Choose the option that best fits your needs.
Choose the option that best fits your needs.
Hey there! I'm seeking some advice on the best networking setup for my current needs. With a budget around $400-500 NZD (about $320 USD), I want to explore options that fit my situation. If you have any suggestions, it would be really helpful. I’m open to hearing alternative ideas if this isn’t clear enough. No worries if I’m confused—I’d appreciate your help in saving time and money.
The main challenge is connectivity. Even though my apartment has a small size (just 14-15 steps wide), I struggle with range and speed. I’ve invested heavily in smart home devices like Amazon Echo, Fire Cube, Sonoff switches, Broadlink Minis, Ring doorbells, and Wyze cameras. Most of these rely on the 2.4GHz frequency band, which often causes my ISP router to lag or drop connections as more devices connect.
I’ve tried the ASUS 86U, but it didn’t fully solve the problem. Reviews suggest it might have 2.4GHz limitations, so that’s something to keep in mind. I’ve also considered Ubiquiti products like the USG range and their access points. While they’re highly rated, I can’t install them or run Ethernet everywhere. My setup includes about 15 2.4GHz devices and a few 5GHz ones plus some Ethernet-enabled gadgets.
I’m thinking of switching to an Ubiquiti AmpliFi HD model. It’s popular in smart home setups, and users report good performance without issues. However, it doesn’t support Mi-Mimo, which could be a downside for future devices. The USB port is disabled, so I can’t connect external HDs.
Another option is the TP-Link Archer AX6000. It offers AX technology, which isn’t as useful now but will be valuable later. It has 8 Ethernet ports and seems more future-proof. But I’m not sure about the Mimo support details. Some reviews mention speed limitations compared to single-point routers.
Lastly, there’s an Edge Router with a FlexHD Pro. It comes with 24/7 Ubiquiti support and is designed for desk use, which might suit my needs better. However, it only supports 20-30 devices, and availability isn’t confirmed yet.
What do you think? Any other ideas or alternatives would be great!
I’m not sure if this will assist you, since it seems you have more wireless devices than me. Still here’s how I set things up in my flat—using a pfSense router connected to a 24-port managed switch, all under a UAP AC Lite. It’s worked perfectly without any issues. I only manage around ten clients on my network, and none have dropped off, whether they’re 2.4 or 5GHz connections. The speed is more than enough for my devices.
Yeah, go with 5GHz. The router I had was old—bought about five years ago, around 8 years back. It had both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. We live in a 2500 sqft house, and everything worked perfectly. The router downstairs and the iPads on the stairs also functioned fine. Back then, it was roughly a $200 to $250 model, but switching to the Asus router made all the difference.
Honestly, it's just sitting in a corner on top of my switch, doing its job without any issues. If I had ownership, I'd definitely install it, but right now I'm fine with how it's running.
The problem lies in the fact that many smart home gadgets now require a 2.4GHz connection, while all available solutions support 5GHz.
No lead shielding surrounds it, yet it remains out of anyone's direct view.