Consider a reliable Wi-Fi router for your home or office setup.
Consider a reliable Wi-Fi router for your home or office setup.
Around 1700 sqft, most gadgets connect via WiFi and include several cameras. We typically have at least two devices broadcasting on the TV. In addition, I enjoy streaming to my PS5 using the PlayStation Portal. This is important to me since I’m facing some connectivity problems and low resolution issues lately. I’m not sure why, though—my PS5 is hardwired and I’m using the Portal within 10 feet. The ISP speeds are currently 600/200 Mbps. There are many options available with different specifications, but I don’t have much knowledge about the details. From what I’ve learned, I should look for something with at least 4x4 MIMO and more than eight streams. I’m not sure what those numbers mean. I also don’t need WiFi 7 because only our phones support it. Right now, I’m considering the ASUS AX88U or Flint 2. The budget is around $200, and I’m comfortable with a used model.
The device may not always deliver the highest speeds even if it supports Wi-Fi 6. Keep that in mind. I’ve noticed ASUS offers features like AI Mesh, letting you create your own mesh network using several of their routers—just as long as each one supports AI mesh. This can be helpful when signal strength is weak. Their 2.5 Gig port could also add value in certain scenarios. Ultimately, it depends on what you need. Personally, I own a Synology RT 2600AC, which has performed well without any problems. They seem to offer similar quality in their Wi-Fi 6 version. Back in my day, a router around $200 was a solid investment and still worth the cost. I haven’t upgraded because it’s not essential for my current setup. I chose this model when we faced a 1.2TB data limit from Comcast. It let me monitor per-device usage to stay under the cap, and it includes features like Dual WAN and cellular support. Interference is a big factor—2.4 GHz is often crowded, and even 5 GHz can get busy. Some devices or locations may not handle higher frequencies well due to regulations or building materials. Thicker walls like brick or concrete block signals more than drywall or wood. Higher frequency bands offer less range but better data rates when conditions allow.