How to compare routers

To connect to a fast and stable network, you need a suitable router in addition to choosing a high-quality Internet solution. Currently, there are lots of routers on the market. So it’s best to find out the features of each and check the things to look out before you buy. Here’s an overview with some recommendations.

Router features

A router with an external antenna offers a stable wireless network service within a certain range. It allows you to adjust the direction of the main transmission signal. Routers with external antennas are suitable for users with a desktop computer or digital TV box at home who want to enjoy a smooth network experience. If you need to share the wireless network on multiple devices, the more antennas the router has, the more stable the signal.

A MU-MIMO function lets you enjoy multiple inputs and outputs at the same time. It operates independently via various antennas for greater transmission flexibility. The device supports multiple antennas simultaneously to increase the transmission speed and provides extra bandwidth to different devices to maintain a smooth wireless signal.

A Mesh Wi-Fi consists of two or more access points and operates as a single Wi-Fi network. All access points are connected to each other. This means the device can transmit data via several paths using the best transmission route at any given time. Current Mesh Wi-Fi routers operate under two major technologies: 802.11x Band Steering and 802.11k Seamless Roaming, while providing 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band frequencies. You can add extra access points in more concealed places (such as corridors) and near walls to increase network coverage, hot brands include ASUS , TP-Link and Linksys.

Things to watch out for when choosing a router

Most routers use wireless signals to transmit messages. Structure of room and coverage area could affect signal transmission. Obstacles (such as walls) could block signal transmission and slow down Internet speed. If a router of a low coverage is selected, or the distance between destination and router is too far apart, long-distance transmission could affect router stability.

Both your router and Internet solution could affect network speed. To enjoy a fast and stable network, check your router specifications and the maximum download speeds of your Internet solution. If your Internet experience is not good, check if the Internet system you are using at home is up to standard.

Router Q&A

2.4GHz band: Provides high penetration and is not easily affected by obstacles. Transmission is relatively stable over long distances, but could be interfered by radio waves from various devices. This slows down the Internet speed. 5GHz band: Although 5GHz is more susceptible to obstacles which weakens the signal, not many devices use the same band so there is very little interference from other devices. The transmission speed of 5GHz is faster than 2.4GHz, so it is very suitable for use in apartment buildings or houses. Dual-band and single-band routers are easily available on the market. The former refers to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands while the latter refers to either one. Dual-band wireless routers are highly resistant to interference and more stable than single-band wireless routers.

Router models numbers consist mainly of AC, AX or N and four numbers. EG AC1900, AX3000. The number stands for the maximum Mbps the router can reach. For example, 1900 and 2300 mean that the Wi-Fi speed can reach up to 1900Mbps and 2300Mbps, so the higher the figure, the faster the Internet speed.