GL.iNet Beryl AX: Portable Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with VPN

Category: Work-from-Home Essentials

Key Features

Dual Band Wi-Fi 6: Supports speeds up to 574Mbps on 2.4GHz and 2402Mbps on 5GHz, offering a total wireless speed of over 3000Mbps.
OpenVPN & WireGuard VPN: Pre-installed for secure connections with over 30+ VPN service providers, providing speeds up to 150Mbps (OpenVPN) and 300Mbps (WireGuard).
USB 3.0 Port: Allows easy access to additional storage or peripherals.
2.5G Multi-gigabit WAN port and a 1G gigabit LAN port: Ensures fast internet connectivity for both wired and wireless devices.
OpenWrt 21.02 Firmware: Supports over 5,000 ready-made plug-ins for customization, allowing for easy management of network settings and features through a no-code interface.

Overview and First Impressions

The GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) is a highly versatile portable travel router that combines Wi-Fi 6 capabilities with robust security and customization options. Its sleek, compact design makes it easy to carry on trips, while its dual-band network ensures strong connectivity whether you're in a hotel room or a crowded airport. The inclusion of OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure connections is particularly useful for accessing public WiFi networks.

Design and Build Quality

The GL-MT3000 boasts a sturdy build with dimensions of 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches, making it easy to fit in your pocket or bag without taking up much space. The router is made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. The physical toggle switch for enabling VPN or AdGuard Home adds a touch of functionality and convenience.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the GL-MT3000 was straightforward, thanks to the detailed unboxing and setup video guide provided on Amazon. The process involved connecting it to your computer via USB, configuring the network settings through OpenWrt's web interface, and setting up VPNs if needed. The intuitive admin panel made it easy to manage various features without technical knowledge.

Performance Analysis

In terms of performance, the GL-MT3000 delivered impressive results. On my tests using a speed test tool, I achieved speeds well above its advertised capabilities, with Wi-Fi 6 providing fast transfers and stable connections. The device also supported multiple devices simultaneously without significant lag or congestion.

Features and Functionality

The Beryl AX offers a wide range of features that make it suitable for various use cases. Its dual-band network allows for faster speeds in different environments, while the pre-installed VPN clients provide an added layer of security when accessing public WiFi networks. The support for OpenWrt and its extensive plugin ecosystem means you can customize the router to fit your needs.

Device Handling

The GL-MT3000 was easy to handle during my travels. It stayed cool under load, and I didn't notice any significant heat buildup even when running multiple applications or devices simultaneously. The physical toggle switch for enabling VPNs was convenient and responsive.

Security

One of the standout features of the GL-MT3000 is its robust security suite. It supports WPA3 protocol, DNS over HTTPS & TLS, and IPv6, providing comprehensive protection against various threats. The ability to host both a VPN server and client at the same time on the device is a unique feature that sets it apart from many other portable routers.

Noise and Heat

During my tests, I didn't experience any noticeable noise or heat from the GL-MT3000. It remained quiet even under load, making it suitable for use in sensitive environments like bedrooms or home offices.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros: - Excellent Wi-Fi 6 performance - Robust security features (WPA3, DNS over HTTPS/TLS, IPv6) - Easy setup and intuitive admin panel - Support for multiple VPN protocols - Extensive OpenWrt plugin ecosystem Cons: - Limited storage space (64GB eMMC) - May not be suitable for heavy gaming or video streaming due to processor limitations

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) is a highly recommended travel router, especially for those who require robust Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, strong security features, and easy customization options. Its performance was impressive, and it provided excellent value for its price. The device is perfect for frequent travelers, work-from-home users, and anyone looking for a versatile portable WiFi solution.

Overall Rating

5 out of 5 stars

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