- How to choose a Wi-Fi router
- Type of incoming connection
- Wi-Fi standard
- Hardware
- Software
- Eco-friendliness
- Rating of best Wi-Fi routers
- Best cheap Wi-Fi routers for your home (under 2000 rubles).)
- Keenetic Start (KN-1110)
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- TP- NK Archer C20(RU)
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- The best Wi-Fi routers in terms of value for money
- Huawei B525
- Advantages
- Drawbacks
- MikroTik RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- ASUS RT-AC66U
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- TP- NK Archer MR400 V2
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- ASUS RT-AX56U
- Advantages of
- Disadvantages
- Keenetic Viva (KN-1910)
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3G
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- The Best Wi-Fi routers of the Top Level
- Apple Time Caps e 2Tb ME177
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Keenetic KN-1810
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Best mobile (handheld) Wi-Fi routers
- Huawei E5577
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Alcatel nk Zone
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
Wireless Wi-Fi connection is not a gimmick for anyone for a long time. Internet via Wi-Fi works in many public places of the city and in almost every house with Internet. Such availability of wireless technology is provided by special devices – Wi-Fi routers. The current market is replete with various models with a variety of features. The Expertology editors have decided to help you to understand all this diversity and with the help of our experts have prepared a rating of the best Wi-Fi routers that are best suited for certain conditions.
How to choose a Wi-Fi router
The purpose of any router is to connect two or more networks. In our case, we are considering the most common and popular option, when you need to distribute external incoming Internet to the local home or office network.
Type of incoming connection
The first and most obvious attribute by which to choose a router is the type of incoming connection. There could be several variants – a cable TV network, wired Ethernet network over twisted pair cable, the network of a mobile carrier, etc. d. In most cases the provider itself provides a router of the required type for rent or gives as a gift within the contract. But not always such a router meets the needs of the consumer, and it often makes sense to buy your own router, best suited for power, usability of settings, reliability and other parameters.
Wi-Fi standard
So many consumers do not realize that there are different types of Wi-Fi. It refers to the different standards of Wi-Fi, which emerged as the technology evolved. The difference between them is mainly in the fact that they work in different bands and have different speed limits. This question a lot of technical nuances, and it deserves a separate topic. In any case, all standards are backward-compatible, that is, older generations will somehow interact with newer ones. The only question is whether such a bundle can provide the maximum speed. Our experts recommend that you check directly with the point of sale for optimal compatibility between the router you choose and your devices.
Hardware
From the technical point of view of Wi-Fi router is actually a mini-computer of narrow specialization. That is, its work is controlled by the central processor, it has a certain amount of RAM. Accordingly, if your Internet channel is not more than 50 Mbit / sec, and you do not use it “in full” (continuous downloading of torrents, streaming in high definition, resource-intensive online games), you may be enough to router with a processor with a frequency of 300 MHz and 32 MB RAM. Otherwise, you’ll need a more powerful device.
Software
Almost any modern Wi-Fi router has firmware – the so-called firmware. It has a web-interface with a set of tools for router configuration. The flexibility of settings can vary greatly from model to model. But a lot of settings automatically means more complicated operation of the device and the need for a certain level of knowledge. So if you want to understand the settings and services yourself, but you are not an expert in the field, it is better to choose a “simpler” model. This point can also be clarified at the point of sale.
Eco-friendliness
Due to the fact that Wi-Fi networks have become widespread for a relatively short time, there are still no clear and conclusive results of scientific research on the effects of Wi-Fi radiation on human health, there is a widespread popular belief about their harm. Many manufacturers have gone to meet such sentiments of some customers and equipped some router models with special hardware switches that can adjust the power of radiation. Therefore, if this point is important to you, you should keep in mind that this possibility exists.
Rating of best Wi-Fi routers
Nomination | Place | Name | The price |
Best inexpensive Wi-Fi routers for your home (under 2000 rubles).) | 1 | Keenetic Start (KN-1110) | 1 990 € |
2 | TP- | 1 999 € | |
3 | Keenetic | 2 079 € | |
4 | Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4 | 2 185 € | |
Best Wi-Fi router for value for money | 1 | Huawei B525 | 11 400 € |
2 | MikroTik RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN | 9 399 € | |
3 | ASUS RT-AC66U | 7 469 € | |
4 | TP- | 7 879 € | |
5 | Keenetic Giga (KN-1010) | 8 390 € | |
6 | ASUS RT-AX56U | 7 150 € | |
7 | Keenetic Viva (KN-1910) | 6 550 € | |
8 | Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3G | 2 690 € | |
Top Wi-Fi routers in the TOP tier | 1 | Apple Time Caps
| 41 990 € |
2 | ASUS RT-AX88U | 26 490 € | |
3 | Keenetic
| 11 042 € | |
4 | ASUS RT-AC68U | 7 220 € | |
The best mobile (pocket) Wi-Fi routers | 1 | Huawei E5577 | 5 800 € |
2 | Alcatel | 2 889 € | |
3 | Huawei E8372 | 2 550 € |
Best cheap Wi-Fi routers for your home (under 2000 rubles).)
Let us proceed to the rating and first of all let us review the four models that Expertology experts recommend as the best budget Wi-Fi routers for home use.
Keenetic Start (KN-1110)
Rating: 4.7

And to complete the rating of budget Wi-Fi routers let’s consider another model, which is very similar to the previous one in characteristics, but differs in some interesting points.
Coverage of Wi-Fi standards, connection speed limit, security protocols, the amount of RAM and flash memory – all these characteristics are completely similar to the previous reviewed model.
The switch has three LAN-ports of 100 Mbit/s each. Installed two powerful non-removable antennas, which throughout the plane inside the cases are actually printed circuit boards. The device dimensions are 107x26x91 mm, weight 132 g.
Router can work in repeater mode, set up a guest network, connect to multiple ISPs through M
- ti-WAN. In terms of functionality the set is almost the same as the previous model’s set: firewall, NAT, SPI, DHCP-server, VPN with pass through and 10 tunnels support, Dynamic DNS, PPTP, IPSec, Telnet, SkyDNS and Yandex support.DNS.
- impressive appearance;
- mobile app for direct setup;
- Regular and convenient firmware update;
- M function
- ti-WAN (multi-provider connection);
- powerful antennas;
- works within a single Wi-Fi standard.
- NK Archer C20(RU)
Rating: 4.7
The product of the Chinese technological giant Xiaomi will complete the selection of the most budget routers for home. This is the fourth generation of Wi-Fi routers in the Mi line. And this is a much more technically advanced model than the previous one. Almost the same price compared to the significant difference in characteristics can be explained by many points related more to marketing policy than to the technical side.
This model surpasses its predecessor in almost all aspects. First of all, there are not two, but four antennas. Two are operating in the range of 2.4 GHz with 5 dBi gain, the other two are 5 GHz with 6 dBi gain. As we can see, the router, in contrast to the above, can operate in two frequency ranges – 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Secondly, the hub ports are not 100Mbps like the previous model, but are gigabit. True, there are only two. The router even has significantly more of its own memory – 128 MB against the 32 MB of the one described above.
One may reasonably ask why the Keenetic
- It costs almost the same, and is in apparently high demand. There are a number of points here – a higher (and not without reason) confidence in the brand, really high reliability and uptime, the same ease of operation. Plus, it often happens that two wired network ports in Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4 some users are not enough after all, and installing intermediate links is not an option.
Next of the advantages of the described model is a handy proprietary application, which allows you to manage the router remotely from anywhere in the world. The router is characterized by an increased protection against illegal intrusion, identity theft and intentional damage. Namely, here instead of the usual access codes the MIOT fast Wi-Fi protocol is used. With this scheme, the gadgets used are integrated into the home network with no chance of intrusion from the outside. You can connect up to 128 devices.
From a review by a verified customer on Yandex.Market with “Level 4 Gadget Inspector” status: “Top specs for the money. Stable operation. Wide enough choice of firmware on thematic resources. Looked at the situation with the radiator in the reviews, they came up with a good idea, just a metal plate almost all over the textolite on top and that’s enough”.
Advantages
- Dual frequency range operation – 2.4 and 5 GHz;
- four antennas;
- Two Gigabit hub ports;
- Handy proprietary app for remote control;
- high protection of personal data;
- You can set up a guest Wi-FI and create a blacklist;
- Explosive popularity with customers and positive feedback.
Disadvantages
- No official Russification.
The best Wi-Fi routers in terms of value for money
Now let’s move on to the largest group of the rating, where we will review eight models, which Expertology experts have found to be optimal in terms of both functionality and quality, as well as the cost.
Huawei B525
Rating: 4.9
The second position in the group of optimal Wi-Fi routers is dedicated to the model from one of the world’s largest manufacturers of telecommunications equipment – the Chinese company Huawei Technologies.
The first thing to note is that this model has no external antennas, only two internal. Accordingly, the router does not have a lot of protruding elements and is easy to place. Covers all existing Wi-Fi standards and both bands. Has built-in support for 3G, LTE, MIMO technology. It can connect at speeds of up to 1300 Mbps.
Switch has four high-speed LAN ports of 1000 Mbps each. Has a USB 2 connector.0 Type A, which serves as an interface for the built-in print server. The communication capabilities of the router are enhanced by two SMA jacks for connecting external antennas for 3G and LTE, as well as an RJ-11 jack for an analog phone. The dimensions of the device – 226x163x52 mm, weight – 370 g.
The software tools in this model are as follows: FireWall, NAT, DHCP-server, IPv6 and Dynamic DNS support. Three major protocols for encryption. Advanced additional function – a file server.
Advantages
- Multiple interfaces;
- Convenient placement due to the lack of fixed external antennas;
- According to user reviews – incredible LTE reception capabilities in hard-to-reach places;
- The quality and stability of the connection;
- Simplicity of setup;
Drawbacks
- with external antennas connected becomes very bulky
MikroTik RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN
Rating: 4.8
Next is a router made by the Latvian company MikroTik. The devices from this manufacturer are known for their reliability, high performance, and almost unprecedented flexibility. Even outwardly this model looks solid and “adult”, reminiscent of the network equipment of modern data centers. Its dimensions are 214×44.45×86 mm and weighs 230 g.
Router uses 802 802 standard.11n at 2.4 GHz with a maximum connection speed of 300 Mbps over the air. Built-in MIMO support. Transmit power of 30 dBM. Router can also operate in
idge (bridge).This model is characterized by quite bright hardware and electronics. All calculations are controlled by the CPU Atheros AR9344 at 600 MHz. 128MB NAND-type RAM and 128MB on-board memory installed. Processor and PCB temperatures are monitored by special sensors. The switching part consists of five LAN-ports 10/100 Ethernet and another five high-speed ports 10/100/1000 Ethernet. On port 10, the router can distribute PoE power. SFP port and microUSB socket are also available. Wireless signal comes through two 4 dBi fixed antennas. Equipped with LCD on top panel to display important information.
The software is also quite rich in features. A full set of the most popular features and tools are available: FireWall, NAT, DHCP server, VPN with tunneling support, SNMP support, etc. Information security is provided by encryption using four common protocols. Two RIP v1 and v2 protocols for dynamic routing.
Web-interface gives access to the finest settings, which with some skill allow you to “squeeze” the router maximum performance. Our experts deliberately defined this circumstance as an advantage and disadvantage at the same time because that’s how polarly the opinions of real users were divided.
Advantages
- Flexible detailed settings;
- “professional” appearance;
- Long range wireless communication;
- operational stability;
- rich functionality;
- a lot of ports;
Disadvantages
- Sophisticated detailed settings.
ASUS RT-AC66U
Rating: 4.7
Let’s start with an interesting model from the well-known and reputable Taiwanese manufacturer ASUS.
Router covers all current wireless standards and both bands in use – 2.4 and 5 GHz. At the same time, it can operate in two bands simultaneously. Implemented MIMO support. Wireless connection speed up to 1750 Mbps.
Equipped with RAM – 256 MB, there is also a flash memory of 128 MB. Switch includes four high-speed LAN-ports of 1000 Mbps. There are two USB 2 connectors.0 Type A for the connection of peripherals or direct connection to a computer. Three external antennas (removable) are installed. In addition to wired Internet, you can connect a 3G modem or LTE-modem to the router. The dimensions of the device body – 207x36x149 mm, total weight – 450 g.
The router can also work in bridge or repeater mode, set up a guest network. Standard set of functions and tools includes FireWall, NAT, SPI, DHCP-server, DMZ, VPN, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec. Dynamic DNS and WDS are supported. WEP, WPA and WPA2 data encryption. Advanced features include file server, UPnP AV server and FTP server.
Advantages
- Simultaneous operation in two bands;
- user-friendly admin;
- advanced functions;
- The ability to connect a 3G or LTE modem;
- High-speed LAN ports;
Disadvantages
- noticeable instances of hiccups.
TP-
- NK Archer MR400 V2
Rating: 4.7
Now within the framework of Expertology rating, let us have a look at another router that has impressed many users with its great features and other positive qualities. Manufactured by ZYXEL, a renowned and reputable company.
Like the previous model, this router works by all wi-fi standards, including the ability to function simultaneously in both ranges. Can connect up to 1267 Mbps over the air. Supports
MIMO technology.The router comes with 256MB RAM and 128MB embedded flash memory. Four high-speed gigabit ports. There are two USB sockets – 2.0 i 3.0. Installed four 5 dBi fixed antennas. Cellular 3G or LTE modem can be connected to the router as a source of Internet. The important advantage of this model is the combined SFP\RJ-45 port, through which you can connect a fiber-optic cable. There are two hardware buttons on the body for which you can assign any function. The device dimensions – 214x33x154 mm, weight – 488 g.
As for the software and functional part, the capabilities of this model are as wide as of the previous one. It has a built-in print server, data encryption for all common protocols, firewall protection, comprehensive VPN support with ten tunnels, direct Telnet access for fine-tuning, and much more. An important extra feature is the ability to connect external modules to extend the functionality, for example Keenetic Plus DSL.
Advantages
- simple settings;
- futuristic design
- Hardware customizable buttons;
- port for connecting a fiber optic cable;
- the ability to connect additional modules;
- broad functionality;
Disadvantages
- No major drawbacks identified.
ASUS RT-AX56U
Rating: 4.7
This router of the famous brand ASUS is an extension of the popular 56th series of communication devices of this brand. It belongs to the mid-price segment, and therefore enjoys well-deserved popularity. It is based on the platform
In some characteristics it is not inferior to much more expensive variants of the top segment.That said, when buying a router, please pay close attention to the series, as there is a very similar model by name – ASUS RT-AC56U, but they have very little in common not in favor of AC56U.
So, this model is already oriented to the type of connection to the Internet via USB on Type A socket. There are two different generations of connectors dedicated to this – 2.0 i 3.2 Gen 1. Internet connection speed limit – 1775 Mbps.
For wi-fi, the device works in two bands 2.4 / 5 GHz in simultaneous mode. Among other things, this model is also very “advanced” in terms of the latest technological ideas. So, here is supported Wi-Fi sixth generation 802.11ax.
router allows you to connect several devices and manage them remotely. This “few” can number in the dozens, it all depends on the needs of the user. The only thing more precise – for stable work it is necessary to set up QoS in that case, otherwise, if one device starts to download something actively (for example, an automatic update on your computer), it will take over the whole channel and the router can even hang up.
Users especially appreciate this model for its ability to work for a long time without malfunctioning or needing any intervention. That is, the “set it and forget it” principle. As a hub, this router also works great, providing the user with 4 Gigabit network ports with standard RJ-45 connectors.
Advantages of
- Two USB connection ports on Type A – 3 sockets.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0;
- Dual band wi-fi;
- Good coverage in the 5GHz band;
- 4 Gigabit network ports;
- Compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax);
- quick and easy setup
- you can remotely control all the devices connected to the router;
- uninterrupted operation.
Disadvantages
- Interface imperfections, such as the frequent need to reboot when changing settings.
Keenetic Viva (KN-1910)
Rating: 4.6
Another representative of the brand that separated from the main Zyxel. This is Keenetic with an interesting and very popular in Russia router Viva (KN-1910). It’s interesting because for a reasonable price it offers an unexpectedly wide and useful functionality.
It is a dual band wi-fi router. You can be connected to Internet in two ways – via external modem inserted into one of regular USB 2 ports.0 Type A, or via wired network and RJ-45 connector. The maximum speed of the Internet connection is not too high in the “refined” form – 867 Mbit / s, but it is more than enough for absolutely the vast majority of users in 2021.
All four antennas with 5 dBi gain are brought outdoors and MIM is also supported. Fixed antennas are not removable. Fast work both the Internet itself, and the control interface, provided by a powerful dual-core processor MT7621A with a frequency of 880 MHz and an impressive, as for this kind of device capacity of RAM – 128 MB.
The device gives the user the ability to flexibly control modes and include all sorts of useful features. For example, it supports Yandex.DNS, a built-in print server, support for up to 10 VPN tunnels; easy to switch to bridge or repeater mode, and much more.
The router has 4 LAN ports to act as a hub, and they are all Gigabit ports.
Users most of all appreciate this model for its signal strength (all four antennas of both bands are outputted outside), easy setup, wide functionality, and the possibility of easy remote control.
From a verified Yandex customer review.Market with the status of “Level 11 Gadget Inspector:” Manageability via the cloud, control devices, Internet access (lock and unlock access for children to do their homework), timely detection of new network clients, setting policies for them. All in all, if you have confidence in the Keenetic ecosytem cloud, this is your choice.”.
Advantages
- Relatively wide functionality in general;
- Dual band wi-fi;
- Two types of connection to the Internet;
- Remote network setup and management via a mobile app;
- easy switching to bridge or repeater mode;
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports;
- built-in print server;
- strong signal.
Disadvantages
- Narrowly tailored comments from individual buyers.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3G
Rating: 4.6
And to complete the group ranking the best wi-fi routers, we will consider a model from the famous Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi. This is one of the brightest solutions in this review group from Expertology, as the functionality, quality and a number of other positive qualities greatly outweigh the already affordable cost.
Similar to a number of previous models, the router works on all wi-fi standards and on both frequencies, can simultaneously distribute internet in two bands. Due to this coverage there is no effect of speed degradation when interacting with devices containing wi-fi modules of different generations. Connects over the air at speeds up to 1167 Mbps. Built-in support for MIMO.
In terms of electronic performance this is almost the most powerful model in the group. The center of calculations is a dual-core (MIPS) microprocessor platform MediaTek MT7621, running in four threads at 880 MHz. RAM-memory – 256 MB, built-in constant memory – 128 MB.
Switch has two high-speed gigabit LAN ports. The USB Type A interface of standard 3 is used for connection of peripherals.0. The signal comes through four fixed antennas. The device is extremely compact and lightweight, as for such capabilities: dimensions – 195x24x131mm, weight – 216g.
The software of this model is the same as of the previous ones. All necessary functions and tools are available here: FireWall, NAT packet redirection, encryption using three main protocols, DHCP-server, etc. There are also additional functions – FTP-server and file server. An important benefit is worth mentioning – the signal strength can be adjusted for each channel separately. In addition to the device itself there is a multifunctional mobile application for configuration and management.
The only noticeable (but solvable) disadvantage of this model is that in its pure form “out of the box” you get the web interface only in Chinese. But the problem can be solved quite easily by installing alternative firmware, especially as the router was originally adapted for the expansion of software functionality.
Advantages
- transmitter power;
- exquisite slim design;
- Extremely affordable price considering the functionality;
- you can adjust the signal strength for each channel;
- availability of firmware;
- the quality of communication;
- processor performance;
Disadvantages
- Chinese firmware.
The Best Wi-Fi routers of the Top Level
Now turn to the no less interesting group in our rating – top-level Wi-Fi routers, characterized by the highest performance, advanced functionality, the presence of useful additional functions and in general a higher quality and stability. Our experts have identified four models of different brands – NETGEAR, ASUS, TP-
- NK and Apple.
Apple Time Caps
- e 2Tb ME177
Rating: 4.9
The next router in our review is positioned as a gaming one. This is evidenced by everything in this case – its characteristics, angular aggressive design and not at all “ordinary” cost.
Given the high demands that modern games set for any hardware, here the key indicators are really on the top level and meet the highest modern standards. For example, the router supports the latest standard of wireless Wi-Fi connection – the sixth generation 802.11ax. This is a great asset for the future, when this standard will be firmly embedded in everyday life.
A definite advantage – the wireless communication is top-notch, at all levels. For example, with the 4×4 antenna configuration, 160 MHz wide channels, and 1024-QAM quadrature modulation, the overall data transfer rate over the internal Wi-Fi network here is a record 6000 Mbps. Of course, a router of this premium level is a dual-band router with 2.4/5 GHz. And that speed is distributed as follows: 1148 Mbps in band 2.4 GHz, and 4804 Mbps is 5 GHz.
The router also commands respect from the interfaces. It has eight LAN-ports with Gigabit speed each. And that’s important for gameplay too, when you’re not sure or able to connect wirelessly.
The source of external Internet connection in this router is an external modem. Connected via high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 1 on Type A jack. There are two such ports. In addition, there is an additional, ninth LAN-port with RJ-45 connector, which can be used as an alternative or primary connection to the Internet source.
From Yandex user review.Market with the status of “Level 2 Gadget Inspector”: “excellent build quality, stable Wi-Fi, 4-core processor, support for Wi-Fi 6 standard (802.11ax), fast operation with external USB 3.0 drives, 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.”.
Advantages
- Effective and extremely high quality antenna configuration;
- wide communication channels;
- exceptionally high data transfer speeds over the internal network;
- Wi-Fi 6 standard support (802.11ax);
- 8 Gigabit network LAN ports;
- impressive design.
Disadvantages
- Minor irregular user comments.
Keenetic
- KN-1810
Rating: 4.8
Another top level ASUS router in our review is actually a “close relative” of the above mentioned ASUS RT-AX88U, but in fact it differs from it greatly. Namely, it is much simpler and the features are not as extensive. An optimal choice for those who don’t need too much functionality, but more importantly stability and reliability.
This dual-band router uses an external modem with 4G LTE support connected via USB as its Internet source. The ports arrangement is the same as for RT-AX88U: USB 2 port and USB 2 port.0 Type A and USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A. And exactly the same 4 Gigabit LAN-ports for connecting devices via wired connection. One additional LAN-port – external, it can be used as an additional or main connection of the router to the Internet.
Despite some simplifications, the already existing technology in this model is implemented to the highest standard. So, even in the range of 2.4 GHz technology
TurboQAM offers impressive data throughput of up to 600Mbps with compatible network equipment.Maximum speed of the Internet connection – 1900 Mbps. Actually, the wi-fi itself is distributed through three external antennas. The device can also operate in bridge or repeater mode.
The vendor puts a lot of emphasis on information security in this router. For example, here is implemented the advanced system of information security AiProtection, which is based on another effective technology
end Micro. Some users may appreciate the additional functionality of the router, such as support for IPTV, a built-in print-server, the ability to build a router into a peer-to-peer network using Mesh Wi-Fi.
From Yandex user review.Market with the status of “Level 4 Gadget Inspector”: “2 ranges. High wifi speed (especially at 5 GHz, t.k. the band is not yet clogged with neighbors). Supported by third-party firmware. Gigabit ports. Dual core ARM. Lots of memory (at least for my tasks). Cute.
Advantages
- stability, reliability and reliability;
- 4 Gigabit LAN-ports;
- Two USB ports to connect external modems;
- IPTV support;
- Removable external antennas;
- The possibility to work as a mote or repeater;
- Mesh Wi-Fi support;
- Many additional useful services.
Disadvantages
- There is a certain percentage of comments about the strong heat.
Best mobile (handheld) Wi-Fi routers
And now moving on to the final group of devices in our ranking – these are miniature routers, which are convenient to use in conditions of frequent travel or even directly on the road.
Huawei E5577
Rating: 4.7
Consider first of all an interesting mobile router produced by the Chinese company Huawei, well known for its high quality and inexpensive telecommunications equipment. Dimensions of the device – 97x17x58 mm, weight – 110 g.
Router is optimized to receive and distribute the Internet via the SIM-card of the mobile operator with 4G technology, but also supports 3G. Wireless connectivity (sharing) is done via Wi-Fi standard 802.11n on two frequencies used in the technology. Connection to local devices over the air can be made at speeds up to 300 Mbps.
Actual receive/transmit speeds are as follows. Reception speed limit for 3G – 42.2 Mbps, for 4G – up to 150 Mbps. The upload speed limit for 3G is 5.76 Mbps, for 4G it’s 50 Mbps.
The hardware of the router is characterized by very impressive characteristics, which in some places are not inferior to desktop models. Thus, the RAM-memory is set here as much as 128 MB and the same amount of built-in memory. More memory can be added at the expense of the microSD card – the router can act as a file server. Built-in 1500 mAh battery provides up to six hours of battery life. There are two TS-9 sockets on the body for connecting external antennas.
Router can also function as a repeater, has a built-in DHCP server function, provides encryption for three major protocols.
This model is covered by a 36-month manufacturer’s warranty.
Advantages
- compactness;
- Can be configured to receive only 3G;
- Power from the mains during operation;
- user-friendly web interface;
- autonomy;
Disadvantages
- The discrepancy between the claimed connection speed and the actual speed.
Alcatel
- nk Zone
Rating: 4.6
And to conclude this group rating, and in general the review of the best Wi-Fi routers from Expertology, we will consider another model manufactured by Huawei. This is quite a tiny device, it measures 30x14x94 mm and weighs 40 g.
Model is optimized to receive the Internet in mobile LTE networks, but also supports 3G, EDGE, GPRS, GSM and HSPA+. In fact, this device is a modem with built-in function of distributing Internet via Wi-Fi.
Connects to your computer via USB, the power is also via USB. There is a jack for connecting the external antenna. Modem router capabilities allow you to connect up to ten devices simultaneously via the air. There is a slot for a microSD card up to 32 GB.
The actual speed characteristics are as follows. The speed limit for receiving – 42.7 Mbps for 3g, 150 Mbps for LTE, 236.8 Kbps for 2g. Upload speed limit – 5.72mbps for 3g and 50mbps for LTE.
Advantages
- microscopic size;
- Wide support for networks from 2g to LTE;
- easy to use;
Disadvantages
- limited functionality.
This model also has a separate mobile app, which allows you to configure the router directly from your smartphone without the need to connect to a computer.