The need for quality internet has become more vital than ever before. During this period of remote working, you simply cannot go without the internet even for an hour. This calls for a reliable router setup.
Having a quality router ensures fast and consistent internet speeds. The router you choose should be powerful enough to handle numerous devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, computers, home security systems, etc. For a seamless experience, you need a router with an 802.11ac protocol that allows for lag-free HD streaming, web conferencing, online gaming, and more.
Buying a quality router doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. Luckily for you, there are many good options available for routers under $100. In a world where technologies keep advancing, it will be a smart move to invest in a cheaper yet reliable router. This way you can upgrade it whenever you want without feeling the pocket pinch.
We know finding the best wireless routers under 100 can be hectic. This is why we have done the heavy lifting for you. Instead of browsing through numerous products, you can simply pick a router of your choice from the list below.
Best Routers Under $100
Here we have reviewed ten of the Best Routers Under 100 for you. All the options listed below are under $100. Go through the details and pick the one that you think is most appropriate for you.
#1. NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router, R6700: Best Overall
- Recommended for up to 25 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect...
- Wired Ethernet ports: Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired...
- Loaded with advanced technology: Designed with a 1GHz dual core processor, 3 amplified antennas,...
If you are looking for better WiFi coverage within $100, you have Netgear Nighthawk R6700. It provides up to 1,500 sq. ft of powerful WiFi coverage throughout your home. Coming from a reputable brand like Netgear, it is one of the Best Routers Under $100 you will find within this price range.
Nighthawk R6700 enables you to upgrade your router setup without breaking the bank. It comes with dual-band streaming and advanced range-boosting Beamforming+ antennas to deliver fast, reliable WiFi coverage to every corner of your home.
It delivers speeds up to 1750Mbps which is perfect for HD streaming, online gaming, and other demanding online activities. It is equipped with a dual-core 1GHz processor that helps boost both wireless and wired performance.
External antennas and high-powered amplifiers ensure strong WiFi signals for whole-home mobility. On the other hand, Beamforming+ technology boosts speed for all your devices.
Nighthawk R6700 can connect up to 25 devices. It smartly selects between dual bands to increase speed and reduce interference. For protection, it includes NETGEAR Armor, powered by BitDefender. This ensures complete protection for all your devices from malware, data theft, and viruses.
Another great feature is the Circle App which allows you to manage internet access and device screen time. With the help of the app, you can set usage limits, and filter websites, and device schedules. It also offers a quick and easy setup with the Nighthawk App. All you have to do is connect your Ethernet cable to the router and follow the steps prompted by the app.
PROS
- Includes 3 amplified antennas.
- Can connect up to 25 devices.
- Provides Netgear Armor protection powered by BitDefender.
- Easy setup with the Nighthawk app.
- Built for serious streaming.
CONS
- Includes only a one-gigabit port.
#2. Medialink AC1200 Wireless Gigabit Router: Best For Large Home
- 10X’S THE SPEED: Most routers in this price range have only “Fast Ethernet” ports that max out...
- RANGE: Beamforming and 2 high powered antennas work together to cover larger homes by focusing the...
- SAFE: Robust firewall and wireless security keeps out unwanted visitors while Guest Network access...
Next up, we have Medialink AC1200 Wireless Gigabit Router which is perfect for users with large homes. Equipped with dual-band technology, it provides seamless WiFi coverage starting from your living room to the backyard. You can also extend existing WiFi signals using the router’s universal range extender mode.
Medialink AC1200 is a powerful router that makes sharing across networks easier. For a router within price range, it has many great features which make it a better choice among other options.
It supports the latest security features to ensure full protection for all your devices. It enables you to browse the internet without any worries. In addition, it allows admins and parents to manage internet filtering and control bandwidth for devices.
With this router, you can enjoy 10 x speeds, which is faster than many other routers within range. It also has multiple gigabit ports for a lag-free 4K video streaming and online gaming experience.
Other notable features include two high-powered antennas and Beamforming technology. These two features work together to provide strong wireless signals directly to your device. It has a robust firewall to keep out unwanted visitors, while the guest network creates a separate connection for your guests.
Last but not least, it has a special feature called universal range extender mode that helps you to expand the range of your router. By using this mode, you can cover larger areas and connect all your devices to the same network.
PROS
- Has multiple gigabit ports.
- Equipped with Beamforming technology.
- Universal range extender mode to cover larger areas.
- Includes the latest security options.
- Comes with parental controls.
CONS
- Sometimes it drops the connection.
#3. TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7): Best In Budget
- OneMesh Compatible Router- Form a seamless WiFi when work with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi...
- Router for wireless internet, works with Alexa, compatible with all Wi-Fi devices, 802.11ac and...
- Dual band router upgrades to 1750 Mbps high speed internet(450mbps for 2.4GHz, 1300Mbps for 5GHz),...
TP-Link is a brand that needs no introduction. If you want a cheaper router that can cover a large area, then TP-Link Archer A7 could be the best choice for you. It provides an exceptional coverage area of up to 2,500 sq. ft.
Archer A7 is built for speed. With the help of this router, you can enjoy a seamless internet connection throughout your home. It has strong amplifiers and three high-gain antennas to connect every device without hassles.
Unlike other cheap routers, Archer A7 can easily handle the demands of devices in your home. It is equipped with a powerful CPU for high-speed processing. It is also backed by premium hardware with bandwidth prioritization.
It provides 3 x speeds to ensure a smooth browsing experience. You can use this router for uninterrupted web calling, 4K streaming, online gaming, and more without disruptions.
Advanced WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption, guest access, and parental controls help you to keep your devices safe from cyber threats.
Unlike other routers, Archer A7 doesn’t take a lot of time to be installed. It offers an easy setup and management. With the help of the Tether App, you can complete the setup process in a few minutes. In addition, it can be voice-controlled using Alexa.
PROS
- It is a dual-band router.
- Includes 3 external antennas.
- Equipped with 4 gigabit LAN ports.
- Can be used as a gaming router.
- Tether app for remote control.
CONS
- Doesn’t provide consistent speed.
#4. D-Link Wi-Fi Router AC1750: Best For Streaming
- AC1750 WiFi Speeds with MU-MIMO - Stream your favorite movies or play games with your friends. The...
- D-Link WiFi Mesh - Expand your coverage from the bedroom to the kitchen and even the backyard....
- More Processing Power - A powerful dual-core processor sits at the heart of your router,...
D-Link AC1750 is packed with many great features to give you a seamless internet connection throughout your home. To start with, it is equipped with MU-MIMO technology for faster speeds. Once you install this router, you no longer have to struggle for catching strong WiFi signals.
The AC1750 router is ideal for streaming. It provides good enough speed to support uninterrupted, high-quality video streaming. It also offers plenty of bandwidth along with smart connections for a buffer-free online experience.
With D-Link WiFi Mesh you can easily extend your WiFi coverage from your bedroom to the backyard. It is also easy to mix and match with compatible D-Link extenders to create your customized mesh network.
It is equipped with a powerful dual-core processor that accelerates every application and thread with strong performance throughout your network. On the other hand, AC Smartbeam allows you to seamlessly stream movies, surf the web, play games, and voice chat with friends.
You might also like this unit because of the four high-level external antennas that enable you to catch stronger WiFi signals. With the help of this unit, you can also enjoy a reliable wired connection on four of your devices at the same time. Compared to other routers, it is easy to install and manage. The setup process is made easier with the D-Link WiFi App.
PROS
- Provides both wired and wireless connections.
- Has four external antennas.
- Setup can be done with the D-Link Wi-Fi App.
- Great for video streaming.
- Powerful performance.
CONS
- Reboots automatically.
#5. Amazon Eero mesh Wi-Fi router: Best Amazon Choice
- FAST STANDALONE ROUTER - The eero mesh WiFi router brings up to 1,500 sq. ft. of fast, reliable WiFi...
- WORKS WITH ALEXA- With eero and an Alexa device (not included), you can easily manage wifi access...
- EASILY EXPAND YOUR SYSTEM - With cross-compatible hardware, you can add eero products as your needs...
Next in the line, we have an Amazon’s Choice unit called Amazon Eero Mesh WiFi Router. With this amazing device, you can now say goodbye to buffering and dead spots forever. To enjoy a quality internet connection, you can consider getting this unit.
It provides a seamless connection, so you can enjoy surfing the web without disturbance. It also supports HD streaming and online gaming. This standalone router has a coverage area of up to 1,500 sq. ft. which is good enough for home networks.
With Eero, you can control it with Alexa. This will help you to conveniently manage all your Wi-Fi devices at home. With cross-compatible hardware, you can include more Eero products as your needs change. With TrueMesh technology, it intelligently directs traffic to avoid drop-offs, congestion, and buffering.
The Eero app enables you to complete the setup in less than 10 minutes. With the help of this app, you can manage your home network from anywhere. It receives automatic updates to keep your network safe and secure. It provides security tools that threat scans, ad-blocking, and content warnings.
PROS
- High-level security features.
- Can be controlled with the Eero app.
- Works with Alexa.
- Equipped with True-Mesh technology.
- Easy to set up.
CONS
- Doesn’t provide consistent speed.
#6. TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System (Deco M3): Best For Long-Range Coverage
- Better than traditional WiFi Booster: TP-Link mesh technology allows Deco units to form a single...
- Long Range Coverage: Deco uses a system of units to achieve seamless whole home WiFi coverage up to...
- Dual Band WiFi Mesh Network System: Fast AC1200 Dual Band WiFi makes the deco capable of providing...
We have another TP-Link unit on the list. This is a mesh WiFi system that is built for high customer satisfaction. Deco M3 is a powerful unit that provides a seamless wireless connection throughout your home.
If you want a router for long-range coverage, don’t hesitate to check out Deco M3. It has all the necessary features that are found in a high-end unit. With Deco M3, you can enjoy a coverage area of up to 4,500 sq. ft. It eliminates all WiFi dead zones, so you can access the internet from any corner of your home.
It is equipped with TP-Link mesh technology which makes it an ideal choice for users. It enables the unit to create a single mesh network and optimize traffic. This ensures top connection speed to all the connected devices.
This is a dual-band WiFi mesh router that is capable of providing high internet speed and lag-free connections for several devices. It features an ergonomic plug-in design that helps you to enjoy smooth streaming and browsing throughout your home.
It includes robust parental control options that help you to limit online time for kids. Not only that, but it also helps you to block inappropriate content. You can create separate profiles for each family member as well.
The Deco app makes the setup process easier. It walks you through every step so you don’t need to spend hours figuring it out.
PROS
- Provides a coverage area of 4500 sq. ft.
- Easy setup process.
- Durable construction.
- Convenient plug-in design.
- 2-year limited warranty.
CONS
- Security options could have been better.
#7. TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A9): Best Affordable
- Wave 2 Wireless Internet Router, 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band, Works...
- MU-MIMO Gigabit Router, Three simultaneous data streams help your devices achieve optimal...
- Boosted Wi-Fi Coverage, Beamforming technology delivers a highly efficient wireless connection, Long...
No, we are not promoting TP-Link routers. It’s just that we can’t get enough of TP-Link units as they pack both affordability and performance. Archer A9 is one of the best routers created by the brand. It is an ideal choice for users who are looking for the Best Routers Under $100 for gaming.
It combines advanced MU-MIMO options and extreme 11ac WiFi speeds to provide an exceptional browsing and gaming experience.
With a dual-band WiFi system, you can connect to more devices at once. It is capable of handling multiple devices without affecting the speed.
It is also equipped with 3 external antennas and Beamforming technology to concentrate WiFi signals directly to your devices. Another feature worth mentioning is Smart Connect which automatically optimizes your device’s connection by selecting the fastest available WiFi band.
You can also connect it to older devices. It has a special feature called Airtime Fairness that prevents older devices from slowing down. In terms of security, it has effective features like parental controls, a VPN server, and access control.
Many users like this unit because it comes with an easy setup process. Using the Tether app you cannot only complete the setup process quickly but also manage the router remotely.
PROS
- It works with Alexa.
- Provides easy setup and management.
- It has Smart Connect technology.
- Includes a VPN server.
- Equipped with MIMO technology.
CONS
- The design is not impressive.
Buying Guide For The Best Router Under $100
Picking the best WiFi router under 100 can be easy if you consider the key factors. To help you out, we have explained all the important considerations in the buying guide below.
1. Speed
The first important thing is speed. If you want to connect a couple of devices, a router with a rating of 900 would be good. But if you have more than a few devices, you should opt for a higher rating.
Most modern routers offer a speed range of 300 Mbps to 1200 Mbps. You will also find routers with higher speeds, which are needed to support demanding online activities.
2. Band
The next important thing is the band. To enjoy quality internet, you should opt for a dual-band router. These routers have two bands 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. While the first band is good for longer distances, the latter is great for high speed. You need both for improved usability.
Dual-band routers are advantageous because they give you the flexibility to move around in your home without losing connectivity or speed. It offers the same speed in every corner of your home.
3. Type of LAN Port
Before getting a router, you must also check the type of LAN ports it has. While Ethernet ports support 100 Mbps, gigabit ports support 1000 Mbps.
If you want high-speed wired connections for 4k streaming or online gaming, you should pick a router with multiple gigabit ports. But if you are getting the router for basic browsing, you are good with Ethernet ports.
4. Coverage Area
Considering the coverage area also matters when you are buying a router for your home network. The range of a router determines the total area it can cover.
You should decide on the range of a router depending on the size of your home or office. The router you are buying should be able to cover the desired area. To get the best experience, you should get a unit with extended coverage.
5. Smart Features
With the advancement of WiFi technology, most gadgets are designed with smart features. A good router will have various smart features like mobile app control, voice control, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and others.
Some routers also have adjustable or detachable antennas that help you to get a better WiFi signal. When getting a router, you should check the smart features it has.
6. Security Features
There’s always some risk involved when you connect your devices to the internet. There are malware, viruses, hackers, and various other cyber threats. This is why you need a router with high-level security features.
Some of the important security features to look for in a router are parental controls, guest network access, WAP/WAP2 encryption, and a firewall. You should get the router only if you are satisfied with its security features.
7. Mesh Support
Mesh routers are the best when it comes to eliminating dead zones. Instead of delivering WiFi signals just from one point, mesh routers offer multiple access points.
In a mesh router system, one point acts as a router and connects to a modem, while other access points catch WiFi signals. These are called satellites.
8. Warranty
Last but not least; you should also check the warranty period of the router. A product warranty makes your purchase safer. It ensures that if the device malfunctions, then you can get it repaired or replaced for free. This is why you should look for routers with a longer warranty duration.
Most brands offer a warranty period of 1-year. However, you will also find brands that give warranty coverage for up to 2 years.
Can All WiFi Standards Routers Communicate?
Two devices with the same WiFi standard can easily communicate with each other without restriction. But the problem arises when you try to hook two incompatible devices.
- Today’s routers and devices using the 802.11ac protocol can communicate happily.
- Devices with 802.11b, n, and g can communicate with an AC router.
- 11b cannot communicate with a and b.
- The original 802.11 has become obsolete, while the a and b standards are close to expiration.
Latest WiFi Standards
WiFi 6 is the latest standard in wireless connectivity technology. However, it is yet to arrive in the market. But tech makers are already building devices compatible with WiFi 6. In other words, they are future-proofing their products.
It’s just a matter of time before WiFi 6 is launched. And once it does, you will already have devices that work with it.
It is needless to say the WiFi 6 will be better than all the previous standards known to use. It is developed to make our tech lives faster and better. The main objective of WiFi 6 is to increase the reliability and performance of wireless connectivity at a network level.
WiFi 6 is designed to handle streaming on multiple gadgets at once. It’s a WiFi standard for a world crowded with IoT devices, mobile gadgets, and other equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does the router affect your internet speed?
Ans: Your router will affect your internet speed only if you are using WiFi. A router is an important network component because it permits data movement between other networks and your devices. A good router will provide you with the best Internet speed; while a slower one will give you longer load times.
Q2. What is the best place to set up a router?
Ans: The best place to set up your router is in a central location in your home. But at the same time, you need to make sure that it is not getting obstructed by walls or furniture. Placing your router in an unobstructed location will help you to enjoy a better WiFi signal and coverage. Also, you are less likely to have connection issues.
Q3. Is it OK to place your router near a TV?
Ans: You shouldn’t place your router near a TV because it can affect your wireless performance. You should also keep your router away from game consoles and other appliances like a DVD player. Those may cut down your wireless signal.
Q4. What should you look for in a router?
Ans: When buying a router you should consider its speed and compatibility. You need to make sure that the router you are getting is compatible with your ISP.
Q5. Why do routers need antennas?
Ans: Antennas send out radio frequency wireless signals to your devices which help them to communicate with your router. Both your devices and router have antennas that allow them to communicate over radio frequencies.
Final Verdict
After going through all the reviews you must have developed an idea of what you want in your home router device. You can choose any of the reviewed units and get the best WiFi performance throughout your home. All the units mentioned in the list are affordable and within your budget. I hope you find the Best Routers Under $100 for your home.
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