Top Home Router Manufacturers
Picking the right home router is like choosing the perfect sandwich; it’s all about what suits your flavor for a seamless online experience. So, let’s chat about some big names in the router game and what they bring to your Wi-Fi picnic.
Leading Brands
Different strokes for different folks, right? These brands are shaking up the game, each with their own sparkly features and performance perks.
| Brand | Notable Models | What’s Cool About Them |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | Archer AX21, Deco W7200 | Wallet-friendly, solid peformance, mesh magic (CNET) |
| Linksys | Hydra Pro 6 | Latest Wi-Fi 6 vibes, wide channels, smack in the middle price-wise (CNET) |
| Asus | RT-AX86U | No fuss, no online account needed, speedy Gonzalez (RouterSecurity) |
| Netgear | Orbi AC1200 | Mesh network boss, kind to your wallet (CNET) |
These brands sprinkle a bit of everything in their routers, catering to those eyeing budget buys, cool new tech stuff, or nifty designs like mesh networks.
Brand Reputation and Reliability
You wouldn’t buy a car without checking if it’ll get you to work and back, right? Same kind of deal here. Let’s see how these brands measure up:
TP-Link
TP-Link’s got your back if you’re watching the dollars and cents. Archer AX21 and Deco W7200 keep you cruising smoothly without burning a hole in your pocket (CNET). Folks dig the no-hassle setup and friendly customer service.
Linksys
Linksys struts its stuff with routers that mean business. The Hydra Pro 6 stands out with its duo-band trick and Wi-Fi 6 chops. These routers have a reputation for sticking around and top-notch customer support.
Asus
Asus routers, like the RT-AX86U, are the cool kids with the need for speed and lockdown security. No need for an online account here, your privacy remains your own (RouterSecurity). They’re tech-savvy with regular updates to keep everything shipshape.
Netgear
Netgear’s Orbi line, such as the AC1200, are like the Swiss Army knives of mesh networks. The AC1200 lures you in with its broad coverage and cheetah-like speeds (CNET). They’re the go-to choice for households and businesses alike, owing to their consistent performance.
If your curiosity isn’t quite quenched, jump over to our top-rated home routers article for the full scoop.
Model Comparison
TP-Link Archer AX21
The TP-Link Archer AX21’s got a lot of love in 2024 as one of the favorites in home routers. It’s a real overachiever, blazing through downloads, covering your home like a warm blanket, and keeping the lag down to the bare minimum. All this without burning a hole in your wallet, and it even gives pricier competitors a run for their money.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $75 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Key Features | Band steering, guest network controls, quality of service engine |
| Best For | Small- to medium-size homes |
Linksys Hydra Pro 6
For those feeling a bit snazzy, the Linksys Hydra Pro 6 is your go-to when stepping up from the bare basics. Now, it’s an easier pill to swallow at $101 (was $200 if you didn’t catch it on sale). This beauty rocks a dual-band AX5400 setup with full-on Wi-Fi 6 support and packs a serious punch with its 160MHz channel (CNET).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $101 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Key Features | Dual-band, AX5400 build, 160MHz channel |
| Best For | Medium- to large-size homes |
TP-Link Deco W7200
Stepping into the tri-band mesh router game, the TP-Link Deco W7200 pulls no punches. At $175, it comes with Wi-Fi 6 goodies and a special wireless road that speeds things up between the router and its little helpers (CNET).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $175 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Key Features | Tri-band, dedicated wireless backhaul |
| Best For | Whole-home coverage |
Asus RT-AX86U
Gamers and power users, look over here! Meet the Asus RT-AX86U, a beastly router just under 300 bucks. This thing keeps lag in check and cranks out stable Wi-Fi 6 support, and its app’s loaded with options that keep you in control whether you’re capping baddies or just chilling at home (CNET).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | <$300 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Key Features | Low latency, stable connection, extensive app controls |
| Best For | Gaming and high-performance needs |
Netgear Orbi AC1200
If your wallet’s keeping you in check but you still want decent speed, then the Netgear Orbi AC1200 priced at 100 bucks for a three-piece set might just be your knight in shining armor. It has a solid reach and speed for homes with internet clocks in at 300Mbps or less (CNET).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $100 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 5 (AC) |
| Key Features | Three-device setup, strong signal strength |
| Best For | Budget-conscious buyers with lower-speed internet |
By stacking up these routers side-by-side, pick what jives best with your wallet and Wi-Fi needs. Feel free to dig into the home router specs to geek out more. If still unsure, bounce over to our list on the best home router models for more food for thought.
Features Comparison
When it comes to picking a home router, knowing what to look for is key. In this comparison, we’re sizing up Wi-Fi speeds, security features, as well as bandwidth and range — everything you need for a smooth surfing experience.
Wi-Fi Standards and Speeds
Wi-Fi standards are like the highways of the digital world, dictating how fast and far your internet travels. The latest is Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which brings quicker speeds and better efficiency to the table.
| Router Model | Wi-Fi Standard | Max Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | 802.11ax | Up to 1.8 Gbps |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | 802.11ax | Up to 5.4 Gbps |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | 802.11ax | Up to 5.4 Gbps |
| Asus RT-AX86U | 802.11ax | Up to 5.7 Gbps |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | 802.11ac | Up to 1.2 Gbps |
Whether you’re just browsing, streaming in HD, or gaming like a pro, there’s a router here for every need based on speed.
Security Features
In an age of hackers and cyber mischief, keeping your data safe is a must. Modern routers come armed with Secure DNS (DoH and DoT) to scramble DNS requests, and VLANs (Virtual LANs) to keep parts of your network separated and safe (RouterSecurity).
| Router Model | Secure DNS | VLANs | Anti-malware |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | Yes | No | Yes |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | Yes | No | Yes |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Asus RT-AX86U | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | Yes | No | Yes |
Staying ahead of trouble means enabling features like DoS attack protection and keeping firmware fresh (ESET Security).
Bandwidth and Range
Here we look at how these routers hold up with lots of gadgets and wide spaces. Dual-band and tri-band models lessen crowding by adding extra lanes for traffic — think of it as more space for your online activities.
| Router Model | Bands | Range |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | Dual-band | Up to 2,000 sq. ft. |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | Tri-band | Up to 2,700 sq. ft. |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | Tri-band | Up to 5,500 sq. ft. |
| Asus RT-AX86U | Dual-band | Up to 2,500 sq. ft. |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | Dual-band | Up to 3,000 sq. ft. |
For those with bigger pads jam-packed with devices, the TP-Link Deco W7200 shines with its tri-band coverage.
For some extra reading on these and other models, hop on over to our sections on top-rated home routers and best home router models. By understanding these nuts and bolts, you’ll nab the perfect router to keep your internet zipping along safely and soundly.
Price Analysis
Picking the right router can be a bit like choosing the perfect pair of shoes, finding that sweet spot where cost meets comfort. We’ll break it down into three spots: budget, mid-range, and high-end routers.
Budget Routers
These routers are perfect if you’re just checking emails in your PJs or streaming the occasional kitty video. Keep it simple, and don’t burn your wallet!
| Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | $75 | Wi-Fi 6, steers your band like a conductor, guest surfing permissions, makes sure no one’s hogging the internet (QoS) |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | $100 (3-piece set) | Strong signal like a bull, best for net speeds under 300Mbps |
Got the budget bug? Check out our affordable home routers page for more deets.
Mid-Range Routers
Got a slightly bigger family or higher expectations? These routers strike a balance between power and price. They’re like a trusty minivan: more room, more power, but still reasonable.
| Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | $101 (marked down from $200) | Dual frequencies, AX5400, Wi-Fi 6, and big bandwith at 160MHz |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | $175 | Mesh setup that covers all corners, Wi-Fi 6, exclusive wireless route for erratic signals |
Wanna see more? Head to our top-rated home routers to explore.
High-End Routers
Now we’re talking serious speed for serious users—gamers, binge-watchers, your roommate who’s always downloading. These routers are like luxury cars—plenty of bells and whistles!
| Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Asus RT-AX86U | Under $300 | Built for gaming with low delays, Wi-Fi 6, fantastic reach, control it from your smartphone |
Got the need for speed? Our best home router models will show you what these top performers are packed with.
Choosing a router ain’t just about the brand or the price. It’s a matchmaking game between what you want and what you get for your bucks. Whether you’re pinching pennies, settling in the middle, or splurging on the best, make sure it works for you. Dig deeper with our home router specifications page for a closer look at your potential digital sidekick.
Security Considerations
Picking out a home router ain’t just about fancy features and dollars, it’s about locking down your network like Fort Knox. In this chat, we’ll break down some must-have security goodies like Secure DNS, snoop-busting tests, and device check-ups.
Secure DNS
Ever hear of Secure DNS? It’s like sending your DNS queries through a secret tunnel, keeping sketchy folks and nosey ISPs at bay. From February 2022 onward, routers have been catching on to using DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) (RouterSecurity).
| Router Model | Secure DNS (DoH/DoT) Support |
|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | Yep |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | Yep |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | Yep |
| Asus RT-AX86U | Yep |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | Yep |
All the big dogs in the router game are rolling with Secure DNS, leveling up your security game. If you’re curious about WPA2 or WPA3, our home router specifications guide’s got the deets.
Vulnerability Testing
Think of vulnerability testing like a regular check-up for your network’s health. Keep that firmware fresh! Companies are dropping patches like it’s hot to squash any buggies, like the KRACK attack monster (ESET Security).
| Router Model | Auto Firmware Updates | DoS Shield |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | You Bet | Sure Thing |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | You Bet | Sure Thing |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | You Bet | Sure Thing |
| Asus RT-AX86U | You Bet | Sure Thing |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | You Bet | Sure Thing |
Switch on all the fortification tricks in your router’s settings for the highest level of lockdown—protect against DoS, SYN Flooding, ICMP Echo, plus any other troublemakers lurking.
Device Verification
Device verification is like the bouncer at your network club. It only lets in the select few—your authorized gadgets. Here’s what it involves:
- WPA3 Security: Guards your gadgets with its own secret handshake and defends against those offline dictionary snoops (WIRED).
- Firmware Hustle: Keep all the toys connected up to date with the latest firmware to block any unwanted visitors.
- VIP Room (Guest Network): Set up a guest network to keep roaming threats away from your main hub.
| Router Model | WPA3 Support | Guest Network VIP |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer AX21 | Yep | Yep |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6 | Yep | Yep |
| TP-Link Deco W7200 | Yep | Yep |
| Asus RT-AX86U | Yep | Yep |
| Netgear Orbi AC1200 | Yep | Yep |
Digging into these security measures can tighten the screws on your home network fortress. Peek at our best home router models for how these routers stack up security-wise. For a deeper dive into sorting out routers by safety and more, our home router features comparison is your ticket.
Performance Factors
Getting the lowdown on what makes home routers tick can really help folks pick out what suits them best. Let’s break down some essentials: network extenders, Quality of Service (QoS), and the old wired vs. wireless debate.
Network Extenders
Network extenders are the unsung heroes that breathe life into those forgotten corners of your home where Wi-Fi dares not go (CDW). They give a boost to your existing network without dragging your wallet through the mud for a new router.
Why Love Network Extenders?
- They bring Wi-Fi to the dead zones
- Cheaper fix than splurging on a new router
- A piece of cake to set up
| Product | Coverage Area (sq ft) | Price |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link AC750 | 1,200 | $29.99 |
| Netgear EX3700 | 1,500 | $39.99 |
| Linksys RE6350 | 1,200 | $49.99 |
Quality of Service (QoS)
QoS is like giving your internet the “open sesame” to prioritize what’s important. When everyone’s streaming their hearts out, gaming, or in Zoom marathons, QoS steps in. It decides which devices or chores deserve the royal treatment, so no one’s left hanging with slow speeds.
What’s Great About QoS:
- Keeps urgent tasks at the front of the line
- Slashes lag for smooth sailing
- Makes Wi-Fi a treat for all users
Wired and Wireless Options
Choosing wired or wireless? It’s your call, depending on how you roll at home. Both have their good and not-so-good bits.
Wired Network:
- Pros: Speed demon, rock-solid, secure with no funny business
- Cons: Can’t go too far from your cable
Wireless Network:
- Pros: Roam anywhere, hassle-free setup
- Cons: Prone to hiccups, signal can play hide and seek with walls
| Type | Speed | Stability | Setup Ease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wired | Up to 1 Gbps | Very High | Moderate |
| Wireless (Wi-Fi 5) | Up to 5400 Mbps | Moderate | Easy |
| Wireless (Wi-Fi 6) | Up to 9600 Mbps | High | Easy |
If you’re hunting for the nitty-gritty on different models, check out our home router specifications and best home router models. Think about what you need: how fast, how far, and how many folks are going online at once. For more pointers, see our top-rated home routers.
Wi-Fi Basics
Getting a grip on Wi-Fi can be a game-changer when you’re sizing up home router features. Here’s a quick rundown on Wi-Fi band frequencies, mesh systems, and standards put out by the folks at IEEE.
Wi-Fi Band Frequencies
Wi-Fi bands are like the airwaves your gadgets use to chat with the router. The ones you’ll hear about most are 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and now the newbie, 6 GHz.
| Frequency Band | Upside | Downside |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | Good range, busts through walls | Slower, crowded |
| 5 GHz | Zippier, less crowded | Doesn’t go as far, struggles with walls |
| 6 GHz | Bigger channel, zoomy internet | Few gadgets can use it, range is short |
Most new routers come with at least two bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). Those fancy tri-band routers add another 5 GHz or 6 GHz band to spread out the load more evenly (WIRED).
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Mesh Wi-Fi systems whip up blanket coverage for your whole place. They’re not like the old-school routers that can’t reach the corners of your house—mesh systems use multiple ‘nodes’ to throw out a strong signal everywhere.
- Main Router: The head honcho connected to your modem.
- Satellite Nodes: Helpers placed around to stretch the reach.
Why mesh Wi-Fi rocks:
- Strong connection, less dead space.
- Super easy setup and control through phone apps.
- Same speed in every corner.
Especially good for homes with lots of levels or hefty walls that block signals from regular routers. If you’re all about solid coverage, mesh is the way to go.
IEEE Standards
The IEEE guys are the ones who come up with all the fancy Wi-Fi standards under the 802.11 family. These tech specs keep upping the ante for speed, capacity, and all the gadgets they can handle.
| Standard | Lingo | Max Speed | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 802.11b | Wi-Fi 1 | 11 Mbps | 1999 |
| 802.11g | Wi-Fi 3 | 54 Mbps | 2003 |
| 802.11n | Wi-Fi 4 | 600 Mbps | 2009 |
| 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 5 | 3.5 Gbps | 2014 |
| 802.11ax | Wi-Fi 6 | 9.6 Gbps | 2019 |
| 802.11be | Wi-Fi 7 | TBD | Coming up soon |
Wi-Fi Alliance made names for these standards, so regular folks don’t have to get all tangled up in tech jargon (CNET).
Getting this stuff down will help you pick out the best-fit router for your crib. For a deeper dive into router models, check out our best home router models guide.
Choosing the Right Router
Picking a router might seem like a boring task, but trust me, your YouTube marathons and endless scrolling sessions will thank you later. Let’s break down what you need—like bandwidth, how your pad’s set up, and what you mostly do online.
Bandwidth Needs
Before you fork over the cash, know how much internet juice you need. If you’re all about Netflix binges or no-lag gaming, you’ll want a router that can sling a lot of data around. The 5 GHz band is your buddy here; it clears traffic jams like nobody’s business. Just catching up on emails or Googling funny cat videos? The 2.4 GHz is plenty.
| Activity Level | Bandwidth | Frequency Band |
|---|---|---|
| Light (Browsing, Email) | 5-10 Mbps | 2.4 GHz |
| Moderate (Streaming HD Videos) | 15-25 Mbps | 5 GHz |
| Heavy (Gaming, 4K Streaming) | 50+ Mbps | 5 GHz |
Need more intel on bandwidth? Check our home router specs page.
Home Layout Tips
Your home’s vibe—big, small, or multi-story—determines how well a router will do its thing. Think of routers like drinks: a “sipper” for snug apartments and a “gulper” for sprawling houses. Mesh systems are the heroes for those with staircases or hallways that go on forever.
| Home Layout | Router Type | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Small Apartment | Sipper | Covers just what you need |
| Medium House | Gulper | Strong signal throughout the home |
| Large House/Multi-Floor | Mesh System | Keeps signal strong everywhere |
If your Wi-Fi fades as you walk, consider a network extender. A cost-saving trick that beats splashing on a pricey new router—this adds an extra oomph to your Wi-Fi zones.
User Priorities and What You Do Online
Everyone’s different. Whether you’re binge-watching, working remotely, or sharing Wi-Fi with five people, your router’s gotta keep up.
- Streamers and Gamers: Fast, low-lag connections are a must-have. QoS features will smooth out your gameplay.
- Remote Workers: Stable and safe connections make work-from-home life better. Look for routers loaded with security features like WPA3.
- Families and Multi-Device Homes: Lots of gadgets mean you need a router that doesn’t drop the ball when everyone’s online.
Swing by our best home router models page to match a router with what you’re into.
So, tap into your bandwidth demands, lay out your home’s blueprint, and pinpoint what your clan does online. You’ll be one step closer to making that router decision—no sweat. Want more router tips? Scoot over to our pages on affordable home routers and top-rated routers.