Rating of the most reliable Wi-Fi routers for the home in 2021: review and characteristics of the best models

Rating of the TOP 20 best Wi-Fi routers for home

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How to choose a router: criteria

When choosing a router, you should pay attention to the following characteristics and features:

• Bandwidth. The speed of the router must at least match the speed of the selected tariff plan. It is better if the channel capacity declared by the device manufacturer is higher than the corresponding tariff specification.
• Wi-Fi coverage. The area of ​​a good Wi-Fi network signal is indicated without taking into account barriers between devices. High-quality, uninterrupted operation of a wireless network is only possible with equipment that has a wide range.
• Antennas. Everything said above is equally correlated with the number and power of antennas in the router. With one antenna, a device will not surprise you with good speed performance; it is better to give preference to devices with three or four antennas.
• USB interface. Using the appropriate connector, you can connect external data storage devices and a 3G/4G modem (if such an option is declared). The latter makes it possible to connect to the network of mobile providers, just like on a smartphone.
• LAN ports. The speed capabilities of Ethernet ports are much higher than those of a Wi-Fi network. Not only PCs, but also advanced receivers or TVs are connected to Ethernet ports. A channel speed of 1 Gbit/s is the ideal option today.
• Control. Configuration and other operations with the router are performed via the web interface. Many modern models can also be controlled via a smartphone through a special application.

Checking with utilities

You can check channel throughput using standard utilities. This method is well suited if you need to roughly estimate the quality of communication between two computers.

The cross-platform iperf utility is suitable for this . On one computer the server is started using the command “ iperf –s ”, after that, on the other computer the client “ iperf –c server_ip ” is launched. The utility conducts testing and displays the results: time in seconds from the start of testing, number of bytes transferred, transfer speed.

Now version 3 is current. If you are a Windows user, then download the utility and run it from the command line. On one computer there is a server “iperf3.exe –s”. The second one is the client. This is what the output log looks like without specifying any additional options:

Using the keys, you can configure the transmission protocol (TCP/UDP, and in version 3, SCTP). You can test not only data transfer from client to server, but also in both directions. It is possible to select the ports on which the server will be launched.

The disadvantage of such testing is, first of all, that testing is carried out at level 4 of the OSI model, that is, only data transmitted via TCP/UDP is recorded, without taking into account IP headers and control packets. The telecom operator, in turn, usually guarantees the bandwidth of the communication channel, including IP headers.

Since such testing is performed using a computer, some application or service can start at any time and affect the test results.

The best routers in terms of price/quality ratio

The most popular and rated device models meet this criterion.

Note! With high quality workmanship, they have an affordable price tag.

Rating of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home in terms of price and quality.

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A Gigabit Edition

The presented model is designed to simultaneously receive and transmit data over two frequencies at once, providing any supported device with a wireless connection speed of up to 1167 Mbit/s.

Four powerful external antennas boast a gain of 6 dbi.

This guarantees significant signal coverage and a stable connection regardless of obstacles.

The WEP, WPA and WPA2 protocols are responsible for securing the connection.

Gigabit LAN ports make it possible to organize a wired connection with the provider’s network.

The working configuration is configured using a web interface and a proprietary mobile application.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 2 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 201 × 25 × 122 mm;
• features - comes with a Chinese plug, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• ease of control via a mobile application;
• high data transfer speed;
• pleasant indication of operating modes;
• small overall dimensions.

Flaws

• there is no possibility of wall mounting;
• few LAN ports;
• uncritical heating during operation.

Netis N1

Equipped with two external antennas, the model is capable of providing high-quality wireless signal propagation within a large house or apartment with a complex room configuration.

The device is equipped with an intuitive display system located on the front panel.

The router supports two Wi-Fi bands with the ability to operate them simultaneously.

Wired communication is represented by four LAN ports with a base speed of 1 Gbit/s.

Additionally, the device is equipped with a USB port with the ability to connect a GSM modem, organize a DLNA server, FTP, Samba. Management is carried out via a web interface.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 263 × 37 × 147 mm;
• features - FTP, file server.

Advantages

• easy initial setup;
• ease of use in general;
• modes for advanced users;
• high transmitter power;
• nice appearance.

Flaws

• a small list of supported modems;
• Vertical installation is not provided.

TP-LINK Archer AX50

The Wi-Fi router with support for FTP, Time Machine and media server options corresponds to the Wi-Fi AX3000 class and is assembled in an impressive case made of high-quality materials.

In addition to the USB port, the device is equipped with four Gigabit LAN ports. The router is capable of providing high speed data transfer via Wi-Fi.

Four powerful external antennas are also responsible for this.

The router supports simultaneous Wi-Fi connections for up to 256 client devices.

The device is controlled both through the web interface and using a mobile application.

The equipment is intended for indoor installation, including wall mounting.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• support for standards - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac, ax;
• wireless communication speed - 2402 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, SPI, NAT, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 260 × 39 × 135 mm;
• features - FTP, Samba support.

Advantages

• inexpensive model;
• gigabit WAN ports;
• possibility of turning off the indication;
• powerful signal;
• easy setup.

Flaws

• design for everyone;
• heating during operation;
• the number of FTP connections is limited to four.

Keenetic Air (KN-1611)

The presented Wi-Fi router has the ability to manage and configure through a convenient web interface and an intuitive mobile application for quickly and easily organizing a stable Internet connection.

The model supports two Wi-Fi bands - 2.4 and 5 GHz, which can be useful when the network is busy.

There is also the possibility of a wired connection with a maximum speed of up to 100 Mbit/s.

The total number of LAN and WAN ports is five.

The router package includes a patch cord for connecting to the provider’s network, a compact power adapter, and instructions for using and configuring the equipment.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 4 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, Dynamic DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 159 × 29 × 110 mm;
• features - repeater mode.

Advantages

• wide signal coverage;
• easy connection and control via a mobile application;
• ability to control connected devices;
• high signal stability.

Flaws

• there is heating during operation;
• short power adapter cord;
• High price tag compared to similar products.

Keenetic Extra (KN-1711)

The presented router has the ability to connect a USB modem to organize Internet access from a smartphone, computer, laptop and other digital devices.

Connecting using mobile resources may be relevant where there is no cable Internet, for example, in a summer cottage.

The device supports Wi-Fi bands at 2.4 and 5 GHz. The total number of LAN ports is four.

The equipment is characterized by its small overall dimensions and light weight.

The body of the device is made of high-quality plastic. The informative LED indication can be switched off if necessary.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 159 × 29 × 110 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater modes.

Advantages

• Ease of use;
• simple settings and controls;
• stable operation of wireless and wired connections;
• powerful Wi-Fi signal at 5 and 2.4 GHz;
• the indication can be turned off.

Flaws

• cannot be installed in a vertical position;
• low download speed of the torrent client;
• The included cable is not long enough.

The best inexpensive models under 1500 rubles

A budget niche does not necessarily mean weak and low-quality products.

Keep in mind! Some devices are comparable in functionality even to advanced models.

Review of the TOP 5 best inexpensive routers based on customer reviews and ratings for apartments.

Netis MW5230

This inexpensive router supports two options for accessing the Internet - using a 3G/4G modem or through a more conventional Ethernet connection via cable.

The model is equipped with a Wi-Fi transmitter with a frequency of 2.4 GHz with a maximum connection speed of 300 Mbit/s.

External fixed antennas have a high gain.

Wired connection of network devices through the router is made via LAN ports at speeds of up to 100 Mbit/s.

You can manage and configure the router via the web interface or via an external network.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 88 × 28 × 11.5 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater modes.

Advantages

• simple basic setup;
• support for 4G modems;
• high speed Internet distribution;
• stylish design;
• affordable price.

Flaws

• not the most powerful hardware;
• If the channel is heavily loaded, there may be interruptions in operation.

MikroTik hAP lite

The presented model is one of the most interesting routers in the line, allowing you to access the Internet and create a local wireless network within the office or home space.

With its compact size, the device can be installed in any convenient place.

Despite its small dimensions, the router boasts extensive configuration and management capabilities.

The built-in operating system includes a firewall and network bandwidth control tools.

Using the WPS button, you can connect to the system without entering a password.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n;
• wireless communication speed - 433 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 113 × 89 × 28 mm;
• features - Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• high quality workmanship;
• quite powerful hardware;
• its own operating system;
• many different settings;
• high stability;
• regular firmware updates.

Flaws

• fine tuning is difficult for the average user;
• no wall mounting;
• high price.

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A

The budget Wi-Fi router, housed in a high-quality composite material case, is equipped with four non-removable, broadly directional antennas for stable and fast connection of various stationary and portable devices.

Sufficient Wi-Fi coverage with simultaneous data transmission at 2.4/5 GHz frequencies is combined with high wireless connection speed.

The device is equipped with two LAN ports for organizing a network between units of stationary equipment via cable.

The working configuration is configured via the web interface. The connection security standards are WEP, WPA and WPA2.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 2 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 188 × 25 × 101 mm;
• features - comes with a Chinese plug, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• good data transfer speed;
• stable signal in two ranges;
• affordable price tag;
• current design.

Flaws

• no IPTV support;
• not enough LAN ports;
• There is no possibility of wall mounting.

Netis N4

This inexpensive router, which belongs to the SOHO class network devices, is capable of providing Internet access with a Wi-Fi connection at 2.4/5 GHz frequencies, including the simultaneous use of bands.

Support for the 5 GHz band can be useful in case of heavy congestion on the 2.4 GHz channel.

The peak value of the upper range is 1167 Mbit/s.

The design of the model provides two hundred-megabit connectors and a WAN port, indicated in blue.

The equipment supports the VPN pass through function, it is equipped with a firewall, packet filtering by IP, MAC addresses, and TCP/UDP.

Device management is available via the web interface. The device is intended for indoor installation.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 1167 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 2 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 118 × 22 × 86 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater modes, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• ease of setup and management;
• compact overall dimensions;
• low cost;
• strong signal in both Wi-Fi bands.

Flaws

• heats up under load;
• few LAN ports;
• Not very detailed instructions included.

TP-LINK TL-MR3020

The inexpensive mobile router is a universal portable device that supports more than 120 models of USB modems from various brands operating in 3G and 4G networks.

The presented equipment will appeal to users who often work outside the office and home users without wired Internet.

High-quality connection between the router and the network is ensured by high-speed, seamless switching between modes.

The device is equipped with a USB port with the ability to connect a power adapter.

Connection security is guaranteed by a powerful firewall with an address filtering system.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n;
• wireless communication speed - 150 Mbps;
• Internet connection - USB modem;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, DDNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 74 × 22 × 67 mm;
• Features: guest network, WISP technology.

Advantages

• compact dimensions;
• small weight;
• high quality workmanship;
• support for a large number of modems.

Flaws

• little built-in memory;
• the glossy surface gets scratched quickly;
• short cables included.

The fastest wi-fi routers for home

Tenda AC10U

High-speed home Wi-Fi router at an affordable price. At a low cost, it has very good speed performance. Firstly, the device is equipped with gigabit LAN ports. This will allow you to use a high-speed Internet connection and ensure fast data transfer via cable within the network. Devices such as game consoles and Smart TV will work without crashes or freezes.

Secondly, the router supports the 802.11ac standard and operates in the 5 GHz band. This allows you to provide high speed in the wireless network. In the 2.4 GHz band it is limited to 300 Mbit/s. But at a frequency of 5 GHz, the router can accelerate to 867 Mbit/s. In most cases, this will be sufficient for home users.

An additional advantage is support for MU-MIMO / Beamforming + technologies. This allows you to improve coverage and optimize work with multiple devices at the same time.

Keenetic Giga (KN-1010)

A router from a popular manufacturer that compares favorably with its competitors due to its functional software. The cost of this device is noticeably higher, but there are more possibilities. In particular, in terms of speed indicators, it confidently outperforms the previous model.

Keenetic Giga is also equipped with gigabit network ports. Therefore, it can be used with any tariff plan of your provider. What is important is that the router has an SFP port. That is, it can be connected to a fiber optic line without additional intermediate devices. The router works without problems with IPTV and Smart TV.

The device operates in MU-MIMO 2.4 + 5 GHz mode. In the 5 GHz band, data transfer rates can reach 1267 Mbit/s. This will ensure comfortable viewing of high-quality videos, online games without lag, and simultaneous operation of several client devices.

Additionally, Keenetic Giga is equipped with two USB ports, has a built-in file server, DLNA, Time Machine, and a standalone torrent client Transmission. The router is configured from a computer via the web interface or using a proprietary mobile application.

Asus RT-AC87U

Even more powerful, even faster and even more expensive. This device breaks records and is one of the fastest routers. Standard gigabit wired interface coupled with record-breaking wireless capabilities. The router operates at speeds of up to 1734 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz band and at the same time at speeds of up to 600 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz band. Which gives a total network throughput of up to 2334 Mbit/s. Multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) 4x4 technology ensures maximum speed for all wireless devices on the network. Watching 4K video and playing games online at the same time? No problem! The router's capabilities are quite sufficient for this.

In tests simulating a high-load network with three wired and two wireless clients, thanks to hardware NAT and a separate processor for Wi-Fi, this router provided overall performance 50% higher than similar routers from other manufacturers.

If you need high internet speeds, this router is well worth the money you spend on it.

The best powerful routers for a large apartment

Important! Even dense reinforced concrete walls will not be an obstacle for the devices presented below.

This is powerful equipment with advanced functionality.

]The best powerful and most reliable models according to expert advice.

Keenetic Ultra (KN-1810)

This powerful Wi-Fi Mesh router is capable of providing a stable high-speed Internet connection to any supported stationary and mobile equipment.

The device supports modern standards IPoE/PPPoE/PPTP/L2TP/802.1X/VLAN 802.1Q/IPv4/IPv6.

Wired communication in it is represented by four LAN ports and one WAN interface.

USB connectors allow you to connect a USB modem.

In access point mode, the equipment supports the Sky cloud service. DNS is an excellent tool for organizing parental controls.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless speed - 2533 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, Dynamic DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3;
• dimensions - 214 × 33 × 154 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater mode, Mesh support.

Advantages

• speed and range;
• no connection interruptions;
• large range of action;
• convenience and flexibility of the software shell;
• control from a smartphone via Telnet.

Flaws

• slight overheating during operation;
• relatively large size;
• relatively expensive model.

Xiaomi AIoT AX3600

The presented model has the ability to operate in two wireless bands, which implies not only high data transfer speeds, but also excellent resistance to various types of interference.

The wireless channel speed in this equipment reaches 3000 Mbit/s.

Special technologies and a set of powerful antennas help minimize interference in the form of obstacles.

The model is equipped with a powerful hardware platform.

It is a quad-core 64-bit A53 processor and a dual-core IPQ8071A professional network chip with comprehensive performance to meet your most daring needs.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 3000 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 408 × 186 × 133 mm;
• Features: 256 MB flash memory, guest network.

Advantages

• large coverage area;
• high Wi-Fi signal strength;
• stable operation without freezes or breaks;
• excellent cooling.

Flaws

• no IPTV support;
• no wall mount;
• relatively large size.

ASUS RT-AX58U

A powerful dual-band router with support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and MU MIMO/OFDMA technologies can be a real boon for beginners and advanced users.

The device is equipped with innovative network protection AiProtection Pro based on Trend Micro.

Compatible with the AiMesh Wi-Fi system.

The model supports 160 MHz bandwidth and 1024 QAM for significantly faster wireless connections.

The overall network speed reaches almost 3000 Mbps in the 5 GHz band. The device is controlled via a web interface.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• support for standards - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac, ax;
• wireless speed - 2976 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, SPI, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 224 × 154 × 160 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater modes, FTP, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• AX standard (Wi-Fi 6);
• no overheating;
• high-quality materials and assembly;
• nice design;
• Wall mounting is provided.

Flaws

• high price;
• low coverage range;
• difficulty in fine tuning.

ASUS RT-AX82U

The presented Wi-Fi Mesh router with dual-band capability belongs to gaming devices of the AX5400 format with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), mobile gaming mode, Aura backlighting and an information security system.

The functionality of the device is complemented by AiMesh technology, the GearAccelerator function, a gaming port, an Adaptive OoS traffic manager, and a port redirection option.

The equipment supports crazy speeds according to the Wi-Fi 6 standard - up to 5400 Mbps with a channel width of 160 MHz.

In terms of information security, the system is protected from online threats not only by AiProtection Pro based on Trend Micro technologies, but also by supporting the WPA 3 standard.

There is a parental control tool.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• support for standards - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac, ax;
• wireless communication speed - 5378 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, D DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3;
• dimensions - 275.5 × 275 × 184.4 mm;
• features - FTP, bridge mode, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• stability of work;
• wide range of action;
• works in conjunction with Mesh devices;
• high data transmission/reception speed;
• powerful hardware;
• various backlight modes.

Flaws

• impressive price tag;
• heats up under load.

ASUS RT-AX92U

A powerful model from a well-known manufacturer of network equipment offers the basis for organizing a Mesh network over a large area or in a multi-storey private house, subject to the purchase of a second similar device.

The Wi-Fi 6 wireless standard guarantees stable and efficient data transmission while simultaneously serving multiple client devices.

The equipment supports 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac and ax standards to connect next-generation devices.

Business-class information security is represented by AiProtection Pro technology.

The module allows you to protect all devices connected to the network, and a flexible parental control tool allows you to control Internet access.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• support for standards - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac, ax;
• wireless speed - 6071 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, USB modem;
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, Firewall, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 155 × 52 × 155 mm;
• features - bridge/repeater modes, FTP, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• stylish spring look;
• compact dimensions;
• good signal quality;
• high speed Wi-Fi;
• parental control option;
• variety of settings.

Flaws

• long loading;
• heating during operation;
• high price.

Models with the ability to connect a SIM card

The devices presented below will be a real salvation in places where there is no possibility of connecting to a wired Internet.

The devices connect to the operator via a SIM card and distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi.

Keenetic Runner 4G (KN-2210)

A model with support for Mesh technology and a built-in 4G modem with the ability to connect to mobile Internet resources is a relevant solution when organizing a network in a country house or in a remote office center.

When the base station is located at a long distance, users will be able to connect an external LTE antenna to the device via an SMA connector.

The main functions of the device are supplemented by Internet backup options, WISP, VPN, Cloud modes, content filtering, parental controls and guest network.

You can expand your wireless network coverage using the built-in Mesh Wi-Fi system.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, SIM card (built-in modem);
• LAN ports - 3 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, Dynamic DNS;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3;
• dimensions - 159 × 29 × 110 mm;
• features - repeater mode, Mesh support.

Advantages

• simple initial setup;
• possibility of connecting external antennas;
• Wi-Fi range;
• stable work;
• a large number of options and settings.

Flaws

• poorly compatible with outdated operating systems;
• there is heating during operation;
• high price.

HUAWEI B315S

This compact and powerful router with support for dual-band Wi-Fi at 2.4/5 GHz frequencies, as well as 3G/4G networks with connection speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s, will help solve the problem of lack of Internet in a private home or summer cottage.

The SIM card slot makes it possible to use communication services of cellular operators.

Built-in Wi-Fi distributes speed evenly across multiple connected devices.

The equipment is reliably protected from external threats, it is equipped with modern encryption and routing tools.

The device can also be used as a file server, and is also successfully included in the Smart Home ecosystem.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - SIM card (built-in modem);
• LAN ports - 4 × 1 Gbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 186 × 139 × 46 mm;
• features - RJ-11 connector, SMA ports, file server, two USB ports, Smart Home ecosystem.

Advantages

• stability of work;
• high transmission/reception speed;
• simple basic setup;
• rich functionality.

Flaws

• high price tag;
• supports SIM cards only with modem tariffs;
• There is no possibility of installation on the wall.

ZYXEL LTE3202-M430

A router with the ability to install a SIM card from any domestic telecom operator can be successfully used to organize a stable Internet connection indoors.

The device will help organize an Internet connection where there is access to mobile network resources.

For this purpose, there is support for 2G, 3G and 4G standards on board.

Internet packages are distributed via cable via LAN and wirelessly via Wi-Fi in the 2.4 GHz range with a maximum connection speed of 300 Mbit/s.

The device is connected to the mains using a compact power adapter. Management is carried out via a web interface.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - WAN, SIM card;
• LAN ports - 4 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, Firewall, NAT, SPI, Dynamic DNS, DMZ;
• encryption - WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 163.5 × 31.3 × 146.6 mm;
• Features: SMA connectors, guest network, MIM technology.

Advantages

• supports all telecom operators;
• distribution to 16 devices simultaneously;
• functionality for wired connection;
• high quality workmanship;
• convenient location of indicators.

Flaws

• menu in English;
• small selection of settings;
• slow LAN ports.

TP-LINK M7350

This portable router is one of the innovative network devices that are characterized by stable access to Internet networks even in difficult “field” conditions.

The equipment supports 3G and 4G (LTE) networks. The latter option allows you to develop the maximum speed of receiving data packets.

Internet distribution occurs over a Wi-Fi network with even greater speed.

The device can serve up to 15 client devices simultaneously.

The built-in rechargeable battery allows you to work autonomously for up to 10 hours.

All the necessary physical interfaces are present on board, including micro USB, a SIM card slot, and a slot for a memory card.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - SIM card;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 106 × 16 × 66 mm;
• features - built-in 2550 mAh battery, memory card slot up to 32 GB, FTP, file server.

Advantages

• current design;
• high quality workmanship;
• ease of setup;
• control via application;
• excellent autonomy.

Flaws

• easily soiled plastic body;
• dim battery charge indication;
• heating during active work;
• lack of advanced settings.

ZTE MF283

The presented model is a multi-mode 3G/4G router with the ability to be used in small businesses, office and home spaces.

The device allows you to deploy a full-fledged Wi-Fi network in a couple of minutes with the organization of collective access to high-speed Internet in the support area of ​​the cellular operator’s network.

This does not require installing drivers or additional settings.

The user is required to insert a SIM card into the appropriate slot and connect the device to the mains.

The device supports up to 30 user gadgets simultaneously via Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi operating frequencies - 2.4 GHz;
• standards support - 802.11 b, a, g, n;
• wireless communication speed - 300 Mbps;
• Internet connection - SIM card;
• LAN ports - 4 × 100 Mbps;
• network infrastructures - DHCP, NAT, DMZ;
• encryption - WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• dimensions - 195 × 55 × 150 mm;
• Features: ability to connect an analog telephone.

Advantages

• interesting design;
• excellent connection quality;
• high stability;
• light weight and size;
• two antennas included.

Flaws

• very bright LED indicators;
• not the fastest LAN ports;
• few advanced settings.

Which router is better to buy

The router must fully comply with your Internet network, otherwise problems will arise with its performance.

First of all, look at the port type:

• DSL (and its subtypes: ADSL, VDSL, etc.) is a continuation of the story with telephone modems. In this case, the router also connects to the Internet via a telephone cable.
• Ethernet is currently the most common type of port in routers. It involves connecting to the Internet using a cable that connects you to your provider.
• PON (and its subtypes) are optical networks. Routers with such ports are new in the computer world. They connect to the Web using fiber optic cable and provide maximum Internet speed.
• 3G and 4G (LTE) ports are the most convenient, because... their presence relieves its owner of any cables.

Mixed routers are equipped with several types of ports. The most common “bundles” are ADSL + Ethernet or Ethernet + 3G/4G.

The number of LAN ports determines how many pieces of equipment you can connect to the Internet at the same time. The standard indicator is 4 LAN channels. In turn, these ports are also divided into two types: Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet. The difference between them is the Internet transmission speed. The former provide up to 100 Mbit/sec, and the latter – up to 1 Gbit/sec.

The Wi-Fi standard and operating frequency determine which devices will be able to “consume” the Internet from the router and at what speed. Modern routers operate at a frequency of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The first option is more common and is suitable for working with almost any mobile gadget. 5 GHz is used for more advanced technology that requires a large and fast Internet flow (game consoles or powerful Smart TVs).

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