How much should a good WiFi router cost?

Finding the Sweet Spot: How Much Should You Really Spend on a Good WiFi Router?

In today’s hyper-connected world, a reliable WiFi connection is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. From streaming your favorite shows to working from home and controlling your smart home devices, a strong and consistent WiFi signal is the backbone of modern life. But with a market flooded with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium, how do you determine the right price point for a “good” WiFi router?

The answer, as with many things, is “it depends.” However, for the vast majority of users, the sweet spot currently lies within the realm of WiFi 6 routers priced between $120 and $150.

Let’s break down why:

WiFi 6: The Modern Standard (and Why You Should Care)

WiFi 6 is the latest widely adopted WiFi standard, offering significant improvements over its predecessors like WiFi 5 (also known as AC). These improvements translate to:

• Faster Speeds: WiFi 6 can handle more data, allowing for faster download and upload speeds, particularly in environments with multiple connected devices.
• Increased Capacity: This is crucial in households with numerous laptops, smartphones, tablets, and smart home gadgets. WiFi 6 routers are designed to efficiently manage the demands of many devices simultaneously.
• Better Battery Life for Devices: A feature called Target Wake Time (TWT) allows devices to negotiate when they will wake up to receive data, conserving battery power.
• Reduced Congestion: WiFi 6 utilizes technologies like OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) to efficiently allocate network resources, minimizing congestion and improving overall performance.

Why the $120-$150 Range?

This price range typically provides a balance between performance and affordability. Routers in this bracket offer:

• Reliable Performance: They can handle most common household internet needs, including streaming HD video, online gaming, and video conferencing.
• Decent Coverage: While not necessarily covering expansive areas, these routers generally provide adequate coverage for average-sized homes.
• Essential Features: Expect features like parental controls, guest networks, and basic security protocols.

The Dangers of Skimping or Sticking with Older Standards

While tempting to save money by opting for a cheaper, older standard like WiFi 5, you’re likely to face limitations that outweigh the initial cost savings. These limitations include:

• Slower Speeds and Lag: Older standards simply can’t keep up with the demands of modern internet usage, leading to frustrating lag and buffering.
• Limited Capacity: Struggling to handle multiple connected devices can lead to dropped connections and poor performance for everyone.
• Inadequate Coverage: Older routers often lack the range necessary to provide reliable coverage throughout your home.
• Security Risks: Older standards may not have the latest security protocols, making your network more vulnerable to cyber threats.

Important Considerations Beyond the Router Itself:

It’s crucial to remember that a WiFi router is just one piece of the puzzle. To fully utilize its capabilities, you need:

• A Modem: This device connects your home to your internet service provider (ISP). You may already have a modem provided by your ISP, or you may need to purchase your own.
• A Reliable Internet Plan: Your router can only provide speeds up to the limit of your internet plan. Make sure you have a plan that meets your needs.
• Proper Placement: The location of your router significantly impacts its performance. Avoid placing it in enclosed spaces or near obstacles that can interfere with the signal.

In conclusion: Investing in a WiFi 6 router in the $120-$150 range is generally a wise decision for most users. It provides a solid foundation for a reliable and efficient home network, capable of handling the demands of modern internet usage. While you can certainly spend more on higher-end models with advanced features, for the average household, this price point offers the best balance between performance and affordability. Just remember to consider the complete infrastructure required for optimal performance.