Die 5 besten OpenWrt-Router-Boards im Vergleich

Choosing the right OpenWrt router board can transform your network experience. Whether you need high performance, portability, or advanced features, the options are vast. This guide focuses on five standout models: Huasifei WE1326, GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2, Ubiquiti EdgeRouter X, TP-Link Archer C7und Linksys WRT3200ACM. Each offers unique strengths, from robust processing power to compact designs. For instance, some boards excel in multitasking with at least 512 MB RAM, while others, like an openwrt-Reiserouter, prioritize portability. These boards ensure reliability, customization, and enhanced network performance.

Wichtigste Erkenntnisse

Choosing the right OpenWrt router board can significantly enhance your network performance, so consider your specific needs such as performance, portability, and features.
For multitasking and heavy workloads, opt for boards with at least 512 MB of RAM and a powerful CPU, like the Linksys WRT3200ACM.
If you’re new to OpenWrt, the TP-Link Archer C7 is user-friendly and offers a great balance of performance and affordability, making it ideal for general home use.
For travelers or those with limited space, the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 is compact and portable, providing reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Evaluate the expandability options of each board, such as additional ports and external antennas, to ensure it meets your future networking needs.
Regular firmware updates and strong community support are crucial for long-term reliability, so choose boards that are actively supported by their manufacturers.

Criteria for Choosing the Best OpenWrt Router Board

When selecting an OpenWrt router board, understanding the key criteria ensures you make an informed decision. Each factor plays a vital role in determining the board’s suitability for your specific needs.

Leistung

CPU architecture and processing power

The CPU serves as the brain of your router board. A powerful CPU ensures smooth operation, especially when handling multiple devices or running advanced configurations. Boards with ARM-based processors often deliver better energy efficiency and performance. For instance, dual-core or quad-core CPUs can handle heavy workloads more effectively than single-core options.

RAM and storage capacity

RAM and storage directly impact the board’s ability to manage tasks. A router board with at least 128 MB of RAM is ideal for basic setups, while 512 MB or more is better for multitasking or running additional services like VPNs. Storage capacity matters for firmware updates and custom configurations. Flash storage of 16 MB or higher is recommended for OpenWrt compatibility.

Suitability for heavy workloads and multitasking

If you plan to connect many devices or run bandwidth-intensive applications, choose a board designed for heavy workloads. High-performance boards, such as those with dual-band Wi-Fi and robust CPUs, excel in multitasking. They ensure stable connections even during peak usage.

Eigenschaften

Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7)

Wi-Fi standards determine the speed and range of your wireless network. Wi-Fi 5 is sufficient for most home networks, but Wi-Fi 6 offers faster speeds and better performance in crowded environments. Wi-Fi 7, though still emerging, provides cutting-edge technology for future-proofing your setup.

Number and type of ports (e.g., Ethernet, USB, SIM slots)

Ports expand the functionality of your router board. Ethernet ports are essential for wired connections, while USB ports allow you to connect external storage or printers. Some boards include SIM slots for mobile data connectivity, making them versatile for remote locations.

Expandability options (e.g., external antennas, additional storage)

Expandability enhances the board’s flexibility. External antennas improve signal strength and coverage, while additional storage supports advanced configurations. Look for boards that allow upgrades to meet your evolving needs.

Preis und Wert

Price range of each board

OpenWrt router boards vary widely in price. Budget-friendly options, like the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2, cost under $50 and suit basic needs. Mid-range boards, such as the TP-Link Archer C7, offer a balance of features and affordability. High-end models, like the Linksys WRT3200ACM, provide premium performance but come at a higher cost.

Value for money based on features and performance

Evaluate the features and performance relative to the price. A board with advanced capabilities, such as dual-band Wi-Fi and multiple ports, offers better value if it meets your requirements. Consider long-term benefits, including firmware updates and community support, when assessing value.

Kompatibilität mit OpenWrt

Ease of installation and firmware support

When choosing an OpenWrt router board, ease of installation plays a crucial role. You want a board that simplifies the process of flashing OpenWrt firmware. Many boards come pre-installed with OpenWrt or provide detailed guides for installation. For example, models like the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 include user-friendly interfaces that guide you through the setup. This ensures you can quickly get your router up and running without technical hurdles.

Firmware support is equally important. OpenWrt developers regularly release updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security. Boards with strong firmware support ensure long-term reliability. Look for manufacturers that actively collaborate with the OpenWrt community. This collaboration guarantees compatibility with the latest firmware versions. A well-supported board saves you time and effort in maintaining your network.

Community support and availability of updates

The OpenWrt community is a valuable resource for troubleshooting and learning. Boards with active community support provide you access to forums, guides, and tutorials. These resources help you resolve issues and explore advanced configurations. For instance, the Linksys WRT3200ACM benefits from a large user base that shares tips and solutions online. This makes it easier for you to customize and optimize your router.

Frequent updates are another key factor. Boards with regular updates stay compatible with new technologies and remain secure against emerging threats. Manufacturers that prioritize updates demonstrate their commitment to quality. When selecting an OpenWrt router board, check the update history and community activity. This ensures you invest in a board that evolves with your needs.

Detailed Reviews of Each OpenWrt Router Board

TP-Link Archer C7

Overview: Popular mid-range router with good OpenWrt compatibility.

The TP-Link Archer C7 stands out as a reliable mid-range option for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi, offering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This feature ensures stable connections for various devices in your home network. Its compatibility with OpenWrt firmware makes it a versatile choice for users who want to customize their router’s functionality.

Pros: Dual-band Wi-Fi, good performance, affordable.

The Archer C7 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. Its dual-band Wi-Fi ensures smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing experiences. The router’s affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of users. Additionally, its OpenWrt compatibility allows you to unlock advanced features, such as enhanced security settings and network monitoring tools.

Cons: Limited expandability.

While the Archer C7 offers great value, it has limited expandability options. It lacks features like external antenna upgrades or additional storage slots. This limitation may not suit users who require extensive customization or future-proofing.

Best Use Case: General home use.

The Archer C7 is ideal for general home use. It provides reliable performance for families or individuals who need a dependable router for daily internet activities. Its affordability and ease of setup make it a practical choice for beginners.

Linksys WRT3200ACM

Overview: High-end router with advanced features.

The Linksys WRT3200ACM is a powerhouse among OpenWrt router boards. It boasts a robust hardware configuration, including a 1.8 GHz dual-core processor and 512 MB of RAM. These specifications ensure seamless multitasking and support for bandwidth-intensive applications. Its OpenWrt compatibility further enhances its appeal, allowing you to customize and optimize your network.

Pros: Powerful hardware, excellent OpenWrt support, great for heavy workloads.

This router excels in handling heavy workloads. Its powerful hardware ensures smooth performance even when multiple devices are connected. The WRT3200ACM’s strong OpenWrt support guarantees regular firmware updates and access to a vibrant community of users. These features make it a reliable choice for advanced networking needs.

Cons: Expensive.

The WRT3200ACM’s premium features come at a higher price point. While it offers exceptional performance, its cost may not fit everyone’s budget.

Best Use Case: Power users and tech enthusiasts.

This router is perfect for power users and tech enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance. It handles complex configurations, such as VPN setups and advanced security protocols, with ease. If you prioritize performance and customization, the WRT3200ACM is an excellent investment.

TP-Link Archer C7

Overview: Popular mid-range router with good OpenWrt compatibility.

Die TP-Link Archer C7 has earned its reputation as a dependable mid-range openwrt router board. It supports Dual-Band-Wi-Fi, operating on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This capability ensures stable connections for various devices in your home network. Its compatibility with OpenWrt firmware allows you to unlock advanced features, such as enhanced security protocols and network monitoring tools. The Archer C7 is a versatile choice for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Pros: Dual-band Wi-Fi, good performance, affordable.

The Archer C7 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. Its dual-band Wi-Fi ensures smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing experiences. The router’s affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of users. Additionally, its OpenWrt compatibility provides flexibility for customization, enabling you to optimize your network based on your specific needs.

Cons: Limited expandability.

Best Use Case: General home use.

Linksys WRT3200ACM

Overview: High-end router with advanced features.

The Linksys WRT3200ACM stands out as a high-performance openwrt router board designed for demanding users. It features a powerful 1.8 GHz dual-core processor and 512 MB of RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking and support for bandwidth-intensive applications. Its strong OpenWrt compatibility allows you to customize and optimize your network with ease. This router is a top-tier choice for users who prioritize performance and advanced functionality.

Pros: Powerful hardware, excellent OpenWrt support, great for heavy workloads.

The WRT3200ACM excels in handling heavy workloads. Its robust hardware ensures smooth performance even when multiple devices are connected. The router’s excellent OpenWrt support guarantees regular firmware updates and access to a vibrant community of users. These features make it a reliable option for advanced networking needs, such as running VPNs or managing complex configurations.

Cons: Expensive.

The WRT3200ACM’s premium features come at a higher price point. While it offers exceptional performance, its cost may not fit everyone’s budget. However, for those who demand top-tier capabilities, the investment is worthwhile.

Best Use Case: Power users and tech enthusiasts.

Additional OpenWrt Router Boards to Consider

When exploring OpenWrt router boards, you may find additional options that cater to specific needs. These boards offer unique features and capabilities, making them worth considering for various use cases.

Bananen-Pi BPI-R4

Overview: Affordable Wi-Fi 7 OpenWrt router board with MediaTek MT7988A SoC.

The Banana Pi BPI-R4 stands out as an affordable option for those seeking Wi-Fi 7 technology. It features the MediaTek MT7988A SoC, which enhances its networking performance. This board supports dual-band Wi-Fi, ensuring faster speeds and better connectivity for modern devices. Its compatibility with OpenWrt makes it a reliable choice for users who want to customize their network setup.

Pros: Dual-band Wi-Fi, excellent networking capabilities.

The BPI-R4 delivers strong networking performance. Its dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connections for multiple devices. The MediaTek MT7988A SoC provides efficient processing power, making it suitable for demanding tasks. This board offers excellent value for users who need advanced networking features without overspending.

Cons: Limited availability.

The main drawback of the BPI-R4 is its limited availability. Finding this board in certain regions may be challenging. You may need to explore online platforms or specialized retailers to purchase it.

Best Use Case: DIY enthusiasts and advanced users.

This board is ideal for DIY enthusiasts who enjoy building custom network solutions. Advanced users will appreciate its performance and flexibility. It works well for projects requiring high-speed connectivity and reliable hardware.

GL.iNet Beryl AX

Overview: Pocket-sized Wi-Fi 6 OpenWrt router board.

The GL.iNet Beryl AX is a compact yet powerful router board. It supports Wi-Fi 6, offering faster speeds and improved efficiency for modern networks. Despite its small size, this board delivers impressive performance. Its OpenWrt compatibility allows you to configure it for various applications, such as a travel router or a network-attached storage (NAS) device.

Pros: Portable, high performance, versatile modes (e.g., repeater, NAS).

The Beryl AX excels in portability. You can easily carry it during travel or use it in small spaces. Its high-performance Wi-Fi 6 ensures smooth streaming and gaming experiences. The board’s versatility allows you to use it in different modes, such as a repeater or a NAS, depending on your needs.

Cons: Higher price for its size.

The Beryl AX comes at a higher price compared to other compact router boards. While it offers excellent features, its cost may not suit users looking for budget-friendly options.

Best Use Case: Travelers and small-scale networking.

This board is perfect for travelers who need a reliable and portable router. It also works well for small-scale networking setups, such as home offices or temporary networks. Its compact design and performance make it a practical choice for users on the go.

Banana Pi R2

Overview: Versatile DIY router or NAS box.

The Banana Pi R2 is a versatile board designed for DIY projects. It features four Gigabit LAN ports and a Gigabit WAN port, making it suitable for advanced networking setups. Its OpenWrt compatibility allows you to customize it for various applications, such as a router or a NAS box. This board provides flexibility for users who want to build tailored solutions.

Pros: Four Gigabit LAN ports, Gigabit WAN port, OpenWrt compatibility.

The R2 offers excellent connectivity options. Its multiple Gigabit ports ensure fast and stable wired connections. The board’s OpenWrt compatibility allows you to unlock advanced features and configurations. It is a reliable choice for users who need robust networking capabilities.

Cons: Requires technical expertise for setup.

Setting up the R2 requires technical knowledge. Beginners may find it challenging to configure this board. You may need to invest time in learning about its features and setup process.

Best Use Case: DIY projects and small office networks.

This board is ideal for DIY projects that require advanced networking capabilities. It works well for small office networks where reliable wired connections are essential. Users with technical expertise will benefit the most from its features and flexibility.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison of the top OpenWrt router boards. This table highlights key features, performance metrics, and best use cases for each model.

Key Highlights:

TP-Link Archer C7: This router offers dual-band Wi-Fi and affordability, making it perfect for general home use. Its three adjustable antennas enhance signal coverage, while its USB ports allow you to connect peripherals like printers or external drives.
Linksys WRT3200ACM: With its powerful hardware and advanced OpenWrt support, this router is ideal for demanding tasks. Its dual-partition firmware ensures seamless updates, and its USB 3.0 port supports high-speed data transfers.
Huasifei WE1326: This board combines a quad-core CPU with multiple Gigabit ports, delivering excellent performance for multitasking. It suits users who need reliability and robust processing power for heavy workloads.
GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2: Compact and portable, this router is a budget-friendly option for travelers. Its lightweight design and ease of setup make it a great choice for those new to OpenWrt.
Ubiquiti EdgeRouter X: Designed for wired networking, this router excels in providing stable and fast connections. Its compact design and affordability make it a solid choice for users focused on Ethernet-based setups.

Profi-Tipp: When choosing a router board, consider your specific needs. If you prioritize portability, go for the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2. For high performance, the Linksys WRT3200ACM oder Huasifei WE1326 are excellent options.

Empfehlungen

Best Overall

Huasifei WE1326: Combines performance, features, and OpenWrt compatibility.

Die Huasifei WE1326 stands out as the best overall choice for an OpenWrt router board. Its quad-core CPU ensures smooth multitasking, making it ideal for handling heavy workloads. With 256 MB of RAM, it provides sufficient memory for advanced configurations and reliable performance. The board supports Dual-Band-Wi-Fi, offering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies for stable and fast connections.

This router board also includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, which enhance its versatility for wired setups. Its compatibility with OpenWrt allows you to customize your network to meet specific needs. Whether you require advanced security protocols or efficient bandwidth management, the WE1326 delivers. Its robust hardware and excellent firmware support make it a dependable option for long-term use.

Why Choose Huasifei WE1326?

Quad-core CPU for high performance.

Dual-band Wi-Fi for better connectivity.

OpenWrt compatibility for customization.

If you need a router board that balances performance, features, and value, the Huasifei WE1326 is the perfect choice.

Beste Budget-Option

GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2: Affordable and beginner-friendly.

Die GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 is the best budget-friendly option for those new to OpenWrt. Its compact design and lightweight build make it highly portable, ideal for travelers. Despite its small size, this router board offers reliable performance with a 580 MHz CPU and 128 MB of RAM. It supports Wi-Fi 4, which is sufficient for basic internet tasks like browsing and streaming.

This board includes a single Ethernet port and a USB 2.0 port, adding to its functionality. Its user-friendly interface simplifies the setup process, making it accessible even for beginners. The GL-MT300N-V2 comes pre-installed with OpenWrt, saving you time and effort during installation. Its affordability and ease of use make it a great starting point for exploring OpenWrt router boards.

Why Choose GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2?

Compact and portable design.

Pre-installed OpenWrt for quick setup.

Affordable price for budget-conscious users.

For those seeking an entry-level OpenWrt router board, the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 offers excellent value without compromising on essential features.

Best for Advanced Users

Linksys WRT3200ACM: High-end hardware for demanding tasks.

Die Linksys WRT3200ACM is the top choice for advanced users who demand überragende Leistung. Its 1.8 GHz dual-core processor and 512 MB RAM provide the power needed for bandwidth-intensive applications. This router board excels in multitasking, making it suitable for complex configurations like VPN setups or advanced security protocols.

The WRT3200ACM supports dual-band Wi-Fi, ensuring fast and stable connections across multiple devices. Its USB 3.0 port allows for high-speed data transfers, while its OpenWrt compatibility unlocks a wide range of customization options. Regular firmware updates and a strong community of users further enhance its appeal. Although it comes at a higher price, its premium features justify the investment for tech enthusiasts.

Why Choose Linksys WRT3200ACM?

Powerful hardware for heavy workloads.

Advanced OpenWrt support for customization.

Ideal for demanding applications like VPNs.

If you are a power user or tech enthusiast, the Linksys WRT3200ACM offers unmatched performance and flexibility for your networking needs.

Best for Beginners

TP-Link Archer C7: Easy to set up and reliable for home use.

Die TP-Link Archer C7 is an excellent choice for beginners venturing into the world of OpenWrt router boards. Its user-friendly design ensures a smooth setup process, even for those with minimal technical knowledge. This router board supports dual-band Wi-Fi, operating on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. These bands provide stable and reliable connections for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and online gaming.

One of the standout features of the Archer C7 is its affordability. It offers a balance of performance and cost, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The router includes three external antennas, which enhance signal strength and coverage across your home. This feature ensures that you experience fewer dead zones, even in larger spaces.

The Archer C7 also comes equipped with four Gigabit LAN ports and one Gigabit WAN port. These ports allow you to connect multiple wired devices, such as gaming consoles or smart TVs, for faster and more stable internet speeds. Additionally, the USB 2.0 port enables you to share files or media across your network by connecting external storage devices.

Profi-Tipp: If you’re new to OpenWrt, the Archer C7’s compatibility with the firmware makes it a great starting point. You can easily customize your network settings to suit your needs without feeling overwhelmed.

This openwrt router board is ideal for general home use. Its straightforward setup process, combined with reliable performance, makes it a practical option for families or individuals looking for a dependable router. Whether you’re streaming your favorite shows or working from home, the Archer C7 delivers consistent results without breaking the bank.

The top 5 OpenWrt router boards offer solutions tailored to diverse needs. Whether you prioritize affordability, like the GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2, or high performance, such as the Linksys WRT3200ACM, there is a board for you. Boards like the TP-Link Archer C7 balance cost and features, making them ideal for beginners. OpenWrt compatibility ensures flexibility and long-term usability. Evaluate your requirements—budget, performance, and features—to make the right choice. Explore these boards further to find the perfect fit for your network setup and enjoy enhanced connectivity.