10 Best Router Without Wifi: Buyer's Guide | SHR

Our pick: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router

After several weeks of real-world testing, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router proved to be a solid performer for households seeking fast internet speeds, strong coverage, and built-in security features. It successfully replaces the need for a separate modem and router, offering a streamlined setup and significant savings on rental fees. While it excels in most areas, it does have a minor compatibility limitation worth noting.

Pros:

• Fast and consistent WiFi 6 (AX2700) performance

• Strong security with NETGEAR Armor included

• Easy setup and user-friendly management app

• Great value by eliminating rental equipment costs

Con:

• Limited compatibility with non-cable ISPs

Overall, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router is an excellent investment for users with major cable providers looking to boost speed, security, and coverage at home. With robust features, reliable performance, and cost savings over time, it stands out as one of the better choices in its category.

Source: Amazon

Also great: Linksys Hydra Pro Mesh WiFi 6E Router

Testing the Linksys Hydra Pro Mesh WiFi 6E Router revealed a high-performance device ideal for heavy internet users who need top-tier speed, reliability, and coverage. Its ability to handle multi-gigabit speeds and low latency makes it perfect for demanding tasks like VR gaming and 4K streaming. The setup process was simple, and the mesh capabilities ensure a seamless experience throughout the home.

Pros:

• Blazing fast speeds with WiFi 6E and 6 GHz band

• Wide coverage up to 2,700 square feet

• Easy setup and intuitive management via Linksys App

• Expandable mesh system with Intelligent Mesh Technology

Con:

• Premium price point compared to standard routers

The Linksys Hydra Pro 6E is a top-tier choice for users needing maximum performance, especially in large homes or for advanced activities like gaming and streaming. Although it comes at a higher price, the superior speed, range, and reliability justify the investment for demanding users.

Also great: NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400 WiFi 6 Router (RAX50)

After thorough testing, the NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5400 (RAX50) delivers excellent speed, reliable coverage, and easy setup for homes needing strong WiFi 6 capabilities. It handles multiple connected devices effortlessly and supports heavy streaming, gaming, and remote work without interruptions. The combination of wired and wireless flexibility, along with enhanced security features, makes it a strong contender in its class.

Pros:

• Fast and Stable WiFi 6 Speeds

• Broad Coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft.

• Multiple Ethernet and USB Ports for Versatile Connectivity

• Strong Built-In Security with NETGEAR Armor

Con:

• Limited Advanced Customization Options for Tech Enthusiasts

The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5400 (RAX50) is a reliable, high-performance router ideal for households with demanding internet needs. It offers impressive speed, solid security, and wide coverage, making it a worthwhile upgrade for most users seeking a future-proof WiFi solution.

Excellent speed and reliability of wired routers come at a cost. They do have some drawbacks:

• Limited Mobility: The use of Ethernet cables for the physical connection of wired devices limits the movement and fluidity of work within the office or at home.
• Clutter and Cable Management: Utilization of a wired strategy may result in the accumulation of cords.in particular if you connect several gadgets to them, and this situation is not I also tend instead to manage a messy cord.
• Installation Hurdles: Wiring through the walls or ceilings is often an element of the full-fledged network setup procedure, and such a事is labor-intensive, which could be a reason to be expensive.
• Device Compatibility: Portable devices such as smartphones and tablets which are the latest and most modern gadgets do not have Ethernet ports; hence, a fully wired network would be impossible.

Which Is Faster, Wi-Fi or Ethernet?

In most cases of Ethernet being the faster than Wi-Fi. Here are a few reasons:

• Consistent Speeds: Compared to, for example, Wi-Fi, due to being less influenced by physical obstructions, a stable internet connection through an Ethernet cable is provided due to having no other devices connected to it.
• Lower Latency: As the use of Ethernet usually results in a lesser delaying the process, in gaming, a time factor is brought about an evident preference of it over video conferencing.
• Wi-Fi Speeds Depend on Signal: The rate of the wi-fi field potency, which is dependent on factors such as proximity of the user to the router, obstacles like walls and Wi-Fi technology type, determines the amount of data transferred over the wireless connection.

Nevertheless, the latest wireless standards such as Wi-Fi 6 and 6E have substantially upgraded the wireless thus these technologies either outperform or at least the same level as wired internet in specified circumstances.

Which Router Is Best: Wired or Wireless?

The decision of a wired or wireless router is in fact subject to a personal choice:

• Wired Router: If you are looking for a device or a network of devices that needs stable and high-speed connections, such as gaming consoles, desktop PCs, and servers, the wired router is probably the best choice for you, whether it is at home or in business. The wired mode of connection is valid when physical mobility is not an important factor and laying cables grants us practical accessibility.
• Wireless Router: Users usually go for this option if they wish to have the chance to connect different computers like laptops, smartphones, or office gadgets such as IoT without manually involving cables. It is also the option adopted in many families or small offices.

Some modern routers are now hybrid systems of both worlds capable of both wired and wireless connectivity for heterogeneous connectivity needs.

Is Wi-Fi 6E Faster Than Ethernet?

Wi-Fi 6E can perform well under specific conditions, but the comparison to Ethernet is actually a rather complex one:

• Wi-Fi 6E Speeds: Wi-Fi 6E speed is, in theory, indeed astonishing, quite often exceeding 1 Gbps in a perfect environment, this is enabled by the 6 GHz usage. This will be, to some extent, comparable to or even the alternative to an Ethernet connection which would be capped at 1 Gbps.
• Ethernet Speed Variability: Presently, many Ethernet interfaces achieve rates of 10 Gbps, which Wi-Fi 6E does not reach yet. However, the ordinary home Ethernet used in homes would easily cap it at 1 Gbps.
• Practical Usage: Wi-Fi 6E is a great technology when it comes to convenience and high speeds in optimal situations, nevertheless, Ethernet will always outperform it in terms of reliability, stability, as well as the latencies that are consistently low.

In conclusion, Ethernet remains the champion of peak performance and minimal interruptions. However, the latest twist in Wi-Fi 6E offers extraordinary speeds and unsurpassed flexibility for a wireless network.

In conclusion, when searching for the best router without Wi-Fi, it's important to consider factors like speed, reliability, and ease of setup. These routers offer solid performance for wired connections, making them ideal for those who prioritize stable and secure network setups without the need for wireless connectivity. Whether you're looking to upgrade your home network or set up a dedicated office connection, the options listed stand out as the top choices in their category.