TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router Review: Your Go-Anywhere Internet Lifeline

There’s a unique kind of frustration that sets in when your internet connection falters. For me, it happened during a critical work-from-home week at a rural holiday cottage. The promised “high-speed broadband” turned out to be a temperamental, snail-paced connection that dropped every time the wind blew. Video calls became a series of frozen faces, file uploads timed out, and my productivity plummeted. It was a stark reminder of how dependent we’ve become on a stable connection, and how crippling it is when that digital lifeline is cut. This isn’t just a problem for holidaymakers; it’s a daily reality for those in areas with poor fixed-line infrastructure, for people setting up temporary offices on construction sites, or even for those living in city apartments who need a reliable backup for when their main provider inevitably goes down. The search for a simple, reliable, and portable internet solution is more urgent than ever.

What to Consider Before Buying a 4G Router

A 4G Router is more than just a gadget; it’s a key solution for achieving internet freedom and continuity. Its primary benefit is its ability to tap into the vast and reliable 4G mobile network, converting that signal into a stable Wi-Fi network for your devices. This untethers you from the physical limitations of fibre or ADSL cables, providing a robust connection in places traditional broadband can’t reach. Whether you’re in a caravan, a pop-up shop, a newly rented home waiting for an engineer, or simply need a fail-safe backup for your primary internet, a 4G router provides an immediate and effective solution. It bridges the connectivity gap, ensuring you’re never left offline when you need it most.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing inconsistent or non-existent fixed-line internet. This includes residents in rural or “not-spot” areas, individuals who travel frequently and require a consistent connection for work (like in a campervan or temporary let), or small business owners needing a dependable backup to their main office line to prevent costly downtime. However, it might not be the best primary solution for those with access to high-speed gigabit fibre who engage in heavy-duty data tasks like constant 4K streaming across multiple devices or competitive online gaming, where the absolute lowest latency is critical. For those users, a high-end Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 router connected to a fibre line would be more suitable. The TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router carves out its niche by offering a powerful, accessible solution for those who prioritize availability and reliability over raw, top-tier speed.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Network Compatibility & SIM Type: First and foremost, ensure the router is unlocked and compatible with your chosen mobile network provider. Check the 4G bands it supports against the bands used by your provider for the best performance. The TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router uses a Nano SIM, the current standard, making it easy to find a compatible data plan.
• Performance & Speed (LTE Category): Look for the LTE Category rating, such as “Cat4”. The TP-Link TL-MR105 is a Cat4 device, offering theoretical maximum speeds of 150 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload. This is more than sufficient for HD streaming, video conferencing, and general web browsing, but it’s important to have realistic expectations compared to fibre broadband.
• Wi-Fi Standard & Device Capacity: The router’s Wi-Fi standard determines its local network speed. The TL-MR105 uses Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) at 300 Mbps (N300) on the 2.4 GHz band. While not the latest standard, this is a deliberate choice for compatibility and range, and it’s perfectly adequate for its intended use, supporting up to 32 devices simultaneously.
• Connectivity & Features: Consider the physical ports. Does it have Ethernet ports for wired devices? Can it function as a traditional router if you get a fixed line later (WAN backup)? The inclusion of external antenna ports, as found on the TL-MR105, is a huge plus, allowing you to boost a weak 4G signal with a more powerful external antenna.

Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a 4G router that perfectly matches your specific connectivity needs, providing a reliable bridge to the digital world.

While the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Simplicity in a Box

Unboxing the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router, the first thing we noticed was its clean, minimalist design and compact footprint. In a world of aggressive, multi-antenna gaming routers, its understated white casing is a welcome change, designed to blend into a home or office environment without drawing attention. It feels lightweight yet solid, a testament to TP-Link’s consistent build quality. Inside the box, you get the essentials: the router itself, a power adapter, an RJ45 Ethernet cable, and a quick installation guide. The inclusion of a free SMARTY Data SIM card is a fantastic touch, removing one of the initial hurdles and allowing you to get online almost immediately. There’s no complex assembly; the two detachable 4G antennas screw on effortlessly, and the Nano SIM slot is easily accessible. Our initial impression is one of purposeful simplicity. It’s clear this device isn’t trying to be the fastest or flashiest router on the market; it’s designed to do one job—provide hassle-free internet via 4G—and do it exceptionally well. You can see its full feature set and clean design online.

A Deep Dive into the TP-Link TL-MR105’s Performance

A 4G router lives and dies by its real-world performance. It’s not about theoretical maximums on a spec sheet; it’s about delivering a stable, usable connection when and where you need it most. We put the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router through its paces in several challenging scenarios to see if its promise of simple, reliable connectivity holds up under pressure. From a remote work setup to a family weekend away, here’s our detailed breakdown.

Plug & Play Simplicity: From Box to Broadband in Minutes

TP-Link’s biggest claim for the TL-MR105 is its “Plug & Play” nature, and we were eager to test this. Often, setting up network hardware can involve navigating arcane web interfaces and cryptic settings. We’re happy to report that our experience was the complete opposite and remarkably straightforward. After unboxing and screwing on the two LTE antennas, we inserted the included SMARTY Nano SIM card into the spring-loaded slot on the back. We then plugged in the power adapter, and within about 30 seconds, the status LEDs for Power, Wi-Fi, and Internet lit up, indicating a successful connection to the 4G network. It genuinely was that simple.

For initial management, we connected a laptop to the default Wi-Fi network using the password printed on the sticker underneath the router. From there, you have two options: the traditional web browser interface or TP-Link’s excellent Tether app. We opted for the app, which immediately discovered the router. A simple wizard guided us through changing the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password to something more secure and personal. This mirrors the positive experiences many users report with other TP-Link products, where the Tether app is praised for its intuitive and user-friendly setup process. The entire journey, from opening the box to having a secure, personalised Wi-Fi network running on 4G, took less than five minutes. This ease of setup is a critical feature, making the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router an outstanding choice for those who aren’t tech-savvy and simply want an internet solution that just works.

Real-World 4G LTE Performance: The Lifeline Connection

With the router up and running, we focused on its core function: 4G performance. The TL-MR105 is a Cat4 LTE device, rated for up to 150 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload. Of course, these speeds are heavily dependent on the mobile network’s signal strength and congestion in your area. Our main test location was a semi-rural area known for having a decent, but not perfect, 4G signal (around 2-3 bars on a typical smartphone).

Our initial speed tests were impressive. We consistently achieved download speeds between 35 and 55 Mbps, with upload speeds hovering around 15-20 Mbps. While this might not sound groundbreaking to a city dweller with gigabit fibre, it’s transformative for this location. A single HD Netflix stream requires about 5 Mbps, and a Zoom call needs around 3 Mbps. Our connection was more than capable of handling two simultaneous HD video streams, a video conference, and general web browsing across multiple devices without any buffering or lag. This stability is the key takeaway. The connection remained rock-solid throughout a full workday, something the location’s previous ADSL connection could never manage.

One of the standout features we tested was the external antenna ports. By default, the included antennas do a great job. However, for users in very weak signal areas, the ability to connect a larger, directional outdoor antenna is a game-changer. This transforms the router from a simple indoor device into a powerful receiver capable of pulling in a usable signal from miles away, making it a viable solution for even the most remote locations. This flexibility elevates the TL-MR105 from a mere convenience to a genuine internet lifeline, a feature that truly sets it apart in the budget 4G router category.

N300 WiFi and Device Management: The Heart of the Local Network

Once the 4G signal is captured, the router’s job is to distribute it effectively as Wi-Fi. The TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router uses the single-band 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) standard, offering speeds up to 300 Mbps. This is a pragmatic choice. The 2.4 GHz band offers better range and wall penetration than the 5 GHz band, which is crucial for ensuring coverage from a single point. While it’s more susceptible to interference in crowded apartment buildings, it’s ideal for detached homes, holiday cabins, or temporary offices.

In our testing, the Wi-Fi range was solid, easily covering a 1,500 sq. ft. two-story house with a stable signal. We connected a mix of devices—two laptops, three smartphones, a smart thermostat, and a tablet—and the router handled them all without issue. The 300 Mbps Wi-Fi speed is well-matched to the real-world 4G speeds, ensuring the Wi-Fi itself isn’t a bottleneck. For its intended purpose of general browsing, streaming, and connecting smart home devices, the N300 standard is perfectly sufficient. The ability to handle up to 32 devices means you can connect a whole ecosystem of modern gadgets without worrying about overloading the router.

Beyond connectivity, the TP-Link software offers robust management tools. Through the Tether app, we could easily access Parental Controls to set time limits or block websites for specific devices—a crucial feature for families. The Quality of Service (QoS) feature allowed us to prioritize bandwidth for a specific device, such as a work laptop for an important video call, ensuring it gets the performance it needs. These are features often found on more expensive routers, and their inclusion adds significant value, making it more than just a simple hotspot. If you want a device that offers both simple connectivity and powerful control, it’s worth taking a closer look at what the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router has to offer.

What Other Users Are Saying

While we conduct our own rigorous testing, we always find it valuable to look at the broader user experience. Sifting through feedback on various TP-Link routers reveals some consistent themes that apply well to the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router. A very common point of praise is the sheer ease of setup, particularly for those looking to replace the often-underwhelming routers supplied by their internet service providers. One user, frustrated with their ISP’s hub, noted their new TP-Link router took “5 minutes to install and configure,” transforming a painfully slow connection into one that was incredibly fast and stable.

Another recurring sentiment is the immediate improvement in signal stability and coverage. People frequently describe their old routers creating “dead zones” in their homes, a problem that a well-designed replacement often solves. This aligns with our findings on the TL-MR105’s solid Wi-Fi range. However, it’s also important to note the occasional criticism. Some users, particularly those with very high-speed connections, find that more basic models can become a bottleneck. One user with a fast fibre connection was disappointed when their Wi-Fi speeds dropped after installing a budget router, highlighting the importance of matching the router’s capabilities to your internet plan. For the TL-MR105, this feedback reinforces our verdict: it’s a phenomenal solution for its intended 4G use case, but might not be the right choice to pair with a 900 Mbps fibre line. This balanced view from the community helps confirm that this product excels within its specific niche.

How Does the TP-Link TL-MR105 Compare to the Alternatives?

The TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router excels in its niche of providing simple, reliable 4G-based internet. However, the world of routers is vast, and different needs call for different solutions. Here’s how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.

1. TP-Link Archer BE3600 WiFi 7 Router

The Archer BE3600 is on the absolute cutting edge of networking technology. As a Wi-Fi 7 router, it’s built for multi-gigabit speeds, ultra-low latency, and connecting a dense environment of next-generation devices. It’s designed for users with top-tier fibre optic internet who want to squeeze every last drop of performance for competitive gaming, 8K streaming, and running a home server. Compared to the TL-MR105, it’s a completely different class of device. If you have a gigabit internet connection and need the absolute best performance for your local network, the Archer BE3600 is the choice. If you need internet where no fixed line exists, the TL-MR105 is the clear winner.

2. TP-Link TD-W9970 Wireless VDSL/ADSL Modem Router

The TD-W9970 is a versatile all-in-one solution for those with a traditional telephone line connection (VDSL/ADSL). It combines a modem and a router in one box, simplifying your setup. Interestingly, it also features a USB port that can be used for 4G dongle failover, giving it a backup capability similar to the TL-MR105’s primary function. Someone should choose the TD-W9970 if their main goal is to replace their ISP-provided modem-router for a DSL connection but want the peace of mind of a 4G backup option. The TL-MR105, in contrast, is for users who intend to use 4G as their primary, day-to-day internet source.

3. MERCUSYS MR80X WiFi 6 Router

The MERCUSYS MR80X represents a significant step up in Wi-Fi technology from the TL-MR105, offering dual-band AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly choice for users who have a solid fixed-line internet connection (up to 1 Gbps) and want to upgrade their home Wi-Fi for better performance with modern devices like laptops, smartphones, and game consoles. It provides faster local speeds and better efficiency than the TL-MR105’s Wi-Fi 4. A user would choose the MR80X to improve their existing home broadband Wi-Fi, whereas they would choose the TL-MR105 to create an internet connection from scratch using a 4G SIM card.

Our Final Verdict: Is the TP-Link TL-MR105 Right for You?

After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently say that the TP-Link TL-MR105 N300 WiFi 4G Router is a superb piece of kit that brilliantly executes its core mission. It’s not designed to compete with high-end fibre routers, and it doesn’t try to. Instead, it provides an exceptionally simple, stable, and surprisingly versatile internet solution for anyone underserved by traditional broadband. Its ‘Plug & Play’ setup is genuinely effortless, its 4G performance is reliable, and the inclusion of features like external antenna ports and WAN backup functionality adds a layer of flexibility rarely seen at this price point.

We highly recommend this router for anyone in a rural area, those needing a connection for a caravan or holiday home, small businesses requiring a foolproof backup, or anyone stuck waiting for a fixed-line installation. It provides freedom and peace of mind. While the Wi-Fi 4 standard and lack of a 5 GHz band are limitations on paper, they are sensible trade-offs that don’t detract from its performance in its intended role. If you need a reliable, go-anywhere internet lifeline that just works, this is an outstanding choice. You can check the latest price and get connected today.