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Which Cheap N-router would you choose?

C

chizow

Diamond Member
I've typically spent very little in the past for routers, and I've typically had to upgrade them every 2 years or so due to flaky performance or premature death. This time I figure I might as well spend a little bit more for a better quality router, especially now that I have more devices that use wireless (laptop, printer, etc).

Looking at an N-router but don't think $100+ is worth it for the gigabit/gamer models (I still run Cat6 for my main PC), so here's the options:

Netgear WNR2000 $63

Linksys WRT160N $70

TRENDnet TEW-652BRP $25!!!

Looks like the Trendnet went out of stock, I was reluctant to pull the trigger on it because again, these $20-$30 routers I typically buy end up dying or flaking out within about a year.

Any insights or suggestions in a similar price range appreciated, thanks!


 
I can't right now, none of my devices support more than Super-G @ 108Mbps or whatever, its more for futureproofing. I've also read the N routers have better range than the G/Super G routers, and given the prices are so similar ($40-50) I figure the extra $20-30 for an N would be worth it.
 
Originally posted by: Madwand1
I'd probably choose the D-Link DIR-625.

I'd avoid the WRT160N as the latest versions aren't compatible with DD-WRT and have reduced RAM and flash RAM. The WRT150N could be fun with DD-WRT, but it's only available as refurb units with limited warranty, and some such devices have limited warranties for good reasons.

http://www.smallnetbuilder.com...ent/view/30387/96/1/6/
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That D-Link looks perfect, snagged one from Newegg thanks for the suggestion! :thumbsup:

Originally posted by: JackMDS
It is called Draft_N, by name and design it is Not future proof.:light:
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Yes, I'm well aware of that but I'll take my chances that a draft N wireless will be better at supporting devices faster than 54Mbps than a router limited to 54Mbps. Again, my laptop supports 108Mbps, so I'll see immediate gain there along with any future benefit from new wireless gadgets I pick up along the way.
 
Yes, I'm well aware of that but I'll take my chances that a draft N wireless will be better at supporting devices faster than 54Mbps than a router limited to 54Mbps. Again, my laptop supports 108Mbps, so I'll see immediate gain there along with any future benefit from new wireless gadgets I pick up along the way.
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...at the expense of having a reliable network. Those "SuperG SpeedBoosterDuperModes" are the first thing I disable when clients tell me their wireless disconnects often. I put it back to plain 54Mbps 802.11G and it usually solves the problem.

Going with N is alright IMO for a home network, most laptops have it these days. The other advantage they have is faster WAN to LAN speeds. (the cable company here is rolling out 30Mbps and 50Mbps services)
 
Trendnet $24.99 is back in stock (as of right now) but it's posted on SlickDeals, so it may die quickly (and harshly :evil: )!
 
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