The Linksys WRT AC3200 keeps the classic nerd's brand and look alive with modern wireless capabilities managed via traditional methods.
Back in the early days of Wi-Fi, Linksys emerged as a pioneer who dared to help rid you of Internet Service Provider-controlled hardware. The WRT brand allows the technically savvy to replace its open-source firmware with any custom and compatible installation they want.
While many routers of today offer this functionality, the Linksys WRT AC3200 is still one of the best for the job. In fact, the most popular custom firmware distributions out there share namesakes with the thing, such as OpenWrt and DD-WRT.
The functional hardware bits should satisfy any gamer, including dual-band MU-MIMO wireless, four dedicated Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 port, and even the unusual inclusion of a USB 2.0 and eSATA combo port. It doesn't have that attractive gamer aesthetic some of the other featured routers do, but it's what's on the inside that counts, and the WRT AC3200 houses everything you need under its unassuming shell.
Even if you don't need to load up custom firmware, the included dashboard makes it easy to manage your network. It comes complete with a smartphone app that allows you to prioritize devices, manage parental controls, setup guest access, and tinker with pretty much all parts of your network.
TechRadar rates the Linksys WRT AC3200 4 stars out of 5. Reviewer Matt Hanson loves the power and flexibility afforded here, though raw performance doesn't quite match some of the more specialized models. It's also pretty popular at Amazon, with scores of buyers agreeing with the critics' conclusions. Some of the early reviews there tell of nasty stability issues, but those have since been addressed with a series of firmware updates.
Pros: Perfect for custom firmware, eSATA and USB ports, tri-stream 5GHz band offers double bandwidth, easy setup for casual users
Cons: Looks like it belongs in an office