Routers
Budget-friendly and high-performance Wi-Fi routers known for reliability, firmware support, and longevity.
Last updated: 2/1/2025
TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750
Why It's BuyWhoa:
An inexpensive, tried-and-true router that performs as well as models twice its price (Wirecutter's Best Deals of the Week - Forbes Vetted). It's easy to set up, handles dozens of devices with its stable dual-band Wi-Fi, and even supports OpenWRT/DD-WRT firmware for tinkerers. A top budget pick that "you don't have to spend $200" to get (Wirecutter's Best Deals of the Week - Forbes Vetted).
Linksys WRT3200ACM Open Source Ready
Why It's BuyWhoa:
Built for power users, this router "lives up to the WRT54G legacy" with solid Wi-Fi performance and open-source firmware support ([Linksys WRT3200ACM Review (Page 5 of 5)
ASUS RT-AX3000 AX58U Wi-Fi 6 Router
Why It's BuyWhoa:
Known for rock-solid reliability and long-term support. Asus provides frequent firmware updates (plus compatibility with ASUSWRT-Merlin custom firmware) ([Asus RT-AX86U Gaming Router Review: Compact but Pricey
ASUS RT-AX86U AX5700 Gaming Router
Why It's BuyWhoa:
A high-performance router built to last – its hardware and firmware are top-notch, and you can even run Asus's Merlin firmware for enhanced stability and features ([Asus RT-AX86U Gaming Router Review: Compact but Pricey
| Product | Price | Why It's BuyWhoa | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
TP-Link Archer A7 AC1750 | $$$50 | An inexpensive, tried-and-true router that performs as well as models twice its price (Wirecutter's Best Deals of the Week - Forbes Vetted). It's easy to set up, handles dozens of devices with its stable dual-band Wi-Fi, and even supports OpenWRT/DD-WRT firmware for tinkerers. A top budget pick that "you don't have to spend $200" to get (Wirecutter's Best Deals of the Week - Forbes Vetted). | Shop |
Linksys WRT3200ACM Open Source Ready | $$$$$200 | Built for power users, this router "lives up to the WRT54G legacy" with solid Wi-Fi performance and open-source firmware support ([Linksys WRT3200ACM Review (Page 5 of 5) | Shop |
ASUS RT-AX3000 AX58U Wi-Fi 6 Router | $$$$$130 | Known for rock-solid reliability and long-term support. Asus provides frequent firmware updates (plus compatibility with ASUSWRT-Merlin custom firmware) ([Asus RT-AX86U Gaming Router Review: Compact but Pricey | Shop |
ASUS RT-AX86U AX5700 Gaming Router | $$$$$250 | A high-performance router built to last – its hardware and firmware are top-notch, and you can even run Asus's Merlin firmware for enhanced stability and features ([Asus RT-AX86U Gaming Router Review: Compact but Pricey | Shop |