Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

13 Best WiFi Routers, Fastest And Stable

WiFi has become an important issue in many households. Tablets, laptop, smartphones, televisions, and music systems can only be used to a certain extent without an internet connection. Home offices that have played a central role in the lives of many people since the Corona pandemic are only possible with fast and stable internet access. The basis of a home WLAN is the best WiFi router. To many, it's just an ugly little box in the hallway with an antenna on it. Usually included with the contract by the Internet provider. But as a rule, these are rather weak models with a limited range of functionality.

best WiFi routers


If you want a high-performance WLAN that reliably connects your work computer to the network, streams Netflix to your TV or Spotify to your SONOS speakers and excels in multiplayer gaming, you've got to get the best WiFi router. After all, since 2016, consumers have finally been able to choose their own router and no longer have to be satisfied with the devices provided by the provider and their router needs.

This router comparison presents the latest 13 models and compares them in terms of equipment, quality and compatibility. The detailed guide that follows the product description explains what to consider when buying the best WiFi router and what technical requirements a router should have.

13 best WiFi routers in a big comparison

best WiFi routers


1. Router AVM FRITZ!Box 7590
  • Connectivity technologies Ethernet, USB, TAE, RJ11. ISDN
  • Tablet compatible devices
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Operating System (e.g. Windows, Linus, MacOS, iOS, Android)
  • Wireless Type 802.11b, 802.11g
  • WPA2 WPA3/2 . Transition Mode security protocol
  • LAN port bandwidth 1000 Mbit/s
The AVM FRITZ!Box 7590 router is a high-end wireless router with MU-MIMO in dual band. This means using the 2.4 and 5 gigahertz bands simultaneously with transmission speeds of 800 and 1,733 megabits per second (Mbps). FRITZ!Box is a telephone system for landlines and the Internet with integrated voice-to-mail and fax-to-mail. Up to six cordless phones can be connected to the FRITZ!Box.

What is a dual band router? WiFi signals are broadcast on radio frequencies, mainly in the 2.4 gigahertz frequency band. In dense residential areas, your WiFi signal overlaps with your neighbor's WiFi. Everyone has their own shielded network, but shares the 2.4 GHz radio frequency with others. If multiple devices occupy this frequency at the same time, things get tight and data congestion occurs. Dual band routers avoid this bottleneck by being able to communicate on the much less used 5 gigahertz band. However, the WLAN receiver must also support this frequency. Many newer routers automatically switch to the best band and thus significantly speed up data transmission.

The router has connections for DECT and ISDN phones, so no new phones are required when upgrading to this router. With internal memory or via USB 3.1 connected storage media, the router becomes a NAS drive. This network hard drive functions as a media server on the home network and can also be accessed via the internet with the FRITZ!Box application. Typically, a network hard drive costs more than 150 euros. With FRITZ!Box, this functionality is provided for free. Media servers share photos, movies, and music within a home network to a suitable receiver such as a smart television, tablet, or hi-fi system.

Many connection options: The AVM FRITZ!Box 7590 router has four gigabit LAN ports for connecting a computer or game console via a cable. Data transmission over an Ethernet cable is faster and less prone to interference than wirelessly over a WLAN. Memory sticks or external hard drives can be connected via the USB 3.0 port. Thanks to FritzOS, the storage media becomes a real network storage, a kind of private cloud.

The router supports mesh technology. This means that multiple AVM mesh repeaters or access points distributed throughout the home automatically coordinate with each other and create a WLAN network with a uniform identifier. The biggest advantage is the fast and stable distribution of the WiFi signal evenly at home. The mesh technology enables uninterrupted streaming of music and videos even with mobile devices. Just as a smartphone seamlessly connects to the next radio cell on the go, so do mobile devices on a home network automatically switch to the strongest WLAN source, for example on the way from the basement under the roof.

The router supports VDSL supervectoring for speeds of up to 300 megabits per second (Mbit/s) when sending data packets. However, Internet providers must also provide this technology. This product is available in various variants for German buyers as well as for those from Austria and Switzerland.

What is a VDSL supervector? The data signal reaches the household from the Internet provider's DSL node via bundled telephone copper wires. The participants connected in such a cable bundle must share the bandwidth. The more users requesting high data rates at the same time, the less bandwidth is available to everyone. In addition, the signals in the cable bundle can interfere with each other. This is where vectoring techniques come in. Supervectoring VDSL is the latest evolution of this standard, which can provide data transmission over copper wires at up to 300 megabits per second (Mbit/s). Mutual interference between adjacent cable pairs is calculated by the DSL distribution node.

Advantages
  • Connection for ISDN phone
  • Can be used as NAS storage
  • Gigabit LAN
  • VDSL Supervector
Deficiency
  • Mesh only works with AVM products
best WiFi routers


2. TP-Link TL-WR841N N300 router
  • Ethernet connectivity technology, DC-in jack
  • Compatible devices No
  • Control method application
  • Single band frequency band class
  • OS Yes
  • 802.11bgn Wireless Type
  • WPS security protocol
  • Baglant Noktas Sayısı 5
  • LAN port bandwidth 10/100 megabits per second
The TP-Link TL-WR841N N300 router offers throughput of up to 300 megabits per second (Mbit/s) and according to the manufacturer is for interference-sensitive applications such as streaming video in HD or online gaming. Routers have the option to assign specific data rates to individual devices. You can also specify which devices are allowed to connect to the network. Thanks to the WPS button new devices can be easily registered with the router.

Handy application for control: Owners of the TP-Link TL-WR841N N300 router can download the manufacturer's TP-Link tether app on the Google Play Store or on the Apple App Store. This application can be used to manage router and all devices connected to WLAN.

This router has four LAN ports for connecting external devices such as game consoles. The router has WPA/WPA2 encryption and protects the wireless WLAN from uninvited users. Routers can also be used as access points and repeaters, but then require another router in the WLAN to access the Internet. In hotspot mode, the router can also provide Internet access for devices outside of the WLAN. The scope of delivery includes a voltage adapter and quick installation instructions. It measures 17.3 × 11.8 × 3.3 centimeters and weighs almost 900 grams.

What is an access point? With the access point, a stable WLAN signal can also be carried to areas of the home that the router cannot reach or can only reach very weakly. An Access Point (AP) via Ethernet is connected directly to the router and serves as an access point for nearby WiFi devices. So it is a kind of branch office router in a home wireless network. Certain access points can also use the power grid as a data path. Some routers can also be operated as APs, but then they are no longer routers, but require another router as an access point to the Internet.

Advantages
  • WLAN with 300 megabits per second
  • Can be used as an access point or router
Deficiency
  • Requires an additional modem or router for Internet access
  • Cannot be used as a telephone system
best WiFi routers


3. Router AVM FRITZ!Box 7490
  • Wireless connectivity technology
  • Compatible devices No
  • Voice control method
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • OS Yes
  • Wireless Type 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g
  • WPS security protocol
  • Data transfer rate 1300 megabits per second
The AVM FRITZ!Box 7490 router is a dual WLAN router for the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands and WLAN speeds of 450 and 1,300 megabits per second (Mbps). VDSL and ADSL/ADSL2+ can be used simultaneously. The router supports mesh. It is a telephone system for landlines and the Internet with voice-to-mail and fax-to-mail correspondence. All connections for ISDN and analog telephones are available. Equipped with a DECT base station that can be connected to up to six cordless phones. The device measures 24.5 x 17.5 x 5.5 centimeters.

The router is perfect for sharing music, movies and photos on your own network. External devices such as computers, game consoles, printers and network hard drives can be connected via a connected LAN of which four connections are available. With two USB 3.0 ports, it is possible to integrate memory sticks as well as USB hard drives and printers in a network. The scope of delivery of the router includes telephone connection cable, DSL connection cable, LAN cable, DSL and telephone adapter, external power pack and brief instructions.

Advantages
  • USB port for storage media or printer
  • Can be used as a telephone system for analog, ISDN or VoIP
  • DECT . base station
Deficiency
  • Mesh only in association with other AVM hardware
best WiFi routers


4. TP-Link Deco M4 Router
  • Connectivity technology Bluetooth, Ethernet
  • Tablet compatible devices, smartphones
  • Voice control method
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • IOS 9.0 operating system, Android 4.3
  • 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11g . wireless communication standards
  • WPA-PSK security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 1167 megabits per second
The TP-Link Deco M4 router is a mesh WiFi package. In addition to the router, two or three access points are provided. According to the manufacturer, it offers seamless transmission over a single, uniform network thanks to the mesh technology and the automatic connection of a smartphone or tablet. The end device switches automatically between units. Room area up to 260 square meters can be accommodated with a two-pack. According to the manufacturer, if that's not enough, you can add a number of additional router units to the mesh network. One of these dual-band routers operates at speeds of up to 1,167 megabits per second in the 2.4 and 5 gigahertz bands.

Comprehensive youth protection: The TP-Link Deco M4 router is equipped with comprehensive youth protection. These functions include, for example, user profiles, Internet filters, time limits, and logs. Parents may, for example, completely block certain Internet websites or services for their minors or restrict access in terms of time.

Devices can be controlled via the manufacturer's Deco app. According to the manufacturer, mesh networks offer lag-free connections for up to 100 devices, even on heavily loaded networks. A single router is equipped with two internal antennas for more stability and has two gigabit ports. The router has MU-MIMO technology for intelligent communication between devices. It has access point mode and cloud support. The network can be voice controlled via Amazon Alexa control and should be easy to set up. A router measures 9 x 9 x 19 centimeters and weighs almost 400 grams.

Advantages
  • Includes access point
  • Mesh technique
  • Parental supervision
Deficiency
  • Only two Ethernet ports
  • No phone system
best WiFi routers


5. AVM FRITZ!Box 7430 router
  • Ethernet connectivity technology
  • Tablet compatible device
  • Voice control method
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Wireless Type 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g
  • WPS security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 450 megabits per second
According to the manufacturer, the AVM FRITZ!Box 7430 router is suitable for IP-based telephone connections from Deutsche Telekom and other providers. It has VDSL and ADSL/ADSL2+ modems. This is a modern WLAN-N router that has speeds of up to 450 megabits per second. The device also has four Fast Ethernet LAN interfaces and a USB 2.0 port. Up to six cordless phones can be connected to the integrated phone system. Connection for analog telephone is available.

The router offers several functions such as an integrated answering machine, online phone book, local phone book and various convenience functions such as optional email forwarding. Network applications such as video on demand , IPTV or streaming media can be deployed through the media server . Pictures, videos or music can be made available to all devices connected via a media server, for example to be able to play them back on a television. The router measures 22.6 x 4.7 x 16 centimeters.

How can I access my FRITZ!Box? All routers, including the FRITZ!Box, are managed via a web browser. Each router has its own web address, which is always in the manual. The FRITZ!Box settings page is accessed via http://fritz.box. The address is typed into the URL line of the web browser, which is where the website address also appears. Then press the Enter key. The login mask then appears. Access data is also in the manual or on a sticker on the router. After logging in for the first time, you should definitely replace the default password with your own.

Advantages
  • Integrated DSL Modem
  • USB port for printer or storage media
  • Answering machine
Deficiency
  • No ISDN interface
  • Telephone system only for IP connection
best WiFi routers


6. Router AVM FRITZ!Box 4020
  • 4G connectivity technology
  • Compatible devices No
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Wireless Type 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g
  • WPS security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 450 megabits per second
The AVM FRITZ!Box 4020 is a WLAN router without an integrated modem and therefore can only be used in conjunction with an existing fiber optic, DSL, or cable modem. The router supports HSPA, UMTS and LTE sticks used for Internet access. It offers a wireless connection with high data rates for longer distances at home. New wireless and Internet-enabled devices can be connected to the FRITZ!Box at the touch of a WPS button.

Practical use as USB and online storage: The FRITZ!Box operating system turns a connected USB memory stick or USB hard drive into a so-called Network Attached Storage (NAS) and media server. A NAS drive can be used by any device on a home network, whether it's for storing data or retrieving music, pictures, and videos from those devices. FRITZ app! Box can also be used to access NAS drives from the Internet.

Four Fast Ethernet LAN ports are available for using the router to transmit online videos or games. According to the manufacturer, the FRITZ!Box can be used as an extension of an existing home network. It allows secure wireless WLAN guest access and parental control with versatile filters, for example to block certain websites or check Internet history. The router offers secure WLAN encryption according to the WPA2 standard and works at speeds of up to 450 megabits per second. It measures 16.6 x 12 x 4.8 centimeters.

What is the WPA2 standard? Wi-Fi Protected Access 2, WPA2 for short, is a security standard for wireless networks and part of the IEEE 802.11 WLAN standard. It is the successor to the WPA standard, which is now considered insecure and WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). WPA2 is considered a very secure encryption. The successor to WPA2 is WPA3. Some routers provide a compliant update from WPA 2 to WPA 3.

Advantages
  • WPS function for easy WiFi connection
  • NAS function
  • Child safety and youth protection
Deficiency
  • No integrated DSL modem
  • No phone function
best WiFi routers


7. TP-Link TL-WR940N N450 router
  • Wireless connectivity technology
  • Compatible devices No
  • Control method application
  • Single band frequency band class
  • Ethernet/WLAN operating system, Internet access
  • Wireless Type 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g
  • WPS security protocol
  • LAN port bandwidth 10/100 megabits per second
The TP-Link TL-WR940N N450 router offers speeds of up to 450 megabits per second and, according to the manufacturer, is suitable for interrupt-sensitive applications, such as streaming video in HD. Three external antennas ensure optimal reception and appropriate WLAN coverage and coverage. The router is a single - band router that uses only the 2.4 GHz frequency band and only supports WiFi4.

IP-based bandwidth control: The manufacturer has integrated a function into the TP-Link TL-WR940N N450 router by which individual devices can be assigned a specific bandwidth. In this way, for example, the FireTV stick in the television can be given a lot of data bandwidth and the notebook in the children's room less data bandwidth.

The router is equipped with an access point and range extender function. With the latter, the router can be used as a repeater to extend the range of the WLAN. However, another router must then establish an Internet connection. With the guest network function, guests can be provided with Internet access without having to share the local network. According to the manufacturer, parents or administrators can restrict the use rights of children or employees with the help of access control. The dual band router measures 20 x 14 x 2.8 centimeters and weighs almost 320 grams.

What is DSL? broadband stands for Digital Subscriber Line and describes a technical standard for data transmission. With a DSL line you can surf the Internet at high speed much faster than an ISDN line. Advantages of DSL technology: Uses copper wires that are widespread from telephone lines. Data signals are sent at high frequencies and telephone signals at low frequencies.

Advantages
  • Great WLAN coverage thanks to three antennas
  • Can be used as a repeater
  • Assignment of various user rights
Deficiency
  • Only 2.4 gigahertz WiFi
  • No phone system
best WiFi routers


8. Router Asus RT-N12E N300
  • Wireless connectivity technology
  • Compatible Devices Wifi Devices
  • Control method application
  • Single band frequency band class
  • Windows operating system
  • Wireless Type 802.11b/g
  • WPS security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 300 megabits per second
The Asus RT-N12E N300 router is designed for a WLAN coverage area of ​​up to 60 square meters or is available in versions for a coverage area of ​​150 square meters. The router offers the option of establishing a wired network connection as well as a wireless WLAN connection. Both externally mounted antennas have high gain, resulting in increased coverage area. The router is set up using the exclusive Quick Internet Setup and graphical user interface.

Advantages
  • Four WLAN networks can be set up
  • VPN support
Deficiency
  • No integrated DSL modem
  • No phone system
  • No USB port
No integrated modem: There is no integrated modem in the Asus RT-N12E router. This means that this router can only be used behind a modem or router modem.

With this router it is possible to set up four separate network identifiers (SSIDs) by which different groups of users can be assigned individual bandwidth and Internet access. Thanks to the VPN server support, it is possible to surf the Internet anonymously and retrieve data. Internet use is possible through up to three separate guest accesses without having to reveal personal passwords or network resources. The router measures 12.4 x 16.8 x 3 centimeters and weighs almost 210 grams.

What is PPTP encryption? Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol, abbreviated as PPTP, is a network protocol used to set up virtual private networks on computer networks. The encryption method has been deemed insecure and broken since 2012, when encryption expert Moxie Marlinspike published a website capable of cracking any VPN connection via PPTP. This is considered the "death knell for PPTP".

Advantages
  • Four WLAN networks can be set up
  • VPN support
Deficiency
  • No integrated DSL modem
  • No phone system
  • No USB port
best WiFi routers


9. HONOR Honor 3 Router
  • WiFi connectivity technology
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • RouterOS Operating System
  • Radio Frequency 5GHz Wireless Type, 802.11ax, 2.4GHz Radio Frequency
  • 3000 megabits per second data transfer rate
The HONOR Honor 3 router can only be used in conjunction with an external modem. It is equipped with the Lingxiao Wi-Fi chip developed by Huawei, which aims to increase the penetration of the terminal wall in the same network environment. A 1.2 gigahertz dual-core processor runs in the router and offers a maximum transfer rate of up to 2,976 megabits per second in the 5 gigahertz frequency band. The router supports mesh networking and is suitable for connecting up to 128 devices.

Automatic Power Saving: According to the manufacturer, when a phone, tablet or computer is connected to the HONOR Honor 3 router, it will be activated automatically. As soon as no devices are connected to the router, the device will switch to energy saving mode.

The router has a design with four external antennas that can be folded completely. Rounded corners are designed to make the hull thinner and lighter. Overall, the router measures 24.2 x 15.2 x 4.1 centimeters and weighs 820 grams. This router has four Gigabit Ethernet ports and, thanks to the Wi-Fi 6 multi-user technology Send technology data simultaneously to multiple devices on different frequency bands. The router comes with a charger, a network cable (1 meter) and a handy user guide.

What is a dual core processor? A dual-core processor consists of two (duo) independent processor cores. A four-core processor is called a quad-core, a CPU with eight octa-core cores. Instead of increasing the processor clock frequency, computing power is increased through additional processor cores. Program instructions no longer have to be processed one after the other, but can be processed in parallel. How effectively additional processors are used and the extent to which performance increases depend on the respective operating system and application software. After all, modern routers with multiple functions benefit from the additional computing power of two or four cores.

Advantages
  • Mesh network support
  • Auto power saving mode
  • Futuristic design
Deficiency
  • No integrated DSL modem
best WiFi routers


10. Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 AX6000 router
  • Connectivity technology USB, Ethernet
  • Game console compatible devices, personal computers
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Wireless Type 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac
  • WPA2-PSK security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 6000 megabits per second
According to the manufacturer, the Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 AX6000 router is suitable for large houses and apartments and can cover an area of ​​​​up to 200 square meters. This is a dual band router with Wi-Fi 6 and a maximum speed of 4.8 gigabits per second. It is compatible with all existing Wi-Fi devices and new Wi-Fi 6 devices such as the Samsung S10 or iPhone 11. According to the manufacturer, it is suitable for streaming up to 12 movies or live streams simultaneously and has two USB 3.0 interfaces for sharing WiFi or creating cloud storage. Computers, game consoles, and the like can be connected via the four Ethernet ports.

Advanced technology: The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX120 AX6000 router is equipped with a 64-bit quad-core 2.2 GHz processor and has eight antennas amplified with Beamforming+, Alexa control, and MU-MIMO.

The router comes with a 30-day trial version of BitDefender cyber protection, which is designed to protect unlimited devices against viruses, malware, phishing, and ransomware attacks. With the free Nighthawk app, owners should be able to manage Internet access from connected devices and filter websites. The router supports WPA2 and WPA3 WLAN security protocols, has a firewall and a VPN server. According to the manufacturer, guest access can be set up without having to reveal data from your own network. The model measures 31 x 7 x 2.85 centimeters and weighs almost 1.36 kilograms.

What is Beamforming+? With beamforming, routers combine WLAN signals in one direction through their antennas. It can address a single device in a targeted manner and increase the range and data throughput through the concentration of this signal. If other devices on the home network, such as an access point or mobile device, also support this standard, beamforming is automatically enabled.

Advantages
  • Noble design
  • 64-bit quad-core processor
  • Alexa Control
  • Eight antennas
  • Covers an area of ​​200 square meters
Deficiency
  • Includes virus protection software limited to 30 days of use
best WiFi routers


11. Linksys MR9600 router
  • WiFi connectivity technology
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • RouterOS operating system
  • 802.11a . wireless communication standard
  • Data transfer rate 5951 megabits per second
The Linksys MR9600 Router is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router featuring Linksys Intelligent Mesh technology and the award-winning Velop Mesh WiFi node. It delivers data transfer speeds of up to 6 gigabits per second - faster than Wi-Fi 5 routers, designed to prevent dead spots and isolate networks to avoid interference. Due to its high transmission rate, this router is ideal for streaming 8K content or for gaming, according to Linksys. The router covers up to 260 square meters of space and supports more than 40 devices. According to the manufacturer, this is for all broadband and Internet providers in Germany and the modems they provide are appropriate.

Quick setup via the Linksys app: According to the manufacturer, the Linksys MR9600 router can be set up in just a few minutes via the Linksys app.

According to the manufacturer, the router uses MU-MIMO technology to ensure high signal strength and speed, which is especially noticeable when streaming in 4K as well as downloading and uploading. Linksys says the parental controls and customizable settings in the apps mentioned above can be used to limit usage time, block certain websites, prioritize devices, and set up guest networks if needed. The router also offers two USB 3.0 ports and comes with four adjustable external antennas. The manufacturer relies on WPA2 and WPA3 encryption technologies.

Advantages
  • Linksys app for parental settings and controls
  • Award-winning Velop Mesh WiFi Node (Mesh Ready)
  • High data transfer rate (up to 6 Gbit/s)
Deficiency
  • Cannot be used as a telephone system
best WiFi routers


12. TP-Link Archer C1200 AC1200 router
  • Ethernet connectivity technology
  • Smartphone compatible devices
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Microsoft Windows 98SE, NT, 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7 Operating System, Windows 8/8.1/10 MAC OS, NetWare, UNIX or Linux
  • 802.11a . Wireless Type
  • WPS security protocol
  • Data transfer rate of 867 megabits per second
The TP-Link Archer C1200 AC1200 router is a WiFi router suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications such as HD video streaming or online gaming. This is a dual-band router that operates at speeds of up to 300 megabits per second at 2.4 gigahertz and up to 867 megabits per second at 5 gigahertz (GHz). The advantages of two dedicated WLANs can be used on this.

WLAN routers are equipped with USB 2.0 ports for network sharing of printers or USB sticks and hard drives, for example. Three external antennas should ensure better WLAN coverage throughout the house. With four Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, the device can be connected directly to the TP-Link Archer C1200 AC1200 router via a LAN cable.

The Tether app can be used to control basic configuration as well as access control and media sharing. This app is available free for iOS devices and Android devices on the App Store or Google Play Store. Guest additions are also available with possible dual-band routers. It can be granted access restrictions or appropriate parental controls can be configured. The router allows VPN connections and, according to the manufacturer, is suitable for up to 20 WLAN clients.

How can I troubleshoot the router? If the website doesn't get called at all or is just slow and streaming crashes, the first way should point to the router. All models use an LED light to indicate the status of their connection to the Internet and home network. If the LEDs are flashing or one of them is off, there is an error. The problem could be with the router itself or with the Internet provider. A quick look at the default router settings provides clarity. Here you can check if there is a connection to the Internet, how fast and when it was disconnected. In the settings, the connection can be disconnected and reestablished. If the router settings web page cannot be opened, it may crash. Only a hard reset helps: Unplug the power cord from the router for 20 seconds, then plug it back in.

Advantages
  • USB port for printer or storage media
  • With app support
Deficiency
  • Maximum 20 WLAN clients
  • No DSL modem
best WiFi routers


13. ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD4 Router
  • Ethernet connectivity technology
  • Compatible devices laptop, personal computer, tablet, smart TV, smartphone
  • Control method application
  • Dual-band class frequency band
  • Windows operating system
  • 802.11ax Wireless Type
  • Voltage 240 volts
The ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD4 router is a router bundle and two expansion nodes that can be connected to form a mesh network. According to the manufacturer, routers can cover an area of ​​up to 280 square meters or four rooms in a package of two, and up to 420 square meters or five rooms in a package of three. This is a Wi-Fi 6 router with speeds of up to 1,800 megabits per second (Mbps). Zen Wi-Fi has the option to assign a different name to a different frequency band or assign a name to the entire network. According to the manufacturer, the mini router is set up in three simple steps using the ASUS router app for iOS and Android devices.

AirProtection Classic with parental controls: According to the manufacturer, buyers of the ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD4 router receive a free lifetime license for AirProtection Classic parental controls. With this you can keep an eye on all activity on the home network via the mobile app.

The router has the manufacturer's "AiMesh" technology, which allows devices to communicate with each other. It works with WPA3 and WPA2 encryption and has 256 megabytes of RAM. This model is equipped with two internal dual-band antennas and features MU-MIMO technology. It has two LAN interfaces and a handy LED display. This model comes with a voltage adapter and a warranty card. The mini router measures 9 x 9 x 8 centimeters and weighs 295 grams.

Which connection should a router have? Modern routers are no longer just connecting to the Internet, they are also the communications hub of the home network thanks to the rapid development of network-enabled devices. A good router should have three types of connections: at least two Ethernet ports for the network cable, a USB 3 port, a DECT connection for the phone and, of course, WLAN capabilities. A network cable is the fastest and most stable data path for high-speed Internet: a network hard drive, power line adapter, printer, or work computer are typical wired devices. Via USB-3, the router can even upgrade a simple USB stick or USB hard drive to real network storage. This memory can be used for all devices registered on the network. Images, videos, or documents can be centrally available to everyone in the house.

Advantages
  • Miniature router
  • Easy setup via app
Deficiency
  • Only two Ethernet interfaces
What are routers?

WiFi routers


Routers connect two networks to each other: a network in your own four walls with a public network, the Internet. For this connection to work, a modem is required. It is provided by the Internet provider as a single device or already integrated in the router. The latter are the rules for DSL and cable connections.

A modem modulates and demodulates - hence the "MoDem" - the signal between two devices via different types of transmission. It's basically a kind of language translator. Only then can devices on the home network, such as Smart TVs or web browsers, communicate with the Internet provider. And that's also the reason why different networks need a special router or modem, because each network speaks its own language:

DSL: Digital Subscriber Line DSL transmits signals over the good old copper wires of the analog telephone network. In addition to telephone signals, DSL modems can also transmit additional high-speed data signals over cable. With the help of special processes such as super vectoring even up to 300 megabits per second, which is about 37 megabytes of data per second.

Fiber optic: If there is a fiber optic cable in the house, then a fiber optic modem is required to connect the router. Data is not transported electrically over a fiber-optic connection, as in DSL, but optically over a fiber-optic line. The modem must therefore convert the electrical signal from the home network into a light signal - and vice versa.

Cable: If the Internet comes via a cable connection, for example via Deutschland Cable or Deutsche Telekom Magenta, a cable modem/router is required. Therefore, many router models are offered as cable or DSL variants.

Radio modem: If an Internet signal enters the home wirelessly - for example via UMTS or LTE - a dedicated radio modem takes care of data translation. Electrical signals from the network are translated into radio waves. A radio modem is built into every smartphone. It provides a future-proof way to dial into the Internet.

Router manages data traffic: Router is the communication center of the home network. They form the basis of LANs and Wi-Fi in homes. The better the equipment and the more powerful the hardware, the more enjoyable the devices that depend on a good data signal, such as smart TVs, smart home devices, game consoles, or WiFi tablets are. If you save on the router, you must be saving in the wrong place.

A good router should have many interfaces and user interfaces that are easy to use. Four slots for a LAN cable sound like a lot, but they fill up quickly: one for a home office computer, one for a network hard drive, one for a powerline adapter and one for a router for smart lighting or other smart home devices. Some router models can use USB to make a connected printer, USB hard drive, or memory stick compatible with the network. A plus in convenience, especially for a family or shared apartment. For example, music, videos, pictures, and data can be stored centrally in network storage and accessed with the right apps from a smartphone, smart TV, or network-enabled music system.

For optimal WiFi performance, the router should have a so-called MiMo 4x4, which can be easily recognized by the four small antennas on the router with external antennas. For routers with built-in radio masts, see the help datasheet. MiMo stands for "Multiple Input/Multiple Output", a method by which data can be transmitted in parallel through multiple antennas to a receiver. If the router masters the MU-MiMo, it can even do so with multiple devices in the WLAN at the same time. This technology significantly increases the speed in WLAN.

How to protect router from hackers

Some providers don't provide routers, just simple modems for disposal. In this case, a router without an integrated modem can be connected to set up a fast and stable WLAN or LAN network. This is important for security reasons, because the modem does not have a defense function against hacker attacks from the Internet.

Most routers, on the other hand, protect the home network from unauthorized external access with a hardware firewall. The hardware firewall of the popular AVM FRITZ!Box, for example, only allows connections to the Internet that devices have requested from your own home network. All unwanted incoming requests from outside are automatically blocked. To achieve this, the firewall constantly monitors data traffic in both directions. According to the specified rules, it allows data packets to pass or block data packets.

Thus, a router with a hardware firewall protects all devices connected to it from cyber attacks, from PCs to printers to smartphones. In some routers, the firewall is so integrated that it cannot be turned off, but can only be bypassed selectively. This may be necessary in certain cases when setting up a VPN connection. However, as a general rule, the firewall should not be turned off.

However, the firewall on the router does not replace the software firewall in the latest operating systems or virus scanners. The biggest security risk lies in front of the screen. Anyone who carelessly opens an email attachment from an unknown sender or clicks on a web link in a spam email can introduce malware into the system that can bypass the firewall from within.

Routers and WLAN signals can also be targets for hackers. The router settings page should therefore be secured with a good password consisting of upper and lower case letters combined with numbers and special characters. The same goes for WLAN encryption. Home wireless networks should be protected at least according to the WPA2 standard, preferably with the new WPA3. The acronym stands for WiFi-Protected Access, a method for encrypting data transmitted over the radio. The biggest downside to this excellent encryption is the password.

Advantages and disadvantages of routers

routers


How to find the right WiFi router

Anyone who signs a contract with an Internet provider is usually provided with a router. These are mostly simple models with a very limited range of functions. Better devices are only available for monthly rentals. Until a few years ago, customers had to live with the hardware that providers offered them. Since 2016, they can choose their own router, and what's more: network operators are obliged to support their customers in setting up the router.

However, the free choice also involves more effort: What's the best router? The first step in the search for a product leads to the provider, more precisely to the Internet connection that he provides. Does the signal come into the house via DSL, cable, fiber optic or radio? Each connection requires its own router/modem type. In the second step, you should ask the provider which transmission method they support: VDSL with supervectoring or DOCIS 3.1 for wired connections? It's pointless if the router is capable of using this fast technology, but the remote stations at the provider are not. With a fiber optic connection, it is important to know how the signal is getting into the house. Directly as an optical signal via FTTH (Fibre to the Home) or for the last few meters via G.fast/VDSL? Only when these things are settled

Single Band Router: Cheap but slow

WiFi routers use radio frequencies to communicate with devices accessing the WiFi network. Single band routers are limited to the 2.4 gigahertz frequency band. It penetrates well through walls and floors and is compatible with almost all WiFi devices. Unlike dual band routers however, they do not support the 5 gigahertz frequency band.

The main advantage of single-band routers is the low cost of acquisition. While dual or tri-band routers can often only be purchased from 100 euros and above, single-band routers are readily available for less than half the price. However, single-band routers struggle with performance issues under certain conditions. In homes with multiple apartments and WLAN networks, the 2.4 gigahertz frequency band is often overloaded because many overlapping home networks share this frequency. The result is a severe drop in performance, especially at night when people are coming home from work and streaming video content, for example.

routers


Dual Band Router: Preferred Option

While single-band routers are limited to the 2.4 gigahertz frequency band, dual-band routers also use the 5 gigahertz frequency band for data transmission. If end devices support this technology, they can choose to connect to the least busy radio channel. This happens automatically and is called band steering. Performance improvements are not only evident in a multi-party home with overlapping home networks, but also in your own WLAN if multiple devices in the household access the router. Each 5 gigahertz connection ends up reducing the 2.4 gigahertz band and thereby creating higher data throughput.

However, WLAN signals have a lower range at 5 GHz and penetrate walls, floors, and furniture less well. With an access point or power line adapter, a 5 gigahertz signal can also be carried to the furthest corners of homes and apartments.

routers


Tri-band routers: networking solutions for the future

The tri-band router adds another 5 gigahertz frequency band to the 2.4 gigahertz and 5 gigahertz frequency bands. The router communicates with devices on the network over three independent radio networks simultaneously. The additional band doubles the width of the data superhighway on a 5 gigahertz line in one fell swoop. Some routers also use a second 5 gigahertz band to communicate with their access points and repeaters in a mesh network. This "administrative data traffic" for the smooth operation of the WLAN is insignificant and consumes bandwidth. Outsourced to a separate radio channel, the actual data path is freed and the WLAN is faster.

Tri-band routers are significantly more expensive than other routers, but they are worth buying in certain circumstances. For example, anyone who has many family members at home or living in a shared flat and a suitable number of devices are active on the WLAN at the same time and must also cover a large area with access points (APs) or repeaters, will greatly benefit from tri- band MU-MiMo -Router. But here, too, the devil is in the details: things only run smoothly if the APs and repeaters support the technology and some end devices can also transmit at 5 gigahertz.

routers


What types of routers are there?

There are different types of routers. The following is an overview of the basic router variants:
  1. LAN Routers: They are one of the simplest versions of routers. Because they do not have wireless technology, LAN routers are very cheap. Terminal devices are connected via what is called an Ethernet cable, which is why LAN routers are also referred to as Ethernet routers. LAN routers are often equipped with an equipped modem, allowing the router to connect to a broadband connection. Many models are equipped with a firewall to protect against hacker attacks. A pure LAN router is only a good choice under certain conditions. However, the end device must be within range of the router's cable. Even though the maximum length of an Ethernet cable is 100 meters, who wants to cable through the house these days?
  2. WLAN routers: These routers bring end devices to the Internet wirelessly, but all models also provide an Ethernet connection. Smartphones, Amazon FireTV sticks, or multi-room speakers on a home network, for example, only have access to the Internet with a WLAN router. In everyday language, router is now a synonym for WLAN router.
  3. DSL router: If the Internet is coming into the home over a DSL line, a DSL router is required. Most DSL routers today have an integrated DSL modem and can be plugged directly into a DSL telephone wall jack. Routers of this type are available in all possible stages of expansion, from cheap models for $20 to full models for $350.
  4. LTE router: In areas where DSL is very slow and neither fiber optic nor cable is available, an LTE router is often the only way to the Internet. These devices access 4G LTE networks from various providers, as we know from mobile communications. If there are radio towers nearby, data connections can reach up to 100 megabits per second. An LTE router is basically a radio modem that can be connected to other devices on the home network.
  5. Fiber optic router: Fiber optic network is the fastest transmission technology on the market. Fiber optic routers offer speeds of up to one gigabits per second. They are the fastest routers ever. However, router selection is still limited, as fiber optic networks are not yet available everywhere.
  6. Cable modem router: A cable modem router can be used if you have broadband Internet access through a cable TV connection. Consumers need a router plus an additional modem or a router that already has an internal modem. Routers with integrated modems require less power and fewer cables. However, currently there are only a few models on the market.
Important features of a router

When purchasing a WLAN router, product variations range from inexpensive single-band routers to modern dual-band routers with high speeds and additional features. In addition to the intended use, it is worth looking at the various technical properties of the router.

WiFi Speed

The router must at least support the IEE 802.11 ac radio standard. The 802.11 standard, first introduced in 1997, regulates data traffic in wireless computer networks and in the meantime has been fundamentally revised and expanded several times. In Germany, this network technology is called WLAN, while the term Wi-Fi is used in English-speaking countries. The 802.11 numeric sequence indicates the radio standard, the letter combination behind the version. However, starting 2018, a combination of numbers and letters is used with the abbreviation “WiFi” plus a number. WiFi4 complies with 802.11n, Wifi-5 is 802.11ac, the successor to current 802.11ax is called WiFi-6. The more up-to-date the standard, the higher the possible data transmission rates in the WLAN.

Limited router impact: Even the best routers are useless if the data connection to the Internet is slow. If multiple devices are calling data at the same time on a 16-megabit DSL line, even if it's just a website, it's going to take a long time to load the page, not to mention reasonable video streaming. At 16 megabits per second slightly less than 2 megabytes of data per second comes through the channel. It is enough to call a larger website with many times bigger images, text and ads.

Unfortunately, things are more complicated in practice with the built-in Wi-Fi information superhighway speed. The data transmission speed specified by the manufacturer is a purely theoretical value, the actual data rate is always much lower. On the one hand, this is due to the management of data that end devices have to exchange with routers to control data traffic. This communication occupies bandwidth and time, at the expense of the actual data transmission. On the other hand, the tempo is affected by the end device itself. The fastest WiFi6 router can't show its advantages when communicating with WiFi4 devices. Radio standards are backward compatible, but older standards always dictate speed.

In addition to data transmission speed measured in megabits per second (Mbit/s), the number of simultaneous connections from routers and end devices is also important for speed in a network. This capability is referred to as MiMo - Multiple Input/Multiple Output. The router can transmit different data streams to devices simultaneously through its antenna, which greatly improves the data flow efficiency. Values ​​such as 2×2, 3×3 or 4×4 often precede the MiMo designation. The value indicates the number of antennas the router can use to transmit in parallel. The speed increase is substantial: With 2×2, data throughput is arithmetically 867 Mbit/s, with 3×3 it is 1300 Mbit/s and with 4×4 it is 1700 Mbit/s. The latest development is Multiuser-MiMo (MU-MiMo), where a router can manage a MiMo connection to multiple devices simultaneously. Simply counting the antennas on the router and thus estimating its performance is not enough. Providers, such as AVM, integrate the antenna in the housing and still always achieve the top spot among the best routers.

What is meant by megabits per second? The speed of data transmission determines, for example, how fast a website can be loaded or the quality of video that can be streamed. The basis of all digital data is a bit, a binary digit, which has a value of 0 or 1. It is the smallest unit of digital information. 8 bits make up 1 byte, which can represent 256 different pieces of information. The size of data such as images, text, but also programs are given in bytes. In data transmission, on the other hand, the only determining factor is how many bits per second can be transported over the channel. Whether this information ends up being data or control signals or whether they function as control bits is irrelevant. As millions of bits quickly converge, they are rounded up or down in practice and their numerical values ​​are added up by kilo for 1000, mega for 1000 x 1 kilo or giga for 1000 x 1 mega. 2 megabits per second (Mbit/s) means 2.09 million bits flow through the channel every second.

Mesh and smart home functionality in modern routers

One of the criteria when choosing a router is its ability as a communication center that goes beyond data distribution. Some models can set up a mesh network in hundreds of square meters of living space, manage a variety of phones including answering machines and even manage smart home devices such as sockets, radiator thermostats and light switches.

WLAN signal strength is quickly slowed down by reinforced concrete walls, heating pipes, door frames and water pipes. After 10 to 15 meters the signal spreads. Although the range can be extended with so-called repeaters, the signal quality cannot be improved. This means that the repeater connects remote WLAN devices to the network, but the transmission speed remains low. This is where mesh technology comes in.

The mesh system consists of a master mesh and at least one access point installed in the housing. All mesh access points know each other and "talk" to each other. They form a network under the same network ID. As a result, the mesh master knows on which frequencies its satellites exchange data with which devices in the house, even if they are not directly connected to them.

With this knowledge, he optimizes all WLAN communications. It automatically makes the best frequency available, can supply multiple devices with data at the same time and, depending on the load, automatically switches to the least used radio channel so that your own network doesn't block WLANs in the neighborhood. . Manufacturers often advertise this capability using technical terms such as cross-band repeat, band steering, tri-band, and multi-user MiMo.

Some router models such as the FRITZ!Box from AVM or from TP-Link and Netgear come with the Mesh Master functionality and can often be purchased in bundles with the appropriate access point. Practically out-of-the-box, even a large living room can be covered with an excellent WiFi signal.

Smart Home has been everyone's talk for years. Provided you have the right devices, sockets, lights or heaters can be controlled remotely via the Internet. In an emergency, the smoke detector not only sounds itself, but also automatically sends an email or SMS alarm. The devices are managed by a smart home center that is connected to the router via an Ethernet cable. Some router manufacturers also offer smart home devices and have integrated the controls into their router software. Pros: Save on other devices that consume electricity, occupy slots, require storage space and require additional applications.

Router security features play an important role at the time of hacker attacks. Regarding routers, it is very important when using the device as a media server and sharing data on the network.

routers


No WPE and WPA! When using their WLAN router, users should ensure that it does not use the WPE or WPA encryption standards it uses, but relies on WPA2 or WPA3. Unlike WPA and WEP, the latter two standards cannot be violated by hackers. The weak point even of the latest standards is passwords. A secure password must be at least 8 characters long and contain numbers and special characters.

Software and Applications

A router is basically a computer specialized in network technology. Several manufacturers have developed their own software for installing routers, which is very easy to use and understand even for a layman. Most of the time it is a step by step guide which is displayed on the smartphone screen using the app. Because modern routers can now be controlled easily via smartphones. Several manufacturers and brands have provided free apps to match. This application facilitates access to the router.

How can I troubleshoot network problems?

If your home network crashes, websites load slowly and videos appear like blocks of color, there could be a variety of reasons. In many cases, sometimes a simple solution can solve the problem.
  1. View Router: Each router uses an LED light to indicate its status. Two lights are actually always on: DSL/modem for connection to the Internet and WLAN/LAN for connection to a home network. If the LED doesn't light up or flashes, there's a major connection problem. Since routers are also just computers, they can crash too. The reset starts the new router and modem. Data access will not be lost! The connection is then reestablished.
  2. Check repeaters or access points: If the home network has been extended with repeaters or APs, this too can fail. The end device can then connect directly to the router again. If it is far away, the signal will be weak and the data rate will be slow. Solution: Disconnect the repeater or AP briefly from the power supply, then let it restart automatically.
  3. View router settings: Each router offers users many settings and analysis options. Some providers provide applications for this, but each router can always be managed via its web address, which is in the manual. On the router's website there is usually a point for troubleshooting and error correction. The page also shows how the router connects to the Internet and how the router communicates with each individual device on the home network. Devices are registered by name and are therefore easy to identify. Faults can often be isolated this way. Good preparation for the conversation with the support of the provider or network operator.
  4. PowerLine: If the data signal is distributed at home through the powerline, that is, the main power supply, this can also be the reason for unstable data transmission. VDSL and the power grid work in the same frequency range: power line adapters between 2 and 68 MHz, VDSL signals up to 17 or 30 MHz, depending on the profile used by the provider. So if the power and telephone lines are close together, interference may occur. A solution should take a call to support from the powerline provider.
  5. Check both sides of the power line: A power line system always consists of an entry point, which is the adapter that carries the data signal from the router to the socket, and an exit point, which is the access point that makes the signal available to end devices elsewhere in the house. If the access point fails, the cause can also lie in the entry point. Solution: Unplug the adapter, wait 20 seconds, and plug it back in. After a few seconds the connection is reestablished.
  6. Contact the provider: If you can rule out that the problem is on your end, you should contact the Internet provider. Network failures at providers are not uncommon.
Overview of famous manufacturers and brands

Since many customers are not very familiar with the technical aspects of routers, they want to use products from well-known manufacturers or well-known brands. At this point we present four well-known router providers in Germany:
  • Asus: ASUSTeK Computer Inc., Asus for short, is a Taiwanese computer hardware manufacturer based in Taipei. The company offers, among others, desktops, laptops, mobile phones, projectors, graphics cards, optical storage media, and routers. According to Asus, it is one of the five largest computer manufacturers in the world and employs more than 5,500 people.
  • AVM: AVM Computersysteme Vertriebs GmbH, abbreviated as AVM, is a German manufacturer of products in the field of telecommunications and network technology. The acronym stands for "Audiovisual Marketing". The company was founded in 1986 and is based in the capital city of Berlin. According to AVM, it has nearly 800 employees and is famous for its FRITZ!Box.
  • TP-Link: TP-Link Technologies Co. is a Chinese manufacturer of networking products, smart home devices and telephones for personal use and small to medium-sized businesses. The company is based in Shenzhen and was founded in 1996. By its own account, TP-Link employs more than 25,000 people.
  • Netgear: Netgear is an American company based in Silicon Valley in San Jose, California. It builds and sells devices for data networks. It was founded in 1996 as a subsidiary of the former manufacturer "Bay Network" and employs more than 1,000 people.
In addition to these providers and the companies represented with their products in our comparison, there are many other providers, such as Telekom, that offer Speedport routers, for example.

Frequently asked questions about routers

routers


In the following paragraphs, we provide concise and competent answers to frequently asked questions about routers.

Which router is the best?

It is difficult to give a thorough answer to this question because it depends on the customer's needs for the router. While someone in a densely populated area needs a router that supports the 5 gigahertz frequency band, other users can be content with a single band router. For this reason, it is important for potential buyers to be clear about their router requirements before purchasing a router. You can then view our product descriptions and crown your personal test winner.

Where can I buy a router?

Interested parties can purchase the router either at a local electronics store or on the Internet from an online retailer. Internet providers often ship routers that comply with the conclusion of the Internet contract. Otherwise, buying online is the preferred way of buying by many. There are more choices of products online. They can be compared at a glance. In addition, there is access to many customer reviews. Buying on the site only offers the advantage of advice from trained specialists. However, it can only replace informative guides and comparisons.

How much do routers cost?

LAN routers are usually the cheapest routers. However, only devices that have an Ethernet or LAN interface can be connected to this device. This includes devices such as computers and printers, but does not include cell phones. Connection options for game consoles are not always available with this simple router.

WLAN routers are slightly more expensive, but offer more advantages such as wireless connections. Dual-band routers, which have a stronger WiFi signal and transmit on two frequency ranges simultaneously, are even more expensive. Routers with extremely fast data transmissions, multiple connection options and an integrated telephone system are the most expensive models.

What do I need a router for?

The router next to the modem is required to connect to the Internet. The router receives the data entered by the Internet provider and decoded by the modem to forward this as an Internet signal to other devices on the network - via a WLAN or LAN cable.

What is the difference between a router and a modem?

Simply put, the modem is connected to the Internet. It is attached to a telephone line and can receive signals and forward them to the telephone network. Routers, on the other hand, pass signals from the end devices to the modem and forward the received signals to the respective end devices. It forms a kind of "center" with all connected devices.

Conclusion

In this article, we have introduced how to choose the best WiFi router. Of the thirteen products we recommend, is there a router that caught your eye?

Finding the right best WiFi router is not easy. In addition, the better the performance offered, the higher the price. So, choose a router by considering the needs and conditions of your residence to get the right product.

Post a Comment for "13 Best WiFi Routers, Fastest And Stable"