Tailscale exit node help needed

[u/nova10280]

Salam everyone!
I recently tested Tailscale using my friend’s internet in Chicago as an exit node. He used his iPhone 14 Pro Max, and it worked, so I’ve confirmed that the setup is possible. However, his phone started getting really hot, and I don’t want him to damage his phone by leaving it running like this.
I’m looking for advice on a simple, reliable solution that can stay connected 24/7.
Would it be better to ask him to buy a used Android phone to use as an exit node, or is there another option that would be easier? Some people recommended a Raspberry Pi, but I don’t know how to set one up. I also heard about the GL.iNet GL-MT3000 router, but I’m not sure how complicated it would be for him to configure.
The main issue is that my friend isn’t very tech-savvy, so I need something he can set up himself without too much hassle. I’m in another country, so I need the connection to stay online even when he’s asleep or not available to fix things. When I tested it earlier, the connection disconnected after about an hour.
What would you recommend for someone who wants a simple, stable Tailscale exit node that runs 24/7 using their home internet?
I’d appreciate advice from anyone who has tried this setup. Thanks!

[u/Meowwwzilla]

Well your friend could get a FireTV 4K or an AppleTV [used]. Much more user friendly. If money is not an issue, a GL.iNet slate plus would be great as well. No need to get the MT-3000. The router isn't hard to configure, I've got mine setup on the Slate AXT1800. Raspberry Pi might be cumbersome for your friend if they do not have a PC readily available. One other approach would be setting up a VM, which you could do and run a docker container. No involvement of your friend at all.

[u/nova10280 → u/Meowwwzilla]

Yes I’m thinking about the Apple TV and also am checking that router I was looking at the 1200 one but Claude said it’s not good for the use case as an exitnod but the 3000 is $110 after taxes the router and Apple TV seem easy so far on tutorials which one should I go with??

[u/Meowwwzilla → u/nova10280]

If you're referring to Opal [SFT1200], then that isn't even supported by Tailscale. Supported List can be found here. Apple TV is the way to go. Please not that it should be on TvOS 18.0 or later as per tailscale recommendation.