GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router

GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 1
GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 2
GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 3
GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 4
GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 5
GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router — image 6
83%
89%
VPN Performance
85%
Wi-Fi Speed and Coverage
80%
Ease of Setup
88%
Customizability with OpenWrt
82%
Build Quality
90%
Portability and Size
84%
Connectivity Options
86%
Tethering and Mobile Connectivity
78%
Software Stability
75%
Customer Support
91%
Value for Money
72%
Advanced Configuration Difficulty
More

Overview

The GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router is a versatile, dual-band router designed to provide secure internet access. With its pre-installed OpenWrt firmware, this router offers a high level of customization, allowing tech enthusiasts to fine-tune their networks. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for both home and small office use. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or working remotely, this router ensures a stable and fast connection. As a dual-band router, it delivers speeds of up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz band and 400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, ideal for everyday internet activities.

Features & Benefits

This VPN router delivers impressive speeds with its dual-band setup—400Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz—making it suitable for a range of tasks. It comes with OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed, ensuring a secure, encrypted browsing experience. Equipped with 256MB RAM and 32MB flash ROM, the device provides reliable performance for multiple devices simultaneously. The router also features three gigabit Ethernet ports, one for WAN and two for LAN, along with a USB 3.0 port for additional connectivity options. Tethering support adds an extra layer of versatility, making it perfect for mobile users.

Best For

This dual-band router is best for users who need secure, fast internet for home or small office setups. It's ideal for tech-savvy individuals who want to make the most of OpenWrt customization. The GL.iNet Convexa-B is also perfect for remote workers or travelers who need a portable VPN solution to ensure a safe and private internet connection on the go. Additionally, those looking for a router with OpenVPN or WireGuard support will find it a reliable and flexible choice for secure browsing and online privacy.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the GL.iNet Convexa-B for its reliable VPN performance and strong Wi-Fi signal, particularly in home setups. Many appreciate its compact size and ease of setup, making it a popular option for people new to VPN routers. However, some less tech-savvy users report challenges with the advanced configuration, especially when customizing OpenWrt settings. Despite this, the router receives positive feedback for its flexibility, particularly with OpenWrt, allowing advanced users to tailor it to their needs. Overall, it's highly regarded for its secure connections and versatility.

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Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for portable use, such as travel or remote work setups.
  • The dual-band Wi-Fi provides reliable speeds for everyday tasks like streaming and video conferencing.
  • OpenWrt firmware offers customization options for tech-savvy users looking to optimize their network.
  • Built-in OpenVPN and WireGuard support ensures secure and encrypted internet browsing.
  • Three gigabit Ethernet ports allow for versatile wired connectivity, perfect for home offices or small businesses.
  • Easy setup process and solid VPN functionality make this router a popular choice for home use.

Cons

  • Advanced configuration with OpenWrt may be challenging for non-technical users.
  • Limited number of Ethernet ports (3) may not meet the needs of larger households or offices.
  • Some users reported occasional connectivity drops, especially when multiple devices are connected.
  • The compact size might not provide enough range for larger homes or offices.
  • No support for advanced mesh networking setups, limiting coverage in larger spaces.
  • Some users felt the price was slightly high for a router with a relatively limited feature set.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we have compiled comprehensive feedback for the GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router. The scores reflect both strengths and potential pain points based on high-quality, authentic user input, filtered to exclude spam, bots, and exaggerated claims. Insights from diverse sources globally were considered to provide a balanced overview of the router's performance and user experience.

VPN Performance
89%
Many users are pleased with the reliable VPN capabilities of this router. They highlight its strong and consistent performance, especially when using OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for secure browsing. Whether at home or on the go, users appreciate the added peace of mind it provides for private internet access.
However, a few users mention that setting up the VPN can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the process. Some have found it difficult to navigate advanced configuration options, especially for non-tech-savvy individuals.
Wi-Fi Speed and Coverage
85%
Users generally report that the dual-band Wi-Fi provides a stable and fast internet connection, with speeds of up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz band. This is particularly appreciated for streaming, gaming, and handling multiple devices simultaneously. The router's coverage is effective for small to medium-sized homes or offices.
On the flip side, a small number of users note that while the speeds are good, they can experience occasional drops in coverage, especially at longer distances from the router. Some also suggest that the 2.4GHz band could be faster in comparison to other routers in the same price range.
Ease of Setup
80%
20%
Buyers appreciate how easy it is to set up this device out of the box. The intuitive interface and quick start guide make it a suitable choice for most home users. The router's automatic connection to the internet with minimal user input is a real convenience.
However, some users, particularly those less familiar with tech, find the setup process a bit daunting. The presence of more advanced configuration options in OpenWrt can be overwhelming for non-technical individuals, which might delay the setup process for some.
Customizability with OpenWrt
88%
Tech enthusiasts and advanced users really enjoy the router's flexibility with OpenWrt. It allows them to deeply customize settings to suit their specific needs. Users have praised the variety of features and third-party apps that are available through OpenWrt, enabling them to tweak performance, security, and connectivity to their liking.
Despite the benefits, some users find that OpenWrt can be complex and requires a higher learning curve. Not all buyers are willing to dive into advanced configuration, and they may feel the router lacks the simplicity of more plug-and-play models.
Build Quality
82%
18%
The router’s compact and sturdy build makes it feel premium for its price. Many users appreciate its small form factor, which fits easily into tight spaces on a desk or shelf without taking up too much room. The device is lightweight but solid, which makes it easy to transport if needed.
Some buyers have mentioned that while the router feels well-built, it lacks the high-end materials seen in more expensive models. A few users reported that the plastic casing, though durable, could be more resistant to wear and tear over time.
Portability and Size
90%
Many customers find this router to be an excellent option for those who need a portable VPN solution. Its compact design and lightweight nature (weighing only 6 ounces) make it perfect for travel or use in small spaces. It can easily fit into a bag or carry case, making it a top choice for remote workers and frequent travelers.
However, some users feel that the compact size comes with limitations in terms of range and power. Although it's great for portability, it may not deliver the same performance as larger, bulkier routers when it comes to long-range use in bigger spaces.
Connectivity Options
84%
The router offers solid connectivity options, including three gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB 3.0 port. Users appreciate the versatility this provides, especially in terms of connecting multiple devices such as computers, smart TVs, and external hard drives. The gigabit ports allow for reliable wired connections in addition to the strong wireless performance.
While the connectivity is generally solid, some users express a desire for more Ethernet ports or a more flexible USB setup. A few users also mention that while it supports tethering, the mobile hotspot feature could be a bit more seamless and stable for extended use.
Tethering and Mobile Connectivity
86%
The tethering feature of this router allows for easy connection to mobile devices, providing flexibility for on-the-go users. Many appreciate how simple it is to connect smartphones and tablets, especially when traveling or working remotely. It adds value for users who rely on mobile hotspots.
That said, some buyers feel that the mobile tethering function could be improved. A few have reported intermittent disconnections or slower speeds when using tethering for extended periods. Some users believe a more robust mobile connectivity experience could improve overall performance.
Software Stability
78%
22%
The inclusion of OpenWrt firmware gives users the option for extensive customization. For those who enjoy tinkering, this router offers a wealth of settings to adjust network performance, security, and more. Overall, the software is stable for most users and works well with various devices.
However, some users report occasional stability issues with the software, particularly after updates or when experimenting with advanced configurations. A few have experienced intermittent drops in connectivity or other minor bugs that impact the user experience.
Customer Support
75%
25%
While not the standout feature of this router, the customer support has been praised by some users for being responsive and helpful. Those who reached out for assistance with setup or troubleshooting found the support team to be friendly and knowledgeable, offering useful tips.
However, there are several reports of slow response times or lack of follow-up. Some users expressed frustration when trying to get help with more advanced technical issues, and a few felt that the support could be more proactive and accessible.
Value for Money
91%
For the price, many users believe this device offers excellent value. The combination of strong VPN support, fast Wi-Fi speeds, and customizable OpenWrt firmware makes it a powerful tool at a reasonable cost. Buyers often mention that it provides features usually found in more expensive models.
A small number of buyers feel that the value might not justify the learning curve required to fully utilize OpenWrt. For less tech-savvy users, the router might feel a bit complicated, which could detract from its overall value for those seeking an easier, more straightforward setup.
Advanced Configuration Difficulty
72%
28%
Advanced users who enjoy customizing their network settings have found this device to be a great option, especially with OpenWrt. The router allows them to fine-tune a variety of parameters to suit their needs, making it a highly flexible choice for those with technical experience.
However, the complexity of configuring this router can be a downside for many users. Non-technical individuals may find themselves struggling to navigate the settings and optimize performance. This steep learning curve is often cited as a drawback for those who simply want an easy-to-use plug-and-play router.

Suitable for:

The GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router is ideal for users who prioritize secure and fast internet access in both home and small office settings. Its dual-band Wi-Fi and built-in VPN capabilities make it especially suitable for remote workers and travelers who need reliable encrypted browsing while on the move. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the flexibility offered by the pre-installed OpenWrt firmware, enabling customization of network settings. Those who require strong, secure connections for tasks such as streaming, gaming, or accessing sensitive information will also find this router a strong fit, particularly given its stable performance on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

Not suitable for:

This router may not be the best choice for users who prefer a simple, plug-and-play solution. Its reliance on OpenWrt for advanced customization may be daunting for less tech-savvy individuals or those seeking a more intuitive setup. Additionally, users who need extensive range or advanced connectivity options may find the router's compact design and limited number of Ethernet ports restrictive. Those in larger homes or offices requiring robust coverage throughout the entire space may need to look for a more powerful option. Finally, users with minimal interest in technical configuration might not fully appreciate its flexibility and could find the learning curve unnecessary.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Standard: Supports dual-band Wi-Fi with 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) for reliable wireless connections.
  • Wi-Fi Speed: Offers speeds of 400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band.
  • Processor: Equipped with a MediaTek MT7621A dual-core processor, providing solid performance for typical router tasks.
  • RAM: Includes 256MB of RAM for efficient processing and multitasking.
  • Storage: Has 32MB of flash storage for firmware and settings storage.
  • VPN Support: Built-in support for OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure, encrypted internet access.
  • Ports: Offers one WAN and two LAN gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections.
  • USB Port: Features a USB 3.0 port for external device connections, such as storage or tethering.
  • Tethering Support: Supports tethering, allowing easy connection with mobile devices for internet sharing.
  • Firmware: Pre-installed with OpenWrt, offering customization options and advanced configuration capabilities.
  • Size: Compact design measuring 4.61 x 4.61 x 1.38 inches for portability and easy placement.
  • Weight: Weighs just 6 ounces, making it light and easy to carry for travel or relocation.
  • Power Supply: Includes a power adapter for operation and supports typical voltage levels for global use.
  • Security: Built-in advanced security features, including firewall settings and secure VPN protocols.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and desktop computers.
  • Warranty: Comes with a 1-year warranty for peace of mind against manufacturing defects.
  • Network Protocols: Supports common network protocols, including DHCP, PPPoE, and PPTP, for diverse networking needs.
  • LED Indicators: Features LED indicators for power, Wi-Fi, and LAN activity, providing status updates at a glance.

FAQ

The GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) AC Gigabit VPN Router is a dual-band router designed for fast and secure internet access. Its key features include built-in OpenVPN and WireGuard for secure browsing, pre-installed OpenWrt for customization, and a compact size that makes it ideal for home and small office use.

Setting up this router is straightforward. Simply plug it into your internet modem, connect to the router's Wi-Fi or use an Ethernet cable, and access the setup page via your browser. The router's user-friendly interface guides you through the basic configuration. For advanced settings, you can explore the OpenWrt firmware options.

The router supports dual-band Wi-Fi with speeds of 400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band. These speeds are suitable for typical home and small office tasks such as streaming, browsing, and video conferencing.

Yes, this router comes with built-in support for both OpenVPN and WireGuard. These features allow for secure, encrypted internet browsing, making it a good choice for users who prioritize privacy and security.

Thanks to its compact size and easy setup, this router is an excellent option for travelers or remote workers who need secure internet access. Its portability makes it easy to pack and use on the go, and the VPN capabilities offer secure connections when using public Wi-Fi networks.

You can connect a wide range of devices to this router, including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. Additionally, it offers three gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections and supports USB tethering for mobile device connectivity.

The GL.iNet GL-B1300 does not support mesh networking or the ability to act as a Wi-Fi extender. If you need extended coverage in a large home or office, you might need to look into additional access points or mesh-compatible routers.

Yes, the router comes with OpenWrt pre-installed, giving you the ability to customize and configure advanced network settings. This is particularly appealing to tech enthusiasts who want more control over their network, from traffic management to VPN setup.

Users generally report that the router performs reliably for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and video calls. Its strong Wi-Fi signal and secure VPN features contribute to a consistent experience. However, some users have mentioned occasional connection drops in environments with heavy device usage.

While the router provides good coverage for small to medium-sized spaces, its range may be limited in larger homes or offices. Users with extensive coverage needs may need to supplement this router with additional access points or a more powerful mesh system.