Today, life would be impossible without the best wireless routers. However, the problem is how to find the best router. This is why we have created a rundown of the best wireless routers for 2020. Some of these routers are not suitable for everyone since they are a bit expensive. However, you can be assured that these wireless routers are definitely good since they made it to our list of the best wireless routers.
Wireless routers are very important in every home or business. A good wireless router is capable of handling the huge demand for Wi-Fi connectivity. Since it will be used for connecting various types of devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and other types of mobile devices, there are some essential things that you need to consider.
Wireless Router Buying Tips
One of the most important things to consider is the extent of your coverage area as well as the number of users and the types of devices that they are using.
Assuming that not everyone is using the latest and best models then it’s senseless for you to pay for the features that are impractical. However, if most of your family members are competing for the bandwidth for streaming videos then you probably need to buy a new one.
This can give satisfaction to everybody. Here we will help you in choosing the best router that is capable of handling your present and prospective needs when it comes to wireless networking. We’ll also give you our top selections to help you get started.
Types of Wireless Routers
Wireless routers differ in a lot of things. Below we’ll explain the biggest difference between de types of wireless routers you can buy.
Single-band Wireless Routers
Some models are compatible with a single radio band while others are not. Customarily, single-band wireless routers are much cheaper. It runs on the 2.4GHz frequency band. They are typically used for most home devices such as a microwave oven. It can also be used for wireless phones and other types of Bluetooth devices. Simply put, this is the best choice for Web surfing as well as for connecting social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
Dual-band Wireless Routers
Dual-band wireless routers are the perfect choice for devices that are streaming videos or using online gaming services like Xbox Live. This type of router consists of two radios. The first radio connects to the 2.4GHz band while the second radio connects to the 5GHz band. Generally, the 5GHz band is not too congested compared to the 2.4GHz band. It is perfect for video streaming and online gaming services since it has less signal interference and provides more throughput. With dual-band routers, you can designate a band for each client and application.
Tri-band Wireless Routers
Tri-band routers consist of three radios. It has one radio for 2.4GHz as well as two radios for 5GHz. If most of your devices at home are streaming videos or doing lots of file transfers, torrent downloading, and online gaming then you surely require tri-band routers.
Best Wireless Routers Comparison Table
Wireless Routers Reviews
Now I’m going to look at some of the best wireless routers on the market. I will give you some detailed specs for each device and look at why it’s on the list.
1. TP-Link AC3200 Wireless Routers
TP-Link AC3200 Wireless Routers is our top choice because it has three wireless networks and six antennas to give you more wireless resources. The 802.11ac is being supported by two 5GHz bands. This means that regardless if you are doing large transfers in one channel, you can still enjoy a full speed on the other. This is made possible by TP-Link’s Smart Wi-Fi tech which spontaneously designates the appropriate frequency band to your device. It has a simple management interface that contains the basic settings and the advanced settings for the Wi-Fi band.
Speed: 802.11n: 600 Mbps and 802.11ac: 2x 1300 Mbps
Pros:
- It features a 1GHz Dual-core processor with three co-processors.
- Dual 802.11ac wireless networks for multiple gadgets and computers.
- It has loads of internal processing power.
Cons:
- It does not have a built-in modem.
2. ASUS RT-AC5300 Wireless Routers
ASUS RT-AC5300 Wireless Routers is the ultimate choice for busy home networks. If most of your family members are using different devices for connecting to the internet then this Tri-band gigabit router is the best choice. It consists of two 5GHz bands and 2.4GHz band.
Speed: 802.11ac up to 1734Mbps
Pros:
- For easy adjustment, you can use a smartphone app.
- The QoS system will determine the type of network traffic needed for a particular device.
Cons:
- It is one of the most expensive routers.
- There is only one USB 3.0 port.
- It has a unique design which may not be desirable for everyone.
3. Linksys WRT1900AC Wireless Router
Linksys WRT1900AC Wireless Router looks dramatic yet it can perform effectively. It has a dual-core 1.6 GHz processor along with a built-in VPN. The software interface is very easy to use, making it ideal for any household. Take advantage of its fast external connectivity using the USB.
Speed: 802.11ac: 1300 Mbps, 802.11n: 600 Mbps
Pros:
- Excellent performance with an expansive coverage along with a USB shared storage.
- It comes with extensive software.
Cons:
- It’s somewhat expensive.
- It does not include 4×4 antenna speeds which can be found in some routers.
4. Asus RT-AC88U Wireless Router
Asus RT-AC88U Wireless Router offers you the best possible wireless performance with its four antennas and NitroQAM technology. However, in order to enjoy its faster speeds, you need to purchase a NitroQAM wireless adapter. It has eight external LAN ports and USB 3 port
Speed: 802.11ac: 2167Mbps 802.11n: 1000 Mbps
Pros:
- It has the fastest wireless speeds.
- It uses an extensive software interface.
Cons:
- In order to enjoy its top speed, special hardware is needed.
- It is pricey.
5. Starry Station Touchscreen WiFi Router
Starry Station Touchscreen WiFi Router is somewhat unique since this one is more on comfort and style. It has a triangular shape, making it a perfect adornment on your home or office. Undoubtedly, it’s a bit pricey considering it does not offer the fastest speed and the longest range. However, it does offer ease of use and style.
Speed: 802.11ac: 1,300Mbps 802.11n: 450Mbps
Pros:
- It has a simple interface that looks classy.
- The controls can be done on its 3.8-inch LCD touchscreen.
Cons:
- The source needs some rewiring.
6. Synology Router RT1900ac
The very first router from Synology is quite impressive. This router uses a Linux-based software interface on its Synology Router Manager. If you’ve used Synology NAS before then you’re probably familiar with this design. When it comes to its hardware, it offers 600 Mbps 802.11n and 1300 Mbps 802.11ac. Coincidentally, it also offers excellent support for shared storage along with an amazing iOS and Android apps for accessing files.
Speed: 802.11ac: 1300 Mbps, 802.11n: 600 Mbps
Pros:
- Its software interface is remarkably design and very easy to use.
- What makes it unique from the others is its SD-card slot.
Cons:
- It does not have a modem.
- There is only one USB port.
7. TP-Link AC1900 Wireless Wi-Fi Router
TP-Link AC1900 Wireless Wi-Fi Router might be cheaper compared to its competitors yet it’s so powerful. In fact, this router is capable of supporting 1300Mbps 802.11ac wireless speeds that offer superior performance on most laptops. It uses an excellent software interface and its internals is quite impressive.
Speed: 802.11ac: 1300 Mbps, 802.11n: 600 Mbps
Pros:
- It offers great value for its price.
- Loaded with a range of features.
- It comes in a bright white design which provides a calming effect on your living room.
Cons:
- Its USB performance is just adequate.
- Does not offer the best range.
- Its built-in modem can only support DSL.
8. Zyxel Armor Z2 AC2600 Wireless Router
Zyxel Armor Z2 AC2600 Wireless Router is the gaming router that you deserve. Although, it might look a bit odd yet it has powerful internal specs. It utilizes a 1.7GHz dual-core processor along with 512GB of RAM. The settings can be accessed via its web-based software interface. This router is expensive but it’s well worthy of its price since it comes with great features. One of its greatest features is StreamBoost which designates higher speeds to devices that require them.
Speed: 802.11ac: 2,167Mbps, 802.11n: 800Mbps
Pros:
- It offers impressive MU-MIMO wireless speeds.
- It comes with superior traffic analysis software.
Cons:
- The speed on its USB port is just adequate.
- Not too many devices are currently using quad-stream 802.11ac.
- It is expensive.
9. Google Wifi System
Google Wifi System is the best way to expand wireless internet in your entire household. This router does not have any web-based interface and it can only be controlled via its Google Wifi mobile application. Google claims that it does not store any activity data. Although it collects hardware-related data, however, you can choose to turn it off on the settings.
Pros:
- It’s very easy to use and can be installed instantly.
- It offers faster speed and excellent Wi-Fi coverage.
- It has an affordable price.
Cons:
- Requires a google account and an iOS or Android mobile device.
- It does not offer several advanced features.
10. Netgear Orbi Home WiFi System
No products found.Netgear Orbi Home WiFi System includes two devices that look the same but function differently. The two devices are the Orbi router and the Orbi add-on satellite. The Orbi router consists of one WAN and three LAN ports. This device can stand on its own. On the other hand, the Orbi add-on satellite functions as a wireless extender of the Orbi router. It consists of four LAN ports and can only be used with an Orbi router.
Pros:
- It offers wide Wi-Fi coverage without sacrificing its speed.
- It does not require a Netgear account.
Cons:
- It is a bit costly.
- The settings cannot be accessed through a mobile app.
Types of Wireless Protocols
Wireless Ethernet networks commonly use 802.11 protocols for sending and receiving data. Some devices which are using the older versions only have limited data transfer rates.
For instance, an 802.11b protocol has a data transfer rate of 11Mbps while 802.11g protocol has a 54Mbps transfer rate. Both of them operate on a 2.4GHz band.
A Wi-Fi protocol, 802.11n is commonly used since it offers up to 600Mbps data rates and can operate on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This is typically used by most smartphones and laptops since it uses Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology for an excellent performance.
The latest models of wireless routers are using 802.11ac technology. It has a lot of enhancements over the previous models. It uses beamforming technology which sends Wi-Fi signals straight to the user instead of broadcasting in various directions.
The maximum speed of these routers is shown on its labels. For instance, an AC1750 router has a 2.4GHz band with a rate of 450Mbps and a 5GHz band with a rate of 1,300Mbps.
Take note that in reality, these routers can hardly read its maximum speeds. This means if you’re searching for the best performance then you’ll have to choose a high-speed router that costs more.
Wireless Routers Frequently Asked Questions
We get a lot of readers’ questions on our selection of wireless routers and their capabilities. Below we have answered the most frequently asked questions.
Do wireless routers have Ethernet ports?
Yes, they do. Most routers have Ethernet ports since having a machine or server at home that requires a constant stable connection to the internet is a very common use case. In those cases relying on wireless connectivity is not recommended.
Do I need a router for Ethernet?
Not really. Ethernet is essentially a wired internet connection. If your ISP is following the proper standards, the cable that connects your router to the Internet would also be Ethernet. In such a case, the router acts as a simple cable splitter.
Can I connect a router to a router?
Yes, you can. Connecting a router’s input Ethernet to another router’s output Ethernet essentially shares the signal. This is why this technology is so widely spread and favored. You can essentially distribute a single source of Internet to an entire building.
How do I increase my WiFi signal strength?
The best option is using Ethernet from the router. The second best option is making sure your device is in the same room as the router and there are no obstacles between the two. The other options are devices such as Wi-Fi repeaters and extenders.
How Do Wireless Routers Work
Wireless routers allow you to connect to the internet without using any cables. It works by plugging the router into an internet connection. Aside from wireless connections, it also allows you to use wired connections.
The number of computers that can access the broadband connection will vary depending on the number of ports in a particular router. Wireless routers usually come with a modem that connects the computers.
Wireless routers use radiofrequency waves in transmitting data. The best way to describe it is to compare it with two-way radio communication.
Wireless routers let you enjoy Wi-Fi connections without the hassle of installing wires on your household. It uses satellites to expand it’s Wi-Fi signal. These satellites offer you continuous connectivity throughout the entire household. Typically, it is installed automatically so you don’t have to configure it. Plus, it offers you faster speeds.
SAY CHEESE! My name is Mike and I love technology, software, and crypto. I grew up around my ‘nerdy’ engineering parents who’ve worked for high tech start-ups and aerospace companies. They’ve taught me everything I know, from destructing the latest phones to playing around with drones, writing lines of code and investing in cryptocurrencies. I take things apart, put them back together and add some (code). I breathe and live tech and can’t wait to teach you more!
Leon says
Thanks for this good Article, I can use this Netgear Orbi Home WiFi System in House ? we have a total 5 floors and it will be useful for every flat ? it’s good signal or need to put some extra device ?
hope i will get answer. thank you in advance.
Mike Granich says
Dear Leon! The Orbi WiFi System provides a single WiFi network for your entire home, being able to work on multiples floors and rooms. My suggestion for your situation is to go for the Orbi Tri-band Whole Home Mesh WiFi System with 3Gbps Speed, this Router & Extender covers up to 5,000 sq. ft., which should be enough for your home!
Hope this helps,
Mike
Evan Bell says
Glad to read your blog, Mike! Your blog 10 Best Wireless Routers for Fast Speeds is really helpful for us. I was searching for this type of blog every day and today I would like to say this was the best blog for this information.
Mike Granich says
Thank you for the compliment Evan!