You don’t want internet connectivity issues to spoil a skype or zoom meeting when you’re traveling. Based on my experiences (even with a 5-star hotel), despite booking a room with fast internet connectivity, you’ll end up running into connectivity issues or face high-latency problems. That’s why most travelers like me prefer taking a portable travel router.
There are different types of portable routers you can get depending on your usage requirements. For instance, you can get a 4G/LTE router that allows you to get internet from your SIM card or you can get a small router that can be used to extend the Hotel’s wireless connection or can get a portable device that can be directly used instead of the hotel router using an ethernet cable.
Despite being small in size, these travel routers can be used by many devices without any signal drops, latency issues, etc. As is the case with conventional Wi-Fi routers, though, there are many travel router models in the market. Even when you know everything about your needs, finding the best travel router can be tricky.
Fret not, though. As someone who works while on the way, I have spent ample time with portable Wi-Fi routers. And I have used that edge to help you choose the best Wi-Fi travel router for different purposes.
Table of Contents
Best Travel Routers in 2023
I have ensured that you can find different types of travel routers on this list. For instance, you can find SIM-based and Ethernet-based ones, along with hybrid models. As always, you can find products from different price brackets as well.
1. Netgear Mobile 4G LTE Router
The Netgear Mobile 4G LTE Router is my first recommendation if you are looking for a 4G LTE Wi-Fi router for portable use. One of the most popular options in this category, this model is carrier unlocked and works with most 4G LTE providers in the United States and elsewhere.
Why is it best suited?
This ultra-portable wireless router offers a maximum speed of 400+900Mbps, thanks to LTE Cat 13 connectivity with 2CA (Carrier Aggregation.) You can connect up to 15 devices to the router at a time, making it a great option for individuals and small groups. While the router does not have Beamforming, it supports 2×2 MIMO, making the multi-device experience better.
Design & Connectivity
The NETGEAR Mobile 4G LTE Router AC797 looks very modern and sleek, and you can keep it in your pocket or backpack with ease. The product weighs only .60lbs, and the dimensions are 2.7 x 4.3 x 0.6 inches.
4G LTE and 3G fallback are the connectivity options on the model. It works with any 4G LTE carrier that uses the B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B12/B14/ B29/B30/B66 band. For charging, you can use the micro-USB port.
Hardware & Security
In this section, the device checks all the basic options. It comes with a 2930mAh removable battery that can keep the device running for up to 11 hours. In addition to standard security features like WPS, Wi-Fi security encryption, and NAT firewall, you can enjoy extra convenience via VPN passthrough and Guest Wi-Fi with timer functionality.
Conclusion
In short, this travel router from NETGEAR performs great in every department. You can easily rely on it for a seamless 4G LTE wireless network connection on the go. By the way, if you are looking for better speed and USB Type-C connectivity, you can check out the NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot.
- High-speed 4G LTE connectivity
- Works with almost every carrier
- Advanced Wi-Fi management
- Supports up to 15 devices
- Easy-to-set-up system
- No Ethernet connectivity
- It can be pretty expensive
2. GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl)
Suppose you are looking for an inexpensive Ethernet-based travel router. In that case, I shall suggest looking at the GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) Gigabit Wireless Router. It does a decent job as a portable Ethernet-based router without breaking your wallet.
Why is it best suited?
Like my first recommendation, the GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) Gigabit Wireless Router also uses Wi-Fi 5 with dual-band tech. It means you can enjoy speeds up to 400Mbps and 867Mbps. In addition, it can handle up to a whopping 40 devices simultaneously. The model does not have Beamforming or MIMO support, but you can use the device as a Wi-Fi repeater, with a USB modem, or for Tethering.
Design & Connectivity
The product looks like a miniaturized version of a typical Wi-Fi router. However, it weighs only 0.40 lbs, and the dimensions are set at 118 x 85 x 30mm.
You can use its three LAN/WAN ports or the USB 3.0 port to create a Wi-Fi network. The device also packs support for USB-based modems and smartphone tethering. The MicroSD card slot supports up to 512GB.
Hardware & Security
The router uses a USB Type-C port for power, and you can use any adaptor within the 5V/3A range. It comes with 256MB of DDR3L memory and 32MB Flash. The built-in OS supports VPN connection, Tor anonymity, DNS encryption, and OpenWrt. In addition, you can enjoy the standard security options you would expect from an IPv6 Wi-Fi router.
Conclusion
The GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) Gigabit Wireless Router is a fantastic package for the price you pay. While it does not have SIM-based connectivity, you can double this Ethernet-based Wi-Fi router as a Wi-Fi extender and repeater.
- Gigabit wireless connectivity
- Built-in VPN/Tor support
- OpenWrt supported
- Versatile connectivity options
- Lightweight design
- No LTE support
- Limited USB dongle support
3. TP-Link Wireless Portable Nano
The TP-Link Wireless Portable Nano is a versatile travel router that you can rely on for multiple needs. Even though it costs a fraction of what premium products do, you will love the portability and performance of this nifty gadget when on the move.
Why is it best suited?
Despite the simple and compact size, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Nano Router can offer 300Mbps and 433Mbps speed on 2.5GHz and 5GHz bands. You can connect multiple devices at a time as well. It must be noted that you can use the router in different modes such as Router, Access Point, Extender, Client Mode, and Hotspot Mode.
Design & Connectivity
Weighing only 0.12 lbs, the product is too light for a fully-fledged router. Its dimensions of 2.91 × 2.64 × 0.87 inches mean that you can carry it around smoothly. The white finish looks quite modern as well.
This model comes with one LAN/VAN port, 1 multipurpose USB 2.0 port, and a Micro USB power port. You can connect a number of 3G/4G LTE hotspot devices and storage devices via the USB 2.0 port.
Hardware & Security
The hardware aspect of the TP-Link AC750 is pretty stern. You can use the in-built button to pick the right mode and internet access. You also have access to standard features like WPA2 encryption, SPI firewall, Access Control, Application Layer Gateway, IP and MAC filtering, Guest Network, URL filtering, NAT forwarding, etc.
Conclusion
If you can ignore features like VPN access and Tor support, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Nano Router is an amazing option as a travel router. I love that you can connect almost any 3G/4G data card via the USB port and have internet access.
- Multiple ways to connect
- High-speed dual-band Wi-Fi
- Versatile QoS features
- Compact and lightweight design
- Multipurpose USB port
- No VPN/Tor support
- UI could be better
4. Securifi Almond Router/Extender
The Securifi Almond Router may look like something from a distance. However, it is one of the most user-friendly travel routers you can get today. While it does not have a battery, you can double this router as an extender/wireless bridge in no time.
Why is it best suited?
You can get started with the Securifi Almond Router in just three minutes, and the setup does not require a PC/Mac. Once set up, this single-band Wi-Fi router can provide up to 300Mbps speed. In addition, because it comes with two ports — 1 Ethernet WAN and 1 Ethernet LAN —, establishing a connection is easier. The best part is the touchscreen input, which lets you set up, manage, and enhance the Wi-Fi network.
Design & Connectivity
With a weight of 0.18 lbs and dimensions of 1.89 x 4.8 x 4.29 inches, the Securifi Almond Router is one of the lightest products you can get. The design is not compact, though.
As I said, you get a bunch of ports, including dedicated ports for WAN and LAN. In addition, you can connect to the Wi-Fi router using an Android smartphone for a better management experience.
Hardware & Security
The highlighted feature of the travel router is the touchscreen display itself. It simplifies the entire process of managing your Wi-Fi network. In terms of security options, the device provides almost everything. You can also use Parental Controls and Guest Networks in addition. I must also add that the router works so well with Amazon Alexa.
Conclusion
I do not believe the Securifi Almond Router is the most modern travel router. However, if you do not want to spend a lot, it is indeed worth considering. However, you make a few compromises, like giving up dual-band connectivity.
- Easy to set up and manage
- Touchscreen display for Wi-Fi management
- Standard security options
- Multiple ports for connectivity
- Works in different modes
- Single-band Wi-Fi only
- A rather bulky design
5. GL.iNET GL-MT300N-V2
Another product from GL.iNET, the GL.iNET GL-MT300N-V2 Wireless Travel Router, is a great option if you need one of the cheaper alternatives for my previous recommendations. Even though it skips a few features, you can have a smooth Wi-Fi experience on the go.
Why is it best suited?
Despite being feature-rich and powerful, this wireless travel router does not cost much. The single-band Wi-Fi system on the device can provide speeds up to 300Mbps. It does not come with Beamforming or MIMO, but you can use OpenVPN and a few other features. You can further customize the system if you want better security or features.
Design & Connectivity
The device comes with a travel-friendly device and weighs only 0.09 lbs. It has a distinct yellow finish that looks good in modern environments. The dimensions of 58 x 58 x 25mm are great as well.
Unlike other products in the price range, the GL-MT300N-V2 Wireless Travel Router accommodates a total of two LAN/WAN ports. You can also connect a USB modem through the USB 2.0 port.
Hardware & Security
The manufacturer says that the travel router has been optimized for enhanced security. You can also count on its 128MB of RAM and 16MB of flash storage for performance. The Micro-USB power system and tactile buttons make Wi-Fi router management easier than ever. In addition to standard security options, the device works with WireGuard and OpenVPN.
Conclusion
Even though it is a single-band VPN travel router, the customization options on the device are great for everyone. I can also recommend the product for its portable design, tactile interface, and features such as UART and GPIO.
- Affordable pricing
- Customization options
- OpenVPN support
- Impressive speeds
- User-friendly design
- Single-band Wi-Fi
- Durability concerns
6. TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N
TP-Link makes some of the most popular travel routers you can buy today. The TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N belongs to the lower-price categories. Nevertheless, you can rely on this device if you want a truly portable and hassle-free way to connect to Wi-Fi.
Why is it best suited?
As long as you are comfortable with single-band connectivity, the device can provide speeds up to 300Mbps. Like the more expensive option, it uses a micro-USB port for power. Therefore, you can easily carry it around for work or other needs. More importantly, you can use the router in other modes such as the Bridge Mode and Access Point mode.
Design & Connectivity
In terms of design, the TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router is as small as the other options. Its dimensions are 2.2 x 2.2 x .07 inches and weighs only 0.45 lbs.
The connectivity aspect of the product is limited, though. The model only has one Ethernet port, which you can use to create a Wi-Fi network.
Hardware & Security
An area where the TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router can improve is the build quality. For example, you may miss the tactile buttons if you recently shifted from another travel router. On the bright side, it comes with several additional features, such as advanced security, parental controls, guest network, and multiple working modes.
Conclusion
This device indeed makes some compromises. For instance, you cannot connect USB 3G/4G modems or smartphones for Tethering. However, if you need a straightforward way to create a secure Wi-Fi network from an Ethernet cable, you will love this product.
- Affordable pricing
- Easy-to-set-up Wi-Fi
- Multiple working modes
- Advanced security
- Parental controls
- Single-band Wi-Fi
- No USB port
7. TP-Link N150 Wireless 3G/4G
Last but not least, I have another popular product from TP-Link. If you can make a few compromises in some departments, TP-Link N150 is a great deal. The fact that you can spend less than you would spend on a coffee and get a great travel router is incredible if you ask me.
Why is it best suited?
The TP-Link N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router is primarily designed to be a 3G/4G portable router with a maximum speed of 150Mbps. However, you can use the device to create Wi-Fi networks out of an Ethernet connection as well. According to the situation, you can use the product in different modes such as Access Point, WISP, and Router. Once again, the TP-Link app is there to help.
Design & Connectivity
The design of the TP-Link N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router is similar to the other models I have listed earlier. It weighs only 0.14lbs, and the dimensions are 2.9 x 0.9 x 2.6 inches.
As you can guess, you get an Ethernet port and a USB 2.0 port. However, this model does not allow storage options via the USB 2.0 port.
Hardware & Security
The build quality of the product is only subpar when compared to the other products. Even though it does not have many utility features, the security options are impressive. For instance, you can secure the network via different methods. Thanks to the QoS options inside, the router takes care of bandwidth management and speed optimization.
Conclusion
In short, the TP-Link N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router is a steal-worthy deal on any day. Unless you are looking for blazing-fast transfer rates, the product will make you happy. Like its expensive counterparts, it is very compact.
- Super-affordable pricing
- Multiple working modes
- Rich QoS features
- LAN and USB 2.0 connectivity
- Compact design
- Limited transfer speeds
- Single-band Wi-Fi
Frequently Asked Questions
The best portable router brings the best of performance, portability, and security. As a result, you can enjoy a high-speed Wi-Fi connection without any security concerns. The products from NETGEAR and TP-Link are some of the popular options.
Not all travel routers are as powerful as traditional routers. However, most of us need a stable internet connection rather than a perfect one when on the go. Travel routers are good at this part, making it a good decision to get one.
You can find portable Wi-Fi solutions for as low as $20. However, you may have to spend extra if you are looking for specific features. For instance, if you want to create a wireless connection using a SIM card, you will have to spend extra.
4G LTE travel routers are definitely worth the money you invest. These devices allow you to access the internet even when you do not have a public Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection nearby. For people who spend a lot of time on the road, it is a blessing.
Verdict
As I said, the list contains travel routers from different categories. You must be able to find at least one pick that suits your needs. For instance,
- You should choose the Netgear Mobile 4G LTE Router if you need a dual-band travel router with 4G LTE SIM-based connectivity. It packs a lot of customization features as well.
- If you want a hybrid device for connecting via USB and Ethernet, I recommend the TP-Link Wireless Portable Nano Router.
- On the other hand, if you want to spend the least and still have a decent experience, you can go with the TP-Link N150 Wireless 3G/4G Portable Router.
However, you should keep in mind that you may have to give up some additional features to save money. However, doing so may not be a great decision if your work requires a specific feature or a minimum internet speed.
For Morton, reviewing a router is just like spending another day at the office. As BCCA’s senior copywriter, Morton believes is explaining every concept concerning routers, networking technologies, and additional routing specs. Also, Morton is our go-to man if we are looking to get the ISP-dependent internet plans tested across devices.