by While we have observed that all of us have varied opinions about the slightest of matter, it is common knowledge that everyone shares the same opinion when it comes to an internet connection: it should be fast and reliable. With the past few months testing our potential whilst being confined in our homes, the internet has supported our lives in all aspects. Surviving this pandemic is hugely credited to technology development and network connections. From learning new skill to making a living, from getting fitness tips to watching horror movies, your wireless connection has made everything possible and better.
When most parts of our lives depend on the internet, it is rather important to have it up and running all the time, and for that steadiness of your connection is as important as the speed. Having said that, if you are unsure your bandwidth connection, you might want to contact your internet provider to better understand your requirement, however, you should check out Spectrum deals to find out affordable internet plans offering ultra-fast download speeds with an unlimited data cap and without any contractual obligation.
The interruption you faced during a video call with your boss the other day, or when you lost your final game score in League of Legends, are instances that should never happen again and that is the purpose of this article. You need to understand your connection and how important your wireless router is to maintain a seamless network. Besides, we would discuss the best wireless routers to look out for, in 2021.
What is a wireless router?
A wireless router simply called a router or a Wi-Fi hub is a networking device that transmits signals between computer networks. It works that same way as a regular router but they do it wirelessly. Wireless routers are responsible to provide an access point to the internet.
All routers have bands that allow Wi-Fi signals to pass through them. While each band is a distinct way of transferring wireless data packets, routers may have more than one band for devices demanding more bandwidth. A router’s performance quotient depends on these bands and the types are single, dual, and tri-band.
- Single-band router has only one band supporting 2.4 GHz frequency
- Dual-band router has two bands supporting one 2.4 GHz and one 5 GHz frequency
- Tri-band router has three bands supporting one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz frequency
Also read: What Is the Best Laptop for Remote Work? The Options Explained
Best Wireless Routers 2021
Asus RT AC86U
If you want to live fast life, Asus RT AC86U is the right choice for you. Especially for avid gamers, this router is the one best choice. It does not only have a lavish outer body but is also featured with MU-MIMO, a WAN port, a USB 2.0 port, a USB 3.1 port, WPS, a WAN port, a traffic analyzer, and also includes 4 GB LAN ports.
Furthermore, there is an embedded game boosting feature that is designed to provide access to the Gamers Private Network (GPN) and the WTFast routing tech offering fast connection for WTFast enabled games. It also boasts a classic parental control system that can restrict access to social sites as well as adult media sites, giving you all the control through a mobile phone app or a console.
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Outstanding design and hardware
- Great coverage range and speed system
- High-level parental control system
Cons
- Can be mounted vertically only
- Slightly expensive
Linksys EA8300 AC2200 Tri-Band WiFi Router
Linksys EA8300 AC2200 is an ideal option when it comes to streaming 4K Ultra HD videos. It is studded with features like MU-MIMO and should be your first choice if you live in a large household and are a heavy internet user. For lag-free and continued fun, this router offers speeds up to 2.2 Gbps.
In addition to this, its wireless coverage area is up to 1500 square feet and can support more than fifteen devices. It is also compatible with other Linksys devices and can connect with your current modem through the Linksys app.
Pros
- Tri-band technology gives it an edge over dual-band routers
- Can be controlled through Linksys app
- Superb performance
- Contains mesh technology
Cons
- Limited option for parental controls
- Does not provide inbuilt virus protection
- Disabled USB port
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900
It looks exactly like it sounds, the three antennas are a powerful and edgy combination offering the best internet connection at all times. This flagship of Netgear can transmit quality and high-end signal covering an area up to 1800 square feet and can support almost 30 devices at the same time.
Its advanced techno features like amplified antennas, voice commands, and 1 GHz dual-core process make it an attractive choice for internet users. With the two dedicated USB ports, you can connect it to your storage devices or any peripherals to increase productivity. It also gives you smart parental controls letting you control the internet usage entirely from limiting and pausing online time to blocking certain websites and viewing user history.
Pros
- Supreme signal strength
- Equipped with WPA2 wireless security protocols
- Superb performance
- Maintains connection fluidity
Cons
- Have to log in again after restarting or rebooting it
TP-Link N450 Wi-Fi Router
TP-Link N450 is a strong performer equipped with great features and ideal for those who want to stay under budget. It can work continuously with heavy traffic and multiple devices without having to reboot it. It is a single-banded wireless router with a transfer speed of up to 300 Mbps. It also features four LAN ports, MU-MIMO technology, and has three antennas to cover a large area.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Good performance
- Ease setup and installation
Cons
- No ports for USB
- Antennas cannot be removed
Samsung Connect Home
Samsung Connect Home is a rather smart yet simple wireless router having high-performance charts. It does not flaunt numerous characteristics however it has some of the finest technologies on board with great sustainability. It has 2 GB Ethernet ports and has features MU-MIMO and can support smart things as well.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Can be called a smart home hub
- Reliable connectivity
Cons
- Does not have as many features as its competitors
