Are you looking for the best router under $100 for your gaming and video streaming needs? With the increase in demands and work from home works, the surge for routers has increased, and many people, including us, are looking for the best options.
And if you’re one of us, then I can understand your needs and the type of router you’re looking for. Therefore, after reviewing many routers under $100, I’ve come up with some routers which can handle everything you throw at them, from your day-to-day office work to playing high-end games.
Now you need not to look here and there for a better option, and let’s get started with the best router under $100…
Table of Contents
Best Router Under $100 for Gamers
Finding the best router under $100 for yourself is difficult. There is a huge variety of options available in the market, making it difficult for one to make a decision. However, our job is to simplify the process for you, so we have compiled a list of the best gaming routers under $100.
But how are we analyzing them?
We compared them based on various factors, such as speed, range, performance, and user reviews across the web, and we selected the following routers as excellent choices.
Without further ado, let’s look at the following list;
1. TP-Link Dual-Band Archer A7 Smart WiFi Router with (AC1750) Wireless WiFi Speed up to 1750 Mbps, VPN Server, Parental Control, QoS, and 5 Number of Ports
The TP-Link Archer A7 is one of the most incredible Wi-Fi routers that come under $100 with loads of benefits. A router like this is well known for its top-notch performance that can deliver pretty fast speeds at relatively low prices.
The router is a Dual Band, meaning it can operate on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. When operating at 5GHz, the router can reach speeds of up to 1750Mbps, while using 2.4GHz, it can achieve speeds of up to 450Mbps. This router also features three high-gain antennas, so you will be able to get the best WiFi coverage throughout your entire home, and your friends and family will be able to enjoy the fastest Internet speeds.
And with the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology acting as the router’s backbone, the router can deliver significantly faster speeds on both bands than the 802.11ac routers. This router is also capable of providing stable, low-latency connections for many devices in your house, ensuring that all devices connected to your network are performing at their best.
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Unlike other routers in the market, this particular router is extremely fast and stable with almost all internet service providers, including AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, CenturyLink, Frontier, etc., but for most internet service providers a modem is required.
As far as security and performance are concerned, this router doesn’t disappoint either. It features Dynamic Quality of Service (QoS), which allows you to prioritize your network traffic, and a built-in firewall that can keep hackers at bay. In addition, the router is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so that you can use voice commands to take control of your home network.
Furthermore, the Archer A7 from TP-Link also supports USB storage and acts as a media server, enabling you to share content seamlessly from your USB drive across all of your connected devices. This feature is also helpful in transferring files between devices remarkably quickly and easily.
Pros
- This is a dual-band router with a combined speed of 1.7Gbps.
- It supports the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology for the fastest performance.
- This router works extremely well with all internet providers.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with Beamforming and MU-MIMO.
My Views?
The Archer A7 router from TP-Link is a very powerful router for its price point. There is no doubt that this router provides excellent speeds and is an excellent choice for nearly all internet service providers. It is also an excellent choice for most users who need to get the maximum performance and speed possible.
I would highly recommend this router for those looking for a top-notch router with an affordable price tag, as it allows you to take control of your home network in the shortest amount of time.
2. NETGEAR Dual-Band 4-Stream R6700AX WiFi 6 Router with AX1800 Wireless Speed (Up to 1.8 Gbps), Coverage Area up to 1500 square feet, and 1 Year Hardware Warranty
The Netgear R6700X is another best router we get our hands on. It is a dual-band router with a strong and powerful CPU to ensure stable, uninterrupted streaming and gaming. Featuring the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology, it can deliver up to 3x faster speeds on both WiFi bands, so you can enjoy smooth and lag-free movie streaming and gaming sessions within no time.
This router comes with the very latest 802.11ax technology and is powered by an ultra-fast quad-core processor with a clock speed of 1.5GHz. This device has 256 MB flash memory and 512 MB RAM, allowing you to have a stable and seamless internet experience, even when you have more than one device connected to your network.
This router also features SmartConnect technology which enables it to act as a WiFi extender, identifying and prioritizing connected devices for an uninterrupted user experience. In addition, the router can offer a powerful and long-range WiFi connection at speeds up to 1.8 Gbps in an area of approximately 1500 square feet with its 3 high-gain antennas.
Among other features, the router boasts four 1G LAN ports that can accommodate a wide range of wired devices, such as gaming consoles and desktop computers. There is also advanced NETGEAR Armor antivirus with data theft protection, and it is powered by one of the most reputable names in the business: BitDefender. Using it, you can always be sure you’re protected, no matter what website you’re browsing or what file you’re downloading.
As far as performance is concerned, this router delivers outstanding performance and would make an ideal choice for those who are looking to eliminate lags, buffering, and congestion on their Wi-Fi network. This router can also support more than 18-20 devices at a time, which is another interesting point about this device, and it is also backward compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac.
Pros
- It comes with the latest WiFi 6 (802.11 ax) technology and backward compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac.
- It has a powerful 1.5GHz quad-core CPU with 512MB RAM and 256MB Flash memory.
- It offers a long-range WiFi connection of up to 1500 sq. feet with around 1.8GBPS max speed.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with Beamforming or MU-MIMO.
My Views?
The Netgear R6700X is a powerful and excellent router that can offer outstanding performance at a reasonable price, making it one of the best router under $100 that you will find.
Many people consider this router to be an excellent value for money, and in my opinion, it is worth a look if you’re looking for a powerful router with a long-range and good speed.
3. ASUS Dual-Band AC1750 Wireless Internet Router with DoS Protection, AiMesh Compatible, Adaptive QoS, Parental Control, 3000 sq. ft. coverage area, and Lifetime Internet Security Included
The ASUS AC1750 is another highly recommended router that our team gets their hands on. Asus’ AC1750 router is an amazing router with a ton of amazing features, including a big range and high-performance capabilities, so you have the flexibility to use it in any room in your house.
The router comes with some of the most advanced technologies currently available in wireless routers. With dual-band technology and three high-gain antennae, it provides a reliable and stable signal throughout your home. In addition, this router also has backward compatibility with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac so that you can connect the router with tablets and IoT devices using the latest WiFi standards.
This router also has a powerful 1GHz processor that allows all of its high-end features to function smoothly and efficiently. Its array of antennas can provide you with great signal strength and support for excellent speed and coverage, and with ASUS AiWRT you can set up this router as easily as you would any smartphone.
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Asus’ AC1750 router is an excellent choice for large apartments and offices; it provides advanced security and data protection, preventing hackers and intruders from accessing your data.
Furthermore, it features SPI intrusion detection and DoS protection, as well as USB 3.0 & 2.0 ports. It also comes with AiCloud 2.0 to make the process of connecting printers and sharing media easier.
If you have a problem with signal in large homes, the ASUS AC1750 is also equipped with AiRadar, which can help you amplify your signal so that it reaches all corners of your house. The router can transmit data at speeds up to 1,750Mbps using these antennas. It is also ideal for people with a larger houses up to 3,500 square feet.
Like other routers, it’s also compatible with most of the internet service providers available in the market, including AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, Century Link, Frontier, and more. You’ll also benefit from AiProtection, which provides you with the best security and protection, including parental controls and the VPN server.
Pros
- This router has a powerful 1GHz CPU and up to 1,750 MBPS speed.
- The router is suitable for large apartments and office needs.
- It comes with powerful security features, i.e AiProtection, and makes sharing easy with AiCloud 2.0 support.
Cons
- As of now, WPA3 is not supported.
My Views?
Asus AC1750 is an excellent choice for people who want a fast and responsive router and an inexpensive option. With the most advanced and impressive features, including a solid processor and powerful antennas, this router provides all the necessary performance it needs to serve as your main wireless access point.
Another thing that I like about it is that it offers – AiRadar. It makes the coverage far better and keeps the signal strong throughout your house. I also highly recommend this router for people with a large house, as it can easily cover them with a powerful signal.
4. TP-Link Dual-Band Archer AX50 WiFi 6 Smart Router with Total WiFi Speed up to 3Gbps, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Parental Controls, QoS, and TP-Link HomeCare
Pros
- It comes with a dual-band frequency and a powerful CPU.
- Through the simple-to-use application, you’ll get control of everything, including parental control, security, etc.
- It comes with a massive 3GBPS speed which can future-proof all your needs.
Cons
- So far, we haven’t encountered any cons.
My Views?
If you want a router with perfect range and speed, TP-Link Archer AX50 is the best router you can get. Its advanced features support the latest Wi-Fi standards, and this router is very easy to setup with its simple installation process.
Furthermore, the router is compatible with all major internet service providers in the market, and it can easily provide you with a fast and high-speed connection. This router has been very reliable and stable since we’ve owned it, and we highly recommend it to everyone.
5. Motorola MR2600 Dual-Band WiFi Router with 4 Adjustable Antennas, Total Data Transfer Rate up to 2600 Mbps, Beamforming, QoS, User-Friendly Firewall, Parental Controls, and 2 Years Warranty
Are you looking for a router with high-speed connections and excellent performance? If so, you should try the Motorola MR2600 Dual-Band WiFi Router. The router features four antennas, which not only enhance its range but also provide the best signal strength and speed. Also, it has an integrated Gigabit Ethernet port so you can connect your computer to it for high-speed file transfers.
Four powerful antennas on the router improve its range and speed, allowing you to better take advantage of the router’s lengthy range. As you might expect, the router features a powerful Dual-Core processor and four Gigabit Ethernet ports to handle many devices without lag or slowing down.
Speed-wise, the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands deliver up to 2.6GBPS, and it supports IEEE 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology, which significantly boosts WiFi speeds during the connection process. The device is also very easy to operate, so you will be able to set all the network settings with just one click.
By using its parental controls, you can also set different restrictions for each of your family members’ devices depending on the size of the family. The router can be used on most of the major internet service providers in the market, such as AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, and others. You can also connect your peripheral devices to the router’s four Gigabit LAN ports.
It comes with an advanced Beamforming technology that distinguishes it from other routers on our list. This advanced technology allows for high-speed internet and data distribution over a wide area without experiencing any disruptions in your connection. Furthermore, the router comes with a USB 3.0 port that supports DLNA media sharing, enhancing the device’s compatibility with various devices and allowing you to share videos wirelessly.
Additionally, the router has many advanced features, including a dual-core processor, Smart QoS (Quality of Service) support, a user-friendly firewall, IPv4 and IPv6 support, parental controls, guest network capabilities, and so on.
💡 Keynotes;
As long as you handle the router with the utmost care, Motorola AC2600 routers are extremely reliable devices. In case you are planning to buy one of the routers mentioned above, you are highly recommended to check the router’s user guide to determine if the router is compatible with your modem.
Pros
- With this, you can get the fastest wireless network speed of up to 2600Mbps.
- There is a manufacturer’s warranty of 2 years on this product.
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Many useful features are also included, like MU-MIMO, Beamforming, QoS, and Parental Control.
Cons
- We find no cons.
My Views?
If you truly want a high-speed router, the Motorola MR2600 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Router is one of the best options for you to consider. The router has a plethora of settings and functionalities. Thus, it is suitable for both residential or commercial use.
- For the residential side, the router’s 4 antennas provide improved signal strength and speed and easily reach far-flung areas. Furthermore, with the help of its Beamforming technology, you can enjoy a high-speed internet connection and data over long distances.
- For the commercial side, the router is compatible with all internet service providers in the market, including AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, and more. This feature helps you save a lot of time as you won’t have to find a new router for your office or business.
6. Speedefy K7 Dual Band Smart WiFi Router for Home & Gaming (AC2100) with 4×4 MU-MIMO, 7x6dBi 7 Durable Antennas, Data Transfer Rate up to 2100Mbps, Parental Control, and 4 Number of Ports
‘Speedefy AC2100’ is another smart, dual-band WiFi router from the Speedefy series, equipped with MU-MIMO technology that provides high bandwidth and resolves weak signals easily. With two antennae on its external body, the device provides wide coverage and ensures strong signals.
This smart router features 2100 Mbps and delivers 5GHz (1733+300Mbps) and 2.4 GHz (1000Mbps), making it the perfect choice for a large formal or informal gathering of family members and friends. The router also includes four high-performance antennas. The router supports WPA2 and has a state-of-the-art security system so you can keep your sensitive data secure and private.
A USB 3.0 port and a gigabit LAN port on the router will allow you to easily connect your TV or game console to the internet. In addition to supporting the latest AC Wi-Fi technology, this router also supports MU-MIMO technology, which will enable you to enjoy faster speeds with more devices at the same time.
A dual-core 1.8 GHz processor is built into the router, which makes it capable of delivering high-speed internet and data even during times when network usage is at its peak. There is a user-friendly interface on the router, so it is very user-friendly. Additionally, the router is also equipped with several advanced features such as VLAN, VPN, and QoS (Quality of Service).
Unlike other devices, they equipped the router with a complete firewall system, making it more secure than other devices. Moreover, it is compatible with most internet service providers in the market and supports devices such as smartphones, computers, and television sets. Using the router’s parental controls allows you to easily manage your children’s internet usage.
If you have a large house or office space, this is one of the best routers that can help you improve your WiFi signal’s signal strength and speed. Aside from being affordable, it also has a substantial range of signals that is great for a medium to large house.
Pros
- It has a powerful dual-core 1.8GHz processor.
- This router will give you a maximum wireless speed of 2100Mbps.
- The router has seven strong and durable antennas with long-range coverage.
Cons
- This router does not support WiFi 6.
My Views?
Speedefy AC2100 is a smart and high-performance router that not only delivers high-speed internet but also allows you to manage and customize your entire internet experience. It has several advanced features, such as MU-MIMO, parental controls, and QoS (Quality of Service), making it ideal for a large home or office.
And the most important thing is it supports AT&T, Verizon, Comcast Xfinity, and other internet service providers.
7. NETGEAR R6120 Dual Band WiFi Router with 1200 Sq. Ft. Coverage Area & 1200Mbps Wireless Speed, Smart Parental Control, Guest WiFi Access, DoS, Firewall, VPN, and 7 Number of Ports
NETGEAR R6120, the latest router in the Nighthawk series, is among the most reliable devices available on the market today. Besides having outstanding performance, this device is also user-friendly and can be set up easily within minutes. The device supports AC1200 wireless speeds and is excellent for family homes or offices.
The router has multiple cutting-edge technologies, including 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless technology, a dual-core CPU, and a USB 3.0 port. It also includes a state-of-the-art firewall mechanism and WPA2 encryption support. The router will provide fast and reliable internet access for each device connected at home, utilizing the latest advancements in network technology. VLAN, guest network, parental controls, and guest network are also included.
The R6120 is a wireless router that gives you plenty of options for expanding your network’s range in any situation. Whether you’re at home or working from the office, whether it’s big or small, this router provides a broad coverage area of up to 1200 square feet. The user interface is extremely simple to use, and setting it up takes only minutes. It also works with most internet service providers on the market and can accommodate up to 20 devices simultaneously.
This router comes with two interchangeable antennas that will allow for an advanced variety of configurations. USB 3.0 port and wired Ethernet ports will allow you to connect several devices, such as smartphones, computers, game consoles, and streaming players.
This router is also equipped with smart parental controls that allow you to monitor your children’s online activity. This router also has a long lifespan, saving you money on buying new and new routers every time and letting you watch your favorite shows uninterrupted.
Pros
- This is one of the most reliable and affordable routers on the market right now.
- It can easily accommodate up to 20 devices without sacrificing performance.
- There are seven ports on this router, making it easy to use.
Cons
- This would be better if it had a large coverage area than 1200 sq. ft.
My Views?
If you’re looking for a router that can provide you with excellent internet access and reliable performance, you can choose this router as your destination. It performs exceptionally well and is also very reliable. This router has a high signal coverage range, giving users significant connectivity in homes and offices.
During our extensive testing with this router, our team found it very easy to use and has great security features. The router is also very reliable and will ensure that your devices are connected to the internet without any issues.
8. Vilo Mesh Dual Band WiFi System with 4500 sq. ft. Coverage Area, 3 Gigabit Ethernet Ports, Parental Controls, 128 MB RAM, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and 120 Devices Connection
Volo’s Mesh Wi-Fi System is among the most powerful Wi-Fi routers available in the market today. It is the perfect choice for a large household or office space. The device comes with 3 Wi-Fi routers, and it is supported by a dual-band Wi-Fi system that is capable of providing a strong internet signal in every corner of the house or office space.
All 3 routers are interoperable and can be used together to create the best Wi-Fi system in the market. The router’s dual-band functionality provides smooth and seamless Wi-Fi coverage, which won’t be interrupted by walls or floors. The router’s seamless connectivity feature is appreciated by the users because it provides an uninterrupted flow of traffic with less latency, which is especially beneficial for video streaming. The device’s interface is easy to learn and use, and it can be reconfigured quickly.
The router is compatible with most internet services and is powerful enough to allow 120 devices to connect simultaneously. It has 3 gigabit Ethernet ports that will allow you to connect computers, gaming consoles, and other wired devices. The router supports WPA2 security protocols and MU-MIMO technology, allowing you to receive a steadier connection. The device provides professional parental controls that can be used to restrict access to certain websites or programs.
💡 Highlights
One of the best things which our team liked about this router is that it can be controlled using an app, which makes it easy for parents to monitor their children’s online activity. The router also provides advanced parental controls that can be used to block access to specific websites. So, if your kid is on the internet and you don’t want them to view certain websites, you can simply set up a block with this router.
This router will also let you create guest networks so that when you have visitors, you can provide them with access to the internet without compromising your security. You can also control the bandwidth being used by each device or program, monitor the Wi-Fi activity and see a list of connected devices, and record usage stats. You can even see the device’s IP address and MAC address, remotely reboot the device using this app, and set up a schedule for each device.
This router is powerful enough to offer fast and reliable internet access throughout your home at all times. It will improve your internet connectivity, give you supreme internet security, and provide you with a flawless entertainment experience. It is one of the best home Wi-Fi routers available on the market today.
Pros
- This Vilo mesh router covers a total area of 4500 square feet.
- Vilos routers can accommodate 120 devices simultaneously without compromising speed.
- There are also many useful features such as MU-MIMO, beamforming, and proactive band steering.
Cons
- In a single pack, you only get 1500 square feet of coverage area, three ports, and 1200Mbps.
My Views?
You can’t go wrong with this router. It’s powerful and gives users a seamless Wi-Fi experience. Its Wi-Fi system is top-notch and provides users with a clutter-free internet experience. Our team has checked this router several times, and we saw that it provides fast internet access and doesn’t slow down the internet speed.
The router also has excellent security features and gives users more control over their Wi-Fi network. It’s very easy to use and works like a charm. In addition, the router is also very reliable and will make sure your devices are connected to the internet without any issues at all.
9. ASUS (RT-ACRH18) Dual Band Wireless Router with MU-MIMO, AiRadar Beamforming, Parental Control, Total Data Transfer Rate up to 1750 Mbps, and USB 3.0 Port
ASUS RT-ACRH18 is another most reliable router our team gets their hands on. It offers much-needed mobility and exceptional performance. It is a wireless-AC1750 router that can provide a faster and stronger internet connection for everyone in the home or office. It has powerful amplifiers to provide you with a more stable and reliable connection, making it great for video streaming, online gaming, and downloading.
The router’s MU-MIMO technology will easily stream HD and 4K video. It will also allow you to stream multiple devices simultaneously without experiencing a signal lag. The AiRadar Beamforming feature will ensure that the signal is evenly distributed all over the house. This will provide better coverage in areas with poor reception or weak signals. The router is also ideal for the ultimate security and performance of your home network.
The router’s parental control settings can be used to block websites and programs that may be harmful to children. This can help prevent your children from viewing inappropriate content. The overall Wi-Fi range and signal strength have increased over the previous model, ensuring greater coverage with improved signal strength in larger rooms.
The router comes with four LAN ports on the back that are Gigabit-enabled. This allows you to connect high-speed devices for faster and more reliable internet access. The router also comes with a USB 3.0 port that you can use in connection with external storage drives and printers. The USB port allows you to connect a USB external hard drive for easy storage and access. All of this makes this router one of the best wireless routers for homes.
Speed-wise, this router runs at a total data transfer rate of 1750 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. It is also a powerful router that provides a stable and reliable connection while streaming HD and 4K videos. And the best thing is, you can connect up to 30 devices with this router.
Pros
- This router features some of the latest technology like MU-MIMO and AiRadar Beamforming.
- Using this device, you can connect up to 30 devices at once.
- It is also equipped with the latest security features.
Cons
- None.
My Views?
This is a powerful router for all your needs. You can stream 4K videos with no issues, and you will be able to enjoy the highest streaming speeds with this router. The powerful amplifiers ensure no lag in using the signal, and the high-speed data transfer rate of 1750 Mbps ensures that you get a more reliable connection when needed.
It is a great option if you’re looking for a high-speed router that also offers a stable and reliable signal throughout your home or office. This is why this router makes it to our list of the best wireless routers.
10. TP-Link Archer A6 Wireless WiFi Router For Gamers with 5 Number of Ports, 1200 Mbps Data Transfer Rate, MU-MIMO, AP Mode, Parental Control, and Long-Range Coverage
TP-Link Archer A6 Wireless Wi-Fi router is a 4-in-1 device that gives you an outstanding experience on the internet. The first thing to notice is its interface, which looks different from other routers but is straightforward to use and connect.
We can use this router for gaming, streaming, and online multimedia. Archer A6 supports high-speed internet with speeds up to 1.2 Gbps and can simultaneously provide high-speed connectivity to multiple devices. It has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports that will allow you to connect computers and other wired devices.
The router’s MU-MIMO technology provides seamless WiFi coverage in every corner of the house or office space. This router also provides long-range coverage by using multiple internal and external antennas.
Archer A6 is compatible with most internet services, and it is powerful enough to provide a faster connection for up to 30-40 devices simultaneously. It has 4 high-gain external antennas, which will allow you to extend the range of your Wi-Fi network.
The device’s interface is user-friendly, and its performance is consistent. We can remotely control it using the mobile app, which will let you monitor bandwidth usage. It also lets you manage network access and devices, set up parental controls, and restrict access to certain websites.
Performance-wise, A6 is one of the best home wireless routers that you can get for your money. It will improve your overall internet experience and make your online activities much faster. It has a modern design and will serve you well for years to come.
Pros
- With this, you can access wireless networks up to 1.2Gbps.
- The router can connect up to 40 devices simultaneously with Mu-MIMO technology.
- It comes with four external antennas that are durable and strong.
Cons
- The device does not come with beamforming technology.
My Views?
Last year, our team reviewed TP-Link Archer A6, and we found that it was one of the best home Wi-Fi routers. It improves WiFi coverage, boosts overall network performance, and delivers high speeds to all devices on the network.
It has a modern interface, and it is easy to set up and use. This router will be a good choice for home users who want to get the most out of their internet experience for under $100.
Best Router Under $100 for Gamers – Buying Guide
As we have already seen, there are quite a few choices when it comes to picking the best router under $ 100. However, you must choose your device wisely so that it can provide you with the best services and security without any vulnerabilities or security risks.
Here are some of the factors to consider when buying a wifi router:
1. Your Requirement
The first and most important factor is what you will use the router for. If you are just looking for a device to provide basic internet access for a single device, then any router under $50 should be more than enough for you.
However, if you want something that can handle heavier loads or provide better security features, and work with multiple devices simultaneously, then a router under $100 to $200 should be enough for you.
These requirements will define what features and type of wifi router you need to buy. For example, a model designed specifically for gaming would offer more than a router designed specifically for streaming videos. If you are looking for a wireless access point, you should go for one that has the latest technology in it so that it can provide hassle-free wifi connectivity and network coverage in your house as well as to all your devices at the same time.
2. Speed
The speed of any router is one of the most important factors to consider, especially if you are looking for a device that can handle multiple devices and high-bandwidth activities such as streaming or gaming. Routers with dual-band frequencies (2.4GHz and 5GHz) offer better speeds than those with single-band frequencies, so make sure to check the specifications before making your purchase.
Our team found that for normal requirements, an average wireless network speed of 1800Mbps is more than enough. However, if you have a lot of gadgets that need to be linked at the same time or if you require something future-proof and with improved performance when gaming or streaming video, go for a router with a speed of at least 2000Mbps or above.
3. Band or Frequency
The band is basically the frequency range that a router uses to communicate with devices. There are 3 wireless bands that are available in the market: single-band, dual-band, and tri-band. A router under $100 usually comes with two bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
Most routers come with two frequencies: 2.4GHz and 5GHz (which are called dual-band routers). The speed of your router is also dependent on its wireless frequency. The higher the wireless frequency, the better your wireless speed will be. For example, a router with a 5GHz frequency is up to 10 times faster than an old 2.4GHz router.
The 5GHz frequency is newer, and it can offer faster speeds, but it is not as compatible with as many devices. If you have a lot of old devices that you want to use with your new router, then you might want to go for a model with a dual-band. This will allow you to connect all of your old devices and also give you the benefits of 5Ghz technology.
4. Wi-Fi Coverage Area or Range
The size of your house or the area you need to cover with Wi-Fi will also determine which type of router you should purchase. Routers generally come with a certain range in which they can provide signal coverage, which is usually measured in feet.
If you have a small house or live in an apartment, then any router with a range of 1200 square feet to 3000 square feet is better for you, which will help you to reduce dead zones in your home and give you the fastest wireless speed.
If your house is large or has a lot of walls that tend to block the wifi signal, then you need to get a router with a better range. Otherwise, you might have to keep moving your device around to search for the best signal or, worse, not be able to connect in some areas of your house.
In that case, a mesh router would be a better option for you. These routers offer better wifi signals and can extend the range of your network by up to 500%, which will help to eliminate any dead zones in your home.
5. MU-MIMO & Beamforming Technology
These are key features you should always check before buying a router for your home and office. MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple-input, multiple outputs) and beamforming technology help to deliver the fastest speeds and most stable connections to multiple devices by shaping the Wi-Fi signal in the direction of each device.
MU-MIMO routers can handle multiple devices simultaneously without any congestion or reduction in speed, while beamforming technology helps to target the wifi signal directly to your gadget, thus providing a stronger connection and eliminating any dropped signals.
If you have a lot of devices that need internet access simultaneously, make sure that your chosen router has these two features. That way, you can enjoy a smooth streaming and gaming experience without any buffering or lag.
6. Security Features
Security is the major concern for anyone with an active online presence. And for good reason, too! Routers are one of the many devices in your home that are susceptible to being hacked. So, it is important to have a router that comes with some good security features like:
- Firewall Encryption
- WPA/WPA2 Encryption
- no-IP Address Spoofing
- VPN Server
- Parental Control
- Guest Network and many more…
All of these features will help you to protect your sensitive data and devices from data thieves, hackers, and being viewed or accessed by unauthorized parties. Make sure to check the security features of your chosen router before making your purchase.
7. Additional Useful Features
It’s rare to see a router under $100 with many useful additional features. However, our team found a few that are definitely worth considering. Additional features basically help to make life easier.
- 7.1 Quality of Service (QoS)
The QoS feature allows you to prioritize the type of traffic on your network. This is especially useful if you want to ensure that your devices get the best speeds for specific activities, such as streaming video or gaming. You can also use it to limit the bandwidth of certain devices so that they don’t interfere with others or hog all the bandwidth.
- 7.2 OFDMA Technology
This is a relatively new technology that is being used in routers nowadays. It stands for (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), and it basically allows for simultaneous data transmission over a wide range of frequencies. This means that you can expect faster speeds and less congestion on your network, even when many devices are connected simultaneously.
- 7.3 Mesh Technology
The mesh technology allows for creating a mesh network, a network of routers that work together to create one large and strong network. This is perfect for larger homes or offices where the Wi-Fi signal might not be able to reach all corners. A mesh network can help extend your Wi-Fi range by up to 500%.
- 7.4 Armor Cybersecurity & AiProtection
This feature is offered by only a few routers and is worth considering if you are looking for extra security for your devices and data. Armor Cybersecurity & AiProtection provides a firewall for your network, which helps protect your devices from potential online threats like viruses, malware, and hackers.
- 7.5 Guest Network
This is a great feature for those who want to share their internet connection with guests without having to give them access to all of their devices and confidential data. The Guest Network allows you to set up a separate network for your guests that is completely separate from your primary network. This way, they can use the internet without having access to any of your devices or files.
- 7.6 Parental Controls
If you have children who are always on their devices, then you will definitely want to look for a router with parental controls. These controls allow you to restrict the type of content that your children can access online and also help to monitor their internet usage. This is a great way to keep them safe online and ensure they are not spending too much time on their devices.
Well, there are many more features that you can find on your new router. But, the ones listed above are definitely worth considering. This is because they can help improve your connection’s overall performance while also ensuring that you get the best speeds and security.
8. Device Connections
Another important factor you need to consider is the number of devices connected to your router simultaneously. Some routers can only handle a maximum of ten devices, while others can support up to twenty-four or more devices simultaneously.
So, if you have a lot of gadgets that need to be connected to the internet, make sure to get a router with a higher device connection limit. Due to this feature, you will be able to connect all your devices like smart TV, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Smartphones, Laptops, Home appliances, and many more without any problems and without the need to purchase additional routers.
9. Number of Ports
Every router comes with several ports that are used to connect different devices to the network. The most commonly used ports are the Ethernet port and the USB port.
Ethernet ports are usually numbered, and the higher the number of ports, the better. The Ethernet port connects devices like PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles to the router and gives you a fast and stable internet speed among all the devices. So, if you have a lot of devices that need wired internet connections, make sure to get a router with a higher number of Ethernet ports.
The USB ports are also important to look at, especially if you want to use the router to share files, printers, scanners, storage drives, and other devices. Most routers come with one USB port, but some come with up to four or more USB ports.
10. Warranty
The warranty of any router comes in handy when something goes wrong with the device. Most routers come with a one-year warranty, but some offer a two- or three-year warranty. So, before you make your purchase, double-check the warranty period of the router.
A longer warranty usually means that the company is more confident about the quality and durability of its product. However, one year of warranty coverage is more than enough, and most routers will not have any problems within that time frame.
This way, if something goes wrong with your router in the future or it stops working for some reason, you can always get it replaced or repaired without any extra costs, which will help you to save your hard-earned money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Still have doubts? I know we all get confused and have several questions in our minds as human beings. So, here our team has shared a few FAQs which clear all your doubts
Q. What are Single Band, Dual Band, and Tri-Band Router?
The frequency of a router determines its speed. We’ve seen dual-band and single-band routers under $100. The term “single-band” refers to a router with one frequency. Single-band routers are the slowest in operation.
“Dual-band” refers to a router with two frequencies, namely the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. It seems to be the best choice for consumers since it provides the fastest data transmission to nearby devices. In addition, the “Tri-band” or “Tri-band router” includes 3 bands. There are two 5GHz bands and one 2.4GHz band.
Q. How to Find the Best Wireless Router Under $100?
When choosing the best wireless router under $100, you should consider the following factors.
Be sure it has dual bands, a powerful CPU, supports MU-MIMO and beamforming, and has a good range. Additionally, ensure it has good customer service, technical support, and a long warranty period.
Q. Which Wireless Router is Best for Gaming?
When looking for a new wireless router under $100, you should consider brands like TP-Link, Netgear, and ASUS. These routers come with powerful hardware and gaming-optimized features.
Also, they provide smooth performance, even when several devices are connected at the same time.
Wapping Up!
Finding the best router under $100 for your home and office has never been easier. And since we have reviewed the best wireless routers available on the market, you should be able to find one that is perfect for you and your needs.
For reviewing these routers, we have done enormous research and tried out tons of routers that come under $100. As a result, we have found that the router mentioned above are the best in the business. So, go ahead and pick one for your home or office and enjoy a seamless internet experience.
And we hope that our reviews have been of value to you, and we wish you the best of luck in finding the best wireless router for your home or office.