Introducing the 12 Best AC Routers for 2023! In today's fast-paced digital world, having a reliable and high-performing router is essential for seamless internet connectivity. As technology continues to evolve, the demand for faster and more efficient routers is on the rise. That's why we have compiled a list of the 12 best AC routers that are set to dominate the market in 2023. These routers boast advanced features, ultra-fast speeds, and enhanced security to provide you with an exceptional internet experience. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a gamer, or simply someone who values a smooth online connection, our selection of the 12 best AC routers for 2023 will help you make an informed decision and ensure optimal performance for your home or office network.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TRENDnet AC1200 Dual Band WiFi Router is a powerful and reliable router that offers high-speed internet connectivity for both home and business use. With wireless AC and N technology, this router provides fast speeds of up to 867Mbps and 300Mbps respectively. It features a Gigabit WAN port and 4 x 5dBi dual band antennas for increased wireless coverage. The router also comes pre-encrypted for added convenience and supports IPv6 network, LAN/WAN IPv6, and multi-user (MU-MIMO) connectivity. It offers internet bandwidth controls and one-touch connection using the Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) button. The TRENDnet AC1200 Dual Band WiFi Router is a versatile and feature-rich router that provides high-speed internet connectivity and reliable performance.
Key Features
- AC1200: 867Mbps Wireless AC + 300Mbps Wireless N
- 1 x Gigabit WAN port, 3 x 10/100Mbps Ethernet LAN Ports, 4 x 5d Bi Dual Band Antennas
- Pre-encrypted wireless networks
- Extended wireless coverage with 4 x 5d Bi external antennas
- Internet bandwidth controls
- One-touch connection using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) button
- LAN/WAN IPv6 support
- Multi-user (MU-MIMO) support
- NDAA compliant (U.S. and Canada only)
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.40Lx6.10Wx1.18H
- Size: AC1200
Pros
- High-speed wireless connectivity
- Versatile device interface
- Convenient pre-encrypted networks
- Extended wireless coverage
- Customizable internet bandwidth controls
- Easy one-touch connection
- Supports IPv6 network
- Allows multiple users to access router functions simultaneously
- NDAA compliant (U.S. and Canada only)
Cons
- Unreliable router that reboots when new devices connect
- Based on an outdated version of openwrt
- Limited configuration options for dual-WAN setup
- Range issues with Wi-Fi 5-2
- No option for DFS and LAG
- Software errors and infrequent updates
The TRENDnet AC1200 Dual Band WiFi Router is a feature-rich router that offers fast and reliable internet connectivity. It provides high-speed wireless AC and N technology, extended coverage with external antennas, and customizable internet bandwidth controls. However, some users have reported issues with the router rebooting when new devices connect, and there are limitations in configuration options for dual-WAN setup. Additionally, the range for Wi-Fi 5-2 is subpar, and there are no options for DFS and LAG. Despite these drawbacks, the TRENDnet AC1200 Dual Band WiFi Router is still a viable choice for users looking for a versatile and affordable router with advanced features.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Keep your GL.iNet GL-AR750 / MV1000 Gigabit Travel AC Router safe during travel with the Aenllosi Hard Carrying Case. Made from durable EVA material, this case provides superior protection against bumps, scratches, and splashes. With an internal mesh pocket, you can conveniently store other accessories. The compact design and lightweight construction make it perfect for travelers. The case is black in color and has an internal dimension of 4.2 x 2.7 x 2 inches. Please note that the case is sold separately and does not include the device or accessories.
Key Features
- Made of supreme quality, durable EVA material
- Crush resistant, anti-shock, and water resistant
- Internal mesh pocket for additional accessory storage
- Compact and lightweight design
- Internal Dimension: 4.2 x 2.7 x 2 inch, External Dimension: 4.5 x 3 x 2.3 inch
- Weighs 100g
- Case only, device and accessories not included
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 5.70L x 4.80W x 2.60H
Pros
- Superior protection for your router
- Convenient storage for accessories
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- Durable and resilient material
- Perfect fit for GL.i Net GL-AR750 / MV1000 router
Cons
- Bulky design may take up more space
- Tight fit makes removal of the router challenging
The Aenllosi Hard Carrying Case is a must-have accessory for GL.iNet GL-AR750 / MV1000 Gigabit Travel AC Router owners who value portability and protection. Its premium EVA material ensures that your router is safeguarded from any potential damage during travel. The case’s internal mesh pocket adds convenience by allowing you to store other necessary accessories. Additionally, its compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for travelers. Although the case may be slightly bulky and have a tight fit, its overall performance and protection make it a worthwhile investment. Protect your valuable router with the Aenllosi Hard Carrying Case and travel with peace of mind.
Overall Score: 8.6/10
The D-Link Wireless AC 1200 Dual Band Router (DIR-822) is a powerful and reliable router that combines high-speed internet connectivity with enhanced Wi-Fi coverage. With fast transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps (2.4GHz) + 867Mbps (5GHz), this router ensures smooth HD streaming and online gaming. It features 4 high-gain antennas and MIMO technology for extended Wi-Fi coverage in and around your home. The router also includes 4 10/100 Fast Ethernet ports for fast wired performance. With optimized QoS and advanced wireless security, the D-Link Wireless AC 1200 Dual Band Router delivers a lag-free online gaming experience and enhanced network security. Setting up the router is easy with the web-based setup wizard, and the Wi-Fi Protected Setup adds an extra layer of security.
Key Features
- Fast transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps (2.4GHz) + 867Mbps (5GHz)
- 4 High-Gain Antennas and MIMO technology for enhanced Wi-Fi coverage
- 4 10/100 Fast Ethernet ports for fast wired performance
- Simultaneous dual band for smoother HD streaming and gaming
- Optimized Qo S provides enhanced lag-free online gaming experience
- Advanced wireless security with WPA2 and dual active NAT/SPI firewalls
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.48Lx5.24Wx1.50H
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds for smooth HD streaming and online gaming
- Enhanced Wi-Fi coverage with high-gain antennas
- Easy setup with web-based setup wizard
- Wi-Fi Protected Setup for added security
Cons
- Some users experienced issues with reliability and frequent loss of Wi-Fi
- 2.4GHz bandwidth may be subpar
The D-Link Wireless AC 1200 Dual Band Router (DIR-822) is a solid choice for those looking for fast and reliable internet connectivity. With its high-gain antennas, it provides enhanced Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. The router is particularly well-suited for streaming HD content and online gaming, thanks to its fast transfer speeds and optimized QoS. While some users have reported reliability issues and subpar performance on the 2.4GHz band, the overall performance and ease of setup make it a worthwhile investment. With advanced wireless security features and a user-friendly interface, the D-Link Wireless AC 1200 Dual Band Router offers a seamless internet experience.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router is a dual band router that offers high speed internet and reduced buffering, making it ideal for 4K streaming. With four gigabit LAN ports, it allows direct connection to wired devices. The router also features boosted coverage with four external antennas and beamforming technology. It supports MU-MIMO technology for high speeds on multiple devices and has advanced security with the latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3. The router is compatible with all internet service providers and can be transformed into a wireless network using AP mode. It also supports TP-Link OneMesh for seamless whole-home coverage. With easy installation and good performance, this router is a great choice for home use.
Key Features
- Dual band router with speeds up to 1200 Mbps
- Full Gigabit Ports for wired connections
- Boosted Coverage with four external antennas and Beamforming technology
- MU-MIMO technology for high speeds on multiple devices
- Supports AP Mode for transforming wired connection to wireless network
- Advanced Security with WPA3 protocol
- TP-Link One Mesh for seamless whole-home coverage
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 8.46Lx4.92Wx1.81H
Pros
- High speed internet for 4K streaming
- Direct connection to wired devices
- Extended and concentrated Wi-Fi signals
- Supports multiple devices simultaneously
- Transforms wired connection into wireless network
- Improved cybersecurity with WPA3 protocol
- Seamless whole-home coverage with One Mesh
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Cons
- May have setup complications
- Occasional connection issues
- May require power off/on to maintain connection
The TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router provides excellent high-speed internet and reliable performance. Its dual band technology and advanced features like MU-MIMO and WPA3 security make it a versatile and secure choice for home use. The router’s boosted coverage and TP-Link OneMesh support ensure seamless whole-home coverage. While setup may be slightly complicated for some users, the router delivers reliable performance and compatibility with all internet service providers. With its reasonable price and multiple features, the TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router offers great value for money and is highly recommended for those in need of a reliable and high-performance router.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) is a dual-band wireless internet router that offers fast and reliable connectivity. With a total speed of up to 1900 Mbps, it ensures smooth 4K streaming without any lag. The router also prioritizes security with six layers of advanced network security, ensuring a safe internet experience. Its AiRadar Beamforming technology extends the coverage area up to 3000 Sq Ft, providing optimized coverage and stability. Additionally, the router supports MU-MIMO technology, allowing multiple devices to connect at their maximum speeds simultaneously. The setup process is effortless, and the ASUS Router App allows for easy management of the router from anywhere. Overall, the ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) offers a powerful and reliable internet connection with advanced features to enhance the user experience.
Key Features
- PCMag Readers’ Choice Router
- Fast Internet Router
- Secure Router For Wireless Internet
- Optimized Coverage With Ai Radar Beamforming
- MU-MIMO For Full Speed On Multiple Devices
- 3-Step Effortless Setup
- Control Your Network Router Anywhere
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.66Lx6.30Wx3.43H
Pros
- Fast and reliable internet connection
- Effortless setup process
- Secure network with advanced security features
- Extended coverage area with beamforming technology
- Supports simultaneous high-speed connections on multiple devices
Cons
- Connectivity issues reported by some users
- Limited availability of customer support during non-business hours
The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) offers excellent performance, providing fast and reliable internet connectivity. With its advanced features, including optimized coverage, secure network, and easy setup, it ensures a seamless user experience. While some users have reported connectivity issues, overall, it is a reliable and powerful router. Its compatibility with the ASUS Router App adds convenience by allowing users to manage and control their network from anywhere. The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality router with advanced features.
Overall Score: 9/10
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is a dual-band gigabit wireless internet router that is perfect for home use. It works with Alexa and is compatible with all Wi-Fi devices. With a high speed of 1750 Mbps, it provides a seamless internet experience, reducing buffering and making it ideal for 4K streaming. The router also features three external antennas for long-range Wi-Fi coverage, four Gigabit LAN ports for fast wired connections, and an integrated USB port that acts as a media server. It comes with the TP-Link tether app, allowing you to easily set up and manage your home network. This router is compatible with all internet service providers and requires a modem for most of them.
Key Features
- One Mesh Compatible Router – Form a seamless Wi Fi with TP-Link One Mesh Wi Fi Extenders
- Dual band router upgrades to 1750 Mbps high-speed internet
- 3 external antennas for long-range Wi-Fi
- Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports
- Integrated USB port acting as a media server
- TP-Link tether app for easy network management
- Works with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.59Lx6.32Wx1.29H
- Size: AC1750
Pros
- Easy to set up and manage with the app
- Provides fast internet speed and reduces buffering
- Long-range Wi-Fi coverage
- Multiple Gigabit LAN ports for wired connections
- USB port for media sharing
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Cons
- May occasionally disconnect Wi-Fi clients
- Limited integration with voice assistants
- Requires periodic restarts for optimal performance
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is an excellent choice for home users in need of a reliable and high-performing router. With its seamless WiFi capabilities, fast internet speeds, and extensive features like parental controls and media sharing, it offers everything you need for a smooth online experience. The router is also highly compatible with various devices and internet service providers, making it a versatile option. While it may have some minor drawbacks like occasional Wi-Fi disconnections and limited voice assistant integration, these do not significantly affect its overall performance. Overall, the TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is a top-notch router that delivers impressive results.
Overall Score: 8/10
Upgrade your home network with the TP-Link Smart WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX10). This router comes equipped with the latest WiFi 6 technology, providing faster and more efficient wireless connections. With its dual-band capability and OneMesh compatibility, you can enjoy seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home. The Archer AX10 supports multiple devices simultaneously, thanks to its OFDMA and MU-MIMO features. It also features beamforming technology, which focuses signal strength to your devices for stronger and more reliable coverage. Additionally, this router is backward compatible with all previous WiFi standards. With its easy setup and excellent app, the Archer AX10 is a top choice for heavy internet users. Get the most out of your internet connection with this powerful and versatile router!
Key Features
- One Mesh Compatible Router
- Wi-Fi 6 Technology
- Next-gen Dual Band router
- Connect more devices than ever before
- Triple-core processing
- More coverage with less interference
- Backward compatible
- Works with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Dimension: 10.24Lx4.96Wx1.30H
Pros
- Seamless Wi Fi coverage with One Mesh compatibility
- Faster and more efficient wireless connections with Wi Fi 6
- Supports multiple devices simultaneously with OFDMA and MU-MIMO
- Strong and reliable coverage with beamforming technology
Cons
- Issues with Intel AX200 card
- Some customers experienced issues with throughput in Wi-Fi 6 mode
The TP-Link Smart WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX10) is a powerful and versatile router that provides faster and more efficient wireless connections. With its advanced features like OneMesh compatibility and beamforming technology, you can enjoy seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home. The router’s easy setup and excellent app make it a top choice for heavy internet users. While some customers have reported issues with certain Wi-Fi 6 configurations, overall, this router delivers excellent performance and reliability. Upgrade your home network with the TP-Link Smart WiFi 6 Router and experience the benefits of the latest WiFi technology!
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link AC4000 Tri-Band WiFi Router (Archer A20) is a powerful wireless internet router perfect for 4K video streaming and gaming. With lightning-fast speeds of 1625 Mbps on both 5 GHz bands and 750 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, you'll experience seamless connectivity. Equipped with a 1.8 GHz 64-bit CPU, three co-processors, and 512 MB of RAM, this router provides exceptional performance for your home network. The MU-MIMO technology allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously without any buffering. The range boost technology ensures extensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Enjoy advanced security features with a free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare, including antivirus, parental controls, and QoS. With 1 WAN and 4 LAN gigabit ports, you'll have maximum wired speeds, and Link Aggregation doubles it to 2 Gbps. Compatible with all internet service providers, this router is a reliable and efficient choice.
Key Features
- Tri Band Wireless Internet Router for 4K video, streaming, and gaming
- 1.8 GHz 64-bit CPU, three co-processors, and 512MB RAM
- MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous device connection
- Range boost technology for wide Wi-Fi coverage
- Advanced security features with TP-Link Home Care
- 1 WAN and 4 LAN gigabit ports with Link Aggregation
Specifications
- Color: AC4000, Tri-Band
- Size: Standard
Pros
- High-speed wireless connectivity
- Powerful CPU for gaming
- Simultaneous device connection
- Wide Wi-Fi coverage
- Advanced security features
- High-speed wired connection
Cons
- Initial setup may take some time
The TP-Link AC4000 Tri-Band WiFi Router (Archer A20) is an impressive router that offers blazing-fast internet speeds, making it perfect for 4K video streaming and gaming. With its powerful CPU and advanced features like MU-MIMO technology and range boost, it ensures seamless connectivity and wide coverage throughout your home. The TP-Link HomeCare provides robust security features, keeping your network and devices safe. The high-speed gigabit ports offer maximum wired speeds, making it a versatile choice for all your internet needs. Although the initial setup might take some time, the overall performance and features of this router make it a worthwhile investment.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21) is a dual-band wireless internet router that offers faster speeds, greater capacity, and reduced network congestion. With Wi-Fi 6 technology and Next-Gen 1.8 Gbps speeds, it provides smoother streaming, gaming, and downloading experiences. The router supports both VPN server and client, making it versatile for secure connections. It also has extensive coverage with beamforming technology and high-gain antennas. The Archer AX21 is certified for humans, ensuring easy setup with Alexa. It is compatible with all major internet service providers and works with Alexa for smart home integration. Overall, it is an affordable and customizable router with intuitive features and great performance.
Key Features
- VPN Server and Client
- Certified for Humans
- Dual-Band Wi Fi 6
- Next-Gen 1.8 Gbps Speeds
- Connect more devices
- Extensive Coverage
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 10.28Lx5.30Wx1.61H
Pros
- Affordable and customizable
- Intuitive setup with Alexa
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- Strong and reliable coverage
- Works with all major ISPs
Cons
- Only one guest network allowed
- Same password for both 2.4 and 5 GHz networks
The TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21) is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and feature-packed router. It offers fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds, extensive coverage, and versatile VPN support. The setup is intuitive, especially with Alexa integration, and it works with all major internet service providers. The only drawbacks are the limitation of having only one guest network and using the same password for both frequency bands. Overall, it provides great value for the price and delivers reliable performance for various home networking needs.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router combines high-speed Wi-Fi 6 technology with advanced features to deliver a more responsive experience for smoother streaming, faster downloads, and lag-free gaming. With its dual band capabilities, expanded Wi-Fi coverage, improved battery life, and improved cooling design, this router is designed to meet the demands of modern users. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa for easy voice control, and offers TP-Link HomeShield for enhanced network and IoT protection. With support for all major internet service providers and a sleek black design, the TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router is a fantastic choice for home networks.
Key Features
- Next-Gen Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Speeds
- A More Responsive Experience with OFDMA
- Expanded Wi-Fi Coverage with Beamforming
- Improved Battery Life with Target Wake Time
- Improved Cooling Design for top speeds
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice control
- TP-Link Home Shield for network and Io T protection
- Works with all major internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 12.99Lx9.45Wx2.87H
Pros
- High-speed Wi-Fi 6 technology
- Expanded Wi-Fi coverage
- Improved battery life
- Improved cooling design
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa
- TP-Link Home Shield for enhanced security
- Works with all major internet service providers
Cons
- Some users experienced reliability issues with previous models
The TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router is a powerful and versatile router that delivers excellent Wi-Fi speeds, expanded coverage, and improved performance. With its advanced features such as OFDMA, Beamforming, and Target Wake Time, it offers a more responsive experience for gaming, streaming, and downloading. The improved cooling design ensures that the router maintains top speeds even in demanding environments. The compatibility with Amazon Alexa allows for convenient voice control, while the TP-Link HomeShield provides enhanced network and IoT protection. Although some users have reported reliability issues with previous models, the overall performance and features of the TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router make it a great choice for home networks.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The D-Link WiFi Router AC1200 is a high-power, gigabit ethernet dual band mesh wireless internet router designed for home gaming and parental control. It offers AC1200 dual-band speeds, high-power amplifiers for wider coverage, mesh smart roaming, and MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices. The router also features a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port and 4x Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for wired connections, as well as profile-based parental controls for easy management of kids' online activities. With dimensions of 5.39Lx8.07Wx1.81H, it is compact and suitable for various spaces. Overall, the D-Link WiFi Router AC1200 provides a reliable and efficient wireless networking solution with advanced features for home users.
Key Features
- AC1200 dual-band speeds
- High-power amplifiers for wider coverage
- Mesh Smart Roaming
- MU-MIMO technology
- Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
- 4x Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
- Profile-based parental controls
Specifications
- Dimension: 5.39Lx8.07Wx1.81H
Pros
- Wide coverage
- Easy setup
- Parental control features
Cons
- Issues with 2G/5G auto-routing
- Short lifespan for some users
The D-Link WiFi Router AC1200 is a great choice for home users seeking a reliable and performance-oriented router. It offers high-speed dual-band connectivity, wide coverage, and advanced features like mesh smart roaming and MU-MIMO technology. The profile-based parental controls provide easy management of internet usage for children. With its compact design, it can fit seamlessly into any home environment. However, some users experienced issues with the automatic connection assignment to 2G/5G networks, and a few reported a short lifespan for the router. Overall, this router provides excellent value for its price and is recommended for those in need of a powerful and feature-rich wireless networking solution.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Upgrade your home network with the NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router. With coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft. and support for 20+ devices, this router delivers fast AX1800 Gigabit speeds using WiFi 6 technology. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or video conferencing, you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity. It connects to your existing cable modem and replaces your WiFi router, compatible with any internet service provider up to 1Gbps. NETGEAR Armor provides automatic security across your devices with a 1-year subscription included. The Nighthawk App makes setup a breeze, and you can easily manage WiFi settings and monitor data usage. With a sleek design and reliable performance, this router is backed by a 1-year limited hardware warranty.
Key Features
- Coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft. for 20+ devices
- Fast AX1800 Gigabit speed with Wi Fi 6 technology
- Connects to existing cable modem, compatible with any ISP
- 4 x 1G Ethernet ports for wired connections
- NETGEAR Armor cybersecurity subscription included
- Smart Parental Controls with 30-day free trial
- Easy setup and management with the Nighthawk App
- 1-year limited hardware warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.27Lx2.25Wx7.26H
Pros
- Wide coverage area for multiple devices
- Fast and reliable Wi Fi 6 performance
- Easy setup and management with the app
- Included cybersecurity and parental controls
Cons
- Required annual renewal for security subscription
- Incompatibility with pre-owned items
- Different internal components in some versions
The NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router offers impressive coverage and fast speeds for your home network. With WiFi 6 technology, it’s perfect for streaming, gaming, and web conferencing without interruptions. The included 1-year cybersecurity subscription and parental controls provide added peace of mind. Despite some limitations like the annual renewal for the security subscription and potential incompatibility with pre-owned items, this router is a reliable and high-performing choice. The Nighthawk App makes setup and management effortless, and the sleek design complements any home decor. If you’re looking to upgrade your WiFi experience, the NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router is a solid option.
Buyer's Guide: AC Router
Welcome to the ultimate buyer's guide for AC routers! If you're looking to upgrade your Wi-Fi network, an AC router is the way to go. These routers offer faster speeds, wider coverage, and better performance compared to their predecessors. To help you make an informed purchasing decision, here is everything you need to know about AC routers:
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting an AC router, keep these factors in mind to ensure you choose the best one for your needs:
- Speed: AC routers are known for their blazing-fast speeds. Look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), to get the best performance.
- Coverage: Consider the size of your home or office and the range you need. Look for routers with multiple antennas or range-extending capabilities to ensure your entire space is covered.
- Number of Devices: Determine the number of devices that will be connected to your network. AC routers with more streams or beamforming technology can handle multiple devices simultaneously without compromising performance.
- Security: Protecting your network and devices from online threats is essential. Look for routers that offer advanced security features like VPN support, firewall protection, and regular firmware updates.
- Setup and Controls: User-friendly setup and controls contribute to a seamless experience. Some routers come with mobile apps that make it easy to monitor and manage your network, so consider this aspect while making a decision.
- Ethernet Ports: If you require wired connections, ensure that the router has enough Ethernet ports to accommodate your devices. Gigabit Ethernet ports are ideal for high-speed wired connections.
Benefits of AC Routers
Investing in an AC router can bring numerous advantages to your home or workplace network:
- Faster Speeds: AC routers offer significantly faster speeds than older Wi-Fi standards, allowing for smooth streaming, online gaming, and quick file downloads.
- Improved Range: With their advanced technology, AC routers provide better coverage, ensuring a strong Wi-Fi signal in every corner of your space.
- Multiple Device Support: AC routers are designed to handle multiple device connections simultaneously, making them perfect for households or offices with numerous devices and heavy network usage.
- Enhanced Security: Many AC routers come equipped with robust security features that protect against hackers, malware, and other online threats, keeping your network and personal information secure.
- Future-Proofing: Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve, and AC routers offer a level of future-proofing by supporting the latest standards, ensuring compatibility with upcoming devices.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Best Ac Router for 2023
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) offers maximum speeds of up to 3.5 Gbps, while Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) provides even faster speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps. Wi-Fi 6 also offers improved efficiency in handling multiple devices, reduced latency, and better performance in congested areas.
The number of antennas can vary, but having multiple antennas (at least three) helps improve Wi-Fi coverage and signal strength.
Yes, AC routers are backward compatible with older Wi-Fi standards, so they can work with devices that support Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) or earlier. However, to fully utilize their benefits, consider upgrading your devices to ones that support the AC standard.
Yes, enabling both bands can provide flexibility for different devices. The 2.4 GHz band offers better range but slower speeds, while the 5 GHz band provides faster speeds but has a shorter range. Some AC routers have a feature called “band steering” that automatically selects the best band for each device.
Yes, AC routers are compatible with most internet service providers. Just ensure that your router supports the necessary protocols (PPPoE, DHCP, etc.) for your specific provider.
