The best router for a wireless connection to your ISP. Best Wi-Fi router

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A wireless router is an indispensable attribute of almost any home, apartment or office. It allows you to connect several devices into a single network and provide them with access to the Internet. Our new rating of the best Wi-Fi routers in 2019-2020 will help you purchase the most optimal device based on your requirements and financial capabilities.

The TOP 10 presents both budget and expensive models with useful additional functions. Thanks to a detailed analysis of each of them, you can easily choose a good quality Wi-Fi router for use at home or at work.

D-link DIR-615S

Our rating opens with a budget home router from D-link. For its price, the device offers a pair of antennas, port and wireless module speeds of up to 100 and 300 Mbit/s, respectively, as well as the 802.11n communication standard at 2.4 GHz. There are no additional functions here, which not all buyers will like. The most annoying feature here is the lack of USB, especially considering the space available to install it. This element alone would not make the cost of a Wi-Fi router significantly higher, but it could provide users with significantly more convenience. However, this does not prevent the D-link DIR-615S from remaining one of the best inexpensive Wi-Fi routers in our rating.

Advantages:

Price
Operation stability
Range
Convenient firmware interface

Flaws:

In wireless mode, the speed is slightly reduced
Missing USB

ZyXEL Keenetic Start

When choosing a good router for your home, you must definitely consider devices from ZyXEL as suitable candidates. This famous brand offers customers very interesting solutions at a fairly low cost. One of these is Keenetic Start. Reviews about the router note its high stability and reliability. When working through wireless modules, the speed is not “cut,” which is an important advantage. Unfortunately, there is no USB port and there is only one antenna. Moreover, the latter is non-removable, and therefore an inexperienced user will not amplify the signal on his own. The need for amplification may well arise, especially if a Wi-Fi router is purchased for a large house or apartment.

Advantages:

Low cost
Operation stability
Easy to set up
User-friendly software

Flaws:

Short signal transmission range
No USB
Just one antenna

D-link DIR-506L

Next up in the ranking is one of the best compact solutions on the market. The D-link DIR-506L Wi-Fi router offers the buyer a fairly impressive list of features at a very attractive price. In particular, you can optionally connect both 3G and LTE modems to it. The security and wireless communication standards here are classic. The latter is represented by 802.11n with a frequency of 2.4 GHz, which is a completely justified solution for its price. Among the pleasant features are the presence of a USB port and a built-in battery, through which you can even charge your smartphone. You should choose this compact router if you travel frequently and need a stable and reliable access point on the go.

Advantages:

Easy to set up
Quality and stability of work
Built-in battery
Support for 3G/4G modems

Flaws:

None

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3

Usually, when buying electronics, a person has to choose only two among the three criteria “beautiful”, “functional” and “inexpensive”. However, Xiaomi constantly violates such features of the modern market, and with its Mi Wi-Fi Router 3 apartment router, the manufacturer again managed to surprise absolutely all of its fans. First of all, it is worth noting, of course, the design. Traditionally, for all Xiaomi brand products it is laconic, but in the case of this model, minimalism can be seen in all elements.

In terms of price-quality ratio, the router from Xiaomi leaves the best impression even after reading the characteristics. There are 4 antennas, support for the 802.11a/b/g/n/acn standard, as well as work with frequencies of 2.5 and 5 GHz. The maximum data transfer speed over the air is more than a gigabit, but via LAN it is only 100 Mbit/s. However, this is not as critical as having only two Ethernets and the absence of any other language in the software other than Chinese.
Advantages:

Price
Decor
Separate antennas for all bands
Convenient mobile application
Functionality

Flaws:

Just a couple of LANs
Built-in USB port is limited in capabilities
The web interface shell is available only in Chinese

ZyXEL Keenetic Extra II

Another representative of the ZyXEL company is a more advanced device for demanding customers. This popular Wi-Fi router for the home has absolutely everything you need, including the ability to simultaneously operate 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies. In terms of the number of additional options, this model surpasses most solutions available on the market at a similar price. So there is SkyDNS and Yandex.DNS, as well as support for Keenetic Plus modules, which opens access to other features.

Real owners of a Wi-Fi router on forums speak extremely positively about it. Separately, users note the presence of a proprietary mobile application for controlling ZyXEL Keenetic Extra II, available for installation on smartphones running iOS and Android. It also couldn’t do without its own file server and USB port, and the presence of 4 antennas at once ensures excellent quality and high signal transmission range.

Advantages:

Design
Number of antennas
Additional options
Radius of action
Operation stability
Availability of USB
Network management using a smartphone or tablet

Flaws:

None

Huawei B315S

If you want to access the Internet not only via cable, but also via SIM cards, then the Huawei B315S router is just perfect for you. The cost of this router is not the lowest, but it is fully justified by its capabilities. There is a USB 2.0 port and connectors for connecting 2 external additional antennas. Wireless modules are represented by the maximum supported standard 801.11n and a frequency of 2.4 GHz. Reviews of the Huawei B315S router note its excellent performance with cards from any cellular operator, as well as high data transfer speeds over 3G and LTE networks. Buyers are offered two color options to choose from – black and white.

Advantages:

Nice appearance
Excellent performance in all Wi-Fi/4G bands
Long range
Operation stability
Possibility of installing additional antennas

Flaws:

Not available for the price

Apple AirPort Express MC414RS

AirPort Express MC414RS from Apple is one of the most reliable Wi-Fi routers from this manufacturer. For a very attractive price, this device offers a chic design, a huge number of functions and stable operation. Among the supported standards, the only one missing here is the new 802.11ac standard, but not everyone needs it today. But the ability to work in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands (and simultaneously) is an important advantage of the router. The router also has additional ports, including not only the now familiar USB, but also a 3.5 mm jack, with which you can listen to music via AirPlay.

Advantages:

Design
Operation stability
Easy to set up
Availability of a powerful transmitter
Availability of 3.5 mm jack for music

Flaws:

Small signal distribution area

ASUS RT-AC66U

Our next representative of the ranking of the best Wi-Fi routers of 2018 is represented by one of the best solutions from ASUS. At its core, the RT-AC66U model is an improved version of another popular router from the company, the name of which had the letter “N” instead of “AC”. Just from this nuance you can understand the key difference between the updated device – support for the 802.11ac standard. The design of the device is similar to most of the company's Wi-Fi routers, aimed at the middle and high consumer segments. All ASUS RT-AC66U connectors are located on the rear panel, and in addition to 4 LAN outputs, there is also a pair of USBs, which significantly expands the functionality. The manufacturer's use of 3 antennas at once guarantees excellent signal quality. There is also support for the 5 GHz frequency, providing high transfer speeds.

Advantages:

Appearance
Position Setting
Intuitive software
Possibilities
Fast and reliable operation

Flaws:

Perceptible heating
Problems with 5 GHz in older revisions

TP-LINK Archer C7

In the router market, TP-LINK is one of the leaders, regularly taking first positions in the number of devices sold. The Archer C7 model once again proves the manufacturer’s ability to create interesting and functional devices. This is a high-speed solution that is perfect for home and office use. At a frequency of 2.4 GHz, the router can output up to 450 Mbit/s, and at 5 GHz the figure rises to 1.3 gigabits. The presence of a USB pair and three removable antennas in the router is also an important advantage. Unfortunately, external modems cannot be connected through the ports available on the device.
Advantages:

Operation stability
Radius of action
Availability of USB ports
Ease of setup

Flaws:

Lack of support for 3G/4G modems

ASUS RT-AC88U

ASUS has always been able to surprise with the design and capabilities of its devices. Everything about the ASUS RT-AC88U is perfect, from its appearance, which has common features with the popular ROG product line, to its characteristics. This router surpasses many of its competitors in terms of signal power and range, which is ensured by support of all modern wireless standards, including 802.11ac, as well as frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz. Some of the router's capabilities may seem redundant at first glance. So the need for gigabit LAN is often justified, but wireless connection speeds over 3 Gbit/s will be unnecessary for many. However, for an office or home, it is better to buy a router with power reserves for many years, and in this case, the RT-AC88U from ASUS is the ideal choice.
Advantages:

Operation speed
Power reserve
Ease of setup
Functional
Number and set of ports

Flaws:

Minimal gaming support WTFast
Firmware dampness
High price

Conclusion

If you want to organize high-quality and reliable access to the Internet at home, in the office, or even on the go, then this TOP router will help you choose the most suitable solution for yourself. Our rating of the best Wi-Fi routers of 2018 for home and apartment includes both expensive models with a huge number of additional functions, and inexpensive options that can be used to connect to the network via a cable or an external USB modem.

People are more dependent on modern technologies than ever before, and routers belong to the category of devices that have become firmly established in our everyday home and work life.

Cable networks today already look like an outdated solution, since a wireless connection not only avoids the headache of laying cables, but also allows you to quickly connect a huge number of devices to the network.

However, with the increasing popularity of wireless routers, the number of these devices has also increased. How to choose a router that best meets your requirements?

We will answer this and other questions regarding choosing a router in our article today, presenting a rating out of 3 the best routers of 2017 up to $100 available today on the Russian market.

What characteristics should you pay attention to before buying a wireless router under $100?

So, the best router for home in 2017 under $100 must be able to encrypt transmitted data, have Ethernet ports and be able to act as a wireless access point.

In addition to the above characteristics, it is very desirable that the purchased router has the following set of characteristics.

Wi-Fi standard: All modern routers support the new Wi-Fi standard called 802.11ac, which has become widely used since 2014. All devices released after 2014 must support it. At the same time, all routers that support 802.11ac can also work with older 802.11n, a, b, g standards.
Minimum speed: Routers show different speeds on different communication bands. It will be very good if your router can show speeds of 300 or more kbps on a 2.4 GHz network, and 1300 or more kbps on a 5 GHz network. Approach these indicators very carefully, since manufacturers often advertise their products with a total speed of two ranges.
Two ranges: It is also very important to have a router that can operate in two bands: the 5 GHz network will operate on the 802.11ac standard, while all other standards will be assigned to the network operating on the 2.4 GHz band. Plus, modern routers can create a large number of SSiD names, thereby “separating” devices running on older communication standards from devices connected via 802.11ac via a 5 GHz network.
USB ports: The presence of USB ports significantly expands the functionality of routers, since printers and scanners can now be connected to them, thereby giving home network users access to these devices. Also, external disk drives can be connected to USB ports, from which you can create a kind of home “cloud” storage (the main thing is to make sure that the USB port has a 3.0 standard).

1. TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750

Best Router 2017 in Every Way

TP-Link has managed to create a great router for under $100. Model TP-Link Archer C7 has everything you need, and is also the fastest router in the price category under $100.

So, what does the TP-Link Archer C7 have to make it into our ranking of the best routers of 2017?

Speed and Range: TP-Link Archer C7 has the fastest speed in its price category with a total throughput of 1750 Mbps. At the same time, for the 2.5 GHz band the speed reaches 450 Mbit/s, while for the 5 GHz network the throughput reaches 1300 Mbit/s. To top it off, this router has great coverage and therefore performs well when playing online games and streaming HD video online. In almost all the tests we conducted on three routers, this model showed only its best side.
Network functions: TP-Link Archer C7 is equipped with two USB ports, which allows you to connect a printer and scanner to the router, thereby making these devices accessible over the network to anyone connected to it. In addition, you can connect an external disk drive to the USB port and share media content with any device connected to the network.
TP-Link Tether App: TP-Link has developed a special Tether program for controlling the router from Android and Apple devices. The software works with all of the company's latest routers. Using this application, you can configure your router in a matter of seconds, as well as monitor connected users. Also, this software allows you to control access and time for a particular site, which is very convenient for parents who want to control their children’s Internet use.

2.Netgear N750

Best N Router 2017

3. Asus RT N66U N900

Best Router for Gaming 2017

Asus managed to create a powerful router N66U, also sold under the name Asus N900, which despite its outstanding characteristics costs less than $100. This router can operate in two bands, and shows good speed when operating in 802.11n mode.

Note that the Asus RT N66U was first presented to the public back in 2012, but to this day it has almost no equal, and is head and shoulders above its direct competitors from other manufacturers.

So, what's so attractive about the Asus RT N66U?

Speed and range: Despite the fact that the RT N66U is a dual-band router, the main trump card of this router is the 2.4 GHz channel. In this range, this model has surpassed all competitors in its price category, and even outperformed some of a higher rank. At close range, the Asus RT N66U was 22% faster than its closest competitor, which was the Belkin N900, but as soon as you moved 20 meters away, the Asus router outperformed the same rival by as much as 60%, which is impressive in itself. In addition, this router is compatible with NVIDIA GameStream technology, allowing users to stream from their Shield devices to any screen connected to their home wireless network.
Network functions: This router is equipped with two USB 2.0 ports, to which you can connect a scanner, printer and make both of these devices accessible over the network. The USB port can also be used to connect an external hard drive or flash drive, thereby creating an internal server for network users.
Asus AiCloud: This convenient program, which is sold complete with any new Asus router, allows the user to always have access to their information. This application links through a web storage service to your home network, allowing the user to access “shared” information directly from their smartphone or the web browser of any computer.

There is a Wi-Fi router in every home. It allows you to get wireless Internet access. Even desktop computers are equipped with Wi-Fi points, which allows you not to stretch wires around the apartment, but to use the Internet from any device, including mobile gadgets. Today we are reviewing the best Wi-Fi routers for the home of the 2017 - 2018 model year. Our top is not a ranking from worst to best models. This is a selection of popular Wi-Fi routers, any of which you can safely buy.

Our rating of the best Wi-Fi routers is divided into three categories: economy, popular and premium. This will allow you to choose a device based not only on technical characteristics, but also on your budget.

1. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the inexpensive class: TP-LINK TL-WR841N - price 1,190 rubles.

When choosing the best Wi-Fi router for your home, you should pay attention to two parameters. On the cost of the device and its functionality. The TP-LINK TL-WR841N router has wide functionality and capabilities, plus an affordable price. The TP-LINK TL-WR841N Wi-Fi router allows you to achieve a high-quality network at home with a high coverage area. Plus, you have the opportunity to organize your own local network with your own virtual servers. Not a bad bonus for a model whose price does not exceed 1,200 rubles.

Let's start with functionality. The best Wi-Fi router for home should provide traffic control and have a parental control option. The TP-LINK TL-WR841N model will appeal to buyers who have children. You can easily limit the amount of traffic and you can set parental controls by blocking access to certain sites. The device supports all modern connection protocols, so there will be no problems connecting it.

Separately, we can note the design of the Wi-Fi router TP-LINK TL-WR841N. The original and stylish design allows you not to hide the device; it will organically fit into any interior. The design provides two installation options. Simply place on a shelf or hang on the wall. All the ventilation holes are on the outside, so even if you hang the TP-LINK TL-WR841N on the wall, it will not get hot.

The manufacturer claims that the Wi-Fi router TP-LINK TL-WR841N is capable of providing speeds of up to 300 MB/s, but in reality, the speed does not exceed 100 MB/s. Even this is quite enough for comfortable surfing the Internet.

Pros:

There are built-in antennas that increase coverage;
Wide functionality, easy setup;
Attractive and original “box” design;
Possibility of parental controls and traffic restrictions.

Minuses:

There is no way to connect a printer, there is no USB connector;
LAN ports at 100 MB/s.

2. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the inexpensive class: D-link DIR-300S - price 1,000 rubles.

In fact, D-link has not released new models of D-link DIR-300S Wi-Fi routers for 10 years. During this time, updated modifications were released. But even such updates make the D-link DIR-300S one of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home. The new D-link DIR-300S boasts an updated design, it has become modern and stylish, and has improved hardware.

The competitive advantage of the D-link DIR-300S home Wi-Fi router is that the manufacturer created the model in collaboration with leading Russian telecom operators. What makes the device the most versatile and in demand on the Russian market. Note that not only the functionality has made the D-link DIR-300S Wi-Fi router popular in our country, but also its modest price, within 1,000 rubles.

Like all modern models of the best Wi-Fi routers, the updated version of D-link DIR-300S has received parental controls and the ability to limit traffic. In addition to the positive qualities, we have identified several negative aspects. Firstly, the manufacturer makes all its devices in a glossy case. It quickly collects dust and shows fingerprints. Secondly, D-link DIR-300S does not allow you to organize a guest zone, so the router is only suitable for home use.

Pros:

The functionality allows you to use the router as a wireless client;
Supports content filtering from the Yandex service;
Affordable price, good price-quality ratio.

Minuses:

The glossy case collects dust and fingerprints are visible;
You cannot organize a guest area.

3. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the middle segment: MikroTik RB951G-2HnD - price 4,600 rubles.

You have already noticed that the cost of MikroTik RB951G-2HnD is much higher than previous competitors. The fact is that the MikroTik RB951G-2HnD device is not only the best Wi-Fi for home, but also one of the best devices with the widest functionality, which allows you to use it for professional tasks. Using the MikroTik RB951G-2HnD Wi-Fi router, you can implement any network-related task. But, if we talk about home use, then it is the broad functionality that makes it not the most attractive device. Difficult to set up and configure according to tasks for an inexperienced user.

Most often, the best Wi-Fi router MikroTik RB951G-2HnD is used not at home, but in the offices of small companies. Suitable for creating a network in small and medium businesses. Built-in functionality allows you to receive and transmit large amounts of data at high speeds. If you are knowledgeable about routers and understand the principle of their operation, then MikroTik RB951G-2HnD is the best Wi-Fi router for home.

Pros:

High transmitter power;
Can be powered not from the network, but using PoE technology;
The router’s functionality is enough to organize a network for 200 users;
The number of WAN ports can be configured.

Minuses:

High price;
To use all the capabilities of the router, you need to have a good understanding of additional scripts.

4. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the middle segment: ZyXEL Keenetic 4G III - price 3,000 rubles.

Judging by customer reviews, the ZyXEL Keenetic 4G III router can easily be called one of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home. The device supports all popular Wi-Fi network protocols. Plus, with the help of ZyXEL Keenetic 4G III you can organize access to the network via 3G and 4G networks, which makes the router universal.

The design of the ZyXEL Keenetic 4G III Wi-Fi router is simple, one might say standard. Classic black case with two antennas. Maximum data transfer speed 300 MB/s. The device has proven itself well in the home Wi-Fi router market. Many additional ports and connectors significantly expand the capabilities of the device and improve its attractiveness compared to competitors.

Pros:

Affordable price in its segment;
Wide functionality;
Fast and easy setup;
Compact sizes.

Minuses:

Not the largest wireless coverage area.

5. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the middle segment: ASUS RT-N56U - price 4,800 rubles.

A distinctive feature of the ASUS RT-N56U Wi-Fi router is its design. It is the style of the case that makes it stand out from its competitors. The case style is “diamond” and looks great in the interior of the apartment. But it is precisely this design that limits the possibility of placing the device; you can no longer hang it on the wall. However, ASUS RT-N56U is the best Wi-Fi router for home. In terms of functionality, it is not inferior to its more famous rivals.

Using the ASUS RT-N56U Wi-Fi router, you will not experience any problems with data transfer; high speed and wide functionality will allow you to create your own home network. Works with all known protocols.

Pros:

Excellent wireless data transfer speed;
Convenient and intuitive interface for self-configuration;
There are two USB ports;
Built-in file server;
Allows you to set up network printing and scanning;
Stylish case design.

Minuses:

Not the most practical design.

6. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the middle segment: ZyXEL Keenetic Viva - price 3,200 rubles.

ZyXEL Keenetic Viva is considered one of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home. The maximum data transfer speed is 300 MB/s, but according to the manufacturer, in fact, this is no more than 100 MB/s. Uses all known communication protocols and supports any type of VPN connection. An additional USB port allows the ZyXEL Keenetic Viva router to distribute not only Wi-Fi, but also mobile 3G-4G Internet.

The classic black case with two antennas fits harmoniously into any interior. The design of the ZyXEL Keenetic Viva Wi-Fi router allows you to hang it on the wall. Wide functionality will provide and cover all household needs, so it’s worth spending a little more money on its purchase, but you won’t experience any problems or feel limitations.

Pros:

Affordable price;
Good price-quality ratio;
Easy to set up and connect to the network;
All signatures on the case are in Russian.

Minuses:

Small coverage area.

7. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the middle segment: TP-LINK Archer C20 - price 2,000 rubles.

TP-LINK Archer C20 dual-band Wi-Fi router with support for all connection protocols. The basic functionality of the model retains the characteristics of previous models; the hardware has changed slightly. TP-LINK Archer C20 is the best Wi-Fi router for the home because it has simple hardware, but at the same time allows you to create a high-quality home network. Average data transfer speed, 100 MB/s.

We will not describe all the characteristics and capabilities of the TP-LINK Archer C20 Wi-Fi router. You can read them in the store. Let’s just add that if you want a simple but functional device for your home with the ability to expand its functionality, then the TP-LINK Archer C20 is exactly the router you were looking for.

Pros:

Supports the latest 802.11ac protocol standard;
It is possible to distribute 3G and LTE mobile Internet;
Wide functionality and simple settings. File server and print server.

Minuses:

Slow USB.

8. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the premium segment: ASUS RT-AC3200 - price 19,000 rubles.

Wi-Fi router ASUS RT-AC3200 is the flagship in the ASUS line of routers. Also, the ASUS RT-AC3200 model can be called a leader among all Wi-Fi routers on the Russian market. If you are looking for the best Wi-Fi router for your home, and the high price is not a problem for you, then just look at the photo of the ASUS RT-AC3200 router. It has six antennas, which provides a huge coverage area and allows data transfer rates of up to 3,200 MB/s. This data alone is enough to fully justify the cost of the model.

Communication in the ASUS RT-AC3200 Wi-Fi router is distributed over several channels. The system selects the most optimized data transfer route, which allows you to achieve the highest speed for each user.

Despite the impressive characteristics and wide functionality, any user can handle setting up the ASUS RT-AC3200. This makes it the best Wi-Fi router.

Pros:

High data transfer speed;
Simultaneous operation in three ranges;
Highest wireless data transfer speed;
Huge coverage area;
Additional technologies.

Minuses:

high price. But it’s worth noting that the ASUS RT-AC3200 router is worth the money they ask for it.

9. Top rating: the best Wi-Fi routers of 2017 - 2018 in the premium segment: ASUS RT-AC87U - price 11,000 rubles.

Wi-Fi router ASUS RT-AC87U has earned its place in the ranking of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home. And it has earned its place with its bold design and wide functionality. Four antennas allow multiple users to surf the Internet at full speed. The maximum data transfer speed is 2,300 MB/s, and the coverage area is 430 square meters. ASUS RT-AC87U is the best Wi-Fi router, not only for home, but also for a cafe or office.

In terms of technical characteristics, the ASUS RT-AC87U router outperforms many competitors. Note that for organizing wireless Internet access in an ordinary apartment, it is too powerful. You shouldn't spend that kind of money. But, if you live in a large house and want all your family members to have high-quality Internet access from anywhere in the house, then the ASUS RT-AC87U Wi-Fi router is exactly the router that is worth buying.

Pros:

Multifunctionality;
Clear software;
Huge coverage area suitable for a large home;
High data transfer speed for all users at the same time.

Minuses:

High price.

The best Wi-Fi router for home should meet all your requirements and fit into your budget. There is no need to buy powerful routers for a small apartment and overpay. It’s better to choose a medium data model; such a Wi-Fi router will completely cover all your needs, but you won’t spend a lot of money.

Hello! I decided to prepare a separate article and talk about choosing the cheapest router. Let's consider the most budget options that are on sale. I think this article will be relevant at least throughout 2017. We will consider inexpensive models, priced up to 15 dollars, 400 UAH, or 1000 rubles. And despite the fact that in 2017 I advised against buying routers without a USB port and support for the 802.11ac standard (Wi-Fi 5GHz), there are situations when it is not possible to buy an expensive router, and you need to save as much as possible. And it’s not uncommon that a router is needed to distribute the Internet to a couple of devices, in a small room, and without a serious load. In this case, there is no point in overpaying for unnecessary features and technologies. The most budget router will be enough.

In this article we will not go into detail about all the technical characteristics and subtleties of choice; I wrote about this in the article to which I gave a link above. Our task is to choose a router whose price will not be more than $15 (+ -). I have already tested most of these routers, and they are now in my collection :). But, I’ll be honest, I don’t have much experience in using an inexpensive router for a long time. I just have a lot of devices in my house, a heavy load, and working through such a router is not entirely correct.

In this price category I found routers from the following manufacturers: TP-Link, Tenda, D-Link, Totolink, Netis. These are the most popular. ASUS or Zyxel do not have such budget models at all. There you will have to increase the purchase budget. If you look at popular online stores, all these budget models are very popular among buyers, judging by the reviews. They collect the most reviews. And this does not mean that there are more problems and breakdowns with them, just because of their price they are more popular. And the reviews there are no worse than for expensive models. Although, reviews of routers are a topic for a separate article.

Budget router for home

The process of choosing and using an inexpensive router has its own nuances and possible problems. Although, all this is not excluded when using expensive models, which cannot always boast of stable operation and quality.

Let us highlight the following points:

Stable operation of the Wi-Fi network and the router as a whole.
Wi-Fi network coverage and connection speed. We know that routers love to slow down the Internet speed. And budget models even more so.
Limited functionality, lack of different functions and technologies. It is clear that when buying a budget model, it will not be stuffed with the latest technologies.
The quality of the router itself, appearance, operating time.

Unstable operation of a cheap router

This is probably the most common problem with cheap models. The fact is that budget devices are built on weak platforms. Weak processors, small amount of RAM. All this can affect the stability of the router. Especially during times of stress. When watching online videos, downloading files, torrents, playing online games, when connecting a large number of devices. If you plan to do everything I just listed, then you might want to consider more expensive router models.

All this manifests itself as a complete freeze of the router, when the Internet starts working only after a reboot, a strong drop in speed and ping, and interruptions in the Wi-Fi network connection. Therefore, if you have many devices, you plan to simultaneously watch videos on several devices, or, even worse, play online games and download large files, you have a Smart TV, then I would not recommend buying the cheapest router model. It’s better to choose another option according to the article.

No one can tell you whether this or that model will work stably. This is almost impossible, since everything depends on a huge number of different factors. And if everything worked great on the most budget models, then why would they make routers that are 10 or more times more expensive?

Wi-Fi network coverage radius and Internet speed

Wi-Fi network coverage is one of the main issues that interests almost everyone in the process of choosing a router. According to my observations, in terms of flatter Wi-Fi network coverage, budget models are not always worse than more expensive ones. As a rule, all these “babies” come with one or two Wi-Fi antennas, but these antennas are powerful. There may also be internal antennas. But the number of antennas has a greater impact on the stability of a Wi-Fi network than on coverage. I think that for a small three-room apartment such a router should be enough. But it's a stretch. Most likely there will be places where there is no Wi-Fi network coverage.

But again, it all depends on the model you choose, on a huge number of external factors, and the location of the router in the house or apartment. Neither I nor anyone else can tell you a specific model that will provide a signal throughout your entire home. There are only guesses and assumptions here.

A few words about Internet speed via Wi-Fi and cable. If your provider gives you 100 Mbit/s, then through the cable from the router you will most likely see about 90 Mbit/s. Maybe all 100. On Wi-Fi, of course, the situation will be different. We know that routers reduce Wi-Fi speeds. This is basically normal. But how much this speed will be reduced depends on many different factors:

The power of the router itself. And we already know that budget models are weak. Therefore, they may cut more speed than more expensive models.
Depending on the type of Internet connection. It is best when the provider uses Dynamic IP (DHCP) technology. Since PPPoE, L2TP, PPTP create additional load on the router.
Also, the speed largely depends on the device you connect to the Internet.
And from a huge number of other external factors: interference, walls, signal level, etc.

Almost all the models that we will consider today operate at a maximum speed of up to 150 Mbit/s. But, there are several models in this price category that can deliver a maximum theoretically possible speed of 300 Mbit/s. Which can also affect how much the router reduces Wi-Fi speed.

Modest technical characteristics and functionality

It's clear. The less we pay, the less we receive. As I wrote above, the budget model will be devoid of all modern technologies. For example, there will definitely not be support for the new 802.11ac standard. And of course, there will be no support for broadcasting Wi-Fi networks at the 5GHz frequency. There will be no USB port, gigabit LAN and WAN ports, and other features. For this price category, this is normal.

As for functionality and settings, even cheap models have almost everything the same as more expensive ones. For example, it is possible to launch a guest Wi-Fi network, there are different modes of operation of the router (repeater, adapter, client, access point), there are parental controls, and a bunch of other settings. So in terms of functionality there are no major differences. Everything, of course, depends on the specific manufacturer and model. The control panel itself, according to my observations, is no different. Only some settings can be cut out, which cannot be there due to the characteristics of the hardware.

Quality, appearance, operating time

If such important points as build quality, the quality of the case itself, the appearance of the router, the presence of different buttons, sizes, etc. are important to you, then inexpensive models lose a little here.

Most of these routers are made in a very compact case. And I agree that the more expensive options certainly look better and cooler. All manufacturers. But as for the quality of plastic and assembly, according to my observations, there are no serious differences. If a company makes road models from good materials and assembles them with high quality, then the budget category does not suffer much here. Everything is on the level.

Of course, the savings are noticeable. And most often it manifests itself in non-removable antennas and the absence of separate buttons (to turn off power, activate WPS, turn off Wi-Fi, reset settings), lack of rubberized legs and wall mounting (but not on all models). Well, sometimes manufacturers do not make 4 LAN ports, as we are used to seeing, but for example 3, 2, or even 1. But again, it’s difficult to fit 4 LAN ports and 1 WAN into such a compact case. But there are exceptions.

I haven’t conducted any tests, and I can’t say how long a budget router will last, or how expensive the model is. But again, according to my observations, cheaper options are more likely to break. Savings on components and power adapters also affect this.

Models of inexpensive Wi-Fi routers for home or apartment

I really don't like recommending specific models. This is completely wrong. Therefore, it’s better not to ask me about this in the comments :)

Below we look at the cheapest routers that can be found on sale in early 2017. I think these models will be relevant for a long time. I have tested and configured almost all the routers that I will write about below. And they all fully correspond to their low price.

Netis WF2411 and other available models from Netis

I have the Netis WF2411 model. This is generally one of the cheapest routers. But I really liked it. Small, interesting and high-quality case, easy setup, Russian language in the control panel. Works well in repeater mode (Wi-Fi network booster). Can be used as an adapter to connect a PC to the Internet via Wi-Fi.

Instructions for setting up Netis WF2411:

Netis has other budget options: Netis WF2411E, Netis WF2411R, Netis WF2419, Netis WF2419E. The last two models will be slightly more expensive. But they have better characteristics. There already a maximum Wi-Fi speed of up to 300 Mbit/s. If possible, it is better to take them.

The most budget routers from TP-Link

At the moment, three models fall within our budget: (most affordable), And . Follow the links to see a detailed review of each model.

Many people have probably heard about the TP-Link TL-WR740N. A very popular and truly popular model. A very popular router, primarily due to its price and technical characteristics.

Instructions for setting up TP-Link TL-WR740N: . In the "TP-Link" section you will find instructions for setting up other models from this manufacturer.

If you can increase your budget a little, I recommend considering the TP-LINK TL-WR841N(ND) model. Also a good and popular router.

Inexpensive home router options from Tenda

I currently have the Tenda N301 model. And I'm also familiar with Tenda N3 (but it is no longer visible for sale). There is also a model Tenda N150, Tenda F3. I can confidently recommend these inexpensive routers. Easy control panel in Russian. Everything is there and everything works.

Instructions for setting up Tenda N301: .

Several models from D-Link

I recently purchased a D-Link DIR-300A model. It fits our budget. A very interesting router with an unusual shape. Normal control panel. True, I don’t really like the settings page on all D-Links. There is also an inexpensive model D-link DIR-300S/A1A, D-Link DIR-615/K.

You can familiarize yourself with the settings using the example of D-Link DIR-300A:

Budget routers Totolink

I recently became acquainted with routers from Totolink. More precisely with one, Totolink N150RT. In this price category there is an even more expensive Totolink N300RT model. The latest model supports Wi-Fi speeds of up to 300 Mbps. This one is clear from the name.

Totolink N150RT is a good device. The N300RT is definitely no worse. Everything is very easy to set up and works without problems. Interesting, small building. Which has all the necessary buttons and ports. There is a button to turn off the power. Which is rare for routers at this price. And there’s a cool way to move the top lid for additional cooling.

conclusions

If your goal when purchasing a router is to save as much as possible, then you can purchase one of the cheapest models from one of the manufacturers. Everything will work, the only question is how. If you are buying a budget router for a huge house and plan to connect a large number of different devices to it and load the network to its fullest, then this is, of course, stupid. The router will most likely just hang and go away after a reboot.

And if you, for example, have a small apartment or a private house, several phones, a tablet, and a computer, you do not play heavy online games, and do not download torrents, then even an inexpensive router will cope with these tasks. As you understand, it is impossible to single out the number of devices or tasks that a budget router can no longer cope with.

You should always focus on the tasks that the router will perform. If, for example, you need to organize shared access to a USB drive, then the routers discussed in this article will not suit you. Because there is no USB port. And you already need to look for the cheapest router with a USB port (if budget is limited). If you need an inexpensive one, then you need to start from models that support work with USB modems and look for the best option among them.

Try to purchase a model that is as expensive as possible based on your budget. It’s just that you’re not buying a router for a month or two. And it needs to work stably for a long time, and to have plenty of power to spare. After all, after a while, you may want to connect some more devices. But the router may no longer cope with them, and you will have to buy a new model. And it turns out that they wanted to save money, but paid several times more.

Updated: 09/16/2018 15:35:10

Expert: Victor Derzhavin

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Wireless Wi-Fi has not been a novelty for anyone for a long time. Internet via Wi-Fi works in many urban public places and in almost every home where the Internet is connected. This availability of wireless technology is provided by special devices - Wi-Fi routers (routers). The current market is replete with various models with a variety of capabilities. The Expertology editors decided to help you understand all this diversity and, with the help of our experts, prepared a rating of the best Wi-Fi routers that are optimally suited for certain conditions.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

The purpose of any router is to connect two or more networks. In our case, we are considering the most common and popular option, when you need to distribute external incoming Internet to a local home or office network.

Incoming connection type

The first and most obvious sign by which you should choose a router is the type of incoming connection. There may be several options here - a cable television network, a wired Ethernet network over a twisted pair cable, a mobile operator network, etc. In most cases, the provider itself rents out or gives as a gift a router of the required type as part of the contract. But such a router does not always satisfy the needs of the consumer, and it often makes sense to buy your own router, which is optimally suited in terms of power, ease of settings, reliability and other parameters.

Wi-Fi standard

Many consumers are unaware that Wi-Fi comes in different forms. This refers to the different Wi-Fi standards that emerged as technology developed. The difference between them is mainly that they operate in different ranges and have different data transfer speed limits. There are many technical nuances in this issue, and it deserves a separate topic. In any case, all standards are backward compatible, that is, older generations will somehow interact with newer ones. The only question is whether such a combination can provide maximum speed. Our experts recommend asking directly at the point of sale about the optimal compatibility of the router you choose with your devices.

Hardware

From a technical point of view, a Wi-Fi router is actually a highly specialized mini-computer. That is, its operation is controlled by the central processor, and it has a certain amount of RAM. Accordingly, if your Internet channel is no more than 50 Mbit/sec and you do not load it “to the full” (continuous downloading of torrents, high-resolution streaming, resource-intensive online games), a router with a 300 MHz processor and RAM may be enough for you 32 MB. Otherwise, a more powerful device will be needed.

Software

Almost any modern Wi-Fi router has built-in software - the so-called firmware. It contains a web interface with a set of tools for configuring the router. The flexibility of settings can vary greatly from model to model. But many settings automatically mean increased complexity of working with the device and the need for a certain level of knowledge. Therefore, if you want to independently understand the parameters and services, but are not an expert in this field, it is better to choose a “simpler” model. This point can also be clarified at the point of sale.

Environmental friendliness

Due to the fact that Wi-Fi networks have become widespread relatively recently, there are still no clear and convincing results of scientific research on the impact of Wi-Fi radiation on human health, and there is a common opinion about their harm. Many manufacturers have met the sentiments of some customers halfway and equipped certain router models with special hardware switches that can be used to regulate the radiation power. Therefore, if this moment is important to you, you should keep in mind that such a possibility exists.

Rating of the best Wi-Fi routers

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
The best inexpensive Wi-Fi routers for home (price up to 2000 rubles)	1		RUB 2,190
	2		2,050 ₽
	3		1 800 ₽
	4		1,530 ₽
The best Wi-Fi routers in terms of price-quality ratio	1		6,990 ₽
	2		7,400 RUR
	3		7,800 RUR
	4		7,260 RUR
	5		6,990 ₽
	6		7,148 RUR
	7		6,850 RUR
	8		2,540 ₽
The best top-level Wi-Fi routers	1		RUB 27,110
	2		11,290 RUR
	3		RUB 14,754
	4		RUB 20,490
The best mobile (pocket) Wi-Fi routers	1		RUB 3,650
	2		1,470 RUR
	3		2 500 ₽

The best inexpensive Wi-Fi routers for home (price up to 2000 rubles)

The first number we will consider is a router produced by the famous Chinese company Xiaomi, known for its high-quality, stylish and, for the most part, inexpensive smartphones.

This model covers all current Wi-Fi standards - 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and can operate on both frequencies used in this technology - 2.4 and 5 GHz. The highest possible connection speed is 867 Mbps. There is support for MIMO technology, in which the channel capacity is expanded due to the action of several antennas.

The hardware features of the router are as follows. In addition to 128 MB of RAM, there is also flash memory of the same capacity. Due to this, the router can simultaneously perform the functions of a compact file server. Transmission and reception power is provided by four non-removable 6 dBi antennas. Two 100 Mbit/s LAN ports are used for switching. There is also a USB 2.0 Type A socket. The device dimensions are 195x24x131 mm, weight is 220 g.

In terms of software, the router has the following built-in functions: firewall, data encryption using WEP, WPA and WPA2 algorithms, DHCP server, NAT, Web interface. The downside is that right out of the box the interface will only be in Chinese, and to install at least English you will need to install a plugin.

Advantages

simplicity and accessibility of settings;
possibility of connecting a hard drive;
elegant design;
speed of work;

Flaws

no means of mounting on the wall;
web interface in Chinese.

The coverage of wireless communication standards in this model is exactly the same as in the previous one, that is, as wide as possible. But the maximum connection speed is two times lower - 433 Mbit/s. The transmitter power is 20 dBM. WDS technology is supported, allowing you to combine several access points wirelessly, thereby expanding the Wi-Fi coverage area wirelessly.

The wired switching capabilities of this router are wider than those of the previous model - 4 LAN ports of 100 Mbit/s. Three non-removable external antennas are installed. The overall dimensions of the device are 230x35x144 mm.

The router can operate in bridge mode, establish a guest network, and perform static routing. It also contains the following functional software tools: firewall, NAT, SPI, DHCP server, demilitarized zone, VPN. Dynamic DNS, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec are supported. Data encryption is carried out using WEP, WPA or WPA2 algorithms.

Access to the entire software part is provided through a fairly convenient web interface. There is also a separate application for wearable gadgets to remotely configure the router from a wearable gadget.

Advantages

transmitter power;
pleasant appearance;
WDS technology;
ease of settings;

Flaws

hesitantly shoots through the walls.

In terms of coverage of wireless communication standards, this router has a serious limitation - it only works using the 802.11n standard with a frequency of 2.4 GHz, and this is noticeably inferior to the two previous models. The upper limit of connection speed is 300 Mbit/s, there is support for MIMO.

This model contains 64 MB of RAM memory and in addition 8 MB of flash memory. There are four 100 Mbit/s LAN ports, similar to the previous model. Two fixed external 5 dBi antennas are installed. There is a physical switch on the back of the case that switches the device into router, adapter, amplifier, or access point mode. Dimensions of the router case - 140x30x103 mm, total weight - 180 g.

The software part contains a firewall, NAT, SPI, DHCP server, demilitarized zone function, VPN with pass through support, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec, dynamic routing. Implemented support for Dynamic DNS, Telnet, SkyDNS, Yandex.DNS. Data encryption protocols - WEP, WPA, WPA2 and 802.1x. Link Duo and TVport technologies are built-in.

In addition to the built-in web interface, a mobile application for configuration in Android and iOS has also been released for this model.

Advantages

hardware mode switch;
reliability;
application for wearable gadgets;
value for money;
compact;

Flaws

Works only on one Wi-Fi standard.

Coverage of Wi-Fi standards, connection speed limits, information security protocols, amounts of RAM and flash memory - all these characteristics are completely similar to the previous model reviewed.

The switch consists of three LAN ports of 100 Mbit/s. Two powerful non-removable antennas are installed, which are actually printed circuit boards along the entire plane inside the cases. The dimensions of the device are 107x26x91 mm, weight - 132 g.

The router can operate in repeater mode, set up a guest network, and connect to several providers at once using the Multi-WAN function. In terms of the availability of functional tools, there is practically the same set as the previous model: firewall, NAT, SPI, DHCP server, VPN with pass through support and 10 tunnels, Dynamic DNS, PPTP, IPSec, Telnet support, SkyDNS and Yandex .DNS.

A separate mobile application has also been released for this model, with which the router can be configured directly from a smartphone without the need to connect to a computer.

Advantages

spectacular appearance;
mobile application for direct configuration;
regular and convenient firmware updates;
Multi-WAN function (connection of several providers);
powerful antennas;

Flaws

works within the same Wi-Fi standard.

The best Wi-Fi routers in terms of price-quality ratio

Now we move on to the largest group of the rating, where we will consider as many as eight models, which Expertology experts considered optimal both in terms of functionality and quality, and in terms of cost.

Let's start with an interesting model from the well-known and reputable Taiwanese manufacturer ASUS.

The router covers all current wireless communication standards and both used bands - 2.4 and 5 GHz. Moreover, it can operate in two ranges simultaneously. Support for MIMO technology has been implemented. Wireless connection speed is up to 1750 Mbit/s.

Equipped with 256 MB of RAM, there is also 128 MB of flash memory. The switch includes four high-speed LAN ports of 1000 Mbit/s. There are two USB 2.0 Type A connectors for connecting peripherals or direct connection to a computer. Three external antennas (removable) are installed. In addition to wired Internet, you can connect a 3G modem or LTE modem to the router. The device body dimensions are 207x36x149 mm, total weight is 450 g.

The router can also operate in bridge or repeater mode and establish a guest network. The standard set of functions and tools includes FireWall, NAT, SPI, DHCP server, DMZ, VPN, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec. Dynamic DNS and WDS technology are supported. Data encryption using WEP, WPA and WPA2 protocols. Advanced features include file server, UPnP AV server and FTP server.

Advantages

simultaneous operation in two ranges;
convenient admin panel;
advanced features;
ability to connect a 3G or LTE modem;
high-speed LAN ports;

Flaws

instances of freezing are noticeable.

The first thing we draw your attention to is that this model does not have external antennas, only two internal ones. Accordingly, the router does not have strongly protruding elements and is convenient to place. Covers all existing Wi-Fi standards and both bands. Has built-in support for 3G, LTE, MIMO technology. Can connect at speeds up to 1300 Mbps.

The switch consists of four high-speed LAN ports of 1000 Mbit/s. There is a USB 2.0 Type A connector, which serves as an interface for the built-in print server. The communication capabilities of the router are expanded by two SMA sockets for connecting external antennas for 3G and LTE standards, as well as an RJ-11 connector for an analog phone. Device dimensions - 226x163x52 mm, weight - 370 g.

The software tools for this model are as follows: FireWall, NAT, DHCP server, IPv6 support and Dynamic DNS. Encryption using three main protocols. Extended additional function – file server.

Advantages

many interfaces;
ease of placement due to the absence of non-removable external antennas;
according to user reviews - incredible capabilities for receiving LTE in hard-to-reach places;
quality and stability of communication;
ease of setup;

Flaws

with connected external antennas it becomes very large

The third number in this rating group is a router produced by the Latvian company MikroTik. Devices from this manufacturer are known for their reliability, high efficiency and almost unprecedented flexibility of settings. Even externally, this model looks solid and “grown-up”, reminiscent of the network equipment of modern data centers. Its dimensions are 214x44.45x86 mm, and its weight is 230 g.

The router operates according to the 802.11n standard at a frequency of 2.4 GHz with a maximum connection speed over the air of 300 Mbit/s. There is built-in MIMO support. Transmitter power - 30 dBM. The router can also operate in bridge mode.

This model is characterized by a rather bright hardware and electronic part. All calculations are controlled by the Atheros AR9344 central processor at 600 MHz. 128 MB of NAND RAM memory and built-in memory of the same volume are installed. The temperature of the processor and printed circuit board is monitored by special sensors. The switching part consists of five 10/100 Ethernet LAN ports and another five high-speed 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports. On port 10, the router can supply PoE power. There are also an SFP port and a microUSB socket. The wireless signal goes through two non-removable 4 dBi antennas. The device is equipped with an LCD display on the top panel to display important information.

The software part also has quite wide functionality. There is a full set of the most popular functions and tools: FireWall, NAT, DHCP server, VPN with tunnel support, SNMP support, etc. Information is protected by encryption using four common protocols. Two RIP protocols v1 and v2 for dynamic routing.

The web interface gives access to the finest settings, which, with certain qualifications, allow you to “squeeze” maximum performance from the router. Our experts consciously identified this circumstance as both an advantage and a disadvantage, since this is exactly how the opinions of real users were polarized.

Advantages

flexible detailed settings;
“professional” appearance;
wireless communication range;
stability of work;
rich functionality;
many ports;

Flaws

complex detailed settings.

Next, in the rating of the best routers from Expertology, we will look at a model from a manufacturer that is well known to the vast majority of users. Routers of this brand have received wide recognition precisely for their affordability with high-quality technical characteristics.

This model covers all Wi-Fi standards and both frequencies. It can distribute the Internet in two bands simultaneously. The peculiarity of this model is the high maximum connection speed over the air - 2532 Mbit/s. MIMO supported. Transmitter power - 15 dBM. The router can also be switched to repeater or bridge mode.

The amount of RAM memory in this model is exactly the same as the previous one - 128 MB, but the built-in memory is much less - 16 MB. The switch includes four high-speed gigabit LAN ports. There is one USB Type A 2.0 and 3.0 interface. Four 5 dBi non-removable antennas are installed. Overall dimensions of the device - 259x46x184 mm, weight - 565 g.

The software and functional part of the device includes the following tools and functions: encryption using four common protocols; guest network; firewall; NAT; additional checking of SPI packets; DHCP server; DMZ; static routing; dynamic routing over four protocols (IGMP and RIP, two versions); VPN with advanced features; support for IPSec, IPv6, Dynamic DNS and Telnet. Additional advanced features include: FTP server, file server, UPnP AV server, print server, SafeDNS and Yandex.DNS content filtering services.

Advantages

wide functionality;
spectacular design;
a fairly powerful transmitter;
connection speed;
synchronous operation at both frequencies;

Flaws

Occasionally there are freezes when logging into the admin area.

Now, as part of the Expertology rating, we’ll look at another router that has impressed many users with its wide capabilities and other positive qualities. The manufacturer of the model is the well-known and reputable company ZYXEL.

Like the previous model, this router works according to all Wi-Fi standards, including the ability to function synchronously in both bands. Can connect over the air at speeds up to 1267 Mbps. Supports operation in bridge and repeater modes, MIMO technology.

The router has 256MB of RAM and 128MB of built-in flash memory. The switch consists of four high-speed gigabit ports. There are two USB sockets – standards 2.0 and 3.0. Four non-removable 5 dBi antennas are installed. You can connect a 3G or LTE cellular modem to the router as an Internet source. An important advantage of this model is the presence of a combined SFP\RJ-45 port, through which you can connect a fiber optic cable. There are two hardware buttons on the case, for which you can assign any function. Device dimensions - 214x33x154 mm, weight - 488 g.

In terms of software and functionality, the capabilities of this model are as wide as the previous one. There is a built-in print server, data encryption for all common protocols, a protective firewall, comprehensive VPN support with ten tunnels, direct access via Telnet for fine-tuning and much more. An important additional feature is the ability to connect external modules that expand functionality, for example Keenetic Plus DSL.

Advantages

simple settings;
futuristic design;
hardware customizable buttons;
fiber optic port;
possibility of connecting additional modules;
wide functionality;

Flaws

no significant deficiencies were identified.

The device operates on all Wi-Fi standards and on both frequencies; it can operate in parallel in two bands. The maximum connection speed “over the air” is 1167 Mbit/s.

The switch consists of four high-speed gigabit ports. There is also a USB 3.0 Type A connector. Signal transmission and coverage are provided by two powerful non-removable antennas. In addition to operational memory, the device also contains built-in flash memory. Router case dimensions - 256x40x184 mm, weight - 501 g.

The software part of the router contains a wide range of functions and capabilities. This is data encryption using the three most common protocols with a 64- or 128-bit key; protective firewall; DHCP server; NAT; SPI and so on. There are useful additional functions, such as the ability to work as a file server, as well as FTP and UPnP AV servers, setting up a guest network, parental controls, Beamforming technology (using wave interference to amplify and stabilize the signal).

This model comes with an extended manufacturer's warranty of 36 months.

Advantages

transmitter power;
attractive design;
speed of work with external storage;
connection quality;
Beamforming technology;

Flaws

The firmware is faulty, it is impossible to install an alternative one.

Like a number of previous models, this router works on all standards and on all bands, including synchronously on two frequencies. The Wi-Fi connection speed limit is 1750 Mbit/s.

The RAM memory capacity in this model is 256MB, and there is additionally 128MB of built-in memory. Switching capabilities are similar to the previous model - four high-speed gigabit ports. Additional interfaces – two USB sockets of standards 2.0 and 3.0 (Type A). The signal is transmitted through three external antennas. Dimensions of the device without antennas - 285x62x183mm, total weight - 709 g.

The software functionality of this model is largely similar to the previous version. There is a set of required functions and tools - FireWall, network address translation (NAT) service, support for “long” IP addresses, additional inspection of SPI packets, encryption using three protocols, guest network, DHCP server, DMZ, static and dynamic routing, VPN with all the possibilities. There are also additional functions - file server, print server, UPnP AV server.

Advantages

flexible settings;
convenient mobile application;
easily holds more than ten connections over the air;
communication speed;
stability;

Flaws

Slow interaction with external hard drive.

And at the end of the group of rating the optimal Wi-Fi routers, we will look at a model from the famous Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi. This is one of the most striking solutions in this review group from Expertology, since functionality, quality and a number of other positive qualities significantly outweigh the already affordable cost.

Similarly to a number of previous models, the router works on all Wi-Fi standards and on both frequencies, and can simultaneously distribute the Internet in two bands. Due to this coverage, there is no effect of speed reduction when interacting with devices containing Wi-Fi modules of different generations. Connects over the air at speeds up to 1167 Mbit/s. Built-in support for MIMO technology.

In terms of electronics performance, this is perhaps the most powerful model in the group. The computing center is a dual-core (MIPS) microprocessor platform MediaTek MT7621, operating in four threads at a frequency of 880 MHz. RAM memory - 256MB, built-in permanent memory - 128MB.

The switch consists of two high-speed gigabit ports for the local network. To connect peripherals, use the USB Type A 3.0 interface. The signal goes through four non-removable antennas. The device is extremely compact and lightweight, suitable for such capabilities: dimensions - 195x24x131mm, weight - 216 g.

In terms of software, this model is not inferior to most previous ones. It has all the necessary functions and tools: FireWall, NAT packet redirection, encryption using three main protocols, DHCP server, etc. There are also additional functions - FTP server and file server. Separately, it is worth emphasizing an important advantage - the signal strength can be adjusted for each channel separately. In addition to the device itself, a multifunctional mobile application for configuration and management has been released.

The only noticeable (but solvable) disadvantage of this model is that out of the box you get a web interface only in Chinese. But the problem can be quite easily solved by installing alternative firmware, especially since the router was initially adapted to expand the software functionality.

Advantages

transmitter power;
Exquisite slim design;
extremely affordable price taking into account functionality;
you can adjust the signal strength for each channel;
availability of flashing;
connection quality;
processor performance;

Flaws

Chinese firmware.

The best top-level Wi-Fi routers

Now we move on to an equally interesting group in our rating - top-level Wi-Fi routers, characterized by the highest performance, advanced functionality, the presence of useful additional functions and generally higher quality and stability of operation. Our experts identified four models from different brands - NETGEAR, ASUS, TP-LINK and Apple.

Let's start right away with the most powerful, productive and multifunctional model produced by the American company NETGEAR. This is the most expensive router among the top devices selected by our experts, but even a quick glance at its characteristics is enough to realize that this machine is definitely worth the money.

When planning the installation of a router, you should take into account its very impressive physical parameters: dimensions - 316x74x264 mm, weight - 1967. In addition to four internal antennas, the device also contains four rather massive non-removable external antennas. The antennas are active, that is, they are capable of independently amplifying their own signal and eliminating interference from the motherboard.

The router covers all Wi-Fi communication standards existing today and both frequencies used by this technology. It can simultaneously distribute the Internet in both bands. Supports advanced MU-MIMO technology, which reduces latency and allows simultaneous streaming to multiple devices.

This model is characterized by an almost unprecedented maximum connection speed over the air - 5332 Mbit/s. This speed is achieved through a combination of coverage of three bands (Tri-Band) and broadcasting in four streams simultaneously. The patented Smart Connect technology allows you to automatically make an intelligent selection of the optimal range for each device connected over the air.

The center of all the electronics of the router is a powerful 2-core processor with a frequency of 1.4 GHz. Another important factor for exceptional operating speed is the increased amount of RAM memory - 512 MB. There is also a built-in 128 MB permanent memory. The switch consists of six high-speed gigabit ports. There is a built-in ability to aggregate two ports to further increase the speed of wired broadcasting. To connect additional devices, use two USB Type A ports of generations 2.0 and 3.0. The incoming connection can be digital telephony - the router supports ADSL and ADSL2+ technologies. Built-in print server function.

In terms of software, the router provides the user with a wide selection of tools and functions, which are repeatedly listed above in the descriptions of other models. Some functions may vary depending on modifications, and this point will need to be clarified at the point of sale.

Advantages

connection stability;
design;
active antennas;
expanded RAM;
powerful processor;
intelligent selection of the optimal range for each device;
coverage area;
connection speed;

Flaws

high price.

The second item in the top routers rating group is a high-performance model from ASUS. This device is significantly inferior in its characteristics to the “monster” from NETGEAR described above, but by definition, few can compete with it, so this is not a disadvantage. The model is noticeably smaller and lighter than the previous one: dimensions - 290x48x168 mm, weight - 747 g.

The router operates on all existing standards and frequencies, can broadcast synchronously in two bands, and supports MIMO. It can connect over the air at speeds up to 2334 Mbit/s. Equipped with RAM memory of 256 MB. Broadcasting occurs through four removable antennas. The switch includes four high-speed gigabit LAN ports. Incoming connections – wired WAN port and support for 3G or LTE modem (connection via USB). There are two USB Type A interfaces, generations 2.0 and 3.0. There is a built-in print server function with USB connection.

The software and functionality of the router is as follows. In addition to the router function, the device can also operate in bridge mode. It is possible to provide guest access with a time limit and parental controls. VPN function with comprehensive support for features (tunnels, OpenVPN client, PPTP VPN server, etc.). Data protection is provided by 64- and 128-bit encryption using any of the three most common protocols. There is a set of other important functions - FireWall, NAT, etc.

In this model, the manufacturer places a serious emphasis on security and protection against unauthorized access - intrusion detection, repelling DoS attacks, etc.

Advantages

information security and protection from attacks;
design;
connection speed and stability;
intuitive interface;

Flaws

often reaches extreme temperatures.

The next position in this rating group is a powerful multifunctional tri-band router from the world-famous Chinese brand TP-LINK. The device is made in a spectacular futuristic design, body dimensions - 200x39x200mm.

Similar to previous models, this router covers all communication standards and both frequencies used in Wi-Fi technology. Capable of broadcasting synchronously in three bands and connecting with devices over the air at speeds up to 3200 Mbit/s. A strong signal is provided by a powerful 20 dBM transmitter and six high-performance non-removable external antennas.

The router's electronics are controlled by a powerful 1 GHz central processor and three additional coprocessors. This combination ensures stable operation of many connections without interruptions or delays. The switch includes four high-speed gigabit ports. Additional interfaces – USB Type A standards 2.0 and 3.0.

The software part of the router includes all the most popular functions, tools and services: data encryption using three common protocols, guest connection with a time limit, FireWall, NAT packet redirection, intrusion tracking, DHCP server, demilitarized zone, static and dynamic routing, support for “long” IP addresses, VPN service with ten tunnels and pass through support, L2TP and IPSec support. Advanced features include FTP service, file server and UPnP AV server.

The device uses innovative Smart Connect technology, which intelligently selects the optimal channel and mode for each device, depending on the characteristics of the third-party Wi-Fi module, thereby optimally distributing the load on the network and ensuring stable, uninterrupted communication.

Advantages

connection speed;
design;
wide coverage;
communication power and stability;

Flaws

not noted.

And at the end of the rating-review of top routers from Expertology, we will look at something unusual. This is a router manufactured by the legendary company Apple. It is made in an original design in the form of a “capsule” with dimensions of 98x168x98 mm and a weight of 1480 g. But appearance is not the main quality of the device, since the router is characterized by outstanding performance, power and other properties, which we will consider in more detail.

The router works, as expected, on all standards and frequencies, and can operate in two bands in parallel. It can connect to devices over the air at speeds of up to 1300 Mbit/s. A high-power transmitter is used - 32 dBM, which provides a wide coverage area.

The switch includes three high-speed Gigabit ports, there is an additional USB 2.0 Type A interface. Inside there is a stationary hard drive with a capacity of 2048 GB, which is used for a file server and home cloud storage.

In terms of software, this model is in no way inferior to others in the group. There is a built-in print server function, the ability for guest connections with appropriate restrictions, FireWall, NAT packet redirection, full VPN support, data encryption using four protocols,

To configure the router, you can use the proprietary AirPort Utility.

Advantages

original design;
renowned brand;
coverage area;
home cloud storage;
speed and stability of communication;
built-in hard drive;

Flaws

no pronounced deficiencies were noted.

The best mobile (pocket) Wi-Fi routers

And now we move on to the final group of devices in our rating - these are miniature routers that are convenient to use when moving frequently or even while on the go.

Let's first consider an interesting mobile router produced by the Chinese company Huawei, well known for its high-quality and inexpensive telecommunications equipment. Device dimensions - 97x17x58 mm, weight - 110 g.

The router is optimized for receiving and distributing the Internet via a mobile operator SIM card using 4G technology, but it also has 3G support. Wireless communication (distribution) is carried out using the Wi-Fi 802.11n standard at two frequencies used in the technology. Connection to local devices over the air can be made at speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s.

The actual reception/transmission speeds are as follows. The reception speed limit for 3G is 42.2 Mbit/s, for 4G - up to 150 Mbit/s. The upload speed limit for 3G is 5.76 Mbit/s, for 4G - 50 Mbit/s.

The hardware of the router is characterized by very impressive characteristics, which in some places are in no way inferior to stationary models. So, RAM memory is installed here as much as 128 MB and the same amount of internal memory. You can add memory using a MicroSD card - the router can act as a file server. The built-in 1500 mAh battery provides battery life for up to six hours. The case has two TS-9 sockets for connecting external antennas.

The router can also operate in repeater mode, has a built-in DHCP server function, and provides encryption using three main protocols.

The manufacturer's warranty for this model is 36 months.

Advantages

compactness;
can be configured to receive only 3G;
mains power during operation;
convenient web interface;
autonomy;

Flaws

discrepancy between the declared connection speed and the actual one.

Next in the group of mobile Wi-Fi routers ratings is an interesting model from D-LINK. Despite all the “pocketability” of the device, the router is equipped with a number of hardware interfaces that significantly expand its capabilities. Router dimensions - 103x22x80 mm, weight - 125 g.

The device operates within the Wi-Fi 802.11n standard at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. Can connect to local devices over the air at speeds up to 150 Mbps. The router is capable of functioning as an access point, wireless repeater and network file storage.

This model, like the previous one, supports two high-speed mobile communication technologies – 3G and LTE. Unlike the Huawei router described above, here we have a hardware internal LAN port of 100 Mbit/s. There is also a USB 2.0 Type A interface.

The software and functional capabilities of this pocket model are quite comparable with good stationary options. So, here we have encryption using three protocols, NAT packet redirection, intrusion tracking, the ability to set up a guest connection with restrictions, UPnP AV server, FireWall, dynamic routing, comprehensive VPN support, DHCP server.

This model is also characterized by decent autonomy thanks to a capacious Pentax D-L17 battery with a significant resource.

Advantages

autonomy;
connection stability;
ease of settings;
hardware LAN port;

Flaws

there is no support for alternative firmware.

The model is optimized for Internet reception in LTE mobile networks, but also supports 3G, EDGE, GPRS, GSM and HSPA+ networks. In fact, this device is a modem with a built-in function for distributing the Internet via Wi-Fi.

Connects to a computer via a USB interface, power is also supplied via USB. There is a connector for connecting an external antenna. The capabilities of the modem-router allow you to connect up to ten devices to it over the air at the same time. There is a slot for a microSD memory card up to 32 GB.

The actual speed characteristics are as follows. Reception speed limit is 42.7 Mb/s for 3g, 150 Mb/s for LTE, 236.8 Kb/s for 2g. The upload speed limit is 5.72 Mb/s for 3g and 50 Mb/s for LTE.

Advantages

microscopic dimensions;
wide support for networks from 2g to LTE;
ease of use;

Flaws

limited functionality.

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.