G SIM Router

Pros – Free worldwide 1GB of data every month without a paid subscription requirement, Wi-Fi 6 support, eSIM and physical SIM card slot, USB power bank support, LCD touchscreen, dual-band, guest Wi-Fi SSID option, multiple data plan subscriptions on pay-as-you-go, coverage of the majority of the world, regular deals during seasonal events, USB tethering.

Cons – No physical RJ45 connections, some users will be put off by the optional subscription services.

The Solis 5G is a very different kind of travel router than the GL.iNet Slate 7 I just mentioned. Not only does this travel router feature a physical SIM/LTE slot for adding a cellular data plan in your local country of choice, but it also supports the use of the pay-as-you-go daily data plans available from Solis. Now, I will get onto the advantages and disadvantages of that shortly, but what I really think is cool about this product is that when you buy it and create an account (no bank details or subscription sign-up at all—just an email address, etc.), it entitles you to 1GB of free global data every single month.

That means that if you only plan on travelling internationally once a month on average, you will have a gigabyte of data available to you for absolutely no additional cost. And unless you plan on doing large data uploads or streaming high-definition movies on your travels, 1GB of data can go an exceptionally long way with regards to transportation and maps from the airport to the hotel, utilising translation applications every single day, making international internet phone calls on WhatsApp or WeChat, etc.

Otherwise, you can purchase individual unlimited days of data in packs of single days or multiple days in bundles that you can use ad hoc when you need to. Add to that that there are regular sales and offers on the Solis website during Black Friday, New Year, summer sales, and more, and it’s really easy to just purchase and keep a handful of individual data day passes on your account that you can choose to activate when needed for fast 5G and 4G internet services.

Moving slightly away from the internet connection, however, the device itself is no slouch either. Featuring a touchscreen LCD panel for controls and a mobile application for managing the device and its clients on the go, you can have multiple different SSIDs that vary in security and priority. The system features a large battery to maintain its operation for a great deal of time, as well as supporting USB tethering and USB power bank support.

That’ll allow you to also use it to charge up your USB devices when needed. Support for Wi-Fi 6 ensures up to 1.2Gbps connections to your client devices that feature support for 802.11ax over the two bands of 5GHz and 2.4GHz, and overall, this is easily the most convenient travel router you’re ever going to find. The only main downsides are the lack of physical RJ45 network connection ports and that the software is nowhere near as configurable as that of the GL.iNet routers.

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Asus RT-AX57 Go Travel Router

Pros – Wi-Fi 6, small and light at just 12 cm square and 2 cm thick,full open-source software and controls, Wi-Fi repeating, physical VPN switch, multiple VPN services supported, supports mesh with local home/office Asus router for long-term use even when not traveling.

Cons – Lacks physical SIM card slot, pricing is a little all over the place between $99 and $139, I have not personally used it for an extended period of time and it arrives via recommendation from my professional colleagues (not a “con” exactly, but I thought it was worth mentioning).

Now, full disclaimer as mentioned earlier, this is a router that I’ve only utilised personally a very light amount when I’ve been working alongside professional colleagues who have brought this with them and we’ve all connected to it. However, I have heard nothing but good things about this device from my professional colleagues both on YouTube and generally in content creation. Whether it was because of its incredible portability at just 12 cm square and 2 cm thick, the incredibly low power consumption it has, or the fact that it can be used as a mesh point with an existing Asus router at home or in the office and therefore has deployment even outside of its use as a travel-only router, there is a reason I keep seeing this travel router being used at trade shows. Much like the GL.iNet Slate 7, this router does not feature its own SIM/LTE card slot. This is a gateway device that allows you to safely and securely connect all of your devices via a single Wi-Fi connection to an existing USB-connected internet service, wired WAN service, or existing Wi-Fi service in the area.

The hardware is pretty decent for its scale, and although you can find its price to be a little bit erratic depending on the store you shop at, it is possible to find this device at just $99 at some e-retailers. The software is pretty comparable to that of GL.iNet’s software and is built on open-source with support for third-party optional plugins, USB storage sharing, VPN services via physical button, and load balancing/failover. Probably the main appeal for this travel router—something that several of my colleagues informed me was part of their decision to purchase it—is that the device can be utilised for mesh with existing Asus routers. That means that if you have an Asus router already in your home or office environment that supports mesh, you can use this travel router as a mesh node to extend your existing home Wi-Fi coverage greatly when you are not travelling. And then, when you’re ready to travel, disconnect the device and take it with you. Once again, keep in mind that it does not feature a SIM card slot and also requires USB power for operation. But it is one of the smallest travel routers on this list, and although it’s the second oldest router on this list, it is still very capable in 2025.

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GL.iNet Puli AX

Pros – Does everything that you want from both a travel router and a local home/office router, has two SIM card slots, features an SD card slot, supports USB storage and NAS-like sharing, and has six antennas shared between local Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity. Features physical RJ45 ports and 2.5G WAN/LAN, includes a battery that can be easily removed if needed, clear LED display and controls, comprehensive router management software and mobile app, VPN physical button and multiple VPN protocols supported. Can be used as a prosumer router locally and easily disconnected and made portable as a travel router at any time (i.e., a 24×7 router, anywhere).

Cons – Expensive at $399-499, large size even without the battery attached.

Without a shadow of a doubt—and if you have the budget for it—the GL.iNet Puli AX SIM/LTE router is not only the best travel router I have ever used, but it might even be one of the best day-to-day routers I have ever used. That’s a pretty big statement, right? Let me explain. First and foremost, with the exception of Wi-Fi 7 support, the GL.iNet Puli AX provides everything that the Slate 7 at the start of this article does, as it utilises the same software platform and services but arrives with more memory, more CPU power/cores, and more storage by default to get started with and make the most of that software. However, it doubles down on everything that other routers from this brand provide. Need a SIM card slot? This device has two LTE/SIM card slots that support 5G and 4G SIM cards. Need physical network ports? This has two and supports 2.5G. Need portability? The system arrives with a large battery that is completely removable. Need good wireless coverage? This device has six individual antennas that cover a huge amount of local network coverage with Wi-Fi 6, and two antennas for cellular coverage. Don’t want to use a physical SIM and would rather use an eSIM? Yep, you can use an eSIM on this device too.

Much like other GL.iNet travel routers, the device supports failover across all of these SIM/eSIM/wired WAN options, and it supports load balancing, while also including Wi-Fi repeating and the ability to utilise the device as an encrypted gateway when connecting to third-party public/free Wi-Fi services. Add to all of that the fact that this router—and its comprehensive and detailed software—means that you can deploy this device in your office as your everyday router for managing countless devices and client hardware, and when you’re ready to go on your travels, the battery enables it to become a comprehensive travel router. That means that unlike other travel routers, which are only used when you travel (meaning the return on investment happens gradually over time), the Puli AX can be used 24×7 as your office router and then as your travel router—without needing to reconfigure security credentials or change anything about your setup unnecessarily between in-house and off-site use.

The Puli AX is by no means a perfect router. Of course, it is way more expensive than any other travel router on this list, and it’s also bigger—even without the battery attached. However, there is also no avoiding the fact that this is by far the most capable and powerful travel router that does absolutely everything you’re going to need, all in one device. With the exception of when I need to travel light or travel locally, I always use this router on my travels, and it has already replaced the router in my studio for day-to-day use too.

(What I said in conclusion on my dedicated Puli.AX Router review HERE) The GL.iNet Puli AX Mobile Router is arguably one of the most capable and powerful mobile routers available today. With an extensive feature set, including 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, robust failover options, and comprehensive storage capabilities, it stands out in the market. Despite its hefty price tag of $499, the value it offers in terms of functionality and reliability justifies the cost. Whether used in a static environment or on the go, this router provides a robust and versatile solution for internet connectivity. Overall, the GL.iNet Puli AX Mobile Router is an exceptional device that combines advanced features with practical usability. It is well-suited for a wide range of users, from business professionals requiring reliable internet on the go to home users seeking robust and versatile connectivity solutions. Its high price tag is justified by the extensive functionality and reliability it offers, making it a worthy investment for those who need a top-tier mobile router. Whether you’re looking for a reliable internet solution for your home, office, or travels, the Puli AX is a formidable contender that delivers on all fronts.

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Avoid Netgear M6 (and most other Netgear Travel Routers for now)

I really hate to be negative, but the following is more of a warning for those of you who have seen the Netgear M6 mobile travel router—either on offer, offered by your local phone shop via contract, or even second-hand on eBay. Please do not buy this travel router, as both myself and many of my colleagues have experienced problems using the Netgear M6 travel router. On the face of it, it’s a great little thing. It’s small, offers great Wi-Fi, has a physical network port, supports SIM/LTE, includes an internal battery, and even features an LCD touchscreen that provides real-time information about the device when in operation. So, what’s the problem? Easy. For a start, it’s one of the most expensive routers for what you’re actually getting—and this applies, by the way, to the newer generation Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 versions too.

The router being expensive wouldn’t be a problem if the device were good enough to do the job. The Puli AX is an expensive travel router, but it has an incredible feature set and performs its role really well—so up to a point, it justifies its price tag. However, in the case of the Netgear M6, this is especially painful when you remember that this isn’t a brand coming out of left field or one you’ve never heard of. Netgear is an international brand associated with both home and professional-class hardware. Even a cursory look at the reviews online about the Netgear M6 indicates that my colleagues and I were not the only ones experiencing these issues with this router—yet these issues have persisted for many years. This isn’t written out of hate or with any intent of negativity, but simply to help stop users who might trust that this product’s name-brand label is enough to assume it’s a good router. I think it’s definitely worth spending the extra time looking around for better options first.

Examples of user other issues with the Netgear Travel Router series (couple of other examples here on the official Netgear Support Forum and on Reddit), but on the whole user feedback across Netgear’s official forums and platforms reveals a consistent pattern of serious reliability issues with the Nighthawk M6 and M6 Pro routers. Multiple users report that while the device appears promising—offering features like 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, a touchscreen, and long battery life—the reality often falls short. A common issue involves internet connectivity degrading after 6 to 24 hours of uptime, with the router still technically online (able to ping or resolve DNS) but unable to load any web pages. This effectively renders the device unusable until it is rebooted. Even replacing units, SIM cards, or applying firmware updates often failed to resolve the issue. Many users, including those who rely on the M6 for home or business use, were forced to bypass its router functions entirely—using it as a basic modem while relying on a separate standalone router (like the Linksys EA8500) for Wi-Fi and LAN tasks. This workaround significantly improved performance but defeated the all-in-one purpose of the M6.

Another frequent complaint centers on overheating and throttling, especially when the device is plugged in for extended periods or placed in warmer environments. Users have reported the M6 reaching temperatures well above the recommended 35°C limit, leading to dropped connections, performance slowdowns, and in some cases, device shutdowns. Attempts to address these thermal issues—like using fans, disabling Wi-Fi, removing the battery while powered—provided only partial relief. Firmware updates are inconsistently delivered (especially via AT&T), with some users stuck on outdated builds that don’t resolve known bugs. Ultimately, for many users, the combination of high cost, unstable firmware, poor thermal management, and lackluster support has made the M6 series an unreliable choice—especially when more stable and affordable travel routers are readily available.

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Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review

The GL.iNet Slate 7 is the latest entry in the company’s expanding lineup of travel routers, bringing Wi-Fi 7 support, dual 2.5GbE ports, and a compact, portable design aimed at users who need reliable internet access on the go. Designed with remote workers, frequent travelers, and security-conscious users in mind, it includes built-in VPN support, an interactive touchscreen interface, and multiple failover options, making it a versatile networking solution for those moving between different public and private networks. However, while it is marketed as a Wi-Fi 7 device, it notably lacks support for the 6GHz band and 320MHz channel width, meaning it cannot take full advantage of some key Wi-Fi 7 improvements. This raises questions about whether its performance truly surpasses high-end Wi-Fi 6E routers or if it is more of an incremental upgrade over its predecessors. In this review, we will break down the Slate 7’s design, connectivity options, and real-world performance, ultimately determining if it is a standout travel networking device or simply a modest refinement of previous GL.iNet offerings.

UPDATE – the $96 super early bird price is now over, but the early bird price is still available at the time of writing (link here or via banner below)

Note, several times in the review I reference the Gl.iNet Puli AX SIM Tracvel Router. Find out more about that router in the full review HERE on YouTube and HERE on the blog.

Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Quick Conclusion

The GL.iNet Slate 7 is a versatile and security-focused travel router, offering Wi-Fi 7 support, dual 2.5GbE ports, built-in VPN capabilities, and a touchscreen interface in a compact, low-power design. While it excels at secure networking, multi-device connectivity, and WAN failover options, its lack of 6GHz and 320MHz channel width means it does not fully utilize Wi-Fi 7’s potential. Wireless performance is solid on 5GHz, reaching 2-2.1Gbps, but latency improvements and Multi-Link Operation (MLO) help stability rather than raw speed gains. Wired performance is strong, but USB storage speeds are capped at 130-140 MB/s, limiting its use as a high-speed file-sharing device. The touchscreen adds convenience for quick settings adjustments, and power consumption remains low (~7-8W), but the lack of a built-in battery reduces portability compared to SIM-enabled or battery-powered alternatives like the Puli AX. With pricing between $96-$149, it is a strong value for users needing a secure and flexible travel router, but those prioritizing top-tier Wi-Fi performance may prefer a Wi-Fi 6E router with 6GHz support. The Slate 7 is an iterative upgrade rather than a groundbreaking innovation, making it a reliable but not revolutionary choice for portable networking.

 

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Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Design

The GL.iNet Slate 7 follows a familiar compact and lightweight form factor, measuring 130 x 91 x 34 mm and weighing 295 grams. This makes it highly portable, fitting easily into a backpack or even a pocket, which is essential for a travel-focused device. The matte black chassis gives it a more industrial and professional look compared to some of its predecessors, with foldable external antennas that can be adjusted to optimize signal reception.

Unlike the Puli AX, which includes a built-in battery, the Slate 7 requires USB-C power input, keeping it lightweight but also limiting its standalone functionality when an external power source isn’t available.

A major upgrade in this model is the touchscreen interface, a rare feature for travel routers.

The small LCD display allows users to scan QR codes for quick Wi-Fi access, toggle VPN connections, monitor real-time network speed, and check network status through color-coded indicators for different modes such as Ethernet, Repeater, and Tethering.

While not a full replacement for web-based or app-based management, it provides a quick and convenient way to adjust settings without needing to log into a separate interface.

The physical button on the device is another useful addition, allowing users to assign it to toggle VPN services or other networking functions. This means users can activate or deactivate a secure tunnel instantly, ensuring encrypted traffic without needing to open a mobile app or browser. The button’s customization adds another layer of convenience, particularly for those frequently switching between standard and VPN-protected connections.

Build quality is solid, with a sturdy plastic shell that feels durable enough for travel but lacks the ruggedized features found in some other portable routers. There are no IP-rated dust or water resistance claims, so users should be cautious when using it in more demanding outdoor environments.

The absence of a built-in battery and no SIM card slot means it relies entirely on external power and tethered internet sources, making it less versatile than some cellular-enabled competitors. However, for users who mainly rely on wired and wireless networks, the design choices make sense, keeping the device compact while offering practical features for on-the-go connectivity.

Category	Specifications
Processor	Qualcomm Quad-core @ 1.1 GHz
Memory	1GB DDR4 RAM
Storage	512MB NAND Flash
Operating System	OpenWrt 23.05 (Kernel 5.4.213)
Wi-Fi Standard	IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be (Wi-Fi 7)
Wi-Fi Bands	Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz)
Wi-Fi Speeds	2.4GHz: 688 Mbps / 5GHz: 2882 Mbps
Multi-Link Operation (MLO)	Yes
Ethernet Ports	2 × 2.5GbE (Configurable as WAN or LAN)
USB Ports	1 × USB 3.0 Type-A (Tethering & Storage)
VPN Support	OpenVPN (100 Mbps), WireGuard (540 Mbps), 30+ VPN services
Touchscreen Interface	Yes – QR code scanning, VPN toggling, real-time monitoring
Physical Button	Customizable (VPN toggle or other functions)
Failover Support	WAN/LAN, Wi-Fi repeater, USB tethering
Power Input	USB-C (5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/2.5A, PD compatible)
Power Consumption	~6-8W (Peak: 8.2W)
Storage Features	Samba, DLNA, WebDAV, FTP
USB File Transfer Speed	~130-140 MB/s (Samba)
Security & Encryption	WPA3, OpenVPN, WireGuard, AdGuard Home, Tor
Software Features	VLAN, Multiple SSIDs, Firewall, Traffic Monitoring, OpenWrt App Store
Physical Dimensions	130 × 91 × 34 mm
Weight	295g
Price Range	$96 (Early Bird) – $149 (Retail)

Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Connections

The GL.iNet Slate 7 offers a versatile range of wired and wireless connectivity options, making it one of the most adaptable travel routers in its class. Its standout feature is the inclusion of two 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, which can be configured as either WAN or LAN. This flexibility allows users to connect to high-speed wired networks while also providing a multi-gigabit local network for devices that support it. Unlike previous models that typically included only one multi-gig port, the Slate 7 allows for higher-speed networking between wired devices without needing an additional switch.

On the wireless side, the router supports Wi-Fi 7 with dual-band functionality, offering speeds of 688 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 2.8 Gbps on 5GHz. However, despite its Wi-Fi 7 branding, it does not support the 6GHz band or 320MHz channel width, meaning it lacks two of the most significant advantages of the latest wireless standard.

This means performance improvements will be limited compared to full-featured Wi-Fi 7 routers, though Multi-Link Operation (MLO) support helps improve stability and throughput when using simultaneous band connections.

For users needing additional network redundancy, the Slate 7 supports multiple failover options. In addition to its WAN/LAN ports, it can also connect to the internet via Wi-Fi repeater mode or USB tethering.

The USB 3.0 port allows users to connect a smartphone for cellular tethering, effectively turning the router into a backup mobile hotspot. This is a valuable feature for travelers who may find themselves in locations without reliable wired or Wi-Fi access, ensuring they remain connected through a tethered mobile device.

The router’s software-based networking features further expand its connectivity potential. Users can configure WAN failover, ensuring a seamless switch between different internet sources when one becomes unavailable.

Additionally, it supports multiple SSIDs and VLAN segmentation, allowing for separate networks for guests or different device types. These features are particularly useful for users who frequently switch between public and private networks, ensuring that personal devices remain isolated from potentially unsecured connections.

Another key connectivity feature is the USB storage functionality, which allows the Slate 7 to act as a mini NAS. When a USB drive or external SSD is connected, it can be accessed over the network using Samba, DLNA, WebDAV, and FTP protocols.

However, performance testing showed that USB file transfer speeds over Samba maxed out at around 130-140 MB/s, meaning that while the feature is useful for basic file sharing or backups, it is not optimized for high-speed storage applications.

While the inclusion of USB-based storage sharing is a welcome addition, the performance bottleneck limits its full potential.

Category	Specifications
Operating System	OpenWrt 23.05 (Kernel 5.4.213)
User Interface	Web-based UI, Mobile App, Touchscreen LCD Panel
Touchscreen Functions	QR code scanning, VPN toggling, real-time speed monitoring, network status updates
VPN Support	OpenVPN (100 Mbps), WireGuard (540 Mbps), 30+ VPN services
VPN Configuration	Physical button toggle, custom VPN provider setup, failover support
Failover & Redundancy	WAN/LAN switching, Wi-Fi repeater mode, USB tethering
Firewall & Security	Stateful Firewall, AdGuard Home, DNS Encryption, Tor
Traffic Management	QoS (Quality of Service), Bandwidth Monitoring, VLAN Support
Wi-Fi Features	Multi-Link Operation (MLO), WPA3 Encryption, Guest Wi-Fi, Multiple SSIDs
Storage & File Sharing	Samba, DLNA, WebDAV, FTP
USB Storage Features	User permissions, Network drive mapping, NAS-like functionality
USB File Transfer Speed	~130-140 MB/s (Samba)
Network Acceleration	Yes, but disables some analytics
Port Forwarding	Yes (Manual and UPnP options)
Device Management	Client Monitoring, MAC Filtering, DHCP & Static IP Assignments
Mobile App Features	Remote Router Management, VPN Setup, Traffic Monitoring
Advanced Configuration	Root-level OpenWrt access, CLI & Custom Scripts
App Store (OpenWrt-based)	AdGuard Home, ZeroTier, Tailscale, Custom Plugin Support
Remote Access & Control	SSH, Web UI, OpenVPN, WireGuard
Firmware Updates	Web-based & OTA (Over-the-Air) updates

Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Software

The GL.iNet Slate 7 runs a customized version of OpenWrt 23.05, providing a flexible and feature-rich networking environment. The web-based management interface is similar to previous GL.iNet routers, offering a mix of beginner-friendly controls and advanced networking settings.

Users can configure WAN failover, VLANs, multiple SSIDs, and port forwarding, making it adaptable for various networking scenarios. The addition of a touchscreen interface allows for quick network monitoring, Wi-Fi access via QR codes, and VPN toggling, reducing the need to log into the full web interface for basic tasks. However, while the core interface is functional, it lacks detailed guidance for advanced settings, which could be a challenge for less experienced users.

One of the key features of the Slate 7 is its VPN support, allowing users to configure over 30 VPN services, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. With WireGuard speeds reaching up to 540Mbps, it provides a fast and secure connection for users needing encrypted traffic on public networks. The physical VPN button is a welcome addition, enabling users to instantly toggle VPN protection without accessing the interface.

VPN failover support is also included, allowing users to switch between multiple VPN providers seamlessly. However, while basic VPN setup is straightforward, more advanced configurations—such as split tunneling and custom DNS settings—require manual setup with limited on-screen guidance.

The Slate 7 also features a built-in app store, allowing users to install additional networking tools such as AdGuard Home, ZeroTier, and Tailscale. This extends the router’s functionality beyond basic networking, enabling ad-blocking, remote access solutions, and encrypted tunneling services.

While the app store adds valuable features, its interface feels somewhat outdated, and the selection of available apps remains limited compared to broader OpenWrt repositories. Users comfortable with command-line customization can access root-level OpenWrt settings, unlocking more advanced network configurations for those with the expertise to fine-tune their setup.

In file-sharing and storage management, the Slate 7 supports Samba, DLNA, FTP, and WebDAV, allowing connected USB storage to function as a basic NAS for network file sharing. The setup process is fairly straightforward, with a step-by-step wizard to create shared folders and manage user permissions.

Framing things in terms of a mobile router vs a more aggressive desktop model with 6Ghz,  the Slate 7 remains a capable software-driven router, offering a solid combination of security, customization, and network flexibility, albeit with some interface and performance limitations that may require firmware optimizations in future updates.

Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Testing

Performance testing on the GL.iNet Slate 7 revealed a mix of strengths and limitations, particularly in Wi-Fi speeds, wired throughput, and storage performance. In wireless performance tests, the 5GHz band consistently delivered 2-2.1Gbps throughput, aligning closely with its 2.8Gbps theoretical maximum when using a Wi-Fi 7 USB adapter. However, the absence of 6GHz and 320MHz channel width meant that it could not take full advantage of Wi-Fi 7’s higher bandwidth capabilities. In practical use, latency remained low, and Multi-Link Operation (MLO) improved overall network stability, but competing Wi-Fi 6E routers with 6GHz support may still offer better overall performance in less congested environments.

Wired performance testing was strong, with 2.5GbE Ethernet connections delivering 230-240 MB/s transfer speeds, which is within expected limits for a multi-gigabit network. However, in USB storage performance tests, speeds were notably lower than expected. Using Samba over a 2.5GbE connection, file transfers to a connected USB SSD capped at 130-140MB/s, well below the full bandwidth potential of USB 3.0 or 2.5GbE Ethernet. This suggests either a software bottleneck or an underutilized hardware controller, limiting its effectiveness as a high-speed portable NAS.

In power consumption tests, the Slate 7 remained highly efficient, idling at 6-7W and peaking at 8.1-8.2W under full load with multiple active connections. This makes it one of the lowest-power travel routers in its class, making it ideal for users who need to power it via a laptop, power bank, or low-power USB source.

However, the lack of an internal battery means it requires a power source at all times, reducing portability compared to battery-equipped alternatives like the Puli AX. Here is the power draw of the Slate 7 when I was running my iPerf3 Tests:

VPN performance was in line with expectations, with OpenVPN reaching speeds of ~100Mbps and WireGuard peaking at ~540Mbps. This makes it suitable for secure remote access and encrypted browsing, but users requiring gigabit-level VPN throughput will need a more powerful router or a dedicated VPN server.

The physical VPN toggle button proved highly useful, allowing for instant encryption activation without navigating the web or mobile interface. However, GL.iNet’s software interface lacks clear guidance on advanced VPN configurations, which could be a barrier for less experienced users.

Gl.iNet Slate 7 Router Review – Conclusion & Verdict

The GL.iNet Slate 7 stands out as a compact, feature-rich travel router that brings together Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, dual 2.5GbE ports, and a touchscreen interface in a low-power, highly portable design. It is clearly aimed at travelers, remote workers, and security-conscious users who require flexible connectivity options and encrypted internet access while moving between different networks. With built-in VPN support, USB tethering, and multiple WAN failover options, it effectively serves as a secure gateway for multiple devices when using public Wi-Fi or mobile data connections. The inclusion of Multi-Link Operation (MLO) further enhances stability by allowing simultaneous band connections, while the physical VPN toggle button adds a convenient layer of security. However, the absence of 6GHz support and 320MHz channel width raises concerns about whether it truly takes full advantage of Wi-Fi 7 technology or simply refines the capabilities of existing Wi-Fi 6E travel routers.

In real-world performance, the Slate 7 delivers respectable wireless and wired speeds, but its Wi-Fi 7 implementation feels incomplete. While the 2.5GbE ports allow for high-speed wired networking, the lack of 6GHz means users won’t experience the full benefits of the latest wireless standard, particularly in low-interference, high-bandwidth environments. USB storage performance is another notable limitation, with Samba transfers capping at 130-140 MB/s, suggesting either a software bottleneck or underpowered hardware handling file transfers. The touchscreen interface, while useful for quick access to network settings and VPN controls, does not replace the depth of web or mobile-based configuration tools, which still require some technical knowledge to fully optimize the router’s capabilities. Additionally, while power consumption remains impressively low at around 7-8W under load, the lack of an internal battery means it must always be tethered to an external power source, reducing its portability compared to battery-powered alternatives like the Puli AX.

At a price range of $96 (early bird) to $149 (retail), the Slate 7 offers strong value for users prioritizing security, network flexibility, and multiple connection options over cutting-edge Wi-Fi performance. It is not the fastest travel router available, but it excels in delivering encrypted and stable internet access in a variety of challenging connectivity scenarios. For users who primarily require a portable router for VPN security, network redundancy, and secure multi-device management, the Slate 7 is one of the most capable options on the market. However, those seeking the absolute best wireless performance may find Wi-Fi 6E routers with 6GHz support to be a better choice for future-proofing. While GL.iNet has positioned the Slate 7 as a next-generation travel router, it ultimately feels more like an evolution rather than a revolution, making it a solid but not groundbreaking addition to the travel networking space.

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GL.iNet Slate 7 Travel Router @ CES 2025

As someone who travels a lot professionally and personally, having a decent mobile router is absolutely essential for me. At any given time, I carry a mobile phone, a laptop, a tablet, and a network-enabled camera. The minute you start traveling with my partner or colleagues professionally, the devices can comfortably hit 10 to 12 network-ready client tools easily. That’s why I’ve always been a tremendous fan of both mobile routers and mobile internet management systems, as these allow you to create an easy pop-up network for a family of devices quickly and securely when done right. For the last two years, a lot of my travel has included the use of GL.iNet Beryl mobile travel routers and the Puli AX router. These two systems have not let me down, and when I heard that the brand was working on a Wi-Fi 7-enabled travel router, you better believe I was interested! Which brings me to the new GL.iNet Slate 7 router, which I had the opportunity to get my hands on at CES 2025.

Feature	Details
Model	Slate 7 / GL-BE3600
Processor	Qualcomm Quad-core @ 1.1 GHz
RAM	DDR4 1GB
Storage	512MB NAND
Wi-Fi Standard	802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be
Wi-Fi Bands	Dual-band: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Wi-Fi Speeds	– 2.4 GHz: 688 Mbps – 5 GHz: 2882 Mbps
Ethernet Ports	2 (1 WAN, 1 LAN)
Ethernet Speed	2 x 2.5 Gbps
USB Port	USB 3.0
Power Supply	USB-C (5V/3A)
Power Consumption	<8W (Still TBC – As Testing is still in progress by the brand, subject to change)
Encryption Support	OpenVPN, WireGuard, AdGuard, Tor (natively supported)
Control Interface	Touchscreen control panel
Additional Controls	Physical “Mode” button
Special Features	– LCD panel for QR code generation – foldable antennas
Weight	295 grams
Dimensions	130 x 91 x 34 mm
Operating Temperature	040°C (32104°F)
Use Cases	Travel router, secure connectivity for remote workers, portable internet solution

Let’s discuss what this system can do, what it can’t do, what hardware it runs on, and whether this needs to be your next travel hardware upgrade!

 

What Can This Travel Router Do? Who Needs the GL.iNet Slate 7 Router?

It’s an important question. Travel routers are not built equally and tend to arrive with a variety of hardware support under the bonnet. A travel router is more than just about having access to the internet. If all you want is a basic connection to the internet, most devices that you take with you on the go will have the simple wireless capability to connect to public Wi-Fi and hotspots. However, how secure are these public hotspots? Is data necessarily encrypted securely enough? And are there any limitations to per-device connections? This is often where a travel router absolutely excels in its functionality.

The benefit of travel routers like the GL.iNet Slate 7 and the Beryl that came before it is that you can connect all of your wireless and wired network devices to it as needed, and then set the wireless router to connect with the public Wi-Fi connection. For example, let’s say you are connecting your phone and your laptop to the internet while you are in a coffee shop. If you already have the travel router SSID saved to your phone and laptop, all you need to do is connect the travel router to the public Wi-Fi, and then both of your handheld network devices will be able to take advantage of that public internet connection. But with the added benefit that you can control the network traffic that is exchanged between those devices and the travel router, their priority of bandwidth, and even apply VPN and encrypted tunnel software to the travel router to ensure that data exchanged between the router and the public Wi-Fi service is completely encrypted and anonymized as needed.

GL.iNet travel routers all arrive with the ability to apply your own user credentials from popular internet security services such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, AdGuard, and Tor. Once signed into on the Slate 7, you can enable or disable these via the on-screen LCD of the device or even a physical mode switch in some cases. The ability to choose when to apply security services, depending on the trustworthiness of the Wi-Fi you are using on the go, is phenomenally useful. But the benefits of a travel router do not stop there.

Another example of a travel router’s benefits being perhaps overlooked is the ability to attach storage to a travel router via native internal storage or a USB drive. This storage then becomes accessible over the network via popular services such as Samba or FTP, allowing connected individual devices to the travel router to share that media, target that storage media for backups, or be used for communal data sharing when on the go. Imagine you are a small company traveling together, or a group of students working on a project on the go. The utilization of a travel router will allow all of those users and their devices to only have to use a single SSID that they sign into once, with secure authentication. Then the public Wi-Fi or trusted Wi-Fi service just needs to be connected to the travel router physically via a WAN connection or wirelessly via the mobile app synced with the travel router.

Ultimately, this all adds up to saving significant amounts of time when connecting lots of devices to new public Wi-Fi services. It increases the security of all those connected devices via a single pathway, prevents device restrictions when users try to sign into public Wi-Fi with limited client connections allowed, and allows for shared storage to be provided conveniently yet securely to users in the chosen network.

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GL.iNet Slate 7 Router Hardware Specifications

The GL.iNet Slate 7 mobile router is very similar in general specifications to the Beryl AX predecessor travel router. However, it has scaled up practically every hardware specification in this new revision—from more modern network connectivity to simple but essential base-level hardware specifications in storage, RAM, and processor ability. Here is a brief overview of the hardware specifications that are confirmed so far:

The physical design is only fractionally larger than the predecessor Beryl device. The Slate 7 opts for a slightly more industrial design, favoring a black, sharp-edged aesthetic. It is still pocket-sized, measuring 130 mm by 91 mm by 34 mm and weighing just 295 grams.

The router includes two solid, foldable antennas that can be adjusted 180° from flat to vertical against a wall if needed. Each antenna is Wi-Fi 7 ready, which improves the overall bandwidth and frequency afforded to each band. The Slate 7 supports dual bands at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, offering speeds of 688 Mbps and 2882 Mbps, respectively. Needless to say, this bandwidth is shared across multiple devices and their individual Wi-Fi 5/6/7 network adapters.

Currently, there is no confirmation on support for the 6 GHz frequency or 320 MHz band frequency packets. It appears the Slate 7 does not support 6 GHz, but until the official release, full confirmation on this detail is pending.

The physical network interfaces are impressive for a travel router. The previous generation had one 1 Gbps Ethernet port and one 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. The new device upgrades both ports to 2.5 Gbps, with one as a dedicated LAN port and the other configurable as a WAN or LAN port. There is no confirmation if this device supports multi-channel or port trunking, but at this scale and hardware spec, it would not be surprising if it doesn’t.

The system does not feature an internal battery, as found in the Puli AX mobile router. Instead, it features a USB-C power input for a 5V connection and is reported to consume less than 8W at full utilization (note – the brand informal me that this is s till subject to change, as testing and evaluation is still in progress). This is based on the official specifications, pending confirmation through testing.

The Slate 7 also includes a USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) Type-A port, which can be used for tethering or connecting a storage drive. FTP and other services available in other GL.iNet travel routers are supported here as well. This USB port can also be utilized by installed applications via the GL.iNet router software.

Information is still limited on the precise CPU model that is featured inside the Slate 7 router, but documentation available during CES indicates that it is a quad-core Qualcomm 1.1 GHz ARM CPU. This would be twice the cores available than that of the MediaTek CPU inside the Beryl AX travel router, though the clock speed is a pinch lower.

The system also arrives with an impressive 1 GB of DDR4 memory internally for handling network operations alongside that quad-core ARM CPU. Once again, they have doubled the available memory that you would find on the Beryl AX travel router, scaling up from the original 512 MB. This memory is fixed to the internal PCB and cannot be upgraded. This is not a huge surprise, as that’s fairly standard for both router devices and for ARM-powered devices too.

Alongside the ability to add additional storage via the USB port, the system already arrives with its own internal storage, doubling the 256 MB featured in the Beryl AX. The Slate 7 features 512 MB of base storage. This isn’t huge in terms of storing your domestic data, but for storing and deploying applications installed via the GL.iNet router software, it is a decent amount of base storage to get the job done, alongside storage for logs and for creating multiple profiles with the system.

Interestingly, this is one of the first GL.iNet travel routers to feature a touchscreen LCD panel. What that means in reality is that although this router can still be managed and configured via the partner client app available via iOS and Android (as well as over the local area network and IP via GUI in the browser), it also features the ability to be managed directly on the physical device itself. This panel, although it looks a little dated in its black-and-white display, means that next to no power is being utilized when displaying it.

In my brief time with the LCD panel controls, it was very reactive, provided all the network information that I seemingly needed to see which devices were connected, allowed me to activate or deactivate active encryption/VPN services, and also allowed me to monitor system resource utilization in real time. I was pretty impressed with them squeezing that onto this travel router to allow me to very quickly identify what the system is doing as well as action things I want it to do on the fly without the mobile app authentication needed.

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Final Thoughts – Should You Wait for the GL.iNet Slate 7 Router?

All in all, I’m really happy with what we’re seeing in the scale-up on this device from the Beryl AX. As mentioned earlier, it is effectively doubling the specifications and feature set of its predecessor, and the Slate 7 is gearing up to be a superior travel router in terms of usability and capabilities. That said, I still can’t really call this the ultimate travel router as, frankly, that is still the GL.iNet Puli AX. I understand that this device serves as a successor to the Beryl AX router, and therefore it makes sense that it would be similarly scaled in hardware and design. However, the Puli AX is simply still superior thanks to more antennas, a higher hardware level, SIM/LTE support, and a removable battery pack for portability.

Nevertheless, the GL.iNet Slate 7 looks exceedingly promising and definitely is a device worth keeping an eye on for your travel needs. With full confirmation still yet to be provided until their full review, it seems rather promising. And now that we’re seeing more client mobile devices from the likes of Google and Apple rock out with Wi-Fi 7 included, travel routers that support this protocol are going to be growing in appeal quite rapidly for those on the go. I will hold off my full review on this device until I’ve got one in the studio for testing, but until then, I like what I see!

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Why Not Just Use a Mobile Hotspot instead of a Travel Router?

A lot of people will ask why you would bother using a travel router when you could just use a mobile hotspot on a phone and then connect all of your devices—and those of your friends and family—to it. A mobile hotspot works and, in practice, is great for when you want to use your SIM. Additionally, mobile hotspots require additional power to work, which can seem inconvenient when compared to utilizing your mobile phone, which already has a battery! However, SIM/LTE/cellular data mobile hotspots are not designed for large-scale client network sharing and typically handle packets of data across multiple connected devices poorly compared to a dedicated router.

Equally, you cannot physically attach multiple devices to a phone conveniently, other than a single device utilizing USB tethering. A decent travel router, however, will provide physical connectivity for multiple devices, as well as USB tethering. Finally, if you connect a mobile phone to a public Wi-Fi hotspot and then enable a hotspot on your phone to allow other devices to connect, it leads to significant drag and reduced packet management—all resulting in terrible speeds. Travel routers differ in their hardware specifications, and some are better than others, but in most cases, a travel router will always provide a better experience.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions   Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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