How to choose the best wireless router

 Although all wireless routers look the same, they can actually be quite different. Some of the wireless routers can appear impenetrable if you're not technically skilled. This guide will help you choose the right budget wireless router for your home if you aren't a tech whiz.

Are you really in need of one?

Before you start worrying about the cost and all the technical jargon, you need to ask yourself if you really need one. You don't need a cable if you have only one computer you wish to connect to the internet.

Decide for what purpose you require it

Wireless routers come in a variety of prices, so be careful not to get lulled into buying something you don't need. Before you begin looking at internet options, determine what you'll be using it for. A very basic model will suffice if you only use the internet to browse the web and read your emails a few times per day. A more advanced model will be needed if there are multiple people in your home who enjoy watching movies and playing online games.

Speed ratings

Although this article isn't meant to be technical, speed ratings are important. A wireless router's speed is measured in megabits per sec (Mbps). For an example, early models had speeds in the 11Mbps range. A mid-range model would have speeds in the 150 Mbps to 600Mbps range, while a top-of-the-line product would have theoretical speeds of over 1,000Mbps. If your internet usage will be limited, you don't need the most powerful wireless router.

Range

The range is important if you wish to have a wireless signal throughout your home. However, the manufacturer's specifications may not be the best range. There are many things that could disrupt or weaken the wireless signal.

Examine the warranties

You should check the warranty offered by wireless routers that are budget-friendly, such as those priced below $200. A manufacturer that does not offer a reasonable warranty may not be willing to support its products. This could indicate poor quality.

Read reviews and shop around

Reviewing customer reviews is a great way to find out if the product you're considering buying is as good as it claims to be. Although reviews can be fake, it is possible to spot trends in reviews and determine if the product is worth your time.