GL.iNet is a Hong Kong-based tech company the builds open-source routers with off-the-shelf components, including some with built-in 4G LTE modems. Although primarily aimed at the IOT market (Internet Of Things), they can be used by nomads as a robust and inexpensive connectivity option.
GL.iNet's product line changes frequently. As of early 2019, the company produces two 4G LTE routers, the GL-MiFi, and the GL-x750 Spitz.
Both are open source (A customizable version of OpenWrt comes pre-installed) hotspots with customizable chipsets for specific carriers and/or regions.
- GL-MIFI: Designed for use US use on either Verizon or AT&T networks depending on which modem chipset you order. It creates 2.4GHz local WiFi network from a 4G or 3G cellular signal. It is available with or without a battery installed.
- GL-X750 Spitz: A more advanced version with a Cat 6 modem, external antennas, LTE-A, and 5GHz WiFi support.
Customers will need to ensure they order the product with the 4G modem that supports the correct region or carrier for complete compatibility.
GL-X750 Spitz Specifications
- Model Number: GL-X750
- # of Connected Devices: Unknown
- Control Panel and Default Password:
Control Panel: http://192.168.8.1
Default Password: "goodlife" - USB Tethering Support: Claimed but not tested
- Supported Networks and Bands: Depends on Chipset - the North American modem supports:
4G/LTE: B2/B4/B5/B7/B12/B13/B25/B26/B29 (receive only)/B30/B66
3G: B2/B4/B5
Worldwide UMTS/HSPA+ - LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation: Yes
- MIMO Support: 2X2
- LTE Performance Category: Cat 6
(Max Theoretical Speed: 300 Mbps Down / 50 Mbps Up) - Cellular Antenna Ports: 2x SMA with included antennas
- Other Ports: 2x Ethernet (1x LAN, 1x WAN), 1x USB 2.0, 1x MicroSD slot (supports up to 128GB)
- Wi-Fi Technology / Frequencies: 802.11 b/g/n/AC, 2.4GHz/5GHz
- Claimed Battery Life: N/A, no battery
- Can Be Powered Without a Battery: Yes
- Dimensions: 4.5'' x 2.9'' x .9'' / 3oz
- SIM Card Type: Micro
- Retail Price: $139
GL-MIFI Specifications
- Model Number: GL-MIFI
- # of Connected Devices: Unknown
- Control Panel and Default Password:
Control Panel: http://192.168.8.1
Default Password: "goodlife" - USB Tethering Support: Claimed but untested
- Supported Networks and Bands: Verizon or AT&T
Bands: B2/B4/B12 - AT&T
B2/B4/B5 - Verizon
3G Fallback - LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation: No
- MIMO Support: 2X2
- LTE Performance Category: Cat 4
(Max Theoretical Speed: 150 Mbps Down / 50 Mbps Up) - Cellular Antenna Ports: None
- Other Ports: 2x Ethernet (1x LAN, 1x WAN), 1x USB 2.0, 1x MicroSD slot (supports up to 128GB), 1x Micro USB (power)
- Wi-Fi Technology / Frequencies: 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4GHz
- Claimed Battery Life: 8hrs use time
- Can Be Powered Without a Battery: Yes
- Dimensions: 4.1'' x 2.8'' x 1'' / 2.5oz
- SIM Card Type: Micro
- Retail Price: $119
Review & Testing Status
We have purchase the X750 Spitz, and will share our hands on notes with members below once we have had some time with it.
The Rest of this Review is:
Member Only Content
We are thrilled & honored to be primarily member & reader funded - allowing us to present unbiased content. The in-depth review section of this product listing is part of the premium membership benefits of joining. Members can also leave their own reviews on products.
If you're a member, please log in above to read the in-depth review for this product and/or leave your own review. If you've not joined yet, learn more about membership at:
Purchasing Options
Amazon (GL-MIFI AT&T Version)
GL-iNet Ratings
-
Overall
Quick Take
GL-iNet LTE routers provide good features for a reasonable price for more technical users.