Portable WiFi router/extender

Posted by: jmwking

Portable WiFi router/extender - 10/08/2020 22:45

My old Airport Express (1st gen) is pining for the fjords...

Anyone have a recommendation for a portable WiFi router/extender - one I can configure in various ways to meet whatever needs I run into?

I'd like to sometimes plug it into an ethernet cable and create a private lan. Sometimes the same via WiFi. Sometimes I'd like to extend an existing lan, via either wifi or wired. I don't really need AC (G/N is fine), but I'd like it to support 2.4 and 5 GHz, ideally with channel bonding in the 5 GHz range - I'm so over misconfigured 2.4 APs messing with me.

Any suggestions?

thanks!
Posted by: jmwking

Re: Portable WiFi router/extender - 11/08/2020 02:04

It looks like the GL.iNet GL-AR750 might meet my needs.

Has anyone ever had any trouble with one?

thanks again!
Posted by: mlord

Re: Portable WiFi router/extender - 11/08/2020 12:57

There's a non-AC version of that for less than half the money:

https://www.amazon.com/GL.iNET_GL-MT300N-V2/dp/B073TSK26W/

I think that's the same one that was discussed here a year or two ago:
https://empegbbs.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/370927/Re:_Let's_talk_about_empegs_in#Post370927

But no 5GHz.
Posted by: Dignan

Re: Portable WiFi router/extender - 11/08/2020 13:07

I've used the portable TP-Link routers before and like them. My version had the plug built in, which was nice.
Posted by: K447

Re: Portable WiFi router/extender - 11/08/2020 13:32

I bought this unit to replace a much older RAVPower unit.

RAVPower FileHub, Travel Router AC750, ...6700mAh Battery


I like that it has an internal battery for those times when I need to extend WiFI reach and there is no option for plug in wall power.

I have not needed to use it many times since purchase but for me it is a ‘Swiss army knife’ WiFi problem solver. The app software is OK. I have not used the backup features.
Posted by: jmwking

Re: Portable WiFi router/extender - 12/08/2020 00:57

Thanks for all the ideas!