In today’s world, life is easier and better with technology. The latest trend in technology is Wifi Routers. Certainly, if you have one of the best wifi routers you can save a lot of times and increase your productivity as well. However, we use technology in almost everything; in cooking, cleaning, learning, entertaining ourselves and even in communicating. We use the Internet to know the latest news and trends. As well as to keep in touch with our loved ones. In addition, a lot of people are even doing business over the Internet. This way of doing business enables business owners and entrepreneurs to make more money and trace their transactions well through Internet banking.
Thus, the Internet does not only provide entertainment to people. It also provides people an everyday living and a chance to communicate with their families, friends and loved ones in a more convenient way.
However, the best way one can use the Internet is to keep in touch with their loved ones. Since it can be considered as the easiest, cheapest and the best way to communicate with people in any part of the world. No wonder the Internet is widely used globally.
With all these benefits you can get from the Internet, it can be considered a must-have in today’s world. However, it is important that you have the means to get it, and that is through getting an Internet connection service as well as a well-performing WiFi router. The Internet’s medium for being able to be used by people.
What is a WiFi router?
A WiFi or a wireless router is a device that is used by a person to gain access to the Internet as well as to the private computer network. A WiFi router is mostly used for Internet access. But it can function in a local area network (LAN), whether wired or wireless.
There are a lot of wireless router products in the market. However, you must be wise in purchasing your own one. You must choose the best WiFi/wireless router that will provide your Internet needs in a hassle-free and the best way possible.
How to determine the best WiFi router?
- It supports data streams on each band –
The best wireless router has the ability to support at least 2 data streams on each band (2.4GHz and 5GHz). Since gadgets and devices like laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other high-end laptops support 2-3 streams. It is best if your wireless router can support them as much as it can. The higher the number of streams is, the better is the wireless router. Since it will provide the fastest connection and optimum performance in your gadgets.
- It has the latest WiFi version –
The best WiFi router must have the latest WiFi version called IEEE 802.11ac or wireless-ac. This is the standard in gadgets released 2013 onwards. The latest version of WiFi smartphones, tablets and laptops have. Certainly, if your wireless router has the latest WiFi version, you will be able to get enhanced wireless performance in your gadgets. In addition, having the latest WiFi version will prepare you for more technologically-advanced gadgets and devices in the future.
Having the latest WiFi version does not only mean getting optimum performance. But also getting the best out of your Internet; you can enjoy streaming movies or downloading files better and faster.
Single-band or dual-band
- It is dual-band –
The best WiFi router must be a dual-band, which means it can support the signals 2.4GHz and 5GHz. If a router is a dual-band, it can still perform well no matter what interference may come through in a signal.
For example, since there are Bluetooth devices, microwaves, wireless phones and other wireless routers transmitting in a 2.4GHz signal. It can affect the performance of the WiFi router you use. However, through the 5GHz signal, the performance of your wireless router will become better.
There are 2 drawbacks in a 5GHz signal: its range is worse than a 2.4GHz signal and some gadgets and devices do not support it. Nevertheless, a 5GHz signal becomes essential when a 2.4GHz signal encounters interference. Thus, these two signals go hand in hand to provide optimum wireless performance.
- It is worth the price –
The value of wireless routers available in the market varies from one to another. The technique is to scrutinize one wireless router’s features and specifications as well as its price. To find the perfect and the best wireless router, the key is just to be patient in looking for one that has the latest version, is dual-band, supports many data streams. Most importantly, does not go way beyond your budget.
Now that you know what makes a WiFi router the best one, we will now teach you on what to check before buying your own WiFi router.
What to check before buying a WiFi router
- Latest network standards: Check if your wireless router has the latest and most advanced wireless standards (IEEE). As of today, the latest wireless standard is IEEE 802.11ac which all new wireless routers have. This means that it can support Gigabit speeds in a faster way. In addition, this standard is compatible with older devices with older standards.
- Reliable data security: Remember that these wireless networks are convenient. But tend to pose a threat to the security of the user. There may be a tendency that an ‘eavesdropper’ may gain access to your private files or benefit from your Internet connection without your consent. Circumstances like this can happen, but it can always be avoided. When you buy a wireless router, it should at least support the second level of Wi-Fi Protected Access Protocol (WPA2) and your device must also support WPA2 for it to be secured.
Security Factors
In addition, there are routers providing more advanced family security over the wireless network. You can further check if the wireless router you are going to purchase has that feature.
- Advanced wireless management: Wireless networks are really susceptible to interference. However, wireless routers nowadays have more advanced features to eliminate or lessen bad situations like this. Check the wireless router if it has added wireless management that provides faster and more powerful wireless performance.
- Great Quality of Service (QoS): In choosing a wireless router, you can check its QoS. This is a wireless router’s mechanism set that reserves particular resources for certain applications. It may not increase the Internet’s speed. But it can maximize your usage of online resources.
Since you already know what to look for in a WiFi router to be able to consider it the best. However, we will now share to you our top 11 picks on the best WiFi routers you can probably choose from.
Top 11 Best WiFi routers Review
1. TP-LINK Archer C7 AC1750 Dual Band Wireless AC Gigabit Router
TP-LINK Archer C7 AC1750 Dual Band Wireless AC Gigabit Router has a total available bandwidth of 1.75Gbps. It has an IEEE 802.11ac standard; the latest version of WiFi router. However, it has Dual Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports for sharing files and media. In addition, it offers a reliable data security with its WPA wireless security encryption and guest network access.
Pros:
- Fast-performing dual-band WiFi
- Latest wireless standards
- Powerful and quick processing CPU
- Modifiable QoS for a faster bandwidth
Cons:
- It has a lot of firmware and translation bugs
- Very weak 5GHz band
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Dual Band Wi-Fi Gigabit Router
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Dual Band Wi-Fi Gigabit Router has a total WiFi speed of 1900Mbps. It is gigabit wired, which is very ideal for streaming videos or playing games in HD version. It has 3 antennas and great WiFi coverage which is ideal for big houses. In addition, it has features like Airtimes Fairness which avoids network lag. It consists a Beamforming+ technology which makes WiFi connections faster and reliable. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best wireless routers available from Netgear.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Fast WiFi speed
- Has network lag prevention features
- Reliable data security
Con:
- QoS cannot be really managed
3. Netgear AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router
NETGEAR AC1750 Smart WiFi Router offers faster WiFi access and reliable streaming for computers and mobile devices. Its speed could go as much as 1300Mbps. It has 3 external antennas which can connect more than 12 Wi-Fi devices. In addition, it has dual-band and a Beamforming+ technology making you stream movies faster and play games better even in HD version. Certainly, one of the top routers available out there.
Pros:
- 5Ghz signal decreases interference
- Flexible dual-band technology
- Uninterrupted numerous device connections
- Easy to setup
Cons:
- Unreliable USB sharing
- Poor-performing Cloudshare feature
4. ASUS (RT-AC68U) Wireless-AC1900 Dual-Band Gigabit Router
ASUS (RT-AC68U) Wireless-AC1900 Dual-Band Gigabit Router has a high speed of up to 1900Mbps. It has the latest 802.11ac WiFi router version. However, it has features like AiRadar to ensure WiFi coverage is at its maximum. Similarly, AiProtection technology by Trend Micro (TM) for total reliable network security. We all know that ASUS is all about quality and this surely is one of the top wifi routers they ever produced.
Pros:
- Easy to setup
- Faster WiFi connection
- Wide-ranging WiFi connection
- Reliable data and network security
Cons:
- IP addresses are hard to find
- Latest firmware version and manual do not match
5. NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router
NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router has the fastest total WiFi speed of 3.2Gbps. The router ensures you can stream videos and play games even in HD version without interruption. Firstly, it has 6 well-performing antennas and a tri-band WiFi signal which can provide WiFi connection to more devices. In addition, it has a Smart Connect which determines the best WiFi for a device. So if you are looking for power and range then this is the most powerful wireless router available out there.
Pros:
- Easy to manage user interface
- Offers high-speed WiFi connection
- Wide-ranging Wi-Fi connection
- Handles numerous WiFi devices without lagging
- Does not heat and noise
Cons:
- No definite QoS management
6. ASUS RT-N66U Dual-Band Wireless-N900 Gigabit Router
ASUS RT-N66U Dual-Band Wireless-N900 Gigabit Router offers a fast WiFi connection of up to 900Mbps. It has a dual-band technology which provides reliable signal strength. It has 3 detachable antennas offering an expanded coverage on the WiFi connection. In addition, it has 2 built-in USB ports that can be used for file, printer, and 3G sharing. If your home is large and normal wifi routers can’t cover the whole home then this is best wifi routers. In short, it is one of the best routers for large home available out there with the option to use wifi repeater to increase the coverage.
Pros:
- Wireless router does not lag
- Offers high-speed WiFi connection
- Wide-ranging WiFi connection
Cons:
- Physical design is not so appealing
- No front buttons
7. TP-LINK N450 Wireless Wi-Fi Router
TP-LINK N450 Wireless Wi-Fi Router can offer quite fast WiFi speed of up to 450Mbps. The router has 802.11n standard and 3 antennas to increase WiFi coverage. It has IP-based bandwidth control which allows you to determine how much bandwidth is for each device. In addition, it has parental controls which enable parents to manage their children’s Internet access. Most people use this for their home use as this is one of the best home routers available.
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Wide-ranging WiFi connection
- Ideal for home use
Cons:
- Signal interference usually happens
- It lags sometimes; needs restarting
8. Securifi Almond Touchscreen Wireless Router
Securifi Almond Touchscreen Wireless Router is an advanced technology among other wireless routers. With its Touchscreen Wizard, it does not need any computer or CD to be set up. It’s users can set it up in just 3 minutes. It can be used as a primary router or a range extender. In addition, it is compatible with almost all gadgets, handheld devices, and PCs. If you are someone like me and love the gadgets which are touchscreen then you will love this top-rated wifi routers as it’s one of a kind.
Pros:
- Stylish look
- Easy to set up and manage
- Multi-functional
Con:
- Firmware bugs might be experienced
9. NETGEAR N600 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router
NETGEAR N600 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router offers a fast WiFi speed of up to 300Mbps. It has a dual-band technology which decreases interference to build better Wi-Fi connections to a number of devices. The router has a home network manager called NETGEAR genie® which makes the wireless router’s installation and management easier. In addition, this WiFi router is ideal or medium to large houses. So for single user and only for your room, this is the best home wifi router out there.
Pros:
- Offers a better WiFi connection with less signal interference
- Easy to set up and manage
- Ideal for home use
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Restarting might be needed sometimes
- Quite slow WiFi connection
10. Belkin AC1200 Dual Band Wireless AC Router
Belkin AC1200 Dual Band Wireless AC Router offers a fast WiFi speed of up to 300Mbps. It has a multi-band antenna technology which makes streaming and gaming faster. The router provides a better and wide-ranging WiFi coverage. It also has a parental control feature which automatically blocks unsafe content. In addition, this wireless router is easy to setup. One of the beautiful and stylish best wifi routers under 100.
Pros:
- Easy to setup
- Wide-ranging WiFi connection
- Ideal for home use
Con:
- Connection problems on device/s might be experienced
11. Original Xiaomi Mi WiFi Dual-band Wireless Router 3 [Our Winner] – Personal Use
Original Xiaomi Mi WiFi Dual-band Wireless Router 3 offers a faster HD streaming. It also offers online gaming experience with its 802.11ac WiFi standard and WiFi transmission rate of up to 1167Mbps. Certainly, the best cheap wifi routers available with outstanding features. Moreover, it has 4 high-performance antennas which provide a wide-ranging WiFi connection and fast speed for a number of devices. In addition, this wireless router is ideal for large homes.
Pros:
- Wide-ranging WiFi connection
- Fast WiFi transmission rate
- Provides a great signal strength
- Ideal for large homes
Cons:
- Its multilingual support is limited
Final Verdict
With these best WiFi routers, the one that stands out is the NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router. It has the fastest total WiFi speed of 3.2Gbps compared to other wireless routers. Certainly, a very fast speed like this would enable you to stream videos and play online games in HD version without interruption. In addition, it has 6 well-performing antennas and a tri-band WiFi signal. Which can provide WiFi connection to more devices even at a wide range.
Though NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router might be quite expensive. It has no definite QoS management, the benefits you can get from it definitely outweigh the router’s drawbacks. Thus, if you are looking for the best of the best wireless router you can rely on. So I highly recommend NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router.