Finding Routers on a Budget
Choosing a router under $100 that delivers solid performance is for many households and small offices. Affordable routers often come with limitations, but models break the mold by providing excellent features without the high price tag.
Understanding what to expect and compare these budget routers will help you make an informed decision. The following sections explore the best options available under $100 and what makes them stand out.
Key Features to Consider in Budget Routers
Wireless Standards and Speed
Modern routers support different wireless standards such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). Routers with 802.11ac or better offer faster speeds and improved range compared to older standards.
Speed ratings like AC1200 or AC1750 indicate maximum theoretical throughput, though actual speeds depend on many factors including interference and device capabilities.
Coverage and Antennas
The number and type of antennas on a router affect its coverage area and signal strength. External antennas provide better range and are often adjustable to improve signal direction.
For larger homes, routers with beamforming technology or multiple antennas can maintain stronger connections across multiple rooms.
Security Features
Security is critical when choosing any networking device. Look for routers supporting WPA3 encryption, guest network capabilities, and automatic firmware updates to help protect your network.
Parental controls and integrated firewall features further enhance network security and management, especially in family environments.
Ease of Setup and Management
User-friendly interfaces, mobile app support, and clear setup guides make configuring your router less stressful. Many routers in this price range now feature intuitive apps that simplify network management and troubleshooting.
Remote management capabilities allow users to monitor and control their network from anywhere, adding convenience and peace of mind.
Top Budget Routers Under $100
Below is a curated list of routers that provide excellent value and features for less than $100. Each model excels in areas such as speed, coverage, or security.
| Router Model | Wireless Standard | Max Speed | Antennas | Security | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer A7 | 802.11ac | AC1750 (450 + 1300 Mbps) | 3 External | WPA3, Guest Network | $60 – $80 |
| NETGEAR R6700 Nighthawk | 802.11ac | AC1750 (450 + 1300 Mbps) | 3 External | WPA2/WPA3, VPN Support | $80 – $95 |
| ASUS RT-AC66U B1 | 802.11ac | AC1750 (450 + 1300 Mbps) | 3 External | WPA3, AiProtection | $90 – $100 |
| Linksys EA6350 | 802.11ac | AC1200 (300 + 867 Mbps) | 2 External | WPA2, Guest Access | $55 – $70 |
| D-Link DIR-867 | 802.11ac | AC1750 (450 + 1300 Mbps) | 3 External | WPA2, Guest Network | $75 – $90 |
Detailed Reviews of Select Models
TP-Link Archer A7: Best Overall Value
The Archer A7 is a consistent favorite for budget-conscious buyers seeking speed and coverage. It supports dual-band AC1750 speeds and offers three external antennas that provide solid coverage for medium-sized homes.
Its interface is user-friendly, and it supports WPA3 encryption and guest networking, making it ideal for secure home use.
NETGEAR R6700 Nighthawk: Power and Flexibility
The R6700 Nighthawk is known for delivering performance with AC1750 speeds and beamforming technology. It supports VPN passthrough and has a powerful QoS engine to prioritize traffic for gaming and streaming.
This router also includes WPA3 security and USB 3.0 ports for sharing storage or printers, features rarely found under $100.
ASUS RT-AC66U B1: Enhanced Security Features
ASUS’s RT-AC66U B1 offers an excellent balance of speed and security with AiProtection powered by Trend Micro. This feature actively blocks malicious sites and vulnerabilities, enhancing your network’s safety.
The router also supports MU-MIMO, which improves performance when multiple devices connect simultaneously.
Linksys EA6350: Compact and Functional
The Linksys EA6350 is a compact router suitable for small to medium spaces. It supports AC1200 speeds and WPA2 security protocols, providing a stable connection for everyday internet use.
Its simple setup and guest access feature make it a practical choice for those who want straightforward functionality without excessive features.
D-Link DIR-867: Strong Performance for the Price
D-Link’s DIR-867 offers AC1750 speeds and three external antennas for improved coverage. It is equipped with WPA2 security and allows creation of guest networks for visitors.
This router is well-suited for users who need a dependable connection for streaming and gaming on a budget.
Comparing Features for User Needs
Speed and Coverage
If maximum throughput and wide coverage are your priorities, routers rated AC1750 with three external antennas are the best choices. Both the TP-Link Archer A7 and NETGEAR R6700 provide excellent speed and signal strength for mid-sized homes.
In contrast, the Linksys EA6350 is more suitable for smaller areas or fewer connected devices due to its AC1200 speed rating.
Security and Parental Controls
Users concerned with network safety should consider routers with WPA3 encryption and built-in security suites. ASUS RT-AC66U B1’s AiProtection stands out for proactive threat detection and blocking.
Guest network support is standard in all the models listed, allowing safe internet access for visitors without compromising your main network.
Ease of Use and Setup
For those less experienced in networking, routers with intuitive mobile apps and simple setup wizards are preferable. TP-Link and NETGEAR offer apps that walk users through installation and allow easy management of settings.
Linksys also provides a straightforward app interface, though it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end models.
Additional Considerations for Budget Router Buyers
Firmware Updates and Support
Regular firmware updates are critical to maintaining performance and security over time. Choose brands known for consistent software support and patch releases.
Checking user reviews and forums can provide insights into how well manufacturers support their products post-purchase.
Wired Connectivity Options
Most budget routers offer multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices, which provide faster and more connections than Wi-Fi. Verify the number of ports to ensure enough connections for your devices.
Some models include USB ports for network-attached storage or printer sharing, adding versatility to your home network setup.
Future-Proofing Your Network
While Wi-Fi 6 routers are becoming more affordable, most under $100 still use Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). If you aim to keep your router for years, consider a slightly higher budget for Wi-Fi 6 features.
However, an AC1750 router remains a highly capable choice for typical home use, providing excellent value without overspending.
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