Best Wireless Routers in 2023

What Is a Wireless Router?

A wireless router allows you to wirelessly connect to the internet. It is typically designed to have several Ethernet and LAN ports, as well as an internal or external antenna that allows wireless LAN connectivity or internet connection using an Ethernet cable. Wireless routers typically have a range of about 200 feet, and that can be as high as 350 feet for those installed in outdoor spaces. Wireless routers offer varying speed caps with some broadcasting internet speeds as high as 9.6 Gbps on a single channel with the appropriate internet speed connection. Some routers come with internet modems that are built into them, while others can be used to create a whole-home network.

Types of wireless routers

There are many different types of wireless routers. The most common type is the single band router, which operates on a 2.4GHz frequency. There are also dual-band and tri-band routers, which operate on the 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies, respectively. There are also mesh routers, which consist of multiple devices that work together to create a single wireless network. Most routers have one or two USB ports that allow you to connect external devices, such as printers and external hard drives.

Dual-band routers

A dual-band router can transmit data over both frequency bands at the same time. The benefits of a dual-band router include increased data throughput and reduced interference from other devices that use the same frequency band. With a dual-band router, you can designate certain devices to access a certain bandwidth.

Tri-band routers

Tri-band routers are like dual-band routers. The purpose is to reduce congestion and maximize access to high speeds. A tri-band router will typically feature access to 1 2.4GHx band and 2 5GHz bands. More recently, you can get a tri-band router that has 2.4GHz/5GHz/6GHz. 6GHz is the latest frequency available under Wi-Fi. While this speed is the fasted offering Gig speed transmission, a tri-band with two 5GHz and no 6GHz bands is still sufficient for your home.

Mesh routers

A mesh router connects multiple devices together wirelessly to create a single, seamless network. They are most commonly used in large homes or offices where there is a need for a strong, reliable wireless connection. A mesh router typically consists of two or more devices, each of which is connected to the others wirelessly. The devices work together to create a single, seamless network that covers a large area. Mesh routers are easy to set up and use, and they offer several benefits over traditional routers.

Mesh routers can tackle the interference problem you may face with the 5GHz band. Since this band reduces intent speed as it passes through structures, routers using 5GHz frequency have to be placed in the pathway to the connecting device to maximize the connection. You can also find mesh routers in dual or tri-band frequencies; many are able to learn the Wi-Fi usage in a home and prioritize or deprioritize channels based on what it learns about your environment. A mesh network is a great way to ensure your home Wi-Fi setup is optimal where you have a lot of square footage and multi-levels.

2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency

The 2.4GHz frequency is the most common frequency used by wireless routers. It is the frequency that is most compatible with devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The 5GHz frequency is less common and is not as compatible with devices as the 2.4GHz frequency. However, the 5GHz frequency has a shorter range than the 2.4GHz frequency. Most homes today can benefit from having the option to use both frequencies. 5GHz is great for devices that require higher speeds, but the drawback with 5GHz is the frequency range is shorter and is also easily disrupted by walls and other physical obstructions.

The 2.4GHz band is widely used by several radio devices such as Bluetooth, microwave, or security cameras. As these other devices compete for bandwidth on the 2.4GHz frequency, you could experience interference with the 2.4GHz WFI signal. This may not be ideal for a home that has multiple Wi-Fi users.

Modem vs. wireless router

A modem is a device that is used to connect your computer to the internet. A wireless router is used to connect your computer to the internet and create a wireless network in your home. The main difference between a modem and a wireless router is that a modem allows only one device to be connected to the internet at a time, while a wireless router allows multiple devices to be connected to the internet simultaneously. Some wireless routers have a modem built into them. If you are considering a wireless router with a built-in modem, make sure the modem is compatible with your ISP.

Features to Look for in a Wireless Router

 Wireless routers come with features that make your internet experience convenient and safe. When shopping for the right routers, you should look for devices that have security features that help to protect your family from malicious activity on the internet. You should also look for devices that have controls. This is important if you have kids and want to monitor and limit their internet usage.

Performance specs

When shopping for a new wireless router, you’ll want to consider the performance features it offers. One important consideration is Gigabit speed. If your devices support Gigabit, you’ll want a router that can deliver that speed. Another feature to look for is MU-MIMO, which stands for Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output. This allows the router to communicate with multiple devices at once, improving performance. Finally, you’ll want to consider the range of the router and how many antennae it has. The more antennae it has, the better the range will be. 

The data transfer rate, how quickly data can be transferred between the router and your devices, is another important factor to consider when purchasing your wireless router. A faster data transfer rate means that files will download and upload more quickly. Look for routers that offer a DTR range of 10/100/1000. You should also consider the wireless communication standard. The latest standard is 802.11ac, which offers faster speeds and a better range than earlier standards. If you have devices that support 802.11ac, it’s worth looking for a router that uses this standard. You may see tags such as Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 5 on a router. These naming conventions reference these same communication standards.

Wi-Fi 6 is the latest and most advanced version of the Wi-Fi standard. It offers faster speeds and better reliability than Wi-Fi 5. However, not all devices support Wi-Fi 6 yet, so you may need to use a converter if you want to connect them to a router that uses this standard. Wi-Fi 5 is still a very good standard, and most devices support it. It offers speeds that are more than adequate for most home users, and it’s backward compatible with older devices.

Security features

Some wireless routers come with security features such as a firewall, Intrusion Detection System (IDS), and Intrusion Prevention System (IPS). A router may have a single network port or multiple network ports. The more network ports a router has, the more devices you can connect to your network. A firewall works by blocking incoming connections that are not authorized. An intrusion detection system monitors traffic for signs of suspicious activity, such as unusual patterns of traffic or attempts to access restricted areas. An intrusion prevention system blocks traffic that appears to be from an attacker. Find a router with these features and additional security support services.

Wireless routers come with embedded security modes. WEP, WPA, and WPA2 are the three main types of wireless router security encryptions. WEP is the oldest and least secure of the three and is not recommended. WPA is more secure than WEP. WPA2 is the most secure of the three and is recommended for use although it can cause a dip in internet speeds.

Access controls

Children spend a lot of time on the internet using Wi-Fi and parental controls give you the ability to restrict the times that your kids have access to the internet. You should also look for a router that has parental controls that allow you to monitor the sites and other online content they have access to.

Another access control you should have on your wireless routers is the ability to set up guest access codes. With a guest access code, you can designate the bandwidth your guests can access in your network as well as assign a dedicated password for guests that is separate from your private network.

You can also find wireless routers that come equipped with a traffic meter. This allows you to set the maximum amount of internet data being streamed. This comes in handy if you have an internet plan that will throttle after a threshold has been met.

App support

Most new routers now come with a companion app that can be downloaded. These apps provide you with a dashboard that gives you the ability to monitor features like security and parental controls. The apps also guide you through the setup process for your routes with some brands. Apps also give you the ability to troubleshoot and monitor the performance of your wireless router.

Gigabit capabilities

A gigabit port on a wireless router is beneficial when transferring large data from one device to another through a direct Ethernet connection. This is great if you frequently back up a computer or server. In addition, a gigabit port is necessary for internet plans that deliver speeds over 1 GB. The gigabit port requires a special Ethernet cable that has the capacity to transfer data at 1000 Mbps. A wireless router that can take a gigabit connection will broadcast higher internet speeds based on the internet plan you have.

USB ports

Some routers have USB ports that are not up-to-date. A USB port on a router can make it convenient to share and store files that can be accessed with a USB thumb drive or similar connection. You want to get a router that features USB 3.0 or later.

Average Price for a Wireless Router

When it comes to routers, there are a lot of features that can affect the price. The first factor is the type of router. There are three types: wired, wireless-N, and wireless-AC. Wireless-N routers are less expensive than wireless-AC routers. Then comes the number of antennae. A router with two antennae is less expensive than a router with four. The third factor is the brand. Some brands are more expensive than others. Finally, the speed of the router also affects the price. A router that has a higher speed will be more expensive than a router with a lower speed. The average price for a wireless router is about $200, with some advanced routers going as high as $1,400. Once you’ve determined what your Wi-Fi needs are, shop for the features that meet those needs, then compare the best prices.