This wireless router can’t possibly be good… can it? - Minion Routers
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Promos
Thanks to MANSCAPED for sponsoring today's video. Get 20% Off + Free International Shipping with promo code CIRCUIT or visit manscaped.com Minion Routers. Need I say more? Oh, I do? Well, Linus is here to find out if these reasonably priced and unreasonably cute WiFi routers shaped like your favourite yellow evil-doers are worth gifting to your mom, or if it's actually more trouble than it's worth. Banana! Want us to unbox something? Make a suggestion at lmg.gg ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg ► PRODUCTS WE USE ON THE SHORTCIRCUIT SET: lmg.gg FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Instagram: @shortcircuityt TikTok: @linustech Facebook: @ShortCircuitYT CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:00 We seen it too 0:25 Specs 2:03 Unboxing Bob 3:07 Unboxing Kevin 3:41 Setup 4:42 Sponsor - Manscaped 5:22 Finishing setup 6:19 Speed testing and troubleshooting 9:19 Overall thoughts 10:24 Outro
This video explores two minion themed wireless routers, Bob and Kevin, revealing whether they are a fun novelty or functional networking devices. The host opens with the premise that these devices look cute but may not deliver solid performance, and then dives into a detailed unboxing of the two models. Bob is identified as a Wi-Fi 6 router with a simpler hardware profile, while Kevin is a more capable Wi-Fi 6E tri-band model that includes additional radios and a beefier processor. The setup process is demonstrated using QR codes, and the reviewer notes quirks such as an admin username labeled as Bob and the unusual SSD-like labeling of the user interface. The video then transitions to a quick performance test, comparing speeds, stability, and wall-penetration behavior, while discussing practical concerns such as DNS setup, 2.4 GHz versus 5 GHz/6 GHz band handling, and the overall user experience. Throughout, the host critiques the user interface and setup experience, highlighting issues with band steering and signal pickup patterns, and they weigh the product’s value proposition against its price and intended use as a novelty router for light home use. The sponsor segment for Manscaped interrupts the flow, but the host resumes with a candid verdict: despite their cuteness and design appeal, the minion routers fall short on practical performance, especially in multi-room or wall-separated environments, making them suitable primarily for sheer novelty rather than reliable everyday networking. The video wraps with a clear recommendation to consider more traditional ISP-supplied access points for real performance, while acknowledging that some buyers will appreciate the whimsical aesthetic as a decorative or gift-oriented device. The overall takeaway is that if you prioritize function and robust coverage, these routers are not ideal, but if you want a conversation piece that’s visually entertaining and matches a playful space, they’re worth a look.
Topics · technology · gadgets · home_networking · product_design · reviews
Questions answered
- Are the Minion Routers practical for everyday home networking?
- Based on the video, the Minion Routers are not ideal for robust, multi-room home networking due to weak band switching and inconsistent performance through walls, making them best suited for decorative or novelty use.
- What is the difference between Bob and Kevin?
- Bob is Wi-Fi 6 with a simpler hardware profile, while Kevin is a more powerful Wi-Fi 6E tri-band model with a faster processor and more RAM.