How Much Should I Spend on a Router?

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There are plenty of different types of routers available nowadays on the market. Each one of them offers different features and benefits. Choosing the right one can be easy or complicated keep reading to find out our advice on how to make it a worthy investment.

How much should I be spending on a router?

You must determine how many devices you would be connecting to the router and whether the router can bear their load and function properly.

If you live in a small house or an apartment and need only to connect 2-3 devices, that includes a PC, mobile phone, or a smart device with regular usage, a good-quality standard dual-band router with 2.4 GHz can be adequate for around $100-150.

However, if you live in a big house, invest in a good-quality mesh router that usually costs around $200-$350. These mesh routers will work with multiple access points that you can place around each corner of your house. With mesh systems, a main node is connected to your main internet device or connection. Next, it has access points that work like satellites and can provide a stable connection to each corner of your big house.

Lastly, bands also matter. Both Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 have dual or tri-band capabilities. The dual-band will work at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. You should opt for dual-band if you aim for a router that can provide a greater range. Tri-bands, which have a 2.4 GHz frequency, can also go at a higher or lower range between 5 GHz. You should use them if you want to give preference to higher speed and performance.

Conclusion

How much you should spend on a router will depend on your needs. Consider various brands to see which can best fulfill your needs.

Kevin is the Editor of PC Guide. He has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs and all things consumer tech - and more than 15 years experience in tech journalism.