Faster is better, but only if your ISP’s internet speed (the rate at which data travels between the web and your connected devices) approaches the transfer speed of your router. Most routers will list their Ethernet, 2.5GHz, and 5GHz speeds. The transfer speed, measured in megabytes per second (Mbps), determines the best possible connection offered by your router. Most will cost right around the $100 mark or above. Many single-band and dual-band routers are available for under $100, but it can be more difficult to find a tri-band router in this range. The extra bandwidth makes this the best choice for a home or office with a high number of devices. This leads to a faster speed but shorter range overall. Tri-band routers offer more bandwidth with one 2.5GHz signal and two 5GHz signals. Older devices may not be able to connect to the 5GHz signal, but it will provide a faster - albeit shorter range - signal. However, it transfers data at a slower speed than a 5GHz signal.ĭual-band routers send out a 2.5GHz signal and a 5GHz signal. Single-band routers send out a 2.5 gigahertz (GHz) signal, which is compatible with nearly all devices and is the best signal for reaching all corners of your home and passing through obstacles. The more networks you have, the less likely you are to encounter signal interference - which may be an issue if you have several devices attempting to connect to the router at once. The number of “bands” a router has is the number of WiFi signals it sends out and thus, the number of networks it supports. Be aware that most WiFi routers include several Ethernet ports so you can still connect devices via wired connections. If WiFi is a must, finding the right WiFi router for under $100 means weighing your criteria.
If you don’t need to connect any devices via WiFi, Ethernet or wired routers are available and are often fairly inexpensive, and because of the physical cable connection can be more reliable and secure. Will you need a router that provides a WiFi signal? WiFi allows you to wirelessly connect devices such as laptops, smartphones, game consoles, and media streaming devices to the internet. Before you start your hunt for an affordable router, you should ask yourself what your minimum needs are and what type of router will best suit your home or office.
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