GL.iNet vs Asus (Merlin firmware)
A detailed comparison to help you choose between GL.iNet and Asus (Merlin firmware).
GL.iNet Travel routers with built-in OpenVPN and WireGuard. | Asus (Merlin firmware) Consumer routers with Merlin firmware for advanced VPN features. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5 (199 reviews) | 4.6 (232 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | paid | paid |
| Starting Price | From $29.9/mo | From $79.98999999999999/mo |
| Best For | Best for users seeking reliable VPN protection for online privacy | Best for users seeking reliable VPN protection for online privacy |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
| Visit GL.iNet → |
GL.iNet
Pros
- + Router-level WireGuard and OpenVPN support
- + Granular policy-based VPN routing options
- + Kill switch modes to block non-VPN traffic
- + OpenWrt-based firmware with advanced configurability
- + Optional GoodCloud remote management and access
Cons
- - Stock firmware isn’t fully open-source end-to-end
- - Kill switch and policy routing can be complex
- - VPN throughput depends heavily on router model
- - Cloud features add additional privacy surface
Asus (Merlin firmware)
Pros
- + Policy-based VPN routing via VPN Director
- + Supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard
- + Stays close to ASUS stock firmware behavior
- + Entware/AMTM ecosystem for add-ons
- + VPN start/stop script hooks for automation
Cons
- - Only works on specific supported ASUS models
- - VPN throughput depends heavily on router CPU
- - More features mean more config and troubleshooting
- - Some VPN access controls can be unintuitive
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