2024 Popular Router Shopping Guide & Recommendation
To connect to a fast and stable network, you need a suitable router in addition to choosing a high-quality Internet solution. Currently, there are lots of routers on the market. In addition to 5G routers, there are also WiFi 6, WiFi 7, and gaming routers available. Popular brands include ASUS , Mi , Linksys , etc. So it’s best to find out the features of each and check the things to look out before you buy. Here’s an overview with some recommendations.
2024 Latest Router Review Report
Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
▾3.5 to 4.5 Stars▾
Other Wi-Fi Routers
▾3.5 to 4 Stars▾
| Product | Transmission Speed | Wi-Fi Coverage | Energy Efficiency | Ease of Use | Functionality | Network Security | Overall Rating |
TP-Link Archer BE800 BE19000 Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASUS RT-AX57 AX3000 Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASUS RT-AX53U wireless AX1800 Dual Band Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TP-Link Archer AX55 AX3000 Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TP-Link Archer AX73 AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASUS AX4200 Dual Band WiFi 6 AiMesh Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TP-Link Archer AX10 Router |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Source: Consumer Council
Router Features
1. External antenna improves network stability
A router with an external antenna offers a stable wireless network service within a certain range. It allows you to adjust the direction of the main transmission signal. Routers with external antennas are suitable for users with a desktop computer or digital TV box at home who want to enjoy a smooth network experience. If you need to share the wireless network on multiple devices, the more antennas the router has, the more stable the signal.
2. MU-MIMO for multiple users
A MU-MIMO function lets you enjoy multiple inputs and outputs at the same time. It operates independently via various antennas for greater transmission flexibility. The device supports multiple antennas simultaneously to increase the transmission speed and provides extra bandwidth to different devices to maintain a smooth wireless signal.
3. Mesh WiFi increases network coverage
A Mesh WiFi consists of two or more access points and operates as a single WiFi network. All access points are connected to each other. This means the device can transmit data via several paths using the best transmission route at any given time. Current Mesh Wi-Fi routers operate under two major technologies: 802.11x Band Steering and 802.11k Seamless Roaming, while providing 2.4GHz and 5GHz band frequencies. You can add extra access points in more concealed places (such as corridors) and near walls to increase network coverage. Hot brands include ASUS, TP-Link, Linksys.
4. "802.11N/802.11AC/802.11AX/802.11BE" model features
| Model | Band Frequency | Maximum Speed | Signal Modulation | MU-MIMO | Applicable Environment |
4th generation |
2.4GHz or 5GHz band |
|
64QAM | Permit single user only | Support general word processing |
5th generation |
5GHz band |
|
256QAM | Support multiple users, provide downlink transmission | Support online data browsing |
6th generation |
2.4GHz and 5GHz band with capacity to upgrade to 6GHz in the future |
|
1024QAM | Support multiple users, provide uplink and downlink transmission | Support video games and drama watching, suitable for simultaneous use by multiple users |
7th generation |
2.4GHz、5GHz and 6GHz band | 320MHz bandwidth: 47185.9Mbits/46.08Gbps | 4096QAM | Support multiple users, provide uplink and downlink transmission | Support video games, AR, VR and 4K / 8K videos |
Router Shopping Tips
1. Environment for installation
Most routers use wireless signals to transmit messages. Structure of room and coverage area could affect signal transmission. Obstacles (such as walls) could block signal transmission and slow down Internet speed. If a router of a low coverage is selected, or the distance between destination and router is too far apart, long-distance transmission could affect router stability.
2. Daily connection speed
Both your router and Internet solution could affect network speed. To enjoy a fast and stable network, check your router specifications and the maximum download speeds of your Internet solution. If your Internet experience is not good, check if the Internet system you are using at home is up to standard.
Router Q&A
Q: What’s the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz band?
2.4GHz band: It provides high penetration and is not easily affected by obstacles. Transmission is relatively stable over long distances, but could be interfered by radio waves from various devices. This slows down the Internet speed.
5GHz band: Although 5GHz is more susceptible to obstacles which weakens the signal, not many devices use the same band so there is very little interference from other devices.
The transmission speed of 5GHz is faster than 2.4GHz, so it is very suitable for use in apartment buildings or houses. Dual-band and single-band routers are easily available on the market. The former refers to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands while the latter refers to either one. Dual-band wireless routers are highly resistant to interference and more stable than single-band wireless routers.
6GHz band supports larger capacity and wider channels. It can solve the connection problem and network congestion. It is also suitable for high-definition videos and AR / VR. Since 6GHz band is only used for WiFi applications currently and does not overlap with any existing channels, it will have less interference than 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
Q: What do the four numbers after AC/AX/N/BE on a router stand for?
Router models numbers consist mainly of AC, AX, N or BE and four numbers. EG AC1900, AX3000. The number stands for the maximum Mbps the router can reach. For example, 1900 and 2300 mean that the Wi-Fi speed can reach up to 1900Mbps and 2300Mbps, so the higher the figure, the faster the Internet speed.