Check out our picks for the best routers less than $100
Source: Windows Central
To have quality internet in your home, something you can’t go without is a good, reliable router. Routers act as the bridge between your devices and your internet, so having one you can put your faith in is paramount. This is more important than ever right now, as, during this period of self-quarantining and work from home, reliable internet is an absolute must-have. However, something a lot of people don’t realize is that you don’t need to pay top-dollar for an industry-leading router to have robust internet access. Many of the more affordable routers on the market are more than up to the task of providing you with the reliable connection you need. Of these, our favorite is the TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500, as it offers top-notch Wi-Fi 6 speed and stability while also providing reliable range — all for an affordable price.
Best Overall: TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500
Source: TP-Link
Pros:
- Best speed and stability
- Best security
- Four antennas for the best range
- MU-MIMO compatibility
Cons:
- Most expensive option
Best Overall
TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500
Best in class
The TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 is our favorite affordable router since it offers the best performance for an affordable price.
Runner-Up: TP-Link AC1750
Source: TP-Link
Pros:
- Great speed and stability
- Reliable security
- Three antennas provide good range
- MU-MIMO compatibility
- More affordable
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the same performance as Wi-Fi 6
- Slightly lower range
Runner-Up
TP-Link AC1750
The silver medalist
The TP-Link AC1750 isn’t as good as the TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500, but it’s still great, offering top-notch Wi-Fi 5 quality.
Best Mid-Range: TP-Link Archer C1200
Source: TP-Link
Pros:
- Reliable speed and great stability
- Reliable security
- Three antennas provide good range
- MU-MIMO compatibility
- Even more affordable
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the same performance as Wi-Fi 6
- Slightly lower range
Best Mid-Range
TP-Link Archer C1200
All-around greatness
The TP-Link Archer C1200 offers competent performance for a balanced and attractive price, making it our favorite all-around mid-range option.
Best Budget: TP-Link AC1200
Source: TP-Link
Pros:
- Decent speed and great stability
- Reliable security
- MU-MIMO compatibility
- Most affordable
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the same performance as other choices
- Considerably lower range due to two antennas
Best Budget
TP-Link AC1200
Solid quality, rock bottom price
This little router packs a decent punch for its price, making it a fantastic budget option for people who need to save money.
Bottom line
An excellent router is critical to having great internet, and if you don’t have one, you need to invest in one as soon as you can. However, contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to break the bank to get a router that will serve you well. Many fantastic routers are very affordable, and you can obtain them for an excellent price.
Of these routers, our favorite choice is the TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 since it offers excellent Wi-Fi 6 speed, stability, and security, as well as a vast range, all for a price that most people can work with. With this router, you can get access to top-of-the-line internet without needing to worry about your budget.
Credits — The team that worked on this guide
Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer with a burning passion for video games, of which he’s been an avid fan since childhood. He’s relatively new to the writing scene, but he counters that lack of experience with a rock-solid work ethic and a desire to improve at every opportunity. You’ll find him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.
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