If you are looking to game online, having a Wi-Fi router that supports at least dual band is essential. Dual band routers offer better speeds by using both 2.4GHz band and 5GHz band. Dual band routers should offer better bandwidth distribution as you can use the 2.4GHz band for lighter applications like emailing or browsing, while the 5GHz band should offer you seamless gaming and streaming. It should also be able to handle multiple devices at a time, offering lag-free connectivity.
To help you buy the budget gaming routers, here are the best options available on Amazon. SEE ALSOBest gaming routers in India
How we do our research
Our ranking criteria
We consider each Wi-Fi router's features, including maximum speed, number of ports for connectivity and number of antennas. Other than these, we also consider security features, brand and warranty offered by the company.
Things to consider before buying Wi-Fi routers
Security features
Security is an important issue to consider when a Wi-Fi router as a wireless network can be very insecure.
When buying a 5GHz router, make sure it at least uses WPA2 (the second implementation of the Wi-Fi Protected Access protocol). Other than this, look for a router with extra capabilities such as monitoring devices, blocking unwanted users from the network, and seeing the number of people using your wireless network.
Routers with MU-MIMO
Today, many routers come with a facility called MU-MIMO. Routers with MU-MIMO can deliver higher-speed data. This type of router becomes essential when several people are using a single wireless network.
USB ports
Routers with USB ports allow you to plug an HDD or flash storage drive and share that data with any device on the network. You can also use it to create a networked media hub for streaming movies, music or television shows you own locally.
But, if your main purpose is to access the Wi-Fi network then USB ports on a router aren't something you should be worried about.
Multiple antennas
External antennas in routers increase the overall range and are ideal for environments where you need access but if you need Wi-Fi access across glass doors then you need routers with multiple antennas.
The TP-Link Archer router claims to offer dual band Wi-Fi speeds up to 1200Mbps by simultaneously using 2.4GHz and 5GHz band. It features four external antennas and one internal antenna that should provide stable connectivity. It features a Qualcomm Chipset is said to provide a reliable connection. The TP-Link Archer router has a Mu-Mimo feature that can offer up to 2X efficiency by communicating with up to two devices at once.
The ASUS RT-AC53 router is said to offer a combined data rate of up to 750Mbps. It features three external antennas that should enhance the signal transmission. It is said to offer smart control with the ASUS router app. You should be able to set-up your router, manage network traffic, diagnose connection issues and even update firmware using the app. The ASUS RT-AC53 router should let you enjoy demanding applications like gaming and HD streaming with its 5GHz band.
The Tenda AC10 router is said to offer wired connectivity with one WAN and three LAN ports. It claims to provide strong internet connectivity with its dual band signal. It comes with Mu-Mino technology that offers better efficiency by communicating with multiple devices simultaneously. It features four external antennas that can enhance the Wi-Fi range. The Tenda AC10 is said to deliver data rate up to 1167Mbps by utilising the 2.4GHz and 5 GHz bands.
The TP-Link Archer C60 router offers speeds up to 450Mbps with 2.4Ghz band and up to 867Mbps with 5GHz band. The high-speed router should be able to provide reliable connectivity to stream HD videos, play online games and hold video chats, without any delays. It features five antennas that should enhance the range of the network. The TP-Link Archer C60 is said to offer advanced functions such as parental control, host list and others.
The D-Link DIR-825 router offers wired connectivity with one WAN and four LAN ports. It comes with Mu-Mimo technology that can increase the efficiency of the router by communicating with multiple devices simultaneously. The router can work in multiple modes such as Router mode, Access Point mode and Repeater Mode. The D-Link DIR-825 router is said to provide speeds up to 200Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz bands.
The Netgear R6220 router can offer speeds up to 1167Mbps on a dual bandwidth of 2.4GHz and 5GHz. It comes with two external antennas that should improve the Wi-Fi coverage. You can use the Nighthawk app to set up the router and control other functions of the router. The router is said to be suitable for places with over eight devices connected to the Wi-Fi network. The Netgear R6220 router is said to offer wired connectivity with one WAN and four LAN ports.
DISCLAIMER: The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.
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