6 Best Routers Under $100: Top Picks for 2024

Wifi router in front of a white brick wall (best routers under 100)

We’ve all been there – the internet is slow, videos are buffering, and pages take forever to load. It’s a frustrating experience that can be easily solved by investing in a good router. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find a reliable and affordable option.

That’s where we come in – we’ve done the research and found the best routers under $100 that will give you fast and stable internet without breaking the bank. Without further ado, let’s get into our top picks.

The 6 Best Routers Under $100 in 2024

In order to make our list, these routers had to meet our criteria of being budget-friendly without compromising on performance. We looked for routers with strong Wi-Fi signals, multiple antennas for better coverage, and additional features such as parental controls and guest networks.

1. Best Router For Small Homes or Offices

NETGEAR R6700AX

NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (R6700AX) AX1800 1.8Gbps Wireless Speed – Dual-Band Gigabit Internet Router – Covers 1,500 sq. ft., 20 Devices – Built-in VPN, Gaming, Alexa Enabled

The NETGEAR R6700AX is ideal for families, small offices, and individuals who require reliable, high-speed internet for activities like streaming, gaming, and working from home. Its robust performance and Wi-Fi 6 technology make it suitable for environments with multiple devices.

Pros

  • Wi-Fi 6 Technology: Enhances network efficiency and reduces latency, perfect for high-demand activities such as streaming and gaming.
  • Dual-Band Wi-Fi: Optimizes both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, balancing load and reducing interference.
  • Multiple Device Support: Handles numerous devices simultaneously, making it great for busy households.
  • Four Gigabit LAN Ports: Provides reliable connectivity for wired devices, ensuring a seamless experience.
  • Ease of Use: Simple setup and management through the Nighthawk app, which allows for quick installation and easy control over network settings.

Cons

  • Limited Advanced Features: While it covers the basics well, it may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models.
  • No USB Ports: Missing USB ports for network storage or printer sharing, which can be a downside for some users.
  • Additional Subscription costs: If you are looking for security and parental control features,  it may require a subscription.
  • Limited Stream Count: Once you add a second active device, the 837Mbps speed is cut in half. 

The NETGEAR R6700AX is a Wi-Fi 6 router that offers impressive performance for its price. With speeds up to 1.8Gbps, it’s perfect for streaming and gaming. It features dual-band Wi-Fi and supports multiple devices, making it a solid choice for families and small offices. The four gigabit LAN ports provide reliable connectivity for wired devices, ensuring a seamless experience.

Its Wi-Fi 6 technology significantly improves network efficiency and reduces latency, a crucial factor for those who rely on a stable connection for gaming or streaming high-definition content. The router’s dual-band capabilities ensure that both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands are optimized, balancing load and reducing interference. One of our team members shared an anecdote about using this router in a home office setting, where it managed to handle multiple devices, including laptops, smart home devices, and mobile phones, without a hitch.

Sale
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (R6700AX) AX1800 1.8Gbps Wireless Speed – Dual-Band Gigabit Internet Router – Covers 1,500 sq. ft., 20 Devices – Built-in VPN, Gaming, Alexa Enabled
  • Coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft. for 20 devices.
  • Fast AX1800 Gigabit speed with WiFi 6 technology for uninterrupted streaming, HD video gaming, and web conferencing
  • Connects to your existing cable modem and replaces your WiFi router. Compatible with any internet service provider up to 1Gbps including cable, satellite, fiber, and DSL
  • Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and more with 4 x 1G Ethernet ports
  • NETGEAR Armor software provides an automatic shield of security for your WiFi and connected devices for real-time protection against hackers and added privacy with VPN. 30-day trial included

2. Best Router For Multiple Devices

TP-Link Archer AX10

TP-Link Smart WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX10) – 802.11ax Router, 4 Gigabit LAN Ports, Dual Band AX Router,Beamforming,OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Parental Controls, Works with Alexa

The TP-Link Archer AX10 is perfect for homes with several devices looking for an affordable, high-performance router. It’s user-friendly, making it ideal for those who prefer straightforward setup and management.

Pros

  • Wi-Fi 6 Technology: Offers speeds up to 1.5Gbps, ensuring fast and stable connections.
  • Quad-Core Processor: Ensures smooth and responsive performance, even with multiple devices connected.
  • TP-Link Tether App: Simplifies setup and management, making it accessible for all users.
  • Backward Compatibility: Ensures older devices can still connect without issues.
  • Good Value: Provides excellent performance at an affordable price.

Cons

  • Limited Advanced Features: May lack some advanced settings and controls found in higher-end models.
  • No USB Ports: Missing USB ports for additional connectivity options.
  • 160MHz Channel Width: It doesn’t support 160MHz channel width or WPA3 encryption.
  • No Anti-Malware Tools: Lacks built-in anti-malware tools for added security.

TP-Link’s Archer AX10 is another excellent Wi-Fi 6 router in the budget category. It offers speeds up to 1.5Gbps and is ideal for homes with several devices. The TP-Link Tether app simplifies setup and management, making it a user-friendly option. Its backward compatible nature ensures that older devices can still connect without issues.

The Archer AX10 stands out for its simplicity and performance. We’ve found that its quad-core processor ensures smooth and responsive performance, even when multiple devices are connected. The TP-Link Tether app is particularly noteworthy; it allows users to set up and manage their network effortlessly. This feature is incredibly beneficial for those who aren’t tech-savvy but still want a robust network setup. One of our team members used the Archer AX10 in a household with several smart home devices and noticed a significant improvement in overall connectivity and speed.

Sale
TP-Link Smart WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX10) – 802.11ax Router, 4 Gigabit LAN Ports, Dual Band AX Router,Beamforming,OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Parental Controls, Works with Alexa
  • OneMesh Compatible Router – Form a seamless WiFi when work with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders
  • Wi-Fi 6 Router: Archer AX10 comes equipped with latest wireless technology WiFi6 featuring OFDMA 1024-QAM, drastically increasing the speed and efficiency of the entire network.
  • Next-gen Dual Band router – 300 Mbps on 2. 4 GHz (802. 11n) plus 1201 Mbps on 5 GHz (802. 11ax)
  • Connect more devices than ever before – Wi-Fi 6 technology simultaneously communicates more data to more devices using OFDMA and MU-MIMO while reducing lag dramatically
  • Triple-core processing – the 1. 5 GHz tri-core processor ensures communications between your router and all connected devices are smooth and Buffer-Free

3. Best Router For Families

TP-Link Archer AX21

TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router V4 (Archer AX21) – Dual Band Wireless Internet Router, Gigabit Router, Easy Mesh, Works with Alexa - A Certified for Humans Device

The TP-Link Archer AX21 is perfect for families who need a reliable, high-performance router with strong security features. Its versatility makes it suitable for various network setups.

Pros

  • Wi-Fi 6 Technology: Provides faster speeds and better performance.
  • OFDMA and MU-MIMO Technology: Ensures efficient data transmission, ideal for busy households.
  • Robust Parental Controls: Allows parents to manage and monitor internet usage effectively.
  • Four Gigabit LAN Ports and USB Port: Offers ample connectivity options for various devices.
  • Easy Management: Simple setup and control via the TP-Link Tether app.

Cons

  • Lacks Some Advanced Features: May not include all the advanced settings found in more expensive models such as advanced QoS or VPN support.
  • Not Powerful Enough: Does not have the power to max out a gigabit internet connection.
  • WAN Port Caps: There is a cap on the incoming wired speeds at 1Gbps.

The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a standout in the best routers under 100 dollars category. It supports Wi-Fi 6, providing faster speeds and better performance. With robust parental controls and security features, it’s perfect for families. The TP-Link Archer AX21 also includes four gigabit LAN ports and a USB port, offering flexibility for various network setups.

The Archer AX21 shines in its versatility and security. Its OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology which refers to Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access and Multi-User, Multiple Input Multiple Output, respectively, ensure efficient and stable connections for multiple devices. The robust parental controls allow parents to manage and monitor their children’s internet usage effectively. Additionally, the Archer AX21’s four gigabit LAN ports and USB port provide ample connectivity options for various devices. One of our team members appreciated the router’s performance in a household with heavy internet usage, including gaming, streaming, and remote work.

Sale
TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router V4 (Archer AX21) – Dual Band Wireless Internet Router, Gigabit Router, Easy Mesh, Works with Alexa – A Certified for Humans Device
  • VPN Server: Archer AX21 V4 Supports both Open VPN Server and PPTP VPN Server
  • Dual-Band WiFi 6 Internet Router: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous generation
  • Next-Gen 1.8 Gbps Speeds: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading and more with WiFi speeds up to 1.8 Gbps (1200 Mbps on 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz band)
  • Connect more devices: Wi-Fi 6 technology communicates more data to more devices simultaneously using revolutionary OFDMA technology
  • Extensive Coverage: Achieve the strong, reliable WiFi coverage with Archer AX1800 as it focuses signal strength to your devices far away using Beamforming technology, 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset

4. Best Budget Router

TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750

TP-Link AC1750 OneMesh Wi-Fi Repeater/Router, Dual Band, Gigabit Ports (Archer A7)

The TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750 is an affordable dual-band router priced. While it offers some solid features for its price, its performance can be mixed, and it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end models. However, it remains a popular choice for those on a tight budget seeking a basic, reliable router for everyday use.

Who’s This For?

The TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750 is ideal for budget-conscious users who need a simple and affordable solution for basic internet activities such as browsing, streaming, and light gaming. It’s suitable for small to medium-sized homes and can handle multiple devices without too much strain.

Pros

  • Dual-Band Support: Offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, providing flexibility and better management of network traffic.
  • Easy Setup: The TP-Link Tether app makes it simple to set up and manage the router, even for non-tech-savvy users.
  • Decent Performance for Basic Use: Provides adequate speeds for everyday activities like web browsing and streaming.
  • Gigabit Ethernet LAN Ports: Includes four gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for reliable wired connections.

Cons

  • Mixed Performance: While suitable for basic use, it may struggle with more demanding tasks and multiple high-bandwidth activities simultaneously.
  • Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as advanced parental controls, QoS settings, and robust security features.
  • No Wi-Fi 6 Support: As an older model, it does not support the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, which can offer better speeds and efficiency.
  • Limited Coverage: May not provide sufficient coverage for larger homes or multi-story buildings, potentially leading to dead zones or weak signals in certain areas.

The TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750 offers a total bandwidth of 1750Mbps, with 450Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band, which can support activities like 4K streaming and online gaming. It includes three external antennas designed to extend Wi-Fi coverage, potentially benefiting larger or multi-story houses.

The router has four gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, providing wired connectivity options for devices such as gaming consoles and desktop computers. The integrated USB port allows the router to function as a media server, facilitating the sharing of USB drive content across the network.

The TP-Link Tether app aims to simplify the setup and management process by enabling users to control network settings and manage connected devices remotely via a smartphone. The Archer A7 is also compatible with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders, which can help create a mesh network to improve coverage without needing to replace existing devices.

Sale
TP-Link AC1750 OneMesh Wi-Fi Repeater/Router, Dual Band, Gigabit Ports (Archer A7)
  • OneMesh Compatible Range Extender/Router- Form a seamless WiFi network with other TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders and routers.
  • Dual band 1750 Mbps high speed internet(450mbps for 2.4GHz, 1300Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K streaming
  • 3 external antennas for long range Wi-Fi. System Requirements-Internet Explorer 11, Firefox 12.0, Chrome 20.0, Safari 4.0, or other JavaScript-enabled browser. Cable or DSL Modem (if needed)
  • 4 Gigabit LAN ports, fast access to multiple connected wired devices
  • TP-Link tether app easily set up and remotely manage your home network

5. Best Router With Wi-Fi 6

Dynalink DL-WRX36

Dynalink WiFi 6 AX3600 Router (DL-WRX36), Dual Band, 8-Stream, Wireless Speed Up to 3.6Gbps, MU-MIMO, 2.5G WAN & 4 Gigabit LAN Ports, for Home & Gaming (1 Pack)

The Dynalink DL-WRX36 is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly router with modern Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. It’s ideal for households that may expand their network in the future.

Pros

  • Wi-Fi 6 Technology: Offers speeds up to 3.6 Gbps, ensuring fast and efficient network performance.
  • Mesh System Support: Allows for easy network expansion as needed.
  • Great Value: Provides high performance at a budget-friendly price.
  • Low Latency: Ideal for gaming and other activities that require minimal lag.

Cons

  • Limited Advanced Features: May not offer all the bells and whistles of higher-end models.
  • No USB Ports: Lacks USB connectivity options for additional devices.
  • Lack of Tech Support: Some users have reported difficulty in obtaining technical support.
  • App Problems: The accompanying app may experience occasional glitches.

The Dynalink DL-WRX36 is a hidden gem in the budget router market. With Wi-Fi 6 capabilities and speeds up to 1.8Gbps, it’s a great option for those looking for performance on a budget. It supports mesh systems, making it easy to expand your network as needed.

The Dynalink DL-WRX36 impresses us with its performance and value. Its support for Wi-Fi 6 ensures that users can enjoy faster speeds and better network efficiency. The router’s compatibility with mesh systems allows for easy network expansion, making it ideal for larger homes or future-proofing your network. One of our team members noted that the DL-WRX36 provided excellent performance in a household with multiple gamers, ensuring low latency and high-speed connectivity.

Dynalink WiFi 6 AX3600 Router (DL-WRX36), Dual Band, 8-Stream, Wireless Speed Up to 3.6Gbps, MU-MIMO, 2.5G WAN & 4 Gigabit LAN Ports, for Home & Gaming (1 Pack)
  • WiFi 6 Next Generation Technology, Speed up to 3.6 Gbps: 1.2G + 2.4G Gbps with 8-stream connectivity, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, 1024-QAM, band steering for one WiFi name, Beamforming technologies. Supports WPA2/WPA3 wireless security protocols. Includes Guest WiFi access, Firewall and more
  • Extensive WiFi 6 Router Coverage: Coverage up to 4,800 sq. ft and connect up to 200 Devices. Connect more devices than ever before, simultaneously communicate more data to more devices using revolutionary OFDMA & MU-MIMO technology
  • Qualcomm 2.2 GHz Quad-Core CPU: Qualcomm 2.2 GHz Quad-core 64bit high performance CPU reduces buffering and provides high speed web browsing, video streaming and gaming
  • Easy Set Up and Voice Control: Easy set-up with APP and support work with the Google Assistant to turn on or off the guest WiFi Network
  • More Connections for Multiple Demands: Airgain 4 x internal 2.4GHz & 5GHz Smart Antennas, pre-optimized for best WiFi performance. USB 3.0 port supports FTP server and SAMBA server for local data storage. 2.5 Gigabit WAN Port and 4 Gigabit LAN ports, more connections fast access to multiple connected wired devices as well

6. Best Router For Gaming

Tenda WiFi 6 RX12 Pro Router

Tenda WiFi 6 Gaming Router, AX3000 Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Router for Home, Long Range Coverage with 5 * 6dBi High-Gain Antennas, High Speed Router with 4 Gigabit Ports, Support WPA3, VPN(RX12Pro)

The Tenda WiFi 6 RX12 Pro is perfect for gamers, streamers, and households with multiple devices that require a stable and high-speed internet connection. It’s ideal for those who need wide coverage and robust performance without spending a fortune.

Pros

  • High-Speed Performance: Handles speeds up to 2,976Mbps, ensuring fast and reliable internet.
  • Advanced Antenna System: Five 6dBi antennas enhance signal strength and coverage.
  • Beamforming and MU-MIMO: Provides stable connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously.
  • WiFi + Feature: Offers ultrawide coverage, ideal for larger spaces.
  • Gigabit Ports: Includes four Gigabit LAN ports and one WAN port for maximum networking speeds.
  • One-Click Intelligent Diagnosis: Simplifies troubleshooting by fixing minor issues with a few clicks.

Cons

  • Expensive Additional Security System: Adding advanced security features can be costly.
  • Lack of Multi-Gig Port: Does not include a multi-gig port, which may limit connectivity options for some users.
  • Connectivity Issues: The lack of signal strength has been a common complains on reviews. 
  • Performance Issues: Some owners say there is a radius of operation issue, with signal strength decreasing in larger spaces.

To start with, the router runs on a quad-core Broadcom CPU that has a clock speed of 1.7GHz, which promises to handle speeds up to 2,976Mbps and give you a stable internet connection. This high-speed capability ensures smooth gaming, fast downloading, and seamless streaming.

Further, the gaming router has a 5GHz band and a 2.4GHz band upgraded to the latest generation, which should deliver sufficient bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and fast downloading. This dual-band setup helps in managing multiple devices and high-bandwidth activities efficiently.

The router is also equipped with the WiFi + feature that promises ultrawide coverage, which should come in handy if you have a larger space. Also, with beamforming and MU-MIMO support, you can get stable connectivity on multiple devices. These features enhance the router’s ability to provide strong, reliable connections throughout your home or office.

Much like some of the best routers for gaming, this one, too, has three Gigabit LAN ports and one WAN port, so you should be able to plug in your PC or gaming console and get the maximum networking speeds. However, there is no multi-gig port, which may limit the router’s ability to support the fastest wired connections available.

Tenda WiFi 6 Gaming Router, AX3000 Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Router for Home, Long Range Coverage with 5 * 6dBi High-Gain Antennas, High Speed Router with 4 Gigabit Ports, Support WPA3, VPN(RX12Pro)
  • Powerful Processing Powering Stable Network: Armed with a 1.7GHz Quad-Core Broadcom high performance CPU for faster Wi-Fi speeds(Up to 2976Mbps) and a stable network
  • Smooth Networking Experience: Both 2.4 GHz band and 5 GHz band get upgraded to the latest generation—perfect for online gaming, 4K streaming, and fast downloading
  • Stronger Wi-Fi Signal Throughout Your Home: 4 high-performance signal enhancement modules and 5 external 6dBi high-gain antennas combineto extend strong and reliable Wi-Fi throughout your home
  • Ultra-wide Coverage with Wi-Fi+: Equipped with the Wi-Fi+ function, multiple RX12 Pro can be easily networked without configuration, realizing a high-speed whole-home Wi-Fi experience for larger units
  • One-click Intelligent Diagnosis: When you encounter network freezes, dropped calls, and current interruptions, you can click one-key optimization on the web management interface, and the router can quickly complete self-checks and repair network problems

What to Expect From a Low-Cost Wi-Fi Router

Woman holding a cell phone in one hand and a wi-fi router in the other

When shopping for a budget router, it’s essential to manage your expectations. While these routers offer great value, they come with certain limitations. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Not Modem-Router Combos

Most budget routers are standalone devices, meaning they do not include a built-in modem. This is a crucial distinction because to access the internet, you will need both a modem and a router. If your internet service provider (ISP) doesn’t offer a compatible modem, you’ll need to purchase one separately. This additional cost should be considered when planning your budget.

For example, if you subscribe to a cable internet service, you’ll need a cable modem, whereas DSL users will require a DSL modem. Some ISPs offer rental modems, but buying your own can be more cost-effective in the long run. Ensure the modem you choose is compatible with your ISP and the speeds you are paying for.

Basic Features

Budget routers typically come with basic features that provide good performance for everyday use. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, they still offer solid Wi-Fi 6 performance. This includes:

  • Dual-Band Support: Most budget routers offer dual-band capabilities, which help manage network traffic by separating high and low bandwidth activities between the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands.
  • Decent Speed and Range: While they may not reach the top speeds of premium models, budget routers still provide sufficient speed and coverage for typical household use, including streaming, gaming, and browsing.

However, they might lack some advanced features such as:

  • Advanced Parental Controls: While some budget models include basic parental controls, you might miss out on more sophisticated options that allow for detailed monitoring and control over internet usage.
  • Quality of Service (QoS): High-end routers often include QoS settings that prioritize certain types of traffic, such as gaming or video streaming, to ensure smooth performance. Budget models may not offer this level of customization.
  • Enhanced Security Features: Budget routers may lack the most advanced security features, such as built-in VPN support, advanced firewall settings, and automatic firmware updates. It’s important to manually update your router’s firmware regularly to ensure security.

Limited for Multiple Devices

While budget routers can handle several devices simultaneously, their performance might be limited in very device-heavy environments. This means that for a typical household with multiple devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home gadgets, a budget router should perform adequately. However, if you have a larger household or require more intensive use, such as for a home office with multiple users or heavy gamers, you might face limitations such as:

  • Reduced Speed During High Traffic: As more devices connect and use the network simultaneously, you may notice a slowdown in performance.
  • Limited Range: Budget routers may not cover large homes or multi-story houses as effectively as more expensive models. Dead zones or areas with weak signals could be an issue.

For larger households or those with high internet demands, considering mesh systems or higher-end models might be beneficial. Mesh systems, like TP-Link Deco or Google Nest Wi-Fi, offer extended coverage and better performance in large or multi-story homes by using multiple nodes to create a seamless network.

Additional Considerations

When choosing a budget router, consider these additional factors to ensure it meets your needs:

  • Ease of Setup and Management: Many budget routers come with user-friendly apps that simplify the setup process and provide easy management options. Apps like the TP-Link Tether or Netgear Nighthawk make it easy to monitor your network, manage connected devices, and troubleshoot issues.
  • Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and customer support options provided by the manufacturer. Good support can be invaluable if you encounter any issues with your router.
  • Future-Proofing: While budget routers provide excellent value, consider whether investing a bit more in a mid-range model might offer better longevity and performance as your internet needs evolve.

Low-cost Wi-Fi routers offer a practical solution for many households, balancing performance and affordability. By understanding the limitations and capabilities of budget routers, you can make an informed decision that best fits your needs.

Final Thoughts on Best Routers Under 100

Overall, the market for budget routers is constantly evolving and improving. With a little bit of research and an understanding of your own internet needs, you can easily find a top-performing router at an affordable price point.

Don’t be afraid to invest a bit more in a mid-range model if you want to future-proof your home network and avoid any potential issues down the line. And remember, always keep your router updated with the latest firmware to ensure optimal performance and security. With the right budget router, you can enjoy fast and reliable internet without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best router under $100 dollars?

The NETGEAR R6700AX and TP-Link Archer AX21 are top contenders in the best routers under $100 category. These WiFi routers offer great performance and features such as Wi-Fi 6 technology, which ensures faster speeds and better efficiency. They are equipped with gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for reliable wired connections and have dual-band support to manage traffic effectively. The NETGEAR R6700AX is particularly noted for its impressive speeds up to 1.8Gbps, making it a solid choice for streaming and gaming. Meanwhile, the TP-Link Archer AX21 shines with its robust parental controls and security features, making it perfect for families.

Is TP-Link or Netgear better?

Both TP-Link and Netgear produce some of the best Wi-Fi routers available. The choice between them often comes down to specific needs and preferences. TP-Link routers are known for their user-friendly setup and robust parental controls. They also offer great value for money, making them popular among budget-conscious consumers. On the other hand, Netgear routers are praised for their performance and advanced features. For example, the Netgear Nighthawk series is often cited as the best gaming router due to its low latency and high-speed capabilities. Both brands offer models with gigabit Ethernet LAN ports and support for mesh networks, allowing for easy expansion and reliable connectivity across large areas.

What is a good all-around router?

A good all-around router should provide reliable performance, easy setup, and essential features at a reasonable price. The TP-Link Archer AX21 fits this description well. It supports Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster speeds and improved network efficiency. With four gigabit Ethernet LAN ports and a USB port, it provides ample connectivity options. Additionally, it includes robust parental controls and security features, making it suitable for families. The Archer AX21 also integrates well with TP-Link’s mesh routers, allowing you to expand your network seamlessly if needed.

How much is a decent router?

A decent router can range from $50 to $100. In this price range, you can find models that offer excellent performance and essential features. For instance, the TP-Link Archer AX10 and Dynalink DL-WRX36 are great options that support Wi-Fi 6 and offer gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for reliable wired connections. These budget routers are suitable for most households, providing good speed and coverage without the need for additional equipment. However, if you require more advanced features or have a larger home, you might consider investing in a mid-range model or a mesh network system.

How much is a decent modem?

A decent modem typically costs between $80 and $300. When choosing a modem, ensure it is compatible with your internet service provider and supports the speeds you need. Many users prefer to buy a modem separately from their router to get the best performance from both devices. Modems in this price range often support DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 standards, which provide fast and reliable internet access. Pairing a good modem with one of the best Wi-Fi routers under $100, like the NETGEAR R6700AX, can enhance your overall internet experience.

What is the best router to have for gaming?

For gaming, you need a router that offers low latency, high speeds, and stable connections. The NETGEAR R6700AX and TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750 are excellent choices. The R6700AX, with its Wi-Fi 6 technology, ensures faster speeds and reduced latency, making it one of the best gaming routers in its price range. The Archer C7, although an older model, still provides robust performance with speeds up to 1.75Gbps and features like beamforming and multiple gigabit Ethernet LAN ports. For those looking to future-proof their setup, considering a router that supports mesh networks can also be beneficial, as it allows for easy expansion and consistent coverage throughout larger homes.

Further Reading

Why Does My Router Keep Disconnecting?

How Long Do Wi-Fi Routers Last?

Picture of Amber Briggs

Amber Briggs

Amber Briggs has served 8 years in a corporate IT role. She assists users in troubleshooting hardware and software, implementing and maintaining network hardware and software, and writes process documentation for end-users and other company members. Amber has previously worked as a Junior Systems Admin for many companies, including Doctors Making Housecalls, Carillon Assisted Living, and Custom Communications Inc. She also has experience working as a Technical Support Agent at Citrix. She holds a degree in professional writing and is currently studying computer science and information studies at Houston Community College. Amber has many hobbies outside of work, including art and graphic design, surfing, gardening, gym, video games, going to the gym, and skateboarding.

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