TP-Link TL-WR3002X is a high-performance, compact travel router offering excellent secure internet access and local file sharing capabilities. Whilst lacking an integrated cellular modem, its overall performance, security, and travel-friendly features make it an ideal choice for digital nomads and travellers needing to establish private networks anywhere.
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Pros and Cons
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Design
The TP-Link TL-WR3002X Travel Router is a fully-featured Wi-Fi 6 router that fits in your pocket. Compact and practical, it measures 104 x 90 x 28 mm and weighs approximately 150 g. It is equipped with a 2.5Gbps WAN port and 1.0Gbps LAN ports to deal with ultra-gigabit broadband. enabling it to handle ultra-gigabit broadband.Additionally, it incorporates a USB 3.0 port for mobile hotspot functionality.
The TL-WR3002X further includes a microSD slot to accommodate storage for mobile network NAS (Network Attached Storage) functionality, even when the USB port is utilised for mobile hotspot sharing. That said, the new TL-WR3002X undoubtedly represents an improvement over its predecessor, the TL-WR1502X.
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Feature
- AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router – TP-Link fastest travel router yet, AX3000 features Wi-Fi 6 tech that boosts throughput speeds up to 2402 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz. Enjoy uninterrupted video streaming, downloads, and gaming across up to 80 devices.
- Stay Connected Anywhere – Our travel router offers (1) Router Mode for Ethernet or USB (phone) tethering connections, (2) Hotspot Mode for accessing public Wi-Fi securely, and (3) AP/RE Mode for expanding Wi-Fi coverage or adding Wi-Fi to wired networks
- Multi Gigabit Connections – 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN and 1x 1 Gbps LAN ports along with Wi-Fi 6 speed enables fast wired and wireless data transmissions
- 24/7 Secure Surfing with VPN Encryption – Protect your network with OpenVPN and WireGuard support for both VPN client and server. Enjoy private, secure browsing on public Wi-Fi, with PPTP and L2TP protocols also supported
- One-step captive portal authentication – Log in once on the Tether App to easily create a secure private network from public W-Fi for all your devices. No repeated logins needed
- Multiple Ways to Power Your Router – Power the TL-WR3002X via its USB-C port using the included adapter or any 5V PD power source like a power bank.
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Specifications
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Model Name | TL-WR3002X |
| Special Feature | Access Point Mode, Guest Mode, Internet Security, QoS, Remote Access |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n |
| Standards and Protocols | Wi-Fi 6 IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax 5 GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac/ax 2.4 GHz |
| WiFi Speeds | AX3000 5 GHz: 2402 Mbps (802.11ax) 2.4 GHz: 574 Mbps (802.11ax) |
| Working Modes | Router Mode USB Tethering Mode 3G/4G USB Modem Mode Hotspot Mode (WISP Mode) Access Point Mode Range Extender Mode Client Mode |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 4.1 × 3.6 × 1.2 in (105 × 91.3 × 30 mm) |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer, Security Camera, Smart Television, Smartphone, Tablet |
| Included Components | Power Adapter, Quick Installation Guide, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, TL-WR3002X, USB Cable |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi |
TP-Link TL-WR3002X vs TL-WR1502X
| Model | TL-WR3002X | TL-WR1502X |
| Dimensions | 4.09 × 3.54 × 1.10 in (104 × 90 × 28 mm) | |
| Weight | 5.4 oz (153 g) | |
| Wi-Fi Technology | Dual-Band AX3000 | Dual-Band AX1500 |
| 2.4GHz Band (channel width) | 2.4GHz 2×2 AX: Up to 578 Mbps | 2×2 Wi-Fi 4: Up to 300Mbps |
| 5GHz Band (channel width) | 2×2 Wi-Fi 6: Up to 2.4 Gbps (20/40/80/160MHz) | 5GHz 2×2 Wi-Fi 6: Up to 1.2 Gbps (20/40/80MHz) |
| VPN Server Support | OpenVPN WireGuard L2TP/IPSec PPTP | OpenVPN |
| Card slot | 1x microSD (up to 512GB) | None |
| Multi-Gig Port | 1x 2.5Gbps WAN | None |
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Performance
As a hotspot, the TL-WR3002X offered the fastest speed in my close-range testing — Gig+ speed all the time. Because it’s a travel router, 20 feet (about 6 meters) or closer will do just fine. But even at longer distances, this router isn’t too shabby, scoring about 600Mbps.
Being an router the TL-WR3002X is also stable: during my 24h stress test I had no dropped connection. In terms of coverage, it’s about the same as the one before. So if the TL-WR3002X is installed in the middle of a residential area, it should cover about 1000 square feet (92 square meters) — more than enough for motor houses, boats, hotel’s room.
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Setup
The TL-WR3002X router’s initial setup is remarkably straightforward, prompting you with questions such as how you connect to the internet. You can connect via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or USB network sharing. Note that if using this router while travelling, you’ll need to periodically access the settings menu to make these changes. Assuming the hotel provides an Ethernet connection, this should be your preferred method of connection. Not only is it more secure, but it may also offer faster speeds as you won’t be competing with other guests for Wi-Fi.This subscription-free router features a security check function. Upon running it, I identified several issues, including the need for a firmware upgrade and an insufficiently strong Wi-Fi password.
I really like the physical performance switch on side that can change Wi-fi coverage, power consumption, and device temperature output. There are choices of Enhanced, Balanced and Cool mode. In Energy Saving mode, the device reduces distance, consumes less power and reduces heat output. The less scope of Wi-Fi the least are the chances for others to connect with your network. The TP-Link also has a USB-A port and an SD card slot. Keep one of your smartphones or mobile hotspot connected through the USB-A port. Or, you can use that USB-A port to plug in a portable hard drive to share storage for the whole family. This is oh-so-handy for downloading or saving photos.
Who is the TP-Link TL-WR3002X best for?
If you are a traveler and travels in group most of the time, the TL-WR3002X travel router is all what you need.Simply connect one device to the public internet, coupled with enhanced security, to ensure all connected devices function properly – a highly practical solution. While it is called a travel router that doesn’t mean you can’t use it at home. It’s a dual-band router with all the features you’d want in an apartment router.
TP-Link TL-WR3002X Verdict
TP-Link Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 Travel Router TL-WR3002X | Multi-Gig Portable | OpenVPN, WireGuard | Easy Public WiFi Sharing |...
Amazon.com
