You can't do without buying a router to connect to the Internet. Most users choose it on the basis of brand awareness and reasonable price, without delving into the additional features that the device can provide. Meanwhile, they can help in expanding the network when uniting users of several apartments and even houses under one "roof", give access through the "air" to a single printer or hard disk, which is important in an office environment, create a guest network for untested devices , block access to certain resources (parental control). Routers can have different data transfer rates, methods of their input. For example, you can use a USB modem with it as an alternative way to access the network or connect via Wi-Fi to your neighbor's network, if he, of course, does not mind. When compiling the rating, I tried to take these nuances into account. Based on the technical characteristics, the opinions of experts, I selected the TOP 15 best routers, sorted them in ascending order of price. For convenience, I divided the rating into 3 sections depending on the scope of the technique.
TOP-7 budget Wi-Fi routers under 2000 rubles
The section contains budget routers that are best used in a home or small office with a small number of connected devices. Most of them have basic functionality that will be enough for a novice user.
Mercusys MW301R
One of the most budgetary routers in the rating with the functionality necessary for the home. Connects to the network via Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Equipped with two LAN ports and two external antennas. Supports modern 802.11b / g / n standards. The maximum wireless data transfer rate reaches 300Mbps. 2 antennas provide a stable, reliable signal over a large area. User data is protected by WPA2 encryption standard. WPA, WEP are also supported. Additional functionality: firewall (for primary protection against unauthorized access to the network), bridge mode (to extend the range of the network using additional equipment), VPN (to create a local network regardless of the distance between devices). Price - 750 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- easy setup;
- range of the network.
Minuses:
- short cable;
- periodically, some users encounter problems in the distribution of Wi-Fi, which are solved by restarting the router;
- 2 LAN ports.
A noteworthy device for a one- or two-room apartment with the ability to expand the coverage area with a second router, albeit with a loss of speed. Definitely not an option for serving large areas or multiple devices at the same time. For offices and business, I recommend considering more expensive samples, for example, Keenetic Start (KN-1110).
Tenda N301
A router similar in technical stuffing to the previous model of the Mercusys MW301R rating, but with advanced functionality:
- repeater - relaying the signal of another router, expanding the network radius;
- DDNS support - automatic renewal of the permanent access address to the printer every time the IP address is changed (with dynamic IP);
- DMZ support - creating a separate, firewall-protected so-called.a demilitarized zone within a local network, which can be useful for small businesses.
It differs from Mercusys MW301R in the number of LAN ports - there are 3 of them, which is important for expanding the local network. Price - 890 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- range of the network.
Minuses:
- short cable;
- no wall mount;
- gets very hot;
- cuts speed over Wi-Fi;
- according to a number of users, there are problematic firmware (difficulties with connecting to the network via PPPoE of some providers, ping jumps).
A good router for your home. Before buying, it is better to consult with the provider's representatives about the compatibility of the equipment and entrust the configuration of the router to the master. It justifies its price. The additional functionality, which was mentioned above, is usually not needed for a common man in the street, saving 140 rubles and choosing the Mercusys MW301R are justified.
Keenetic Start (KN-1110)
The rating continues with a router from a Taiwanese company. Has functionality identical to Mercusys MW301R. At the same time, it differs in the number of LAN ports (4), a large gain, gives a larger coverage radius and support for the 802.1x security standard - confirmation of connection rights not by a router, but by a separate authentication server (you can prohibit connection to the network for certain devices, limit the speed for them, etc. .d.). For the home, the function is useless (WPA2 encryption will be enough), but for the office, where the network password is known to many, additional protection will not hurt. Price - 1050 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- simplicity of configuration and management;
- compactness;
- stable work;
- gain - 25 dBi;
- network range;
- protection - 802.1x;
- the ability to control from a smartphone through the application.
Minuses:
- no shutdown button;
- short cable.
This router outperforms the two previous models due to the higher gain - stable signal distribution over a larger area. Support for the 802.1x security standard is also its advantage. I recommend this model for large apartments, houses, offices.
TP-LINK TL-WR840N
It differs from all previous participants in the rating by its large dimensions and interesting design. Features:
- 4 LAN ports;
- parental control. Ability to create a black and white list of URLs;
- guest network. Connecting guests to the Internet through a dedicated network without risking the security of your network and devices in it;
- 802.1Q TAG VLAN. Ideal for comfortable viewing of IPTV;
- CCA technology eliminates the problem of channel conflicts: the device automatically selects one free from interference.
Price - 1090 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- design;
- stable work;
- ease of configuration, management;
- network range;
- the ability to control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- one light indicator of work;
- no shutdown button.
A good router with flexible settings for network access. If we compare it with Keenetic Start (KN-1110), then it will not be possible to identify significant advantages, there is practically no difference in price. If 802.1x security isn't your concern, then the TP-LINK TL-WR840N is a great choice.
Netis n4
The first in the rating is a dual-band router that operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This allows:
- increase to the maximum possible data transfer rate (theoretically - up to 1200 Mbit / s);
- avoid interference with a large number of devices operating in the 2.4 GHz band.
To realize this possibility, the router was equipped with 4 antennas, including 2 external ones. In terms of functionality, the model does not offer anything fundamentally new, it supports bridge mode, repeater, firewall, VPN, DMZ. Unlike the previous models in the rating, I would like to point out the black color of the case. Price - 1290 rubles.
Pros:
- price-quality ratio";
- work in two frequency ranges;
- compactness;
- network range;
- stability of work.
Minuses:
- there are problems with the PPTP connection;
- 2 LAN ports;
- low power in the 5 GHz range.
One of the most affordable 5 GHz routers for home and office. Before purchasing, it is advisable to make sure that the receiving devices support operation in this range.If not, then the overpayment of several hundred rubles is not worth it, you can buy TP-LINK TL-WR840N. You can choose more expensive models only for the future: here you need to clearly understand the tasks that are set for the device. For example, if flexibility in network configuration is important, the ability to access for each of the connected devices, pay attention to MikroTik hAP lite.
MikroTik hAP lite
Unlike all models previously presented in the rating, it has 2 internal antennas, compact. However, this is associated with a lower gain and a shorter network range. The peculiarity of the model is the proprietary operating system RouterOS, which makes it possible for experienced users to "roam" in terms of network settings. For the average user, this is useless. The maximum data transfer rate "over the air" is 300 Mbit / s, by cable - 100 Mbit / s. In terms of functionality, it is not much different from cheaper competitors. Price - 1380 rubles.
Pros:
- compactness;
- internal antennas;
- flexible configuration for experienced users;
- stability of work;
- regular firmware updates.
Minuses:
- data input - only via Ethernet;
- it is impossible to connect an external antenna;
- the complexity of the setup;
- small range of the network in comparison with the models presented in the rating above;
- power connector - micro-USB, it is unreliable, does not withstand frequent pulling out of the cable;
- the power supply makes a low-frequency sound.
Designed for advanced users when great customization is important. Ideal for an office networked by professionals. For an ordinary user, this router will be weak in terms of Wi-Fi distribution range, inconvenient in terms of configuration. Any of the routers described in the rating will be the best alternative for simple distribution of the network at home.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A
The top budget routers are closed by the dual-band model of the famous Chinese brand Xiaomi. Supports 802.11a / b / g / n / ac standards at 2.4 / 5 GHz. Equipped with 4 external antennas, it provides a large network radius while maintaining signal strength. The router owes a high speed of information processing to the presence of 64 MB of RAM and 16 MB of flash memory "on board". The device will be of interest to fans of the manufacturer, as it can become part of the Xiaomi Mi Home ecosystem. Price - 1800 rubles.
Pros:
- design;
- compactness;
- stability of work;
- work at frequencies 2.4 / 5 GHz;
- large network coverage on both bands.
Minuses:
- price;
- 2 LAN ports;
- complex customization - the interface is in Chinese.
Since the model operates in two frequency ranges, it would be logical to compare it with the netis N4 of all devices in this section of the rating. In this “battle” in terms of signal quality and range of its distribution, Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A clearly wins. This is obvious from a purely technical point of view: it has 4 external antennas, this is confirmed by Yandex. Market. For large apartments, houses, it is more suitable. If you need to distribute Wi-Fi in a one- or two-room apartment, you can consider netis N4 - savings of about 500 rubles. If the receiving devices do not support Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz or you just need a speed of up to 300 Mbps, I recommend TP-LINK TL-WR840N or Keenetic Start (KN-1110).
TOP 3 best 4G Wi-Fi routers
Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots are included in this rating section. They use SIM cards from mobile operators to connect to the network. Much in this case depends on the quality of the provider's signal, the bandwidth of its access point. Such routers are compact, with the ability to work independently.
HUAWEI E5573C
Pocket router from a well-known manufacturer. Dimensions - 97 × 13 × 58 mm. It works according to the standard 802.11n at a frequency of 2.4 GHz with support for 3G, you can use it to distribute the network to any device. Network protection - WPA2 technology. WEP, WPA are supported. It can work autonomously for up to 4 hours, a 1500 mAh battery is built-in. Automatic shutdown in the absence of connected devices helps to significantly extend the operating time without recharging. Can work as a repeater. Price - 3750 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- easy setup;
- clear interface;
- stability of work;
- removable battery.
Minuses:
- easily soiled;
- short battery life. With a weak signal, connecting multiple devices at the same time may not last even 3 hours;
- no charger included;
- impossible to start without a battery;
- small range of the network.
Not a bad device for temporary use on the road or in the country. Not intended for frequent or constant use: small battery capacity, inability to start without it.
Xiaomi ZMI 4G
Portable Wi-Fi hotspot of a well-known Chinese manufacturer with a long battery life (up to 50 hours in standby mode). Battery with a capacity of 7800 mAh, which can be shared with compatible devices (Power Bank function). Another difference between the model and the HUAWEI E5573C is a firewall, the inability to create a so-called. demilitarized network zone. Price - 3900 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- can be used as a Power bank;
- easy setup;
- autonomy;
- control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- easily soiled;
- weak power of the wi-fi signal;
- interface in Chinese;
- sometimes the speed cuts.
An excellent choice for travel lovers and those who, due to their occupation, often change their locations, but must remain online. Autonomy of work sometimes to the detriment of the coverage radius, stability of the data transfer rate. If that doesn't suit you, consider the HUAWEI E5573C.
TP-LINK TL-MR6400
The model is interesting for its versatility. It can work both from a SIM card of a mobile operator and from an Ethernet cable connection. Working in the 802.11 b / g / n standards in the 2.4 GHz range, it can transfer data at a speed of up to 300 Mbps via Wi-Fi, up to 100 Mbps via cable - there are 3 LAN connectors and 1 combined WAN / LAN. 2 external removable antennas and 2 internal ones are responsible for the stability of the signal, the large range of the network. Functions - VPN support, DDNS DMZ, firewall. Price - 4990 rubles.
Pros:
- design;
- price. One of the most affordable universal routers;
- removable antennas;
- simple flexible configuration;
- large radius of action;
- confident reception of the mobile operator's network signal;
- clear indication of work.
Minuses:
- glossy body;
- in the event of a short-term loss of the GSM network signal (as a result of interference) or power outage, the connection may not be restored and the Internet distribution may not be resumed - a reboot is required;
- low sensitivity to GSM signal reception of some operators;
- software in English.
A universal device is suitable for a summer cottage or home, where it is impractical to start a wired network. A full-fledged router will simply wait for its time, working in modem mode, and when you decide to "throw the cable", you will not need to buy additional equipment. If you need a 4G modem to access the Internet without the prospect of upgrading the network, paying such an amount is inappropriate. Consider the HUAWEI E5573C: you can save more than 1,000 rubles, it is more compact. For long journeys, I recommend Xiaomi ZMI 4G - it is the leader in autonomy.
TOP 5 Best Dual Band Gigabit Routers
The section contains routers for designing large networks, when high data transfer rates are important, the ability to expand the network. They are distinguished by the ability to transfer over a LAN connection at a speed of 1000 Mbps, high speed wireless access. They are good for large houses, offices, hotels, other public places and establishments where it is necessary to provide a stable strong Wi-Fi signal over a large area in one local network.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4
Router with 2 LAN ports, speed - 1 Gbps. Works in the 802.11a / b / g / n / ac standards at 2.4 and 5 GHz. Stable signal reception is provided by 4 external antennas with a gain of 6 dBi. Information security using WEP, WPA, WPA2 protocols at user's choice. A standard set of functions has been implemented: firewall, repeater, bridge mode, VPN, DMZ. Price - 2900 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- stable work;
- work in two ranges;
- large network radius;
- signal strength;
- remote control through the app.
Minuses:
- easily soiled case;
- firmware language - Chinese, applications - English;
- 2 LAN ports;
- wall mounting is not possible.
The model is designed for the Asian market and is not adapted to our realities, without Russification: an inexperienced user will have to tinker with the settings. Then the router will delight you with stable data transmission without cutting the speed over a large area. Considering the low price, this router is a real gift for fans of the “Mi” brand.
D-link DIR-853
Multifunctional router for 3800 rubles. The implementation of additional functions is made possible by equipping the device with a USB connector. You can organize access to the network via a 3G or 4G USB modem, connect a USB flash drive or an external hard drive to the router to store information, upload torrent files, make it the basis of a print server by connecting a printing device. The second feature of the model is the ability to reassign the function of the WAN port to any of the 4 LAN connectors and use several ports for this purpose simultaneously, for example, for a backup connection to the network of another provider. The model has advantages when organizing a large network with repeaters - fast, simple connection of amplifying devices, flexible configuration. The smart Wi-Fi client distribution function automatically connects receiving devices to the router with the highest signal strength. It is possible to create a guest network.
The technical basis of the router is 4 external antennas with a gain of 5 dBi. It works simultaneously in two bands. The maximum speed of wireless data transmission is 1267 Mbps (up to 450 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band, 867 Mbps at 5 GHz), via cable - 1000 Mbps. Data protection WEP, WPA, WPA2, 802.1x. Basic functions - firewall, bridge mode, repeater, VPN, DMZ, etc. Price - 3800 rubles.
Pros:
- design;
- price;
- powerful hardware;
- USB connector, additional functionality;
- work in two ranges;
- transmission speed in the 2.4 GHz range - 450 Mbps;
- strong, stable Wi-Fi signal;
- Super MESH function - fast integration of a large number of D-Link devices into a single network;
- 4 gigabit LAN ports;
- 802.1x security standard support;
- the ability to connect to multiple cable providers at once;
- control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- some users note the instability of the built-in torrent client;
- too bright indicators of work;
- fixed antennas;
- sometimes the web interface slows down;
- the router sometimes "falls off" from the web interface without losing access to the network.
An excellent example for creating large, atypical networks in adjacent rooms. Even taking into account the losses when connecting each subsequent backup device, it is possible to distribute the network at a decent speed in conditions of complex layouts of modern buildings and structures. If you are looking for a router for your apartment and are not going to use the functionality of the USB connector, you can take the Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4 - the savings will be about 1,000 rubles.
HUAWEI B525
The first distinction of this router from the D-link DIR-853, which is striking, is the built-in antennas. They can be supplemented with two external ones - there are connectors. The incoming signal is Ethernet or SIM card. There is a USB 2.0 connector. with the ensuing opportunities - connection and use of external storage media, printers, modems. 4 LAN ports with data transfer rates up to 1 Gb / s. The maximum wireless connection speed is 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band, 837 Mbps in the 5 GHz band. Work in two bands simultaneously is provided. Price - 7700 rubles.
Pros:
- connection of external antennas is provided;
- built-in modem;
- USB connector, additional functionality;
- work in two ranges;
- 4 gigabit LAN ports;
- stability of work;
- ease of customization;
- control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- price;
- no external antennas;
- small radius of the network (increases significantly when installing external antennas);
- sometimes speed cuts;
- very large with external antennas;
- cannot be wall-mounted;
- USB 2.0.
The model loses to D-link DIR-853 in all key parameters. The advantage is the built-in modem. It costs much more.If you do not plan to use mobile Internet or you already own a USB modem, I recommend D-link DIR-853 - the savings will be about 4 thousand rubles. Of interest are also more productive expensive devices, for example, ASUS RT-AC68U - it shows more confident signal distribution in a larger radius, is equipped with 2 USB ports.
ASUS RT-AC68U
Tri-antenna dual-band Wi-Fi router with support for 3G and 4G USB modems. Feature - 2 USB ports, which can be used to connect external drives, printers or modems. There are 4 LAN ports with a maximum data transfer rate of 1 Gbps. Over the air in the 2.4 GHz frequency range, the speed can reach 600 Mbps, when connected at 5 GHz - up to 1300 Mbps. Supported security standards - WPA, WEP, WPA, 802.1x. Among the main functions are bridge mode, repeater, MESH mode, firewall, file server, print server, torrent client, VPN, DMZ, guest network. Price - 9,900 rubles.
Pros:
- design;
- powerful hardware;
- easy setup;
- functional;
- removable antennas;
- work in two ranges;
- 2 USB connectors;
- 4 gigabit LAN ports;
- stable performance, high data transfer rate;
- 802.1x security standard support;
- fast integration of a large number of D-Link devices into a single network;
- the ability to control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- price;
- the web interface slows down;
- no wall mounting;
- some users complain about the instability of the "native" firmware;
- sometimes the built-in torrent client does not work correctly.
A good router for the basics of designing a large network with many amplifiers and repeaters. Covers a large area with a network while maintaining signal strength. Has additional functionality. The buying decision must be made based on this. If you use USB ports and additional device features (repeater print server, torrent client, etc.), the purchase is justified. If not, it is advisable to consider cheaper and less functional models. While saving, it is not necessary to give up the functionality. Pay attention to D-link DIR-853. It costs almost 2.5 times cheaper, slightly inferior in speed, and the difference is 1 USB connector and non-removable antenna design.
Keenetic Ultra (KN-1810)
Closes the rating of the best routers, a 4-antenna dual-band model with support for all modern technologies and security standards. It has 2 USB connectors that significantly expand the capabilities of the device - connecting external drives, modems, printers. Supports fiber optic network connectivity - SFP module. Has the highest data transfer rate. In the 2.4 GHz standard - up to 800 Mbps, at 5 GHz - up to 1733 Mbps + 4 Gigabit LAN ports. Price - 10,900 rubles.
Pros:
- powerful hardware;
- functional;
- 2 USB connectors;
- 4 gigabit LAN ports;
- SFP port;
- stable performance, high data transfer rate;
- clear interface;
- work in two ranges;
- 802.1x security standard support;
- large network radius;
- flexible simple configuration with the ability to control access to each connected device;
- control from a smartphone.
Minuses:
- price;
- dimensions;
- some users note the built-in torrent client does not work correctly;
- using the disk while downloading a torrent for other tasks may cause the router to freeze;
- heats up with active use;
- no shutdown button.
One of the best solutions for multi-room apartments, houses and offices with a large number of devices connected at the same time. The device supports the main modern options. The price of the router corresponds to its quality and capabilities. If it is too heavy for you, consider the D-link DIR-853. If properly configured, its capabilities will also be enough to cover a large home or office network. It will cost almost 3 times less.
