TP-Link Introduces Pocket-Size Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router With VPN Support

TP-Link has just launched a brand-new Wi-Fi 6 travel router designed for people on the go who want secure wireless networking, whether they are working in a hotel bedroom or a coffee shop.

The TL-WR1502X offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds and includes robust security features that protect your data. This pocket-sized device is built for digital nomads and it’s small enough to fit in a pocket or work bag. Sadly, it doesn’t come with a carry case, which I think it should but a third-party case should be available from Amazon.

The TL-WR1502X has two Gigabit ports, one for LAN and one for WAN. It provides dual-band Wi-Fi with a maximum speed of 1.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, which is certainly fast enough for 4K streaming, fast file downloads and Zoom video calls.

The TL-WR1502X enables users to stay connected using USB tethering to their smartphone, piggybacking off the mobile data service with a Wi-Fi connection for multiple devices. On the side of the router there is a sliding Mode switch to set the device in Router/Hotspot/AP/RE modes so that the WR1502X can work as a traditional router, piggyback on an existing network or as a simple access point or range expander. There is also a WPS button next to the Mode switch for automatically adding devices to the network.

This pocket router has advanced support for OpenVPN and WireGuard for a secure and private network, even when connected to a public Wi-Fi hotspot such as a coffee shop. Many people don’t realize how insecure public Wi-Fi can be to hacking attacks. Using a VPN is the easiest way of protecting a laptop or smartphone on a public network.

Another handy feature of this little router is its one-step captive portal authentication. This feature makes it easy to connect multiple devices to a public Wi-Fi network. The user just needs to authenticate one time on the router and then all their devices can connect without the need to log in again.

The TL-WR1502X also has a USB 2.0 port for plugging in a USB thumb drive to provide centralized storage or support for a mobile data dongle. The router can also work almost anywhere as its USB-C power port means it can be run with a power bank. This means the router can be used almost anywhere, even where there are no available power outlets.

Setting up the TL-WR1502X is simple. TP-Link’s Tether app is easy to use on a smartphone or tablet. Alternatively, there is a web-based interface that enables users to configure and manage the router using a web browser. Also included in the box are Ethernet and USB cables as well as compact power supply for use on the move.

Verdict: This neat and affordable wireless router offers an enhanced level of security when accessing public Wi-Fi networks. It’s also ideal for turning an Ethernet connection in a hotel room into your own personal Wi-Fi network so a partner or family can also access the Internet on phones, laptops or gaming devices. The TL-WR1502X is a neat solution. You may also want to consider the ExpressVPN AirCove GO Wi-Fi router that I reviewed recently which ties in with ExpressVPN service baked into its firmware.

Pricing & Availability: The TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router is available now from Amazon.com and is priced at $59.99.