What does a router do?
Your router is responsible for dispersing the Wi-Fi signal from your modem to all the wireless devices in your home: TVs, smartphones, gaming consoles, tablets, laptops, smart speakers, and more. It can also connect directly to your non-wireless devices via Ethernet cable, such as a printer. Many people rent a router from their internet service provider (ISP) as part of a service agreement, while others choose to purchase their own.
Which type of router is right for you?
Buying a router can seem tricky if you don’t know the basics. There are two kinds of wireless routers: single-unit and mesh routers. Both connect your devices to the internet by sending and receiving wireless signals, but there are some key differences. How big your home is, what it’s made of, how it’s laid out, even metal plumbing can all affect which router is right for you.
Traditional wireless router
A wireless router plugs into your modem. If you live in a small apartment or home (approximately 1,500 square feet or less), a standard router is likely your best bet. Your router must plug into a modem or outlet via Ethernet cable, so your Wi-Fi signal will be strongest around the router, and slower and weaker in rooms that are farther away.
What Internet speed do you need?
Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). Your service provider determines the maximum speed for your connection, and you can upgrade your plan if you aren’t getting what you need.
To find out the download and upload speeds in your home, simply google “speed test” and pick one of the search results. You can also check out the FCC’s broadband speed guide for guidelines on how much speed you need for everyday internet use:
General browsing and email: 1 Mbps
Standard video: 3–4 Mbps
Online multiplayer games: 4 Mbps
HD video teleconferencing: 6 Mbps
HD video: 5–8 Mbps
File downloading: 10 Mbps
Ultra HD 4k video: 25 Mbps
If you use only a few devices and spend most of your time browsing online, watching occasional videos, 50 to 100 Mbps will be plenty. But for families or roommates, aim for at least 200 Mbps, especially if you’ll be streaming 4K video across multiple devices.
The pros and cons of Wi-Fi 6 v. Wi-Fi 5
If you’ve already looked up routers online, you may have noticed that there are two standards out there.
Wi-Fi 6. This is the newest and fastest option, offering the best support for the myriad devices in your home. While Wi-Fi 6 debuted in 2019, laptops, tablets, and other devices made before then are still compatible with it, though they may not experience the full speed benefits of Wi-Fi 6.
Wi-Fi 5. This option has been around since 2014. It’s also compatible with the latest Apple and Android phones. It isn’t as fast as Wi-Fi 6, but if you’re looking for a less expensive router, a Wi-Fi 5–compliant router may be your best bet.
How many LAN and USB ports do you need?
If you plan to connect a printer, external hard drive, or connected home hub directly to your router, make sure you have enough LAN and USB ports for you to connect your devices.