Looking to purchase a new router? Here are some suggestions to consider.
Looking to purchase a new router? Here are some suggestions to consider.
Hi, we have an affordable old Netgear router we've been using for around three years now. Because it doesn't support 5GHz, I'm planning to upgrade to a 5GHz model. My desktop is connected via Ethernet, and we only get about 200Mbps internet speed, though my motherboard supports up to 1GB. Our apartment is small and narrow, so range isn't a big concern even with the current router at least not in the 2.4GHz band. We currently have 9-11 devices connected all the time (phones, tablets, four computers), so that's something to keep in mind. Budget: $75. I understand it's not much, but that's what I can manage. I'm thinking about getting a used or slightly older model.
Many options available, perhaps similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-AC1750-Sm...B079JD7F7G. I own the AC1200, which offers strong Wi-Fi coverage, various settings like a guest network (both 2.4 and 5 GHz) and even built-in VPN features.
I agree with @Olaf6541—it's roughly what you'd expect at that cost. The router performs well and offers solid coverage. Even though I don't have it myself, I installed one some time ago.
I was planning to buy but then realized we’re using a spectrum setup in the US and I’ll need a router-modem combo. I understand there’s a way to turn off Wi-Fi and keep the modem active, but I’m not sure if that’s fixing the problem or just delaying it. I didn’t mention that we’re experiencing connection issues, which is why we’re considering an upgrade. When that happens, my wired desktop connected to the modem/router will also face problems, possibly indicating a modem issue.
Combo devices are terrible. Just saying. You won’t get anything for that price. If I remember right, Spectrum’s low-end models use Puma 6 chip modems. If that’s true, then the issue is probably yours. The Puma 6 has known problems.
We purchased a modem/router combo that works with Spectrum, but we’re wondering what other choices exist. Since my budget is around $75, I’ll need to include two devices, and I’m not very familiar with modems.
Modern cable modems boost performance through channel bonding. More channels generally mean higher speeds, which translates to faster internet plans. I’m on Comcast, not Charter, so I can’t confirm what Charter offers. I know Comcast doesn’t support an 8x4 Docsis 3.0 modem above 200 Mbps, and it’s likely the same for Charter. If you’re on a slower tier, you might be fine, but if you’re stuck with a low-speed plan, you’ll hit limits. Avoid 32-channel Docsis 3.0 devices—they all use the Puma 6 chip. You could look for alternatives without that chip, though quality may vary. Regardless, your budget will be limited. Remember, if you buy a separate modem later, you can upgrade your router when possible. I’ve used an SB6141 for years and it still works well; I’ve replaced my router twice. I probably won’t need to change my modem until Comcast pushes for upgrades or you can afford better service.
I'm using Spectrum, their site says speeds up to 950MBPS. I installed a Netgear N450 router modem myself because I needed a 5G Wi-Fi connection for my Oculus Go, plus I was having connection problems. I asked for a technician, but also called their technical support by phone. They suggested checking the cause of the issue. From what I understand, when the problem occurs, the internet drops completely, even though my wired desktop and all Wi-Fi devices stay connected. I can still log in to the router panel over Wi-Fi even without internet, so the modem seems to be the problem. Also, when it works again, speeds jump back above 100MBPS on speed tests.