Best Router Under $100

1- Tp-Link Archer AX21 – Best WIFI 6 Router for Less Than $100

Highlights

• Dual-band WiFi 6 (802.11AX)
• WIFI speed of up to 1.8gbps
• OFDMA and beamforming technologies
• 4 separate external antennas
• Quad-core 1.5GHz CPU
• 40+ devices operating concurrently
• 5 Ethernet Gigabit Ports

Overview

The Archer AX21, a popular yet economical WIFI 6 router from TP-Link, has destroyed its competitors by offering top-notch features and innovative technology for less than $100. However, there is no doubt that TP-Link has altered its protocol by delivering a distinct yet long-lasting design in comparison to its earlier ‘AC’ wireless standard series.

With exceptional WIFI rates of up to 1.8Gbps, the Archer AX21 easily handles 4K material, whether streaming or gaming. Furthermore, it can connect up to 40+ devices at once while maintaining high performance. It is due to its strong CPU, which runs at 1.5GHz. As a result, it supports multiple device wireless connections as well as physical connections through LAN cables via four Gigabit Ethernet ports.

It also includes four exterior antennas and use beamforming technology to improve the network and allow for smooth communication between the router and connected devices. It also has MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies, which allow four times more devices to connect without sacrificing speed.

However, with so many wonderful features, such as its slow USB 2.0 port, there is potential for development.

Pros and Cons:

• What I enjoy:
• Exceptional performance at 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• It can support internet plans of up to 1Gbps.
• WPA-3 encryption
• Coverage and range
• 802.11AX is the next-generation wireless standard.
• Simple to set up

What I don’t have:

There is no USB 3.0 port.

Verdict

The TP-Link Archer AX21 is one of the best routers available for less than $100. It has various high-end features and technologies, including Tp-Link OneMesh, OFDMA, and MU-MIMO. This router is suitable for small to medium-sized homes or flats.

2- Tp-Link Archer A9: The Ideal Home Router

I was quite interested in reviewing the Archer A9. It was the first item on my list. There are some important distinctions between A9 and the other routers. It is true, however, that the Archer A9 is more expensive than others. Don’t be concerned! It is less than $100. I recall it costing more than $100 last year. That is why Archer A9 was left off the list.

Overview

The Tp-Link Archer A9 router has two bands. Its beamforming technology enhances the router’s intelligence. It is powered by a 1GHz dual-core processor. It features three exterior antennas for great range and excellent coverage. It also features one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port for media file sharing. It has four Gigabit Ethernet connections and one fast WAN port.

Pros and Cons:

• Its strong WiFI can reach speeds of up to 1900Mbps when using both bands (600Mbps 2.4GHz + 1300Mbps 5GHz).
• We may connect numerous devices at the same time thanks to the simultaneous dual-band 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz.
• Beamforming technology provides a more powerful and dependable Wi-Fi connection.
• The Tp-Link Tether app is used to configure the router and control WiFi.
• Because it is AC1900, it improves the quality of 4K streaming and HD gaming.

What I don’t have:

Its status indicators are a little too bright. It’s really bothersome at night.
It cannot be mounted.

Verdict

The Tp-Link A9 is worth $100 because it is the only router that can reach speeds of up to 1900Mbps. It is a full-featured home Wi-Fi router. I bought this router for $119 a few years ago and used it for a long period. I used to stream 4K and play HD games with no problems, such as connection loss or stability.

3- AC2100 K7 Speedefy – Best For Long-Range

Highlights

• Wireless data rates of up to 2100 Mbps are possible.
• MU-MIMO with Beamforming
• 7 additional antennas (6dBi)
• Dual-Band (2.4 GHz 300 Mbps, 5 Hz 1733 Mbps)
• 25+ concurrent devices
• Intelligent control

Overview

The Speedefy K7 is the only router on the market that includes seven 6dbi external antennas for less than $100. The router has a maximum shared WIFI speed of up to 2033Mbps; the 2.4GHz band has a maximum speed of 300Mbps and the 5GHz band has a theoretical maximum speed of 1733mbps.

In addition to speed, it supports widely available smart devices by utilizing the popular wireless standard 802.11ac. Despite the fact that it merges two distinct bands into one for more consistent WiFi, you only see one visible signal.

The K7 has a dual-core processor that can handle numerous tasks at once, such as web browsing, video streaming, gaming, and so on. It also has 44 MU-MIMO and beamforming technologies for 4K content and heavy-duty jobs on several connected devices at the same time.

Pros and Cons:

• Wi-Fi rates that are fast (up to 2033Mbps)
• Excellent coverage and range (2500 sq. ft.)
• 7 omnidirectional high-gain antennas with a gain of 6dBi
• It is simple to set up and manage using both the web and the app.
• What I don’t have:
• There is no USB port.

Verdict

The Speedefy K7 is an excellent router for home and gaming, and it can even play 4K material. I also enjoy that it has three operational modes, including AP mode, repeater mode, and, of course, wireless router mode.

The router does have one flaw, and that is its USB port. If you don’t care about or require a USB port, the K7 is the router for you.

4- Netgear Nighthawk R6700 – Home & Gaming Router

The Netgear R6700 is ranked top on this list. It has more features and provides greater performance than the Motorola MR1700. However, when it comes to range and coverage, the MR1700 comes out on top.

Overview

The Netgear R6700 is a smart WiFi router with two bands. It is capable of reaching maximum speeds of 1750. (450Mbps using 2.4Ghz band and 1300Mbps using 5Ghz bands). The dual-core processor has adequate power to improve wired and wireless performance. It allows you to prioritize devices for better video streaming and gaming in high definition.

Pros and Cons:

• It has sophisticated QoS to improve the streaming and gaming experience.
• Beamforming technology extends and improves Wi-Fi range and speeds.
• It also has an Airtime Fairness feature that prevents network lag when connecting any slower device to it.
• It has the quickest USB 3.0 port for viewing media or connecting an external storage device.
• The smart parental controls function allows you to limit your family members’ daily online time.
• Excellent free backup software for your media files that serve as a safeguard.
• What I don’t have:
• It is not compatible with MU-MIMO technology.

Verdict:

The Netgear R6700 router is quick, dependable, and loaded with features. It is a better option than the Motorola MR1700 because it contains USB connections and beamforming technology, which the MR1700 lacks. However, it is $10 more expensive than the MR1700. In other words, it is the greatest router for less than $100.

5- Google WiFi – The Best Router for the Future

Highlights

• 802.11ac wireless
• WiFi coverage extends up to 1500 sq. ft.
• The frequency with two bands
• WiFi data rates of up to 1200Mbps
• The Google Home App

Overview

Google WiFi is a whole-home WiFi mesh network. First and foremost, it is a single unit that provides maximum WiFi rates of up to 1200Mbps and coverage of up to 1500 sq. Depending on the size of your home, you can connect two extra units, each with 1500 square feet of coverage.

The manufacturer has chosen a very simple design and setup; it is clean and tiny enough to fit into the tiniest space in your home. However, gamers may be disappointed because it only has one ethernet connector, albeit you may attach a switch via the other ethernet port.

Pros and Cons:

• It is quite simple to set up.
• WiFi connection speeds are consistent.
• Compact and compact enough to fit anywhere
• quick and simple to use
• Finds the quickest band automatically
• What I don’t have:
• Some constraints, such as WPA3 support

Verdict

You may easily expand your network with the Google mesh WiFi technology by adding two more units. Your internet connection will be more dependable and speedy in every area of your space because each unit covers up to 1500 square feet. Furthermore, its compact and lightweight form provides further value to the product.

So Google WiFi is a perfect option for individuals who want everything to be straightforward and easy without having to worry about the intricacies of their network. However, because Google WiFi lacks several wired connections and a USB connector, I will never suggest it.

6- Motorola MR1700 – Best Purchase

The Motorola MR1700 is ranked third since it does not enable MU-MIMO or Beamforming. It costs approximately $80. Motorola’s MR1700 router is a new product. It’s good and has an extended range function built in.

Overview

The Motorola MR1700 is a Gigabit router with two bands. It can operate on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands at the same time, with maximum rates of up to 1700Mbps (867Mbps using 2.4Ghz band, 867Mbps using the 5Ghz band). It features six external antennas that may be adjusted, four of which are devoted to the 2.4GHz band. Wireless AC provides excellent performance and flexibility.

Pros and Cons:

• Wi-Fi range and throughput are both exceptional.
• It can function as a bridge mode.
• Setup is simple, and installation may be completed in minutes.
• There were no complications when using numerous devices at the same time.
• The customer service is good and pleasant. You can reach out to us via email, phone, or web.
• The warranty period of two years.
• A router that is reasonably priced and costs less than $80.
• What I don’t have:
• Beamforming and MU-MIMO technologies are not supported.
• There are no USB ports.

Verdict

In terms of range, the MR1700 is a good router. Rather, it does not enable beamforming; however, it provides outstanding range and speeds over Wi-Fi using the 2.4GHz frequency band. You can easily connect and use many devices at the same time.

At this pricing point, I recommend the Motorola MR1700! Because you get tremendous range and performance together with certain complex features that you might only find in high-end routers.

7- NETGEAR R6230 – Simple and Low-Cost

The R6230 AC1200 outperforms the ASUS RT-ACRH13. You might be wondering why the R6230 is ranked fourth since it does not support MU-MIMO or beamforming. The only justification is the price. It has a lot of features for the price of $60.

Overview

The Netgear R6230 AC1200 is a Gigabit router with dual bands. It is quite fast and dependable, with combined rates of up to 1200Mbps (300Mbps using 2.4GHz band and 900Mbps using 5GHz band). It includes two external antennas for increased coverage and range.

Pros and Cons:

• Beamforming+ technology is a huge bonus because it offers reliable communication.
• The Nighthawk app allows you to configure the router as well as manage and monitor connected devices.
• Dynamic QoS allows you to prioritize bandwidth, which is useful when playing games or streaming HD media.
• Simultaneous dual-band allows you to connect numerous devices without interfering with each other.
• What I don’t have:
• There is no USB 3.0 port.

Verdict

The Netgear R6230 is faster than other AC1200 routers despite being AC1200. I tested this router on my own and discovered that its speed, WiFi range, and reliability are superior to AC1700 or even AC1750 routers. It does not, however, support MU-MIMO. Nonetheless, performance and stability exceed expectations. I had no problems while streaming videos or playing games. You don’t have to spend more because the router is under $60.

However, if you are a TP-Link fan and your demand is still AC1200, you should consider the TP-LINK Archer 1200. In terms of performance and functionality, the Archer 1200 is a strong competitor to the Netgear R6230.

When compared to the Netgear R6230, there are a few differences. For example, the R6230 has two external antennae, but the Archer 1200 has three external antennas. R6230, on the other hand, makes use of beamforming+ technology. Tp-Link Archer 1200, on the other hand, lacks all of them.

However, Archer 1200 cannot give such advanced technologies for less than $40. Yes, you read that correctly: it is inexpensive but extremely powerful. So, if you want to buy a router for less than $50, the Archer 1200 is ideal.

8- ASUS RT-ACRH13 – Powerful Yet Economical

The Asus RT-ARCH13 takes the fifth spot on my list. In contrast to the Medialink AC1200, it supports MU-MIMO technology. It does not, however, support beamforming. It is less expensive than the Medialink AC1200, costing less than $60. Because its app is well-designed and user-friendly, you may have good control over devices.

Overview

The Asus ARC13 is a dual-band gigabit router with combined speeds of up to 1300Mbps (867Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 400mbps on the 5GHz band). It has four Gigabit Ethernet connections as well as one fast WAN port. On the front of the router, there is also one 3.0 USB port.

Pros and Cons:

• It includes MU-MIMO technology to link many devices.
• It includes four exterior 5dBi antennas to improve coverage and WiFi range.
• It is configured through a web-based interface.
• The Asus Router app is quite handy and allows us to easily monitor and manage our network.
• It is covered by a two-year warranty.
• What I don’t have:
• It does not include beamforming.
• The LED lights are very bright.

Verdict

I believe the ASUS AC1300 is the greatest router for the money. At this pricing point, I don’t believe any other router can provide as many features. Without a doubt! It is superior to Medialink. It lacks Asus AiRadar “beamforming,” but its range and performance are excellent. It can also operate in two modes: wireless router mode and access point mode.

9- Medialink AC1200 – Elegant And Stylish

The Medialink AC1200 is deserving of sixth place on the list. It is Medialink’s best-selling router. Even so, you won’t have to pay extra for this router because it can be purchased for less than $70; at this price, it significantly outperforms the Motorola MR1700.

Overview

The Medialink MLWR-AC1200R is a dual-band Gigabit router. It has combined wifi rates of up to 1200Mbps (300Mbps 2.4Ghz + 867Mbps 5Ghz). It does not require any technical knowledge to set up. It comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports for lag-free gaming and 4K video streaming.

Pros and Cons:

• Using two external antennas, beamforming technology directs the wireless signal.
• Using the universal range extender mode, we may extend the range.
• We have complete control over the router. We can also switch off the status lights.
• The built-in firewall protects us and prevents us from visiting harmful websites.
• Going through well-written and user-friendly instructions makes setup relatively simple and straightforward.
• Customer service is based in the United States.
• What I don’t have:
• It lacks a fast 3.0 USB port.

Verdict

The MLWR-AC1200R is one of Amazon’s top newly introduced routers. However, its maximum speed of 1200Mbps may be a difficulty for some users, but keep in mind that it is a low-cost router. It works with all of the main ISPs (Xfinity, TWC, Fios & more). You can also use it as a wireless access point or range extender. Even when I connect 20 devices at once, I have no network problems.

10- D-Link DIR-867 – Durable and Affordable

The only router that supports MU-MIMO and Beamforming technology is the D-Link DIR-867. I would I could put this router in seventh place, but it was not feasible owing to some lacking functions. However, for less than $70, it includes some excellent features.

Overview

The D-Link DIR-867 router has two bands. It is a router with several features and four external high-performance antennas that ensure a quick and dependable connection. It is powered by a dual-core processor that delivers outstanding wired speeds. Furthermore, its combined WIFI speeds (450Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1300Mbps on 5GHz) reach up to 1750Mbps.

Pros and Cons:

• What I enjoy:
• MU-MIMO technology enables numerous connections to be established at the same time.
• QoS can be used to optimize traffic for seamless performance.
• Beamforming for better coverage and faster connectivity to our devices.
• It uses 33 data streams to share WiFI with all devices. It shortens wait times.
• With high performance, you may enjoy 4K video streaming and online gaming without any problems.
• What I don’t have:
• There are no USB ports.

Verdict

The D-Link DIR-867 router is quite powerful. It has all of the characteristics that we require in our daily lives. I’m not sure how D-LINK manages to give such advanced capabilities and technology at this price point. However, it lacks USB ports, which is a disadvantage of this router. USB ports come particularly handy for transferring data and using a wireless printer.

Still, if you need a USB port and your budget permits you to spend more than $100, choose its AC2600 DIR-882 Model. This device includes one USB 2.0 and one USB 3.0 port ( on the front side).

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Michael Caine