Introducing the top 10 best Wi-Fi routers in 2022. The rating includes the best models of Wi-Fi routers according to user reviews and expert opinion. Find out which is better to choose and buy a Wi-Fi router.
Today, various standards and characteristics of router frequencies are actively discussed on the network, although IEEE 802.11ac and dual-band models have been around for a long time. At the same time, many buyers forget that Wi-Fi is a whole system of receivers and transmitters, and not just a router. Therefore, each link in the chain must have a good radio component. Simply put, buying an expensive router will not increase data transfer speed if your smartphone or laptop is equipped with an outdated receiver. Do not forget that each manufacturer will try to tell as much as possible about their product, but it is better to focus not on advertising publications, but on the opinion of your supplier. Why? They use different connections. Before looking through our ranking of the best Wi-Fi routers of 2022, we suggest discussing a few relevant points:
- IPoE/PPPoE up to 100Mbps – This connection is great for entry-level routers without USB ports.
- 100 Mbps IPoE / PPPoE – In this case, you need a good hardware base, which brands such as Asus, Zyxel and Keenetic can boast of.
- 150 Mbps PPTP / L2TP – To work with this connection, you need to focus on flagship solutions, with an emphasis on next-generation premium solutions.
- IPTV or VoIP support: If the provider offers video content to subscribers, you should focus on modeling using an IGMP proxy. Please note that connecting IPTV set-top boxes requires a bridge (virtual network) with support for the 802.1Q standard.
We understand that for most of our readers this is just terminology that does not have a semantic load, so further in the text we will try to say in simple words which model is better in this or that case. Of course, in our opinion, that is subjective. For more information on router selection tips, see the end of the assessment.
The best inexpensive WI-FI routers for an apartment
When choosing a router for an apartment today, it is advisable to immediately focus on dual-band models. Why? The fact is that in multi-storey buildings the 2.4 GHz frequency is often used (for smart kettles, alarm clocks, scales, etc.). Sometimes the network is so busy that it is simply impossible to access the Internet, let alone consume a significant amount of traffic. If the model supports 5 GHz, this issue is automatically fixed. This frequency is more stable, guarantees a better signal, so it is more suitable for smartphones, laptops and other gadgets that consume more data. The only problem is that models with the latest frequency have less coverage, so they are less affordable for the home.
Netis N4
Let’s start with a cheap, but suitable for an apartment dual-band NETIS SYSTEMS N4 router, which effectively copes with the tasks due to the use of a good RTL8197FNT series chip. Loading is carried out with 64 megabytes of RAM and 8 megabytes of ROM. This device works with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard at 2.4GHz as well as the IEEE 802.11a/n/ac standard at 5GHz, which essentially allows for a wide range of operation. Includes 2 external 5 dBi antennas. Therefore, it is not worth counting on a wide coverage. However, the gadget is balanced and does its job perfectly. The design includes Default and WPS buttons, as well as several LAN ports.
Advantages:
- two standards;
- compact size;
- memory size;
- good feature.
Flaws:
- cover cover.
TP-LINK Archer A5
this company hardly needs to be introduced, as it has long been the leader in the budget segment. At the same time, the well-known model of the TP-Link Archer A5 series makes it to our top ten Wi-Fi routers this year. The maximum data transfer rate supported by this gadget is 300Mbps at 2.4GHz. When using the 5GHz frequency, the throughput can reach 867Mbps. For the stated value, this is a good indicator. It is worth noting that the gadget has an intuitive control, thanks to the support of the Tether application. The features of an inexpensive router include support for IGMP Proxy, a bridge for IPTV.
Advantages:
- optimal speed;
- 4 LAN ports 10/100Mbps;
- 1 WAN port 10/100Mbps;
- affordable price;
- 2 frequencies.
Flaws:
- there is a more powerful version.
Xiaomi Mi WiFi Router 4A Gigabit Edition
Xiaomi also offers a good router for an apartment with support for two bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). At the moment, we are talking about the Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A model of the Gigabit Edition series with a maximum speed of 300 Mbps and up to 867 Mbps, respectively. You can use the black list, hidden SSIDs, find third-party intrusions. The body of the model is made of plastic, in which 4 antennas are mounted simultaneously. Thanks to the instructions, as well as numerous reviews on the network, it will not be difficult to understand the controls.
Advantages:
- popular model;
- good throughput;
- security level;
- 4 antennas at the same time.
Flaws:
- not the best version of the brand.
TP-LINK Archer C6
Not all users can quickly decide which budget router to choose for their apartment or house, and we understand this very well. I would like the device to be functional, work stably and not hit hard on the wallet. Often in this situation, a certain router from TP-Link comes to the rescue. I want to draw your attention to the relatively new model Archer C6 with dual band support. The gadget has 4 external and 1 built-in antennas. I am pleased with the excellent compatibility with Microsoft Windows, UNIX and even Linux.
Advantages:
- compatibility with different browsers;
- good speed;
- easy installation;
- power supply included.
Flaws:
Xiaomi Redmi Router AC2100
The best budget WiFi router of 2021 for an apartment, according to CC, is Xiaomi’s Redmi Router AC2100 with IPV6 support. There is a Gigabit Ethernet interface, 4 antennas and great optimization for any smart home ecosystem. In particular, a six-channel amplifier was used to perform this task. A 2-core chip with a clock frequency of 8800 MHz is responsible for performance. In addition, the employees of the Chinese company presented the NetEase UU accelerator in development. There is 128 MB of permanent memory and enough RAM to work with 128 devices at the same time. Through the use of the LDPC system, efficient error correction is performed.
Advantages:
- good power;
- range of action;
- memory size;
- IPV6 support;
- dual band router.
Flaws:
The best WI-FI routers for home
This section presents more advanced models of the middle and higher categories. Devices can operate in two bands simultaneously, including 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Thanks to the increase in the number of antennas and the improved technical component, such devices have a wider range, reliable protection technologies and many other additional options.
Keenetic Giga
Keenetic is included in the list of the best manufacturers of Wi-Fi routers, so it is not at all surprising to see a model from the Giga series (KN-1010) in our rating, which, as you understand, works in two bands. This is a good mid range device. The gadget has a fairly large assortment. The speed in the 2.4 GHz band is about 400 Mbps. Of the ports, we note the presence of 5 ports, 1 Combo RJ-45 interface and 4 RJ-45 connectors. Particularly noteworthy are 2 USB 2.0 ports and 1 USB 3.0 interface for connecting modems, including 4G. The kit includes a power adapter, clear instructions and an Ethernet cable.
Advantages:
- many ports;
- good speed;
- affordable cost;
- there is USB 3.0.
Flaws:
- this is not the most powerful version of the router.
TOTOLINK A7000R
The TOTOLINK A7000R model adds to the Wi-Fi Router of the Year rating, which is known to operate in dual band at speeds up to 1733 Mbps. Sufficiently powerful network solution supports multithreaded data transfer. Implement 8 antennas to create the maximum “long” range. In fact, it is not in vain that this product is supplied to the homes and cottages of a large number of buyers. Another feature of the device is the WDS function for scaling the Internet. In the design, 4 LAN interfaces with a bandwidth of 1000 Mbps can be found. The kit includes an adapter, cable and documentation. Equipment configuration is carried out through an intuitive web interface.
Advantages:
- easy installation;
- good structure;
- life expectancy;
- range of action;
- 8 antennas are used.
Flaws:
- multiple ports.
Cisco WAP361
Often users need a Wi-Fi hotspot, but unknowingly they are looking for a router. Realizing this, we decided to draw your attention to the Cisco WAP361. This is a relatively inexpensive 802.11ac wireless device. The speed can reach about 1.2 Gb / s, which is an excellent indicator against the background of many analogues. Even an inexperienced customer can quickly create secure networks. At the same time, the equipment can be used by a huge number of users. Most often, this technique is used in educational institutions, trading floors, etc. Therefore, if you are looking for a commercial product for guests or customers, you should pay attention to such equipment.
Advantages:
- 2 frequency bands;
- PoE support;
- WEB interface control;
- working speed.
Flaws:
- not in this segment.
Keenetic Ultra
This model is very similar to the Giga in design, but differs in a number of technologies and economy. Of course, this also affects the price of a good home router. The model of the Keenetic Ultra series has a fairly powerful 2-core processor, SFP ports, as well as a USB 3.0 interface and version 2.0. There is an amplifier and the optimal number of antennas is 5 dBi. The model supports work with different providers at speeds up to 1 Gb / s. Implemented support for Smart TV and IPTV. Good protection against cyber threats is provided by Yandex.DNS and SkyDNS support. This device is configured and controlled using a mobile application.
Advantages:
- easy installation;
- security level;
- number of ports;
- good amplifier.
Flaws:
ASUS RT-AX88U
Undoubtedly, this gadget deserves the attention of every user who aims at the premium class. In our opinion, ASUS RT-AX88U is the best Wi-Fi router of 2021 with a powerful 1.8GHz quad-core processor. 1 gigabyte of RAM is integrated into the hardware base, which will not seem small. ASUS wireless router is equipped with 4 antennas, WAN interface, 8 LAN ports and USB 3.1 Gen 1. So you can easily connect your hard drive. At 2.4 GHz, the maximum data transfer rate can reach 1148 Mbps, and at 5 GHz it can reach around 4804 Mbps.
Advantages:
- throughput;
- there is a USB port;
- high power;
- build quality;
- lifespan.
Flaws:
How to choose a good router?
our list may not be the right model for you. In fact, from our evaluation, you can get an idea of what features and options can be achieved in a given price range. For those who have not yet decided how to choose a Wi-Fi router, we want to dwell on a number of useful options:
- USB connectors are an indispensable element of any modern router. We will not consider all possible applications of interfaces. Let us dwell only on the possibility of connecting a hard drive, which immediately solves several problems. At first, you can use the amount of memory as network storage, sharing access from multiple devices at the same time. Secondly, the connected hard drive allows you to set up a DLNC server for convenient viewing of content, for example, from a smart TV or laptop.
- Support for different operating modes – if you buy a router for a large house, it is desirable that the device can be used as a repeater, for example, you can expand the coverage area paired with another router.
- Multi-provider support: This option gives you the ability to use each port as the primary port. For example, if someone burns out due to a voltage drop, there will be no need to buy new equipment. Such models support connection to any Wi-Fi network with the possibility of distributing the Internet, respectively.
- A VPN is handy if you need to visit sites blocked by your ISP or if you don’t want your IP to show up online. Of course, there are separate browsers and software for this task, but it is best when the ability to configure everything at once is implemented.
- Parental control – today there are almost all modern routers.
- Internet filtering via DNS – blocks ads and access to questionable sites.
- Guest Profile: You can set restrictions for accessing a specific gadget. For example, you can prevent guests from connecting to an IP camera.
What is the best Wi-Fi router to buy in 2022?
Therefore, we looked at routers with support for different frequencies and even access points for commercial establishments. We tried to pay attention to important parameters and functions. For those who do not fit our range, we have offered several recommendations. If you don’t know which Wi-Fi router to buy, but trust the opinion of the editors of the Central Committee, then in the end we want to share our opinion:
- Stable router for an apartment – Xiaomi Redmi Router AC2100;
- Best Wi-Fi Hotspot – Cisco WAP361
- Nice premium router – ASUS RT-AX88U;
- The best Wi-Fi router in terms of price-quality ratio is Keenetic Ultra.
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