The 10 Best Router Under $200 Review For 2024

There are several routers available in or around the $100 price range that offer good performance for home users and small networks. Keep in mind that prices and product availability may have changed since then, so it's a good idea to check for the latest models and reviews. Here are a few routers that were well-regarded for their value and performance in the $100 price range:

TP-Link Archer A7 (AC1750):
The TP-Link Archer A7 is a dual-band router supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. It offers good Wi-Fi performance and comes with features like MU-MIMO and beamforming.

ASUS RT-ACRH13:
The ASUS RT-ACRH13 is a dual-band router with a focus on easy setup and management. It provides good performance for its price and includes features like AiRadar beamforming.

NETGEAR R6700 (Nighthawk AC1750):
The NETGEAR R6700 Nighthawk AC1750 is a dual-band router known for its reliability and strong Wi-Fi performance. It offers features such as Beamforming+ and dynamic QoS.

Linksys EA6350:
The Linksys EA6350 is a dual-band router that supports speeds up to AC1200. It comes with beamforming technology for better coverage and performance.

D-Link DIR-882 (AC2600):
The D-Link DIR-882 is a dual-band router with higher speeds, supporting up to AC2600. It offers good performance for a mid-range router and includes MU-MIMO technology.

Before making a purchase, consider the following:
Wi-Fi Standards: Look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards (such as 802.11ac) for better performance and compatibility with modern devices.

Speed: Consider the speed rating of the router to ensure it meets your internet plan's maximum speed.

Coverage: Assess the size of your home or office, and choose a router with appropriate coverage for your needs.

Additional Features: Check for features such as Quality of Service (QoS), MU-MIMO, and beamforming, depending on your specific requirements.

How much should I pay for a good router?

The cost of a good router can vary widely based on several factors, including the router's features, performance, and intended use. Here's a general breakdown of router price ranges and what you might expect to get within those ranges:

Budget Routers (Under $50):
These routers are suitable for basic home use, such as web browsing, streaming, and light online gaming. They may lack some advanced features but are adequate for smaller households with fewer connected devices.

Mid-Range Routers ($50 - $150):
Routers in this price range offer a good balance of performance and features. They are suitable for medium-sized homes with moderate internet usage, supporting multiple devices simultaneously. Many mid-range routers support the latest Wi-Fi standards and include features like MU-MIMO and beamforming.

High-End Routers ($150 - $300+):
High-end routers are designed for larger homes, advanced users, or those with demanding networking needs. They often support the latest Wi-Fi standards (such as Wi-Fi 6), have powerful processors, and include advanced features like tri-band functionality, multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, and robust security options.

Gaming Routers:
Gaming routers are often in the high-end category but may have specialized features for optimizing online gaming performance. These routers may include prioritization for gaming traffic, low latency, and other gaming-centric features.

Factors to consider when determining how much to pay for a router:

Home Size and Layout: Larger homes may require routers with better coverage, potentially affecting the cost.

Number of Connected Devices: The more devices you have, the more robust your router should be to handle simultaneous connections.

Internet Speed: Ensure the router can support the maximum speed provided by your internet service provider.

Wi-Fi Standards: Newer Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), generally offer better performance and efficiency.

Advanced Features: Consider features like MU-MIMO, beamforming, Quality of Service (QoS), and security options based on your needs.

What is the best router for your money?

Determining the "best" router for your money depends on your specific needs, budget, and the features you prioritize. Router models and releases can change, so it's essential to check for the latest reviews and product updates. However, I can provide some routers that were considered good values based on their performance and features as of my last update:

TP-Link Archer A7 (AC1750):
This router offers a good balance of performance and affordability. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and includes features like MU-MIMO and beamforming.

ASUS RT-AC68U (AC1900):
Known for its reliability and performance, the ASUS RT-AC68U is a dual-band router supporting AC1900 speeds. It includes features like AiProtection for network security.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1750 (R6700):
The Nighthawk R6700 is a dual-band router offering AC1750 speeds. It's known for its reliable performance, beamforming technology, and dynamic QoS for optimized streaming and gaming.

Linksys EA7500 (Max-Stream AC1900):
The Linksys EA7500 is a dual-band router with AC1900 speeds. It features MU-MIMO technology and supports multiple devices simultaneously.

TP-Link Archer C7 (AC1750):
Another affordable option, the Archer C7 is a dual-band router with AC1750 speeds. It's suitable for home use and supports a variety of applications.

Google Nest WiFi:
While a bit more expensive, the Google Nest WiFi is a mesh system known for its ease of use and reliability. It offers a combination of a router and access points for extended coverage.

Remember to consider the following factors when choosing a router:

Wi-Fi Standards: Look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards for better performance and compatibility with modern devices.

Coverage: Assess the size of your home or office, and choose a router with appropriate coverage for your needs.

Speed: Consider the speed rating of the router to ensure it meets your internet plan's maximum speed.

Additional Features: Check for features such as Quality of Service (QoS), MU-MIMO, beamforming, and security options based on your specific requirements.

Read More:

Best Review 10 Best Mesh System For At&t Fiber in 2023

Best Gaming Router Reviews & Buyers Guide in 2023