If you're looking for a way to extend your home network without taking up too much space, a mini router might be just what you need. These compact devices are designed to provide wireless coverage in small spaces, making them ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, and other areas where space is at a premium.
When shopping for a mini router, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, you'll want to consider the size of the device itself. Mini routers are designed to be small and unobtrusive, but some models are smaller than others. You'll also want to think about the range of the router, as well as its speed and security features.
After researching and testing multiple mini routers, we've narrowed down the top options on the market. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at each of our top picks and explain what sets them apart from the competition. Whether you're looking for a mini router for your home, office, or travel needs, we've got you covered.
Best Mini Routers
If you're looking for a compact and portable solution to extend your Wi-Fi coverage or create a wireless network on-the-go, a mini router might be just what you need. These small devices can fit in your pocket and provide a reliable internet connection for your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or smart home devices. In this article, we've researched and tested the best mini routers currently available on Amazon, based on their features, performance, and customer feedback. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a remote worker, or a tech-savvy user, you're sure to find a mini router that suits your needs and budget.
GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) Secure Travel WiFi Router
If you are looking for a portable and secure mini router, the GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a great option for you.
Pros
- The router has a lightweight and compact design, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- With full gigabit ports, the router is ideal for lots of internet plans and allows you to connect your wired devices directly.
- The GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) comes pre-installed with OpenVPN & WireGuard, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers, and supports Cloudflare encryption to protect your privacy.
Cons
- The router does not support easytethering.
- The Wi-Fi signal may not be as strong as other routers, especially in larger venues.
- The GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) does not come with a built-in battery.
The GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a great mini router for travelers and adventurers. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to take with you on the go, and its full gigabit ports are ideal for lots of internet plans, allowing you to connect your wired devices directly. Additionally, the router comes pre-installed with OpenVPN & WireGuard, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers, and supports Cloudflare encryption to protect your privacy.
However, the router does not support easytethering, and the Wi-Fi signal may not be as strong as other routers, especially in larger venues. Also, the GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) does not come with a built-in battery. Overall, if you are looking for a portable and secure mini router, the GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a great option for you.
GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router
If you're looking for a mini router that is portable and secure, the GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is a great choice.
Pros
- This mini router is incredibly portable and lightweight, making it perfect for traveling or bringing with you on-the-go.
- The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is pre-installed with OpenWrt, which is an open-source operating system that allows for greater customization and flexibility.
- The router is compatible with both OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN clients and servers, giving you the ability to connect to over 30 different VPN service providers.
Cons
- The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext only supports 2.4 GHz frequency band, which may not be suitable for all users.
- Some users may find the 128MB RAM and 16MB NOR Flash to be limiting in terms of storage and extensibility.
- The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext does not come with a power adapter, which must be purchased separately.
This mini router is an excellent choice for those who need a portable and secure option for traveling or on-the-go use. With its pre-installed OpenWrt operating system and compatibility with multiple VPN service providers, the GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is a versatile choice for those who value customization and privacy. However, users should be aware of its limitations in terms of frequency band and storage capacity.
GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN WiFi Router
If you're looking for a portable and lightweight mini router that can convert a public network into a private Wi-Fi, then the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN WiFi Router is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- OpenWrt pre-installed, USB disk extendable
- OpenVPN client pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers
Cons
- Only supports 2.4GHz
- Limited range due to its small size
- No Power over Ethernet (PoE) support
This mini router is powered by any laptop USB, power banks, or 5V/2A DC adapters (sold separately) and weighs only 39g, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to convert a public network into a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. It comes with OpenWrt pre-installed, which means you can extend its functionality by installing additional software packages. Additionally, it has 128MB RAM, 16MB Flash ROM, dual Ethernet ports, UART, and GPIOs available for hardware DIY.
One of the best features of this mini router is that it has an OpenVPN client pre-installed, which is compatible with 30+ VPN service providers. This means you can use it to connect to a VPN and protect your online activities from prying eyes. However, it only supports 2.4GHz, which means you won't be able to take advantage of faster 5GHz Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, its limited range may not be suitable for larger homes or offices.
Overall, the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN WiFi Router is an excellent choice for travelers who need a portable and lightweight mini router that can convert a public network into a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing.
ASUS RT-AX57 Go - AX3000 Dual Band WiFi 6 (802.11ax) Travel Router
If you're looking for a portable WiFi router that can keep you connected on-the-go, the ASUS RT-AX57 Go is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Tri-mode connectivity for travel, work and home with 4G/5G mobile tethering, a private hotspot over public WiFi (WISP mode), and router mode.
- Ultrafast WiFi 6 with 160 MHz channel significantly increases network capacity to support up to 70 devices, with speeds of up to 3,000 Mbps.
- Comprehensive VPN features with one-touch activation, supporting multiple protocols, up to 30 service providers, and site-to-site VPN.
Cons
- Actual data throughput and WiFi coverage may vary from network conditions and environmental factors, including the volume of network traffic, building material and construction, and network overhead, resulting in lower actual data throughput and wireless coverage.
- The firmware is not very polished, and the device tends to get hot when used for extended periods of time.
- Some users have reported issues with dropped connections and incorrect password errors after power outages.
If you're a frequent traveler or need a portable router for work, the ASUS RT-AX57 Go is an excellent choice. Its tri-mode connectivity and support for 4G/5G mobile tethering make it easy to stay connected wherever you go, and its ultrafast WiFi 6 speeds and comprehensive VPN features ensure that your connection is both fast and secure. However, keep in mind that actual data throughput and WiFi coverage may vary depending on network conditions and environmental factors, and the device may get hot when used for extended periods of time. Additionally, some users have reported issues with dropped connections and incorrect password errors after power outages.
GL.iNet GL-E750V2 (MUDI) 4G LTE OpenWrt VPN Router
If you're looking for a portable Wi-Fi hotspot that offers 4G LTE connectivity with a sim card slot, the GL.iNet GL-E750V2 (MUDI) router is a great option to consider. It offers reliable connectivity wherever you go with its built-in 7000mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of usage.
Pros
- Provides portable Wi-Fi hotspot with 4G LTE connectivity
- Features a sim card slot and 300Mbps (2.4G) + 433Mbps (5G) Combined Wi-Fi Speed networking
- Offers high-speed VPN connections with WireGuard speeds of up to 50Mbps and OpenVPN speeds of up to 10Mbps
Cons
- Gets hot real fast and has a short battery life
- Some users reported difficulty with connecting via Wi-Fi or to hotel networks
- Bricks when trying to configure it via the UI panel
The GL.iNet GL-E750V2 (MUDI) router is perfect for travelers who need reliable connectivity on the go. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to take anywhere, while its powerful built-in OpenVPN, WireGuard support, and customized DNS server guarantee online security. With its larger storage and extensibility, this router is a great investment for anyone who needs a portable Wi-Fi hotspot with 4G LTE connectivity.
Deeper Connect Air Pocket-Sized Wireless Travel VPN Router Portable Wireguard OpenVPN DPN WiFi Router
If you're looking for a mini router that can provide you with a lifetime free decentralized VPN, the Deeper Connect Air is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Enjoy lifetime free decentralized VPN with anti-tracking and intrusion prevention capabilities.
- Portable and lightweight design makes it ideal for travel.
- Supports simultaneous 4K video playback on separate devices.
Cons
- Some users may find the setup process to be a bit complicated.
- May not be suitable for large households with multiple devices.
- Limited compatibility with certain devices.
The Deeper Connect Air is a versatile mini router that offers a range of features to enhance your online experience. With its lifetime free decentralized VPN, you can bypass internet censorship and enjoy unlimited access to the web without sacrificing network speeds. This feature alone can save you up to $150 per year compared to traditional VPN services.
Its portable size and lightweight design make it an ideal travel companion, allowing you to explore more than 80 app and web3.0 features at your fingertips. With a 4-Core CPU and 1GB memory, you can enjoy cybersecurity and privacy throughput without sacrificing speed.
The Deeper Connect Air router can reach max 300Mbps speeds and supports simultaneous 4K video playback on separate devices. You can also enjoy all entertainment around the world with its APP-relocator feature, which intelligently switches to fast tunnels based on your streaming services.
In addition, the Deeper Connect Air offers unlimited free access to enterprise-class firewalls with anti-tracking and intrusion prevention capabilities typically found in much more expensive enterprise products. You can also browse the internet undisturbed with the universal ad blocker that blocks all pop-up ads, banner ads, and even YouTube ads, which can save you up to $144 per year.
Overall, if you're looking for a mini router that can offer you a lifetime free decentralized VPN and a range of other features, the Deeper Connect Air is definitely worth considering.
GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Travel Gigabit Router
If you're looking for a portable Wi-Fi device that offers secure internet connectivity on the go, the GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Travel Gigabit Router is worth considering.
Pros
- Dual-band network with wireless speed 574Mbps (2.4G) + 2402Mbps (5G)
- OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers
- Supports more than 5,000 ready-made plug-ins for customization
Cons
- May require an additional Ethernet cable
- VPN speed may not be as fast as expected
- Antenna type is retractable
This mini router offers dual-band network with impressive wireless speed, making it ideal for international travel. It also comes pre-installed with OpenVPN and WireGuard, providing compatibility with 30+ VPN service providers. The GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) runs on OpenWrt 21.02 firmware, which supports more than 5,000 ready-made plug-ins for customization. You can easily browse, install, and manage packages with the no-code interface within the Beryl AX's Admin Panel.
The Beryl AX also offers network security features such as WPA3 protocol, preventing password brute-force attacks, and DNS over HTTPS and DNS over TLS, protecting domain name system traffic and preventing data eavesdropping from malicious parties. It also has an IPv6 built-in authentication for privacy protection, eliminating the need for network address translation.
One of the unique features of the Beryl AX is its ability to host a VPN server and VPN client at the same time within the same device, enabling users to remote access local network resources like Wi-Fi printers or local web servers, and accessing the public internet as a VPN client simultaneously.
Overall, if you're looking for a mini router that offers secure internet connectivity on the go, the GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Travel Gigabit Router is a great option.
TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router
If you're looking for a compact and versatile mini router, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to pack and take with you on the go, providing internet access wherever you need it.
- With dual-band AC750 Wi-Fi, you can enjoy strong and fast connections for HD streaming on all your devices.
- The router features multiple modes, including Router, Hotspot, Range Extender, Client, and Access Point, making it a versatile choice for different situations.
Cons
- The router only has one LAN/WAN port, which might not be enough for some users who need to connect multiple devices.
- The USB port can only provide power supply up to 5V/2A, which might not be enough for some power-hungry devices.
- Some users have reported issues with the setup and configuration of the router, which might require some technical knowledge to troubleshoot.
If you're a frequent traveler or someone who needs a mini router for on-the-go internet access, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router is a great choice. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to pack and carry with you, while its dual-band AC750 Wi-Fi provides strong and fast connections for HD streaming. Additionally, the router features multiple modes, including Router, Hotspot, Range Extender, Client, and Access Point, making it a versatile choice for different situations.
However, the router only has one LAN/WAN port, which might not be enough for some users who need to connect multiple devices. Additionally, the USB port can only provide power supply up to 5V/2A, which might not be enough for some power-hungry devices. Finally, some users have reported issues with the setup and configuration of the router, which might require some technical knowledge to troubleshoot.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router is a reliable and versatile mini router that can provide internet access wherever you need it.
GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router
If you're looking for a travel router that can convert a public/hotel network to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing, then the GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router is a great option.
Pros
- Weighing only 39g (1.41 Oz), this router is incredibly lightweight and pocket-friendly, making it easy to carry around with you.
- The GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router comes with OpenWrt pre-installed, which means it's open-source and programmable.
- With OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN client&server pre-installed, this router is compatible with 30+ VPN service providers.
Cons
- The GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router has minimal RAM and a slow CPU, which means it won't be able to do much or perform particularly well.
- While this router is easy to set up, it can be a bit confusing to do so.
- The GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router is very basic and inexpensive, which means it may not be suitable for those looking for a more advanced router.
If you're looking for a lightweight and pocket-friendly travel router that can convert a public/hotel network to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing, then the GL.iNet Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router is a great option. With OpenWrt pre-installed, this router is open-source and programmable, and it comes with OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN client&server pre-installed, making it compatible with 30+ VPN service providers. However, this router has minimal RAM and a slow CPU, which means it won't be able to do much or perform particularly well. While it's easy to set up, it can be a bit confusing to do so, and it's very basic and inexpensive, which means it may not be suitable for those looking for a more advanced router.
GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router
If you're looking for a portable Wi-Fi 6 travel router that can help you enhance your Wi-Fi performance, the GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is worth considering.
Pros
- The router offers powerful Wi-Fi 6 network connection with a dual-band combined Wi-Fi speed of 1800 Mbps.
- It supports OpenVPN & WireGuard pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers, OpenVPN speed up to 120 Mbps; WireGuard speed up to 550 Mbps.
- The NAS feature supports SAMBA and WebDav protocol, allowing you to create a private network to store and share your documents.
Cons
- The router is a bit pricey compared to other mini routers in the market.
- The router is small and portable, but it lacks an internal battery, which means you need to connect it to a power source to use it.
- The router's web interface can be a bit confusing for beginners.
If you're always on the go and need a reliable and secure Wi-Fi connection, the GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is a great choice. With its powerful Wi-Fi 6 network connection, you can enjoy fast and reliable internet speeds even when you're traveling. The router also supports OpenVPN & WireGuard pre-installed, making it easy for you to connect to a VPN service provider and protect your online privacy. Additionally, the NAS feature allows you to create a private network to store and share your documents.
However, the router is a bit pricey compared to other mini routers in the market. Also, while the router is small and portable, it lacks an internal battery, which means you need to connect it to a power source to use it. Lastly, the router's web interface can be a bit confusing for beginners. Overall, if you're looking for a portable Wi-Fi 6 travel router that can help you enhance your Wi-Fi performance, the GL.iNet Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is definitely worth considering.
GL.iNet GL-AR150 (White) Mini VPN Travel Router
If you are looking for a portable and programmable mini router, the GL.iNet GL-AR150 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Convert a public network to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing
- Open source and programmable with pre-installed OpenWrt and DDWrt support
- Lightweight and portable, can be powered by any laptop USB, power banks or 5V DC adapters
Cons
- Only 150Mbps wireless speed
- Limited storage of 64MB RAM and 16MB Flash ROM
- Some users may find the setup process challenging
This mini router is an excellent choice for working professionals who need a secure Wi-Fi hotspot while traveling. It is also a great option for DIY hobbyists who want to extend the router's storage and functionality using external USB sticks and hardware DIY.
The GL-AR150 can convert a wired or wireless public network to a private Wi-Fi with a firewall for secure surfing. It also works as an agent for securer surfing and connects all your devices when switching to a new Wi-Fi, eliminating the need to input passwords for each device.
This mini router is open source and programmable, with pre-installed OpenWrt and DDWrt support. It also comes with an OpenVPN client and is compatible with 30+ VPN service providers.
The GL-AR150 is lightweight and portable, making it an ideal travel mate. It can be powered by any laptop USB, power banks or 5V DC adapters, and is pocket-sized for easy carrying.
Overall, if you need a portable and programmable mini router with secure Wi-Fi capabilities, the GL.iNet GL-AR150 is definitely worth considering.
GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Router
If you're looking for a portable and secure mini router for your travels, the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) is a great choice.
Pros
- Easily convert public networks to private Wi-Fi for secure surfing
- OpenWrt pre-installed and USB disk extendable for open source and programmable capabilities
- Supports 30+ popular OpenVPN service providers and Wireguard for added security
Cons
- Only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi speed
- Slow speeds compared to modern standards
- Some users have reported difficulty with connectivity in certain situations
The GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) is a wireless mobile mini travel router that can be powered by any laptop USB, power banks, or 5V/2A DC adapters (sold separately). It is lightweight and pocket-friendly, making it perfect for business travelers, journalists, frequent flyers, and anyone who values privacy while surfing the internet.
With outstanding security protocols and data encryption technology, this mini router offers an extra layer of protection wherever you go. It also includes OpenVPN client pre-installed and is compatible with 30+ VPN service providers, making it a great choice for those who want to protect their privacy.
The GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) is open source and programmable, with OpenWrt pre-installed and USB disk extendable. It also features 128MB RAM, 16MB Flash ROM, dual Ethernet ports, UART, and GPIOs available for hardware DIY.
While the GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi speed and may be slower compared to modern standards, it is still a reliable and secure mini router for your travels. Some users have reported difficulty with connectivity in certain situations, but overall, it is a great choice for those in need of a portable and secure mini router.
VONETS VAR11N-300 Portable WiFi Router
If you're looking for a versatile mini router, the VONETS VAR11N-300 Portable WiFi Router is a great option.
Pros
- The VONETS VAR11N-300 is a three-in-one device that can function as a WiFi router, bridge, and repeater, making it a great tool for extending WiFi coverage or converting wired connections to wireless.
- It supports two WiFi working modes, including WiFi smart bridge mode and WiFi router mode, providing flexibility for different use cases.
- The VONETS VAR11N-300 has a maximum point-to-point transmission distance of up to 50 meters, making it a good option for a variety of network applications.
Cons
- The VONETS VAR11N-300 is powered by a DC5V-15V power supply, which may not be convenient for all users.
- The device has a relatively low WiFi rate of 300Mbps, which may not be sufficient for demanding applications.
- The VONETS VAR11N-300 has a relatively low TX power of 14.5dBm, which may limit its coverage range in certain situations.
The VONETS VAR11N-300 Portable WiFi Router is a versatile and reliable device that can be used in a variety of network applications. Its three-in-one functionality and support for multiple WiFi modes make it a great tool for extending WiFi coverage or converting wired connections to wireless. However, its power supply, WiFi rate, and TX power may not be suitable for all users. Overall, the VONETS VAR11N-300 is a solid choice for those in need of a mini router with flexible functionality.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best mini router, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features that you should look for when selecting a mini router:
Wireless Standards
The wireless standards that a mini router supports can have a significant impact on its performance. It is essential to choose a mini router that supports the latest wireless standards, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax, as they offer faster speeds and better coverage.
Speed
The speed of a mini router is another critical factor to consider. Mini routers can offer different speeds depending on their wireless standards. It is important to choose a mini router that provides the speed you need for your specific use case, such as streaming or gaming.
Range
The range of a mini router is also an essential consideration. The range of a mini router depends on several factors, including the wireless standard it supports, the number of antennas it has, and the environment it is used in. It is important to choose a mini router that provides sufficient coverage for your needs.
Ports
The number and type of ports that a mini router offers are also important considerations. Mini routers can have different types of ports, including Ethernet, USB, and HDMI. It is important to choose a mini router that offers the ports you need for your specific use case.
Size
The size of a mini router is another factor to consider. Mini routers can vary in size, and it is important to choose a mini router that fits your needs. If you need a mini router that is portable, you may want to choose a smaller model. If you need a mini router for home use, you may want to choose a larger model.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best mini router for your needs. Make sure to do your research and compare different models to find the one that is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a mini router for home use?
When looking for a mini router for home use, some of the top features to consider are the router's power, speed, and versatility. You'll want a router with enough power to handle your projects, a variable speed control for precision work, and the ability to switch out different bits for a variety of cutting applications. Additionally, a compact size and ergonomic design can make the router more comfortable to use for extended periods.
How do cordless compact routers compare to corded models in performance?
Cordless compact routers have come a long way in recent years and can often perform just as well as corded models. However, corded models generally offer more power and longer run times, making them better suited for larger or more demanding projects. Cordless routers are often more convenient for smaller projects or when working in areas without easy access to power outlets.
What are the advantages of using a palm router for woodworking projects?
Palm routers, also known as trim routers, are smaller and more lightweight than standard routers, making them ideal for precision work and detail-oriented projects. Their compact size also makes them easier to maneuver and control, allowing for greater accuracy and cleaner cuts. Additionally, palm routers can be less intimidating for beginners and hobbyists who are new to woodworking.
Which mini routers offer the best value for the price?
The best value mini routers will vary depending on your specific needs and budget. Some of the top contenders in terms of value include the Bosch Colt, the Makita RT0701CX7, and the DeWalt DWP611. These routers offer a good balance of power, versatility, and affordability, making them popular choices among DIYers and professionals alike.
What is the smallest size available for quality compact routers?
Compact routers come in a variety of sizes, but the smallest high-quality routers typically have a base diameter of around 2 inches. Some of the smallest and most popular models include the Bosch Colt, the Ridgid R2401, and the Makita RT0701CX7.
Can you recommend a mini router that excels in both durability and power?
If you're looking for a mini router that offers both durability and power, the DeWalt DWP611 is a great choice. This router features a 1.25 horsepower motor and a variable speed control for precision work. It also has a durable aluminum motor housing and base, making it a reliable and long-lasting option for both DIYers and professionals.
