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Did you know that not every WiFi Router is appropriate for your needs, and you can always find a better one according to your priorities? Most users just go in for whichever router sounds good, but your streaming needs are different than your browsing, home needs, gaming needs or simply one with a long range. And if you do it all, like many, you need a router that can seriously multitask. So, here are the best wireless routers of 2018.
Best Wireless Routers
TP-Link Talon AD7200
The model has a maximum speed of 4,600Mbps, and this alone makes it a great buy. But this is also very economical and has a great CPU. Its multi-band technology makes provisions for three separate networks, which lets users use several devices through one router. Also, the MU-MIMO technology helps strengthen speed for all the connected devices simultaneously. You can buy the Talon AD7200 from TP-Link's website.
ASUS RT-AC5300
Hands down, the best wireless router right now, this model has a band of 5GHz and can accommodate a speed up to 2,167Mbps and has terrific graphics. This tri-band router is an all-rounder and is actually in almost every use. Moreover, this model has the AiRadar beam-forming feature has been receiving rave reviews. Asus is one of the very few brands which has added this feature to their updates models. Besides, resilient network strength, this router is also very useful for data budgeting, for obvious reasons. And since it has such a stellar bandwidth, you can go for it, whatever be your priority, from streaming to downloads or just media editing. Buy this ultra-router from asus.com.
Netgear Orbi
This router was designed, keeping better coverage in mind, and you should go for it even if your regular router works just fine. With this tri-band router, Netgear has brought together the high-end mesh technology with a classic router's features. This router is the perfect choice if you're looking for a router for office work or your home PC. It is not just incredibly fast and boosts connectivity like no other, but has never-seen-before coverage. It made headlines when it updated to the 4,000-sq-ft coverage feature and also has a 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections with a speed of 3Gbps, which is very rare for a non-gaming router.
Linksys Velop
This router also relies on the mesh technology and has been reviewed as the best one for professional usage and IT professionals, especially since it is very efficient in transferring data and large files. This also means it has near-perfect connectivity. And it is recommended for office usage, as it covers exceptionally large areas. This router is not usually recommended for gaming purposes, especially for ones which are too graphics-reliant (which are most of them). Experts believe that this router was designed, keeping professional usage in mind, hence the sleek, white look. The Velop is available on the company website.
ASUS RT-ACRH13 Dual-Band 2×2 AC1300
Coverage is usually a huge factor when it comes to buying routers, but not so when you're living or working in a small space. This Asus router is a millennial favorite, as most of them are in fact, living in small areas, but also because of its edgy looks. It has a speed of 1267 Mbps and works with the help of Asus' Router app, which is in a way brilliant, as you can control your downloads from your phone. It is also extremely economical, and possibly the only router available at $65 with such impeccable reviews. RT-ACRH13 is one of the best routers by Asus.
ASUS RT-AC88U
The perfect router for your gaming needs, this model also has impressive coverage, because of its antennas. But this router is the best buy, owing to its speed and connectivity. It also has no issues with high-def games or files transfers. Plus, it also has multiple USB ports, which makes it a multitasker and can maximize its speed up to 1,300Mbps. AC88U is a poor man's version of the AC5300.
Google WiFi
This model has a total coverage of 4,500 square feet, boosted by its WiFi points, designed specifically for coverage purposes. This router, too, can be used in office and homes. This model is actually perfect for using multiple devices and keep them connected, and would be great for a tech tournament or similar event. Much like ASUS RT-ACRH13, this router can also be accessed with an app, which is surprisingly effective. This router which comes cheap could be bought from Google's official online store.
TP-Link Archer C9 AC1900
Archer C9 doesn't just supports the most high-end WiFi networks, but also has a speed of 2.4GHz 600 Mbps. This model has three distinct attachable antennas which help boost connectivity. And it also relies on beamforming technology, which takes care of maximum coverage, and it has a 1GHz dual-core processor, which makes multiple transfers easier.
Linksys AC5400 Tri-Band
This router is similar to the Google WiFi model and also uses an app to run, and is just as reliable. It also uses the beamforming technology, so you can rest assured about coverage. This router is also surprisingly compatible with gaming and media transfers and has 8 Gigabit ports. It is pricier than its competitors but is already receiving great reviews, as it is a multitasker.
NETGEAR Nighthawk X10
The perfect media router, this model is probably in your budget and will take care of your recreational needs. From binge-watching to downloads, to gaming, it does it all. This also has special provisions for Xbox compatibility, as it was made for a gamer's benefit. It has a speed of 1,900Mbps and has Gigabyte Wi-Fi for better and faster data transfers. This wireless router runs with the help of the NETGEAR 10X genie app which you can control using your phone.
While buying a router, users almost always only think of only the budget. But if you want an economical router, that is also a high-end all-rounder, go for Netgear Orbi or Linksys Velop. If you're only looking for your gaming needs, you can choose any of the names from the last four names listed in the list.
Read next: How to improve Wireless Network Signal.
