Spec Me a Router Please!

Random Guy Esq. · 1 Sep 2014 at 20:38

Hi,

I have a 120Mbps cable broadband connection and am currently using the Cisco EPC3925 supplied by my ISP. It's decent enough as regards the ethernet connections, but it's wi-fi range is dreadful. So, given that I can't ditch it for an all in one of my choice, I want to use the Cisco in bridge mode and get a router of my own.

Basically, good signal strength and ease of use are the most important factors. Budget is anything up to £100, but would prefer to spend less. Will be connecting a couple of PCs via ethernet and 3-4 smart devices via wi-fi, including a smart tv, so streaming is high on the agenda. Any suggestions?

kefan77 · 1 Sep 2014 at 21:31

did some recommendations in another thread earlier today, so I'll just paste it here

if you can stretch about 20 - you could find RT-AC68U on offer.

or slightly more budget friendly AC66U

or maybe Linksys EA6400 for around 80.

or even have a look at TP-Link Archer C7

lamboman · 1 Sep 2014 at 21:31

Usual recommendations for the price range:

Don't need massive wireless range or speed, but need more power for features such as VPN? N56U.
Need wireless range, don't need as much power for features like VPN (but still more than powerful enough for the usual network requirements)? N66U.

If you need both, your best bet really is only the AC68U, at £150+. And frankly, if you have such a fast connection, the extra spend is worth it (and you're merely skimping on what is arguably the most important bit of kit in your network).

If you're on a tighter budget than that, the TP-Link stuff is good also, however the Asus routers have unparalleled third-party firmware support.

EDIT: kefan77's suggestion of an AC68U for £120, if true and you can find it, is a steal. You'd be insane not to.

Random Guy Esq. · 2 Sep 2014 at 12:31

Thanks guys - I had been looking at the various Asus models alright. Can't find the AC68U for £120, but I'll see if I can add a little more to the budget. Thanks again!

lamboman · 2 Sep 2014 at 17:59

Oops, forgot to mention the other option that fits into the budget. If you need a VPN but don't require huge wireless range or speed (though still better than the N56U), AC56U.