Overview: MikroTik Routers (Mobile Routers)

MikroTik is a Latvian company which was founded in 1996 to develop routers and wireless ISP systems. MikroTik currently provides hardware and software for Internet connectivity in most of countries around the world.

In addition to routerboards, MikroTik offers a plethora of other internet based equipment.

MikroTik provides the base hardware for many of the routers that WiFiRanger offers. WiFiRanger pairs MikroTik routerboards with WiFiRanger firmware to create a user friendly mobile router device.

Of interest to mobile internet aficionados, are Mikrotik's

• hAP ac lite ($49.95), which is used by WiFiRanger as the base hardware for the Core

• hAPac ($129.95), which is used by WiFiRanger as the base hardware for the GoAC

• Metal 52 ac ($119.95), which is used by WiFiRanger as the base hardware for the EliteAC

• WiFiRanger's Sky series is based on a MikroTik raw board, with WFR's own housing/antennas

But, for those who are DIYers, going straight to the source to create your own router set-up based on MikroTik's hardware can save you a hunk of money.

Specifications - hAP ac lite

The hAP ac lite is a dual-concurrent Access Point, that provides WiFi coverage for 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies at the same time. Other features include a USB port for attaching extra storage or a 3G/4G modem, and PoE output on the last Ethernet port.

• Wi-Fi Router: Yes
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
  • 5GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 ac/a/n
  • Wi-Fi Antenna:
  • Wi-Fi as WAN: Yes
  • Claimed Wi-Fi Range:
  • Guest Wi-Fi Network:
• Cellular Tethering via USB: 1X USB Port for 3G/4G modem
• Integrated Cellular Modem: No
• Ethernet Ports: 5x 100Mbps Fast Ethernet (WAN / LAN Configurable), 1x POE
• Special Features:
• Power Source: 12v or 110v AC
• Dimensions: 4.5" x 3.5" x 1"
• Outdoor Rated: No
• Retail Price:  $49.99

Specifications - hAP ac

The hAP ac is a dual band device with gigabit ports that allow the full advantages of 802.11ac technology speed, while maintaining compatibility with legacy devices in 2GHz 802.11 b/g/n and 5GHz a/n modes. Omnidirectional antennas allow for mounting of the hAP ac in almost any location. Other features include a USB port for attaching extra storage or a 3G/4G modem, and PoE output on the last Ethernet port.

• Wi-Fi Router: Yes
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
  • 5GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 ac/a/n
  • Wi-Fi Antenna: Integrated internal omnidirectional
  • Wi-Fi as WAN: Yes
  • Claimed Wi-Fi Range:
  • Guest Wi-Fi Network:
• Cellular Tethering via USB: 1X USB Port - Most modems, hotspots and smartphones supported.
• Integrated Cellular Modem: No
• Ethernet Ports: 5x 1,000Mbps Gigabit (WAN / LAN Configurable), 1x POE
• Special Features:
• Power Source: 12v or 110v AC
• Dimensions: 5.4" x 4.5" x 1"
• Outdoor Rated: No
• Retail Price:  $129.95

Specifications - Metal 52 ac

The Metal 52 ac features a Gigabit Ethernet port and a selectable wireless band (2.4GHz or 5GHz, up to 80 MHz wide channel). The Metal 52 ac supports 2.4GHz, 5GHz and all the legacy wireless modes as well (802.11 b/g/n for 2.4GHz and 802.11 a/n/ac for 5GHz).

• Wi-Fi Router: Yes
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
  • 5GHz Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/n/ac
  • Max Radio Power: 1000mW
  • Wi-Fi Antenna:
  • Wi-Fi as WAN: Yes
  • Claimed Wi-Fi Range:
  • Guest Wi-Fi Network: Yes
• Cellular Tethering via USB: No
• Integrated Cellular Modem: No
• Ethernet Ports: Yes - 1
• Special Features:
• Power Source: POE (Power Over Ethernet)
• Dimensions: 19" x 2.5" x 1.5"
• Outdoor Rated: Yes
• Retail Price:  $119.95

Review & Testing Status

We are not currently testing any MikroTik products, although we have tested several of WiFiRanger's products which are built on this hardware.

Dear Members - our experience is far from being the only one!

We WELCOME you to also share your experience and review below.
Join in the conversation, and let's help each other evaluate this device and it's suitability.

Thoughts & Analysis

Favorite Features:

• Big $$ savings for DIYers

Weaknesses:

• Need some networking knowledge

User Guides and Specs

• hAP ac lite
• hAP ac
• Metal 52 ac

Purchasing Options

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