Review of GL.iNet GL-A1300 VPN Travel Router Portable Wi-Fi Performance and Features

Description

Compact Design and Portability for Travel Enthusiasts

The GL.iNet GL-A1300 Pocket VPN Travel Router is as portable as it gets. Its compact dimensions of 4.65 x 3.31 x 1.3 inches and lightweight build make it perfect for slipping into your travel bag. I found it incredibly convenient to carry around during my recent trips, especially when I needed reliable internet access at hotels and cafés. The sleek size doesn’t compromise its functionality, and I appreciated that it didn’t take up much space on a cluttered desk or nightstand. Whether you’re in an airport lounge or an RV, having this small yet robust device on hand keeps you connected without hassle.

Performance and Dual-Band Wireless Speeds

Truth be told, I was skeptical about the wireless speed capabilities at first, but this device quickly proved itself. With dual-band Wi-Fi supporting 400Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz, it easily handled streaming, file downloads, and online gaming without noticeable lag. The IPQ4018 CPU running at 717MHz ensures stable performance, which is a major plus for anyone who needs uninterrupted connectivity. While testing it, I connected multiple devices simultaneously, and the router performed seamlessly even under heavy usage. It’s ideal for those who require reliable Wi-Fi speeds, whether for work or entertainment.

VPN Features and Security Enhancements

One standout feature is the pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support. Being compatible with over 30 VPN service providers, this router adds a solid layer of security to your online activities. I tested both VPN protocols and noticed that the WireGuard speeds reached up to 170 Mbps, which is impressive for such a compact device. The VPN Internet Kill Switch function also caught my attention. It ensures that if your VPN connection drops, your devices are immediately disconnected from the internet, safeguarding sensitive data. This feature is especially critical for users who prioritize online privacy.

Open Source and Advanced Customization

For tech enthusiasts, the router’s OpenWrt 21.02 operating system is a game-changer. I tweaked settings and installed custom applications to fit my preferences, and the process was straightforward. The open-source nature of this device is perfect for users who like to have more control over their networking hardware. Setting up VPN policies to route specific websites or IPs through the VPN while keeping others on regular traffic was surprisingly simple. These advanced options make the device a versatile tool for both beginners and experienced users.

Key Benefits

• Portable and lightweight—easy to carry during travel.
• High-speed dual-band Wi-Fi for seamless streaming and browsing.
• Robust security features, including VPN support and an Internet Kill Switch.
• Customizable with the OpenWrt operating system for advanced users.
• Supports network storage for sharing documents via USB hard drives.

Areas for Improvement

While the router impressed me overall, there are a few areas for improvement I noticed during use:

• The default toggle switch has no function until set up through the admin panel, which might confuse less tech-savvy users.
• Though the OpenVPN speeds max out at 28 Mbps, which is sufficient for basic browsing, it may not meet the needs of heavy VPN users.
• The setup process, while manageable, could benefit from more detailed instructions for beginners.

Guest Wi-Fi and Network Separation

The ability to create a separate guest Wi-Fi network is incredibly handy. I tested this feature during a family gathering where multiple people needed internet access. The guest network didn’t interfere with my private devices, ensuring enhanced security. It’s a thoughtful addition for anyone who frequently has visitors or works in shared spaces. This feature prevents any unintentional access to your main network, which I found reassuring.

Competing Products

In comparison to popular travel routers like the TP-Link TL-WR902AC and Netgear Nighthawk M1, the GL-A1300 holds its ground. While the TP-Link model is more budget-friendly, it lacks the advanced features such as the VPN Internet Kill Switch and customizable OpenWrt OS. The Netgear Nighthawk M1 offers faster LTE speeds but is bulkier and significantly more expensive. For travelers who prioritize portability and robust security features at a reasonable price, the GL-iNet router strikes an excellent balance.

True Value

Given its feature set, this router offers exceptional value for its price point. It combines portability, security, and reliable performance in a way that few competitors can match. Whether you’re a digital nomad, frequent traveler, or someone who wants extra security on public Wi-Fi, this device delivers. While it’s not without its minor flaws, the overall package makes it a worthwhile investment for those needing a dependable, feature-rich travel router.

Additional information