These days, no matter where you go, the first thing most of us look for is a Wi-Fi connection. This Wi-Fi connection that we find to be so important is provided by a router, which makes a router one of the most widely used devices of the present time. If you, too, are looking for one yourself, then allow this article to serve as your guide in the world of routers.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Routers
Comparison Chart of the Best Routers
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What is a Router and What Does a Router Do?
To put it in the simplest terms, a router is basically a piece of network hardware. It is a device that allows your personal devices, like your phone or computer, to connect to the internet. This simple device serves to provide many functions, and a basic internet connection is just one of them.
A router is also the first line of security that you are provided with from intrusion into your own network. Allowing your router to work on its highest level of security is definitely one of the best ways to keep all your devices protected from any sort of attack.
A router is designed to pick up information from a number of different networks and then ultimately deliver it to a number of different devices. It assigns a local IP address to every device that it connects to, and while it functions, it ensures that all the data packets are delivered to the right IP address. It works similar to a courier system.
What is the Difference Between a Router and a Modem?
The function of a modem and router may be similar in terms of providing an internet connection. Some modems even come with a built-in router, but these two are very different devices with different functions and purposes. But it is very easy to get confused between the two. So here’s a little insight on each, so you understand the difference between them better.
Let’s say you get an internet connection from an internet service provider. In order to connect your computer to the internet, you will need a modem. So with a modem, you get a single device connected to the internet. But what if you have multiple devices and you need to connect them all to the internet?
That is what we have a router for. While the modem will allow you to connect a single device to the internet, the router connects to many. It connects to the modem on one end, and your personal devices on the other. It receives data packets from the modem and transfers it to the right device. And it works the other way round as well.
So modem and router are two devices that are capable of functioning individually, but wouldn’t be as functional. Without a router, a modem can’t connect to multiple devices, and without a modem, a router has no internet connection.
What to Look for When Buying a Router?
Now that you know what a router really is and how it is different from a modem, it is time to talk about the process of picking one. Picking the right router for yourself is as simple as any other product. You just need to know the right aspects to consider. And in case you are not familiar with them, the most important ones have been listed below.
Good Speed
If you start by cutting down your options to only those units that provide good speed, your chances of going wrong with your choice are incredibly reduced. Speed stands to be one of the most important aspects that should never be overlooked.
Most of the modern units that you come across all offer undeniably good speed, but you need to remember there is always one that is better than the rest.
Go Dual Band or Higher
While those without the technical knowledge of the working of a router won’t get this, it is still important to consider a unit that is at least dual-band or higher. A dual-band router supports frequencies of 2.4GHz as well as 5GHz. Basically, this means that it provides an overall better performance than units that are lower than a dual-band. Since the 5GHz band doesn’t go through any sort of interference from other devices, one would find it to be less crowded and better functioning.
Wider Range
Unless you are okay with your phone being disconnected from the Wi-Fi as soon as you walk out of the room where the router is placed, we suggest that you invest in a unit that provides a good range. There is no ideal range as the needs of users varies from one to another. But a good range would be one that covers at least the area of one’s house.
Quick Take - Best Routers
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best routers:
Review of the Best Routers
Now to the part that we are really here for. What are the best routers that one can consider? Well, to begin with, there are numerous products available in the market, but not all of them may meet your needs. So we’ve narrowed them down to the absolute best ones so you may easily pick one for yourself.
Best Overall:
TP-Link AC1750
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The excellence of this product speaks for itself, but if one still needs confirmation, user reviews will provide all they need to know. Those who have recently invested in this and tried its functionality all find nothing to say about it but good words. They find it to be an outstanding piece that performs way beyond expectations.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is true that this unit provides plenty of features for its user but what really impresses us is its outstanding connectivity. The ability to connect with up to 50 devices at once is not something that a lot of routers offer. In fact, most of the standard units don’t even offer half that number, which is why this is a winner.
Who Will Use This Most
Like we just said, this unit provides the ideal connectivity for a greater number of people. This makes it ideal for a bigger set-up, such as an office where a great number of people require a connection. Since it can accommodate up to 50 connections, no one would be left out.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is probably one of the best routers that you can invest in. If you are looking to buy a new one, then this is it. If you already have one, then we’re sure this would make the perfect upgrade for you, no matter what sort of set up it is for. From a house to a home, it will be sure to provide the perfect connection.
Runner-up:
TP-Link AC2300
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The performance of the unit without the firmware update may not be the best, but after the firmware was updated, it performed outstandingly, with no complaints at all. That’s not what we think, but the words of those that have bought and used this themselves. To them, no router they used previously worked as good as this one.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Of all the features that this unit provides for its users, what really stands out to us is the beamforming technology it is equipped with. You no longer need to worry about your connection randomly dropping. This router will provide you with a connection more stable than you’ve ever had.
Who Will Use This Most
VPN subscriptions can often cost us quite a lot, but not with this unit. Those who need a VPN server will find this to be their perfect choice. It allows users to go ahead and create their own personal VPN server using the special Vonn server that it provides.
Bottom Line
If the top product of this list doesn’t suit you for any reason, then you will find this to be the perfect alternative. It provides great speed, range, functionality, and not to forget outstanding performance that earned it a place on this list. This unit is simply designed to impress.
Best for the Money:
ASUS AC2900
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This is a product that has been very well-received by users. They have all found it to be equally outstanding. From its design to its functionality, everything is right on point. The customer support may have been a little disappointing, but the great number of features and incredible performance all make up for it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is true that this unit provides a great number of features, but one of them truly stands above the rest for us. And that is the protection that it provides for your devices. Apart from the standard safety certifications, this unit with Trend Micro provides extra measures to keep your devices safe from any threat.
Who Will Use This Most
We all want a little more from our devices. If you are someone that wants your device to provide the perfect worth for what you pay, then you will find this to be the perfect unit for yourself. With the great number of features that it offers, you will be sure to get a run for your money.
Bottom Line
We all want a good worth for our money, and this unit provides exactly that. It is loaded with features and all of those that we want to see. From great protection to impressive transfer speeds, it has it all. It is safe to say that it gives you a proper run for your money.
Best Router for Gaming:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers do report that this unit is considerably more expensive than the rest, but they also know it’s for a reason. It is a specially-designed unit that is meant to optimize the gaming experience. And according to users, it is ideal at doing so. When it comes to gaming, they wouldn’t think of any other unit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This specialized router provides many features for all the gaming enthusiasts out there. However, what we really find impressive is the convenience that it offers for all its users, especially with the VPN configuration and the Dynamic DNS use. Both provide great ease for users, which we find is more important than any other feature.
Who Will Use This Most
As mentioned earlier, this unit is a specialized one. It has all its features especially added to aid better gaming experience, which is why it makes the perfect router for gaming. It provides not only great internet speed and safety but also a stable connection which is extremely important for a good gaming experience.
Bottom Line
If you too are a gaming enthusiast looking for a new router or are simply tired of the old one due to the lack of sufficient features, then this product is absolutely what you’re looking for. With all the right features and a great performance, you will have the gaming experience of your dreams.
Best Modem Router:
NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6250
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One reason why we think this product is better than any other is because of how well it is received by its users. Those who recently invested in it all have the same thing to say that it is an outstanding unit that offers a lot more than what one expects from it. From an impressive built to outstanding functionality, users have found nothing to complain about with this.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit has great features that make it one of the best, but one of our favorites is the number of connections that it provides. The design is such that it allows about 25 connections at once, and without any lag. We consider this to be a good number that ensures that everyone gets to connect to the internet without anyone being left out.
Who Will Use This Most
This unit, designed by NETGEAR, is an absolute masterpiece, in every possible way. It proves to be better than about any other similar unit that you may come across. It has all the features that one would need to look at. This makes it ideal for anyone and everyone. Anyone looking to invest in a modem router combo would find it to be a perfect choice.
Bottom Line
This unit has earned its place in this list for a reason, which is pure excellence. From the quality of build down to the efficiency of performance, users find that this unit provides the best of everything, and there is absolutely nothing more that one could ask for.
Best Wifi Router for Long Range:
Linksys Tri-Band AC2200
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Everyone that has tried and tested this unit has only things to say, which is how incredible this router really is. From an uncompromised speed for all devices to an outstanding range, it has provided users with about everything that they look for in a router, making it their favorite.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One great feature of this unit, for which we think it deserves to be on this list, is the MU-MIMO system that it is geared with. This special bit of technology allows users to connect to multiple devices without worrying about a drop in the internet speed. Isn’t that what we all want?
Who Will Use This Most
Ideally, with the given features, this unit would work to be the perfect choice for everyone looking for a new router. But specifically speaking, it would be the perfect match for those that want a unit with a longer range. While covering an area of 2000 square feet, it will be sure to fulfill the users’ requirements.
Bottom Line
All we have to say in the end is that this unit is absolute perfection. If you overlook the few flaws of the design that it has, just like any other unit, you will see that it works perfectly in all cases. From a great range to a great speed, it has everything that one needs from a router.
Best Router Under $100:
Medialink AC1200 Wireless Gigabit Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
What the users say about this unit gives enough evidence that it is indeed one of the best ones on the market. They specifically love the customer support that the manufacturer offers with it. That, along with its outstanding functionality and uncompromised performance, makes it one of the best units out there.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you ask us what stands out about this unit, the answer is simple: the bandwidth prioritization that this unit is capable of. This unique feature allows it to maintain a stable and well-functioning connection. And that is why we think it deserves a place on this list.
Who Will Use This Most
This unit, undoubtedly, comes with a number of stunning features. But what is truly outstanding is its price range. Available under $100, this unit is indeed one of the best-priced products that you can look at. It is ideal for all those that are looking for a new router but on a budget.
Bottom Line
Even if you don’t have a limited budget, you would still find this to be an ideal one, given all the impressive features that it has to offer. And at the end of the day, why pay more when you can get the same for a lower price? From its affordable price point to its incredible functionality, this device will give you nothing to complain about.
Best Dual Band Router:
Linksys WRT AC1900
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
If you had to refer to the user reviews before you made your choice, then the reviews for this unit would convince you that it is absolutely the right one. Those who tried it for themselves have all praised it for the excellence that it provides. It may be a little old school according to the users, but it is good at what it is supposed to do.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Of all the reasons that it could have been on the list, what stood out to us was the incredible USB transfer performance that it allowed. Most routers these days focus on other features and are not very keen on this one. But the functionality of this feature in this particular unit is absolutely outstanding.
Who Will Use This Most
For any other purpose, people might opt for another unit, but when it comes to dual-band routers, then you may not find one better than this. It is designed to provide the absolute best of both frequencies. So anyone looking for a dual-band unit would find this to be the perfect investment.
Bottom Line
Be it dual-band functioning or uncompromised performance that you’re looking for; this unit will prove to be the ideal choice for you in all cases. Its ideal connectivity and design make it one of the user’s favorites. It is the kind of unit you need to try for yourself to know.
Best Gigabit Router:
NETGEAR Nighthawk AX4
PROS
CONS
vWhat Recent Buyers Report
According to users, this device is nothing less than an outstanding piece of technology. It is ideal for all sorts of users, which is probably why it has largely all good reviews. Users have found their functioning to be way beyond satisfactory. According to them, this unit is an absolute 10.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you ask us why we put this unit on this list, it is because of the one feature that really stood out to us, which is the fast Wi-Fi 6 performance. It is geared with the perfect piece of technology to allow its users to obtain the highest of the speeds, and that is the best there is to offer.
Who Will Use This Most
From all the features that this unit allows, the one that makes the consumers choose this product is due to it being a Gigabit router. It is something a number of users specifically look for. And we don’t think there is any other such unit that provides better functionality than this one does.
Bottom Line
There are a number of routers on the internet, and a few may be better than this one. But if this specifically meets your requirements, then you should know that it is a unit that will present no issues at all. This router is simply designed to impress, without failing.
Best DD-WRT Router:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router (R7000)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most users, this particular unit has served to be the ideal update from the previous router, regardless of what unit they were using earlier. This goes to say that users find it to be considerably better than a number of other similar products. This is why they also recommend it to everyone else.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For us, there are a number of features in this device that are better than the rest. But the best of them all, which really stands out, is the parental control that it allows. Unlike standard units, its parental controls are not just limited to monitoring and filtering, but stretch way beyond that.
Who Will Use This Most
Given its impressive range of features, this unit would work fine with anyone that uses it. But it is ideally designed for users looking for a DD-WRT router. For all such users, there is absolutely no other router that would work better, or provide functionality that is even remotely close to that of this one.
Bottom Line
DD-WRT, Gigabit, and Dual-band are all technical terms, which hold little significance for the general population. What matters is the functionality and design, both of which are provided by this particular unit, and that is why it makes it be one of the best available routers.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Router
A router functions in more than one way, providing more than just one purpose for users. For this reason, there are not one or two, but quite a lot of advantages of investing in a quality router. In case you are not aware of them, let us list out a few for you.
Good Internet Speeds
A good quality router will always provide you with the best internet speeds that your service plan has to offer. There are no exceptions to this. This is indeed an essential feature of a good router. It will never fail its users in terms of speed.
Greater Number of Connections
Be it a studio where one person lives, or a bigger office setup with more number of people, everyone wants a Wi-Fi connection. And a good router will always ensure that this requirement is met. A great quality router provides you to connect to sufficient devices at once, without causing a drop in the speed.
Coverage of a Wider Area
One highly frustrating thing is losing a Wi-Fi connection because you’ve moved too far from the router. With a good quality unit, you will never have to face that problem. A good unit always ensures to provide enough coverage over a large space of area that encircles at least the premises of one’s house.
Better Gaming Experience
Online gaming with a bad internet connection is nothing less than an absolute nightmare. A good router provides a stable connection that is extremely important when it comes to online gaming. With such a stable connection, you’ll be experiencing the best of online gaming
Types of Routers
While all routers may look deceivingly the same, they are in fact quite different from each other. Before you choose the right type for yourself, it is important that you understand the different types available.
Wired Routers
The name is very suggestive of the type of router this is. It is typically a box-shaped unit that would connect directly to a computer, using wired connections. It serves to be a unit that is connected between a modem and multiple computers, all connections being with hard-lined wires.
Wireless Routers
Unlike wired routers, these do not require wires for any of their connections. But they function similarly to wired routers. They receive data packets from the modem and transfer them to multiple devices. But all of this is done without involving any sort of wired connections.
Modem Router Combo
Usually, a router is connected to a modem. But in this unit, the two are combined into one. Such a unit not only saves more desk space for the user but also cuts back on the cost of purchasing the two separately or renting equipment. Before investing in one unit, one just needs to be sure that it is compatible with their service provider.
Conclusion
Routers are undoubtedly one of the most important devices and one of the most used ones too. Their functioning might be a little complex for those that have no technical knowledge of them, but choosing the right one is still no rocket science. All it needs is a good consideration of the appropriate features, and you will be sure to never go wrong with your choice.
People Also Ask
Routers may be one of the most commonly used devices in any sort of set-up, but not a lot of people have the technical knowledge of these. Therefore, users often find themselves confused and in trouble with their routers. To ensure you don’t face the same problem, here are a few questions that people frequently ask.
What is my Router IP?
The IP of one’s router is, in simple words, just the address that one requires in order to access the control panel. Most routers have a default IP address that is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. When you enter this address into the address bar on your browser, you will automatically be directed to the control panel and settings of your router.
Do Routers Wear Out?
Just like other devices, routers are also susceptible to being worn out. This susceptibility does not come from excessive use but from heat stress. A router may face excessive heat stress due to several connections at once. This heat is meant to escape through vents that are incorporated into the unit’s design. If the vents are clogged with dust or blocked by any other object, the heat won’t escape, causing the router to wear out due to damage to wires and other internal components.
Will a Better Router Increase Internet Speed?
Yes and No. Confused? Let us elaborate. It is true that some routers are designed to function better than the others. So if you upgrade your router to a better one than what you previously used, you will be sure to experience a better internet speed. But if your current router already provides you the best of the speed that your internet service plan provides, getting a better unit won’t be able to increase the internet speed anymore.
Can a Router Work Without a Modem?
Yes, a router is perfectly capable of working without a modem. It will provide a wireless connection for all your devices and an IP address. But it won’t do what we all want it to. Without a modem, a router can only provide Wi-Fi signals, but no internet connection for your devices.
When Should You Upgrade Your Router?
There are no written rules about when one should consider changing their router. Usually, no one would bother upgrading a device as long as the current one works fine. So if you notice the signals of your Wi-Fi dropping, your internet speed decreasing, or any other issue, you know it’s time to upgrade.
Router Buyer Guides
Our main focus is routers here, so it's only right that we have a ton of in-depth router reviews and buyer guides to help you find the best router for your needs. Some of the more popular guides are listed below.
