In August 2024, I acquired a GL.iNet Opal (GL-SFT1200) Travel Router, and it has since become an indispensable companion for my multi-day travels. Its compact design and robust feature set have consistently met my connectivity needs on the road.
Real-World Use#
Over the past year, the Opal has been tested in various accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses, without any connectivity issues. Its versatility is evident as it seamlessly handles both wired uplinks and wireless repeater modes, even in environments with captive portals.
A notable feature is the ability to configure a dedicated “travel WiFi” SSID. This setup ensures that all my devices connect automatically without the need for repeated authentication at each new location. This convenience is particularly beneficial during extended stays, where maintaining a consistent network environment is crucial.
Additionally, I often travel with an Apple TV. Configuring the Opal to support this device has enabled smooth streaming experiences, allowing for uninterrupted media consumption during downtime.
The Opal also handles multiple devices simultaneously with surprising stability. Its small form factor makes it easy to pack, but it delivers more capability than its size suggests.
Security and Privacy#
The Opal’s security features enhance its appeal. It supports WireGuard VPN out of the box, facilitating secure tunneling back to my home network. VPN throughput peaks at roughly 65 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for typical hotel internet speeds and ensures secure browsing across multiple devices.
I’ve also configured DNS-over-TLS to forward all DNS queries back to my Pi-hole at home. This not only encrypts DNS traffic but also provides ad-free browsing on the road, effectively replicating the experience of my home network.
Performance Considerations#
While the Opal offers commendable performance, it’s important to understand its limitations. The device supports:
- Wired LAN/WAN: Up to 300 Mbps
- WiFi (2.4 GHz): Up to 300 Mbps
- WiFi (5 GHz): Up to 867 Mbps
These numbers are sufficient for most travel scenarios, including streaming and general browsing. However, for tasks requiring higher bandwidth—large file transfers, high-definition video conferencing—the Opal’s throughput may become a limiting factor.
For more demanding use cases, GL.iNet offers more powerful travel routers such as the Beryl AX (GL-MT3000) and Slate AX (GL-AXT1800). Both feature WiFi 6 and higher VPN throughput, making them better suited for users who need speed as well as flexibility.
Verdict#
The GL.iNet Opal (GL-SFT1200) Travel Router strikes a balance between portability, functionality, and security. Its ability to provide a stable and secure network connection in a variety of travel scenarios makes it a valuable tool for frequent travelers. While it may not offer the fastest speeds, its features and reliability make it a consistently useful companion.
Between persistent travel SSIDs, WireGuard VPN, and DNS-over-TLS to my Pi-hole, the Opal transforms what would otherwise be a tedious travel WiFi experience into something seamless, secure, and ad-free.
In short, it has delivered exactly what it promises without hassle.