Wi - Fi routers are actively used today to create a wireless network at home if the user has a large number of devices that need to be connected to the World Wide Web. Compared with local connection, a wireless connection is much easier to set up and, in addition, you do not need to run a lot of cables to connect each device to the Internet.
Today, in the market of computer devices there is a huge selection of a wide variety of wi-fi routers. What technical parameters should be taken into account when choosing it, which wi-fi router is better to buy for the home and what you should pay attention to when buying this device - about this in our article.
A Wi-Fi router (from the English route) is a small device that provides wireless data transfer between the Internet and various devices (Wi-Fi).
Today, most computer communication devices already have built-in Wi-Fi receivers, which gives them greater portability and ease of use.
At home, using a home router, you can both connect to the global wireless network from various devices (laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc.), and organize internal wireless communication between home devices (for example, you can connect a home computer or laptop to a wireless printer or "cut" into an exciting "shooter" with the whole family).
Using a wi-fi router for your home, you can forget about "cable attachment", place certain devices anywhere in the apartment and connect a large number of gadgets to one access point.
Before you choose a wireless access point for your home, you should understand its technical characteristics.
The most important characteristics of routers
When choosing a wireless router, you should pay attention to its characteristics. Any Wi-Fi router is designed to combine certain computer devices connections to a single network, as well as to provide shared access of devices to the Internet channel.
One of the most important characteristics of wireless access points is the speed of data transfer over the network (from 8 - 35 Mbps for cheap models, up to 1 Gbps for expensive devices).
When choosing a Wi-Fi router, you should also understand the standards wireless connection. So, today there are several such standards that affect the maximum data transfer rate of the device. For example, the IEEE 802.11b standard is already obsolete and provides data transfer at a maximum speed of up to 11 Mb/s. New computer devices also have new standards - 802.11g with an Internet speed of 54 Mb / s and 802.11n with a maximum speed of up to 300 Mb / s. A high data transfer rate allows you to transmit and receive information from the Internet much faster.
When choosing a wifi router for your home, pay attention to the amount of RAM. It is recommended to buy wireless access points with at least 64 MB of RAM and at least 240 MHz processor power. Flash memory in the device should not be less than 16 MB.
In the event that you have a large apartment, it is advisable to purchase a router with 2, 3 antennas and high power. The most powerful router allows you to "pierce" the building by 50 - 70 meters.
Well, of course, it is advisable to buy products only from well-known brands. So, among the most the best manufacturers wireless access points can be distinguished: Linksys, TP - Link, Asus, ZyXEL.
The main criteria for choosing a router for the home
When choosing a router for your home, you should pay attention to the following important characteristics: maximum data transfer rate, stability of operation, radiation power of the data transmitter, the presence of additional connectors
The maximum data transfer rate is measured in Mbps. So, for example, when purchasing a device with a speed of 150 Mbps, you should consider that this is about 10 Mbps. This speed is quite enough to comfortably work on the network from several devices. It is not necessary to take into account the speed of LAN ports (cable connectors). Usually, on cheap models, the speed does not exceed 100 Mbps, and on expensive ones, 1000 Mbps. Such characteristics are important if you connect several devices via cable and “drive” gigabytes of data between them.
When choosing a router, pay attention to how many meters it can transmit a signal. If you have a large apartment or house, take a closer look at powerful routers with multiple antennas.
As for the stability of the device, it depends on the firmware of the device, as well as on the reliability of the chip. In this case, again, it is best to pay attention to well-known brands and purchase a device in a specialized store than to buy a Chinese-assembled device “from hand”. And, of course, demand a guarantee for all purchased products.
In the event that, in addition to wireless access, you need to connect additional devices to Wi-Fi (printer, local computer IPTV receiver), purchase a device with additional connectors (USB, connectors for connecting local cables and etc.).
Portable and mobile wifi routers
For travelers or businessmen who need to be constantly connected and have access to the Internet, it is best to purchase a portable router. Of the advantages of such gadgets, it should be noted: small size, the ability to work on battery power, support for all cellular communication standards and automatic connection establishment. Such routers have a built-in router and are quite reliably protected from network attacks. They can be used when connecting several users and to organize a network storage with medical content, as well as to create a wireless connection in a car, on a boat, on a yacht.
Among the shortcomings of mobile routers, one should highlight the low power of the Wi-Fi transmitter, as well as the short operating time of the device. When choosing a portable router, you should pay attention to what is more valuable to you: the dimensions of the device or its autonomy. On short tourist trips, you can purchase a compact mobile router. For long journeys, it is worth choosing a larger router, with a capacious battery and with the possibility of organizing a local network. Among the portable routers are: AsusWL-3300NUL, ASUSWL-330N3G, LexandLBP - 52C and LBP - 78W.
Divorce of sellers or which routers are better not to buy
When choosing a router, you should not chase after the most "fancy" and expensive device, especially if you live in a small apartment. Never buy routers, and other devices "on hand", but only in specialized stores. Ask the seller to show you a license from the manufacturer, as well as a warranty for the device.
Attention: The most frequent divorce from sellers is an additional guarantee. You will be offered to buy an additional warranty in addition to the standard one. Do not buy an additional warranty, often it is just a money scam. Routers rarely break down and those that have worked fine for a whole year will work on the second and third.
When choosing a router, try to get as much information about it as possible, watch video reviews, read text reviews about it on the Internet.
What is the best router to buy for home? So, we present to your attention the top 3 Wi-Fi routers for home!
Top 3 best home wifi routers (their advantages and disadvantages)
In third place in our hit parade of routers is a beautiful and stylish wireless router from NETGEAR - NETGEARWNDR4500.
Its big advantage is the data transfer rate - up to 900 Mbps! Indeed, with such a device you can freely download gigabytes of information from the Internet or play online computer games. The device has 6 internal antennas with separate transceivers that provide excellent signal reception.
LED indicators on the front of the device display port status, device activation, and operation. A big advantage of this router is also the Wi-Fi on/off button. It allows you to save electricity, or turn off the device if there is a threat of hacking your computer.
The router is based on the BroadcomBCM4706 processor at 600 MHz, it has 128 MB of RAM and 128 MB of flash memory. The NETGEARWNDR4500 router is a great purchase. Beautiful appearance, excellent data transfer rate and convenient control buttons - all this allows you to include the router of this company in the top three for the home user.
Among the shortcomings, it should be noted: the lack of a wall mount, the inability to adjust the transmitter power and the high cost of the router.
In second place is the device of the Chinese company "TP - Link" - TP-Link TL-WR2543ND.
A distinctive feature of this device is the possibility of its operation in 2 frequency bands (up to 450 Mbps) in each. The device has smooth body lines. Three external antennas that can rotate 360 degrees ensure reliable reception of the device anywhere in the apartment or house.
The router has indicators for operating modes, wireless network, power, Ethernet ports, and a USB port. There are also holes for wall mounting the device. The router has an AtherosAR7242 processor running at 400 MHz, as well as 64 MB of RAM and 8 MB of flash memory.
Of the advantages of the device can be noted: the ability to work in 2 bands, low cost, low power consumption. Of the minuses - a small amount of flash memory and a not very user-friendly interface.
Well, finally, the first place is deservedly occupied by the products of the famous ZyXEL brand - ZyXEL KeeneticGiga 2!
This device has been updated software platform and excellent technical performance, as well as an elegant appearance. Outwardly, "ZyXEL" looks very stylish - black lacquered case with rounded edges and matte sides.
Two external antennas provide stable signal reception at speeds up to 300 Mbps. There is also a universal button that allows you to reprogram various functions of the device.
The “motor” of the router is the “MediatekRT6586” processor, which operates at a frequency of 700 MHz and provides a stable and stable connection signal in any room of the house. 256 MB of RAM allows the user not to think about the performance of the device, but only to enjoy a reliable and stable network experience. Russified device interface is very convenient. The hardware of the device works flawlessly, as does the software. Among the advantages of "ZyXELKeeneticGiga 2" one can note the excellent quality of communication, confident, stable signal reception even in conditions of interference, a beautiful case, a Russified interface and a high data transfer rate - a well-deserved first place!
Good Wifi routers with a long range
In the event that you have a large house or apartment, or you need access to the Internet over a considerable distance, you need to think about purchasing powerful equipment. Moreover, if a computer or laptop has a low receiver power, then you should buy a more powerful adapter.
When choosing a powerful router, you should stop at purchasing a good device with a high Wi-Fi data transfer rate (11g - up to 54 Mbps or even 11n - 600 Mbps) - this will provide a fast connection and the ability to quickly download a large amount of information from the network.
A powerful router also requires a large number of antennas for stable communication, so you should focus on gadgets with the maximum number antennas.
It is advisable to buy a wireless access point with dual bands. In this case, its throughput increases. As for the company, there is only one answer - the undisputed leader among powerful and super-powerful Wi-Fi routers with a long range - the ZyXEL company has been and remains.
Important! The best place to place a wireless access point is as close to the center of the house as possible on a shelf or wall above furniture level. In the event that you survive in a large private house, then the ideal option is the first floor in the center of the house. The antenna of the router should be directed straight up to provide the best signal. You should not place a Wi-Fi router next to steel beams, fittings, various electronic devices. These factors can affect the strength of the signal or make it intermittent.
Well, and finally, a few tips so that your router can transmit a signal over a long distance:
- Install powerful external antennas in the device;
- Place the router in the place in the building where the signal will be most stable;
- Buy another router, or buy special amplifiers.
I don’t know about you, but for me the choice of some kind of equipment, including a router, is a lot of time spent searching for the right model, hundreds of reviews read, and constant doubts: “take this one or that one”. I've been using some old, wired mouse for more than a month now, only because I can't find a new one for myself. And this despite the fact that I basically know what I need, some technical points, etc.
Router and router are one and the same. Wrote about it. In the article I will use both names.
In this article, we will try to deal with Wi-Fi selection router for home or apartment. This is the category of devices in which I can give some advice, talk about all the nuances, and even advise specific models. As for advice on buying specific models, I really do not like to give such advice. If only because I haven’t been to your house, I don’t know for what purposes you choose a router, what kind of Internet you have, how many and what devices you will connect to the Internet, is there any interference in your house, and most importantly, how much money do you plan spend on buying a router. This point applies not only to routers, but also to other equipment.
But, if you want direct specific recommendations, then at the end of this article, I will give as an example several models of routers that I would advise you to buy. But, if anything, it's not my fault 🙂 Let's consider the choice of a router for a private house or apartment. Although, here you can probably also include small offices.
And now an important piece of advice. If you have an unlimited budget, and you don’t mind spending a decent amount, then buy one of the most expensive routers that you can find in some popular online store. Take the one you like the look of. It will cost approximately $300 (if you do not take into account Apple routers). But, it will definitely work stably, and it will have everything you need.
And one more piece of advice. If you want to save as much as possible and purchase the most budget router, then it will come in handy.
First, we will understand the technical aspects, what you should pay attention to when choosing a router. For what purposes is this or that model suitable, and whether there will be problems in the process of use. Then, I will write my opinion on which Wi-Fi router is better to buy in 2016 and 2017, so that your purchase does not quickly become outdated and you do not have to buy a new model in a year. Well, as promised, I will advise a couple of specific routers that should be suitable for an apartment (private house).
Choosing a router for the home: technical points
First of all, you need to figure out what kind of router we need in general. In respect of specifications: type WAN port, number of LAN ports and their speed, operating frequency WiFi networks and its speed, the presence of USB connectors, and various additional functions.
You should already have a rough idea of what you will be using the router for. It is clear that you are buying it most likely to distribute the Internet to your devices via a Wi-Fi network, and possibly via a network cable.
Advice. If you have stationary computers (without Wi-Fi), then after installing the router you can not lay cables to them, but connect wirelessly, you can buy right away.
The main thing you need to focus on when choosing a router for your home is the area that should be covered by a Wi-Fi network signal, the number of devices that will connect to the router, and the tasks that you will perform on these devices.
Everything is simple here: the router may simply not cover all the rooms of your house with a signal. For example, due to a weak transmitter, or antennas (and their number). And if you buy a cheap router, then it simply cannot work stably when connecting a large number of devices. Or, when watching online video in high quality, in online games, etc. There will be constant freezes, reboots and the like. As you already understand, everything is very individual. As a rule, the more expensive the router, the more load it can withstand, it will work more stably, and the further it will be able to “break through” the Wi-Fi signal.
We select a router for the provider (type of WAN port)
The first thing you should pay attention to is the type of WAN connector. This is a way to connect a router to an ISP. This information is always included in the specifications. It all depends on what kind of internet you have.
- ethernet- the most popular type of connection. This is a regular RJ-45 network connector. Almost all Wi-Fi routers on the market have an Ethernet WAN port. And the provider lays a regular network cable in your house, which we directly connect to the router.
- ADSL modems with Wi-Fi- in fact, these are ordinary routers, only as a WAN port, they have an RJ-11 connector for connecting a telephone cable. And if you already have a regular ADSL modem, then you need to buy a simple router with a regular Ethernet port (and connect it to the modem).
- 3G/4G Wi-Fi routers- if you have Internet via a USB modem, and you want to set up Internet distribution via Wi-Fi, then you will need a special router with support for 3G / 4G modems. About choosing a router to work with a USB modem, I wrote in the article. Usually, in the characteristics of such routers it is written: WAN port - USB 3G. Update: new article with tips on choosing a router to work with USB modems:
There are routers that can be called universal. Because, for connecting to the Internet, they can have, for example, a regular Ethernet port, and a USB port for working with 3G modems. But, the presence of a USB port does not mean that there is modem support. You need to look at the specs.
Protocol support: Another point that I think can be ignored. There are protocols for connecting to an Internet provider: L2TP, PPPoE, PPTP. On modern routers, this should not be a problem. Unless you have some special provider.
Wi-Fi network: frequency, speed, range
Wi-Fi network frequency (5 GHz and 2.4 GHz)- at the time of this writing (May 2016), most routers (mostly not expensive), which are on sale, distribute a Wi-Fi network at the usual 2.4 GHz frequency, which is already heavily loaded. But, models that support Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz are actively appearing on the market. This new technology, and it is a router with 5 GHz frequency support that I would advise buying in 2016 - 2017. Learn more about dual band routers (dual band because it supports both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz), pros and compatibility, I already wrote in the article: . You can already find dual-band models at a very good price.
WiFi speed- the cheapest router models, distribute Wi-Fi at speeds up to 150 Mbps. I would advise not to buy such models. Unless, you take a router to connect one or three devices and surf the Internet, or watch videos in low quality. It is better to report 5-10 dollars and buy a model that distributes a wireless network at speeds up to 300 Mbps.
As for wireless network standards, there must be support for 802.11n. And if you choose a router from the average price category and higher, then it is advisable to already take a model with support for a new, high-speed .
The speed depends on many factors: the number of connected devices, the power of the router, provider, interference, etc. Read the reviews, as a rule, they immediately write there whether the router cuts the Wi-Fi speed a lot or not. Regarding the connection speed over a wireless network, you can read more.
Radius wifi activities networks- many people ask: "how to choose a router with a maximum range of a wireless network." The question is good and understandable, but it is very difficult to give a specific answer to it. Because, the range is very much affected by walls (their number and materials), interference (mainly from neighboring Wi-Fi networks), the location of the router in the house, and the power of the router itself. The signal passes very poorly through concrete mills in which there is metal.
If you have a large apartment, say more than 100 square meters, or a house with several floors, then most likely one router will not be enough, even the most powerful one. In this case, the most correct option is.
And if you choose a router for a one-room apartment, then in your case even the cheapest model will suffice, in terms of network range. For medium sized homes, I would recommend buying routers starting at $50. Well, it is advisable to buy models with at least two antennas (power by 5dBi). But, there good models With internal antennas, which are almost in no way inferior to external ones. As a rule, the presence of, for example, three or more antennas does not affect the range of the Wi-Fi network, but the connection speed. Also, it is worth paying attention to whether the antennas are removable or not. In case you want to replace them, install more powerful ones.
According to my observations, the range does not depend much on the price of the router itself. Most likely because the maximum power of the router is simply limited by the manufacturer (according to the laws of the country in which they are shipped).
Availability of ports: LAN and USB
At least 1 LAN port will definitely be. Typically, routers have 4 LAN ports. There are more. A LAN port is needed to connect devices to the Internet via a network cable (PCs, TVs, game consoles, etc.).
As for USB ports, they are not currently available on cheap models. But, it seems to me that soon there will be no routers without USB. Therefore, I advise you to choose a router with at least one USB port. It is needed to connect USB drives, printers, or USB 3G modems (if there is modem support). By connecting a flash drive or an external HDD to the router, you can organize general access files, or start a DLNA server. And by connecting a printer, you can set up a print server.
It all depends on the specific model and manufacturer. For example, models from ASUS can still independently download files to the drive. I already wrote. You can see for an example.
Wi-Fi router power and performance
The filling of the router is also very important. The more powerful the processor and the more RAM, the more stable the router will work. It will keep more connected devices, withstand torrent download, online game, work without any problem. DLNA servers, etc. And at the same time, most importantly, there will be no drop in speed, ping, packet loss.
I do not think that it is necessary to directly study all the nuances associated with the hardware on which this or that router works, unless you are interested. Everything is very simple here, the more expensive the model, the more powerful it is. If you buy a router for 15-20 dollars, connect several devices to it, start downloading a torrent, an online game, and open another online video, then most likely it will just freeze. Or, the speed will drop very much. And it will only work after a reboot. This is quite normal for its price category.
That's exactly why I don't recommend saving on a router. Because, you connect all your computers, tablets, phones, TVs to it, and all of them will suffer from a weak router, which will cut speed all the time, and simply “fall” from the load. This brings a lot of inconvenience, and most likely, in the near future you will think about buying a new router, more powerful and, accordingly, expensive.
Price and manufacturer
At the moment, the cheapest router can be bought for about $15. I already wrote above that you should buy such routers only if you do not need a lot of performance and speed.
It is better, of course, to take routers that cost from $ 30 and above. This is solely my opinion. These devices are suitable for home use, but without fanaticism. Here you need to understand that we get exactly as much as we pay. Well, it all depends on the tasks that the router should handle specifically in your case.
As for the manufacturer, the most popular of course are TP-LINK, ASUS, D-LINK, ZyXEL, Linksys, Tenda, Netis. If you're wondering, I now have ASUS. I love TP-LINK routers, which I also often use and recommend to others. For relatives, the inexpensive TP-LINK TL-WR841N has been working for more than five years without any problems. Not so long ago I got acquainted with routers from ZyXEL. Also liked it very much. Tenda makes inexpensive models.
I don't think it's necessary to get hung up on the manufacturer. Look at the models, the characteristics, the price, the appearance, finally. I am familiar with the routers of all manufacturers that I listed above, and I can’t say that some are bad, but some are good. Each manufacturer has certain points that I personally liked or didn’t like. (control panel, equipment, instructions, packaging, setup process, reliability, etc.). But, this practically does not affect the operation of the router.
I often see questions like: "which router is better, ASUS, or TP-LINK". You can argue endlessly which brand is better and which is worse. I think that in this case, it would be more correct to consider specific models that are close in price.
We figured out the price and brand: the more expensive the better, and the brand is not for everyone.
Which router to choose in 2016 - 2017
In my opinion, in 2017 you need to buy a dual-band router (which supports Wi-Fi 5 GHz, and 802.11ac). And to have at least one USB port. Even if you don't need it right now.
These two points: support for Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz, and the presence of a USB port, make the router modern, and it will not become outdated in half a year. Most likely, in 2017 it will be relevant, and you will not have to change it.
I give an example from my own experience. This winter (around December 2015), I bought new router to the parents' house. He works there with a 3G USB modem. Got it not cheap. Good, powerful router, with two USB ports (a modem is connected to one, and a drive to the second). But, it does not support wireless network operation at a frequency of 5 GHz. And some time after the purchase, I realized that I made a mistake with the choice. Having bought an expensive router without support for the new standard.
Sooner or later, you will want to connect your devices to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network. (more speed, and less interference, especially true for apartments). Or, you want to share files on a drive connected to the router. Therefore, it is better to spend a large sum right away than to buy a new router in a year. In addition, you can now find a very affordable dual-band router with a USB port for about $30.
This is just my opinion and of course you may not agree with it.
Everything is very difficult, which one to buy a router for home?
I wrote at the beginning of the article that the router needs to be selected specifically for your tasks. And you need to focus on the very room where he will work, and of finances. And yet, I wrote that I really do not like to give advice on specific models. Besides, I don't know anything about you, about your house and the tasks that a router should perform. But, if you already ask like that :), then I will advise several models of routers that should be suitable for a small house or apartment. And for connecting a small number of devices. I will only recommend models that I have worked with. We divide them into three categories.
Inexpensive, modern router
First of all, I would definitely recommend a router, or TP-LINK Archer C20. It's not the cheapest home model, but it's dual-band (Wi-Fi 5 GHz), has 1 USB port, and looks really nice. 
Easily suitable for the home, and will easily cope with watching online videos, downloading torrents, and online games. If you look at other manufacturers, then not many have similar models. In terms of characteristics and price, only Asus RT-AC51U and Xiaomi WiFi MiRouter 3 are similar. Perhaps some other options have already appeared.
The most budget option for a small apartment
If you want to save a lot of money, you have a small house, and few devices, then you can consider the following options:
Very often new models appear, and I am not familiar with all the options that can be considered for purchase. Therefore, look at suitable routers, read reviews, be guided by the price and take the model that you like best. Now there are no problems with this, we go to any online store, and choose until we get bored.
We did not consider expensive models. I think that this does not make sense. If possible, buy. They will definitely get the job done. Especially if you have a smart TV that needs a stable connection at good speed.
Afterword
I hope that my advice somehow helped you decide on the choice of a router, and you were able to purchase the best option that will delight you with stable operation.
It is important to understand that no one will be able to choose the right router option for you. At least until the port receives the necessary information about the house in which it will be installed (area, walls), about the devices for which you need to provide access to the Internet, and about the tasks that will be performed on these devices.
Summing up, I repeat that it is better not to save on the router. Buy as expensive as possible in your case. And if you are already considering cheaper options, you can focus on the models that I wrote about above. Well, it is advisable to buy a dual-band router, with at least one USB port.
For the convenience of connecting several users to the Internet at home, you must use a router. This is the one thing you don't have to skimp on. After all, it will not only allow you to use the Internet, but also create a home network for fast and wireless data exchange, and a cheap device will frustrate with its frequent reboots and freezes. When choosing a router for a house or apartment, first of all, you should pay attention to such criteria as data transfer speed, stability in operation and a large wifi coverage radius, which is determined by power (dBi). Now the router market indulges the consumer with an abundance of a wide variety of models, which are not easy to understand for an ignorant person. For this, according to reviews, the top 5 most powerful models were selected that satisfy users with their signal level, reliability and appearance.
Top 5 most powerful wifi routers for home
5 Tenda AC10U
Best price
Country: China
Average price: 2950 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The well-known Chinese brand Tenda has conquered almost half of the market of its own country with its inexpensive, but high-quality products for small offices and private use. Thanks to the positive reviews in relation to price-quality optimal solution for the home was the AC10U model, which can operate simultaneously at 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies.
The router has a powerful processor with which it can serve up to 30 users simultaneously at a maximum allowable speed of 1167 Mbps. It is possible to connect 3 clients permanently via 1000 Mbps via LAN interface. A fully Russified menu will make it possible to customize each parameter for your own needs. The router can be used as a home server by connecting via USB port file drive. In work under load, the speed does not cut, like most cheap models. The wifi signal level is able to overcome several concrete walls without losing power. The appearance of the product attracts the eye with an interesting design. The case made of matte black plastic has 4 non-removable antennas that can be adjusted in the right direction for a more reliable signal, and a well-thought-out passive cooling system will not allow the device to heat up during operation. With decent functionality, the cost of the router has an attractive price.
4 Keenetic Giga (KN-1010)
Ease of settings
Country: China
Average price: 8190 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5
Taiwanese leader in telecommunications solutions ZyXEL has established a separate company under its own brand, which focuses on home users and small businesses. Based on reviews, this instance was chosen as the most powerful representative of this line of routers.
Made in a neat matte white case with 4 non-removable antennas. He has all the standards wireless wifi communication and can operate simultaneously in two frequencies: 2.4 and 5 GHz. 4 LAN ports allow you to transfer data at 1000 Mbps. The wireless module has an even higher speed of 1267 Mbps. The manufacturer paid special attention to the software stuffing. A detailed, but quick to learn menu will surprise you with its capabilities. Each client in the settings can be assigned a separate password and restrict access to selected services. And downloading and distributing files from a torrent client can go directly to a USB drive, for which the router has 2 connectors. If you need reliability high level and great opportunities for the future, then you should pay attention to this model.
3 ASUS RT-AC87U
Stability in work
Country: China
Average price: 12700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
The well-known company ASUS is not afraid to introduce the most advanced developments into its devices, even if they are not relevant today. This powerful fast router, which she positions for home use, has a serious reserve for the future, meeting all modern requirements. At gaming forums, he gained confidence for the reliability of resource-intensive game consoles and watching videos in 4k resolution via wifi.
With support for the new Wi-Fi wireless standard, the router can reach a data exchange speed of up to 2334 Mbps, a record in its segment. Two powerful 2-core processors, which this model is equipped with, are capable of simultaneously serving frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz. The transmitter power is enough to ensure that the signal level is equally high at any point in the apartment, despite the presence of several walls. Locally available 4 LAN ports at 1 Gbps. Through the USB 3.0 port, you can connect many different gadgets, from flash drives, with which you can easily share files on the network, to a modem, which will be a backup in case of loss of the wired Internet signal. Built-in protection will ensure the security of data exchange by blocking infected files and malicious sites. The spacious aesthetic case of the router made of dark gray plastic looks stylish and also prevents overheating.
2 TP-LINK Archer C3200
High top speed
Country: China
Average price: 14500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
TP-Link is on the well-deserved leader in sales network devices and broadband equipment. Modern solutions that are presented for home use have all the necessary requirements, among which it is worth highlighting one, according to the reviews of the most powerful representative.
The “premium segment” model under consideration uses Tri-Band technology to operate 3 wifi channels simultaneously. The maximum wireless coverage rate is an incredible 3200 Mbps, and 6 antennas located on the body will transmit a stable signal to any point of even the largest house or apartment. The case, which houses an almost full-fledged computer, is made of black plastic and has a fine lattice structure to protect against overheating, so you should not place the device in a closed place. The router has all the necessary ports and connectors that will open up additional opportunities for the user. The fast processor reboots the router in seconds when changing settings or updating the firmware. The cost of the device corresponds to its status and is expectedly high.
1 MikroTik wAP ac
The largest wifi coverage area
Country: Latvia
Average price: 5800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The leader of our rating does not have impressive dimensions, but this does not prevent him from being the most powerful device among competitors. Numerous reviews, some time after the release of the novelty, had the most positive assessment. A neat case made of protective plastic is designed for use not only at home, where it will look stylish anywhere, but also on the street. The limit value for this application is -30 °C.
Inside the case is a powerful 2-channel Wi-Fi signal transmitter. 3 built-in antennas are capable of 360° coverage up to a kilometer of open space in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. For outdoor use, it is not necessary to use a shielded cable thanks to Passive PoE technology. Connectors for Ethernet and power are placed on the back side and hidden from prying eyes. A special lock on the bottom cover allows only the owner to open the router. If the area on which it is necessary to make wifi coverage is too large, it is possible to install one or more routers that will work together using the technology of seamless Wi-Fi networks CAPsMAN. With this application, even having a huge cottage with an adjacent territory, you can not worry about the quality of signal reception.
Now it has become a normal phenomenon when there are several computers and devices in the house at once, as well as smartphones and TVs that need to be connected to the World Wide Web. To provide all devices with a high-quality Internet connection, it is advisable to use a powerful WiFi router. But not all routers advertised by numerous manufacturers are able to fully satisfy the needs of the user. This article outlines all the criteria for choosing the right powerful and high-quality WiFi router for a large house or apartment.
How to make the best choice?
Most people who buy WiFi routers focus on the number of antennas on the supposedly best and most powerful WiFi router and its cost.
And in some ways they are right, because a powerful router usually has several antennas that serve to ensure a stable connection, but not only the number of antennas affects the power of the device. First you need to understand the differences between routers of different price segments. In addition to providing a good wireless signal at home, it is also desirable not to overpay for the extra functionality of the device.
Wi-Fi routers with a long range
Obviously, living in a large cottage or house, you have to pay attention to powerful devices with the maximum possible range. At the same time, you should think about purchasing a more powerful adapter for a PC or laptop. It is necessary to immediately draw the attention of such people to one unpleasant fact that already on the box of the router it is usually indicated that the device is functioning in full compliance with the international requirements of ISO IEEE 802.11. This means that the vast majority of routers have a maximum range of 0.15 km, and this is in the absence of any obstacles to the wireless signal, and in a house or apartment, this figure drops to fifty meters.
The main criteria for purchasing a router
We list the following main criteria that you need to focus on when buying a device:
- Antennas and broadcast area. The former are produced in 2 types of execution: 1) built into the device and 2) external. Of course, the outdoor ones have the best signal;
- Wireless signal standards and data rates. It is recommended to purchase a device of the 802.11n standard, and for the purpose of comfortable work on the Internet, it is necessary to opt for a router with a speed not less than that supplied to the user by the Internet provider;
- \*Brand of equipment. Despite the banality of the sound of the criterion, the brand plays an important role as a purchased router, because during subsequent operation, as a rule, problems with them are less likely to occur and, most importantly, devices from famous brands of manufacturers are easier to software update.*\ Up-to-date firmware ensures stable functionality of the device and avoids many failures.
List of the best equipment
Many people are not able to make the purchase of the most expensive router with a huge number of different chips, however, even in the low-cost lines of routers, there are high-quality models with an optimal set of functions and the strength of the transmitted wireless signal.
Affordable devices with optimal quality
Below is the main list of currently optimal devices in terms of their price, functionality, data transfer speed and quality of the filling.
Despite its simplicity, the device has good power and wide capabilities. Provides speed up to 150 Mbit / s, which is enough for active use at home or in an apartment.
The device operates in the most common data transfer protocols, supports dynamic and static IP. It has a firewall that protects user devices from being infected with malware software. The device is equipped with an external antenna with a significant range.
It is also a representative of the Link brand, but is equipped with 2 antennas, which provides a Wi-Fi coverage area with a radius of at least 150 meters with line of sight.
Speed - up to 300 Mbps. The available four LAN connectors will allow you to organize a network of several PCs at home.
This router has the ability to use 3G Mobile Internet, and also equipped with 1 additional USB connector.
Comes with two antennas. Supports IPTV interactive television.
Powerful mid-range devices
You will have to pay at least 4,000 rubles for this router, but it is already equipped with 1 Gbit Internet ports and powerful processor. Speed up to 300 Mbps.
It has two antennas and a Wi-Fi coverage area with a radius of at least 150 meters with line of sight.
Despite the built-in antennas, the device has a good signal. It operates in two bands (2.4 and 5 Gh) and works in all popular protocols. But the cost is already somewhat higher and is at least 4500 rubles. 
If the user is interested not only in functionality, but also in the appearance of the device, then the manufacturer offers this device in different colors. Like the previous one, the router successfully works in 2 bands. The speed can reach 1167 Mbit/s. The cost is about 3300 rubles. 
The most powerful
When buying a router from this category, you will have to pay at least 6000 rubles.
Price from 7000 r. It has 3 antennas, which is guaranteed to cover the large housing of the owner with a high-quality signal. It can function in 2 frequency ranges. Speed up to 0.9 Gbit/s. It is equipped with a huge number of different features, for example, it can organize a separate guest network, it is possible to control the consumed traffic, parental control and so on. 
Among the home models of routers of this brand, it is rightfully called the "top", but its price starts from 15,000 rubles. Of all those present in our description, it is the most powerful home router. Equipped with 4 antennas.
The manufacturer claims a Wi-Fi coverage area of up to 465 square meters. Speed - up to 2.3 Gbit / s. Has a dual core processor. And absolutely all the chips indicated for the routers described above.
A little trick for the router user
You can increase the signal strength, even on a device of a low price category, through the control panel, where you need to specify the country “USA” in the router settings in the “Location” section. In this country, there are slightly different laws and requirements for Wi-Fi power, which already corresponds to a range of 0.25 km in the absence of any obstacles to the wireless signal, and in a house or apartment, this figure drops to only seventy-five meters. By adjusting the parameters in the control panel and restarting the device, the user immediately notices a significant increase in Wi-Fi coverage and power.
Note: A router that is too powerful and has extended range beyond legal requirements may interfere with other networks. Therefore, representatives of the country's authorities have the right to confiscate such a device.
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