Shopping on a Budget Router Plan A didn’t work Plan B is essential Plan C is a source of worry
Shopping on a Budget Router Plan A didn’t work Plan B is essential Plan C is a source of worry
Today I received my TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750... and it went straight to a refund request. The seller seemed to mislead me several times before handing over the device that didn’t match what was advertised. Before sharing the details, let’s explain why I chose to go this route. I’ve been struggling with my network setup for some time now. Although my current plan limits performance, poor Wi-Fi coverage is another issue. The TP-Link TL-WA901ND keeps crashing and needs constant restarting, especially in areas where we really need a stable connection. That’s why I thought it would be smart to tackle two problems at once: upgrade my local network and have something ready for future providers.
With that in mind, I set these requirements: a 5 gigabit port (4+1 WAN also works), and the ability to run DNS encryption, MAC whitelisting, and DDOS protection. I also want something adjustable, preferably dual-band with MU-MIMO support. A compact design would be ideal since moving devices around is often messy. While a separate switch and AP combo sounds better for scalability, I prefer a smaller footprint.
Budget-wise, I’m looking for something under $70 new or used. Ideally, it should cost less so I can allocate funds to other needs, like the Helldivers 2. If possible, a 16MB ROM would be nice, but at least 8MB is acceptable. I’m open to finding it in the SEA market in Indonesia. The Archer C7 would have been a perfect fit, even if the used ones were older models. I found one listing in Indonesia showing version 5, but it arrived as a V1.1—completely different from what was advertised. It also came with a faulty wireless switch, so I had to return it.
My alternative was the Archer C54, which is widely available. Its 4/32 flash setup restricts firmware changes, making it less flexible. The Archer AX23 is another option but comes with a higher risk of bugs. Brands like Linksys, Netgear, and Ubiquiti are tough to source affordably in Indonesia due to high taxes. Overall, I’m leaning toward the Archer C7 if a suitable replacement can be found.
Seems still within USD70 though You can try the lower variant (AX23 is AX1800) but still good router that supports OpenWRT firmware such as TP-Link Archer AX10 or AX12 You're in luck, cause TP-Link Archer AX12 (AX1500) does support OpenWRT custom and on great sale (not sponsored, LOL) Here's the LINK Based on that price, it's +-70% of AX23 full price Please note though, most personal use of router only has MAC whitelist feature. So OpenWRT firmware is a must if you really want DNS encryption and DDOS feature All thanks to the almighty and great MENKOMINFO, for their SDPPI regulations to "protect" us from signal that could interfere with either daily use and governmental/enterprise use, and with mere price of +-Rp50 million for certification (test lab not included) and it only covers for one factory plant. So if some product are produced in other factory/country, that's additional +-Rp50 million. ( these prices are for import product only ) It's like the crappy "SNI" certification made by MENPERIN, instead of trusting international standard ISO and FCC/CE, our beloved and great government decides to make it's own and copying some of the international standard and label it as it's own.
I considered my options and thought a Gigabit switch would be sufficient, especially after checking compatibility. However, I’m struggling to locate the ready-made image and don’t want to risk installing faulty firmware. Someone should handle the technical side for me. The alternatives that caught my eye are: Green Light (mostly meets requirements, only minor OpenWRT concerns), TP Link Archer AX23, TP Link Archer AX23 Rp. 830k, Linksys E5600 Rp. 590k, D Link DIR-878 Rp. 200k, D Link DIR-842 Rp. 400k, and Yellow Light (also reasonable with some conditions). Xiaomi AX3600 is also listed but I’m hesitant to post it due to potential issues. Its... used condition means it could end up in the same situation as the Archer C7 but at a higher price. Red Light (8/64) is common, widely available, and matches what I need: TP Link Archer C50 Rp. 650k, TP Link Archer C20 Rp. 350k, and TP Link Archer C60 Rp. 475k.
If this applies, the D-LINK DIR-878 stands out as the top option. Besides the OpenWRT platform confirming support for the latest 23.05.3 firmware, it offers superior Wi-Fi performance versus other choices. It meets all your needs, and if you find a functional unit at a reasonable cost, it could represent the most valuable purchase in its category.