Residents of private homes are better to choose models with a signal strength of 30 dBi, but such routers are more expensive.
TP-LINK Top 13 Wi-Fi routers 2023: overview of the best models
TP-Link – one of the most famous manufacturers of network equipment, including – routers for home and office networks. A router can provide a high-speed wireless connection by means of an Internet cable, a modem or a SIM card with mobile Internet.
A router is a small structure with various connectors and interfaces that receives the Internet signal from network cables, modems or SIM cards and converts it into a high-speed wireless connection.
This allows multiple devices to connect to the Internet: laptops, tablets, smartphones.
The world leader in manufacturing Wi-Fi routers and network equipment is TP-LinkTherefore, when planning to buy a router, you can not bypass this brand.
Features of TP-Link routers
For your information! TP-Link routers are modern, reliable, multifunctional devices, which for several years have been leaders in popularity in their segment.
All the released models of the brand routers have an extensive list of advantages and featuresAmong which stands out:
- The brand products are distinguished by Products have an optimal set of features for any user.
The range includes both standard models with the ability to connect to the network via Wi-Fi and more premium devices with a large number of functions. - TP-Link routers differ in cost.
There are budget models for undemanding users, and those that are significantly more expensive than the competition.
Regardless, they all provide a stable connection and data transfer. - The third feature of TP-Link routers a variety of design.
These devices range from classic monochrome devices with a laconic body, to more spectacular models with a futuristic design.
Important! The models of the brand are characterized by high performance and are designed for heavy loads, so they are popular among users.
ASUS RT-AX55
In the production of networking equipment ASUS likes to experiment with design. That's why the recently released ASUS RT-AX55 looks very stylish and unusual. The device has a rather massive housing with the physical dimensions of 235x153x55 mm and the embedded signal boosters increase the height index to 205 mm when lifted up.
The top of the case is glossy with a characteristic pattern of grooves placed in a parallel manner. Closer to the central part there are two notches with red coloring. On the sides there are ventilation grills, and in the center there are 5 indicators showing the status of power, interface operation and wireless network activity in two frequencies. The light indication is easily turned off by pressing the corresponding key.
On the back you can see 4 external antennas. They have a non-removable design, but two levels of freedom, which is very convenient. There is also a key to rollback the configuration and to enable WPS for providing an instant access to Wi-Fi-sets without entering a password.
ASUS RT-AX55 is designed based on Broadcom BCM6755 1-chip platform, which is used in more expensive series, including ASUS ZenWiFi AX (XT8). This module is represented by four 1.5 GHz ARM-A7 compute cores, as well as physical Gigabit Ethernet controllers.
ASUSWRT firmware based on OC Linux is used as system firmware. All settings and parameters of the equipment are displayed through the web interface. The first time the router is turned on, it automatically configures itself by connecting to Rostelecom servers.
A useful feature of the novelty is the built-in information security tool AiProtection Classic, released in co-operation with the developers of the Trend Micro firm.
ASUS RT-AX55 has proved to be the best in the work with the Rostelecom provider. This is a fast, reliable and stylish device that performs its tasks without the slightest problems.
ZYXEL Keenetic Extra II
The appearance of ZYXEL Keenetic Extra II is quite different from the company's previous designs, and very advantageously. Now you are faced with a laconic rectangle with a contrasting combination of white and black colors, beveled edges and LED indicators on the front panel. The sides of the case have four powerful antennas framing the perimeter. These modules provide a standard gain of 5 dBi for this class of network equipment.
On the top you can find a physical button to start the WPS procedure in 2.4 GHz (one press), or in 5 GHz with a double press. If you hold down this button for a few seconds, the Wi-Fi distribution will be suspended completely. At the same time the control element can be reprogrammed using the web interface.
On the back side there are LAN-ports (4 pieces) and additional WAN-ports, which are marked in Russian (Internet and home network).
ZYXEL Keenetic Extra II has a USB-port on the right side, which quickly enough processes information and extends the initial functionality of the router.
"The heart" of the new router is the MT7628N processor at 580 MHz, supplemented by 128 MB of DDR2 RAM. The dual-band Wi-Fi gives the following throughput values:
The router is managed through a user-friendly interface, where advanced settings and customization options are available. Among the useful options are Yandex DNS and SkyDNS network filters that increase the user's network security and restrict access to forbidden sites.
The router can be used as an adapter or a signal booster. In each case, the settings are automatically saved, so they can be re-activated.
ZYXEL Keenetic Extra II looks very good against the competition. Considering its cost, software features and presentable design, it is quite a universal tool for accessing the Internet together with Rostelecom services.
TP-LINK TL-WR840N
If you are planning to find and buy an inexpensive, but moderately powerful and high-quality wi-fi router with an optimal set of functions and features, pay attention to TP-LINK TL-WR840N. This edition combines a budget price and quite good performance. Wireless connectivity is up to 300 Mbps, which is more than enough for most of today's user demands, especially when the key focus is on device availability.
The LAN network ports have a speed of 100 Mbit/s. With such parameters this device can be used for Internet surfing, data exchange via cable or sending voluminous documents in a short time.
The router is equipped with two fixed antennas with a gain of 20 dBi. This is the normal value for serving a large office space or a large-sized apartment.
To configure the network hardware before using it, you have to insert the disc from the delivery set into the optical drive and follow the system interface manual. You can also perform this procedure via the official application or browser-based site.
The device has an advanced WPA2 data encryption standard that is activated with a single press of the WPS key.
The TP-LINK TL-WR840N is a combination gadget for providing a stable connection to the Internet via wire or wireless. The device is successfully used by office workers, owners of private homes and apartments, especially when there is an increased network load. The router has proven itself even for demanding tasks where excellent connection quality is required.
TP-LINK Archer C20
The device stands out with its original case design, which is decorated with many stripes on the surface. Three external antennas tower over it, providing a stable and stable signal over Wi-Fi. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, the TP-LINK Archer C20 has an excellent connection speed of 733 Mbps and 20 dBi gain.
With a modest price tag, the router in question solves its main tasks perfectly and contributes to a comfortable work in the network.
The TP-LINK Archer C20 looks quite original, though it combines the manufacturer's trademark features. There are activity diodes on the lid, ports and external antennas on the back, and ventilation holes on the bottom of the case.
Its surface is glossy, so it requires care and maintenance. You can find the embossed manufacturer logo and activity diodes on it. The WAN port has two backlighting options – in case of connection problems it lights up orange.
TP-LINK Archer C20 belongs to the AC750 class with high throughput both on the LAN and on the 2-way Wi-Fi channel.
The user has a USB 2.0 connector for comfortable work with external drives and printers.
This router uses advanced encryption protocols including WEP, WPA, WPA2. Wired LAN ports are required for simultaneous connection of various equipment, including smart TV, game consoles, desktop computers and other smart gadgets.
A built-in firewall is provided to enhance internal network security and protect against external connections. Flexible settings will satisfy even the most demanding users.
TP-LINK Archer C7 V5
In the segment of budget networking equipment TP-LINK Archer C7 V5 is in great demand. This is an inexpensive 2-way router that supports Wi-Fi 802.11 ac and Smart Connect technology. The gadget is capable of serving customers in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands at up to 1,300 Mbps on the second channel. Total throughput when dual-channel mode is activated reaches 1750 Mbps. The LAN network port transmits data at speeds of up to 1 Gbit/s. Smart Connect feature allows gadgets to automatically find a freer and faster channel, reducing the load on a single lane. Also TP-LINK Archer C7 V5 is compatible with 3G/4G modems via USB connectors.
TP-LINK Archer C7 V5 uses Qualcomm Atheros QCA9563 as its hardware platform. This chip guarantees excellent coordination and supports 802.11b/g/n protocols and Gigabit Ethernet network ports. The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9880-BR4A chip is used to serve the 802.11 an/ac standard. The Qualcomm Atheros QCA8337N module is responsible for the network switching of the Gigabit Ethernet ports. Also, the router has 128 MB of RAM and 16 MB of permanent storage, which contains firmware files and system settings.
TP-LINK Archer C7 V5 is a relatively simple and affordable model of a Wi-Fi router with a primitive setup scheme and a wide range of functions. This device will be able to serve wireless MFPs, work in MESH-systems and create a secure VPN connection. It can also be turned into a workstation to receive signals from 3G/4G modems.
TP-LINK Archer AX20
The TP-LINK Archer AX20 is a high-performance networking device with a cute design and support for the latest current generation Wi-Fi 6. This gadget transmits data wirelessly at 1800 Mbps, helped by the bandwidth potential of the new Wi-Fi standard. The device has a high-performance 1.5 GHz chip and unique Beamforming technology. The device supports 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies and transmits data at speeds of up to 1800 Mbps.
Under the body of this router is a dual-core Intel processor, which quickly processes all the information and solves the tasks at hand without delay or difficulty. To configure the router, simply follow these steps:
- Connect an Ethernet cable to the router and your service provider.
- Connect power, turn on the device with the appropriate key and wait for all the indicators to light up.
- Connect to the equipment via Wi-Fi or wired interface.
An important advantage of this model is the USB-port, which can be used to set up a file server or SAMBA. Once the external devices are connected, the corresponding indicator will go off. Then you have to open the advanced settings section, go to the "UZB" menu and add the drive.
TP-LINK Archer AX20 is a powerful dual-band router that has advanced technical "stuffing" as well as support for the most revolutionary technologies in the networking industry. Its impeccable signal quality, excellent connection speeds and support for Wi-Fi 6 make this model an excellent solution for a variety of applications.
How to choose a good router for your home?
The right Wi-Fi standard
There are currently three generations of Wi-Fi standards. The IEEE 802.11n specification was adopted back in 2009 and defined a "ceiling" speed of 600 Mbps (which theoretically could be achieved by wireless connection of a client device in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands simultaneously). In principle, it is enough for surfing, communicating and watching videos (except for high definition formats), but there are two nuances.
First – in today's inexpensive wireless equipment is usually implemented single-band version of the interface, ie, the maximum speed of 300 Mbit / s, and a large number of "neighbors" on the range reduces the bandwidth of the channel even more. The second is that the corresponding routers cope very poorly with multi-threaded load and become a bottleneck when serving multiple clients simultaneously.
A further development of the standard was the IEEE 802.11ac specification, introduced in 2015. One of its features is the MU-MIMO technology, designed to improve the situation with parallel service for multiple users (Multi User). In addition, due to the use of more efficient modulation, it was possible to raise the "bar" of speed by three times (within the standard).
In fact, Wi-Fi 5 capabilities are quite sufficient even for resource-intensive gaming tasks and comfortable browsing 4K on a couple of client devices simultaneously, but if there are a large number of "smart" devices in the house (as well as in the future), it is better to focus on routers that support the latest 802.11ax standard.
The fact is that it has fundamentally changed the principles of customer service, which has significantly increased the overall efficiency of the Wi-Fi interface, not to mention the dramatically increased maximum speed. We believe it is necessary to note that "for the future" – this means for the next 3-4 years, because the intervals between generations are getting shorter and the next update is expected in about 2023.
What kind of router to choose?
If you have a small apartment and low requirements for router performance, you can save money and choose the TP-LINK TL-WR840N. With 2 to 3 client devices in a small area, this device performs quite well.
Regarding the price/quality ratio, the TP-LINK Archer C20 will suit you if you don't need a gigabit internet connection on your wired network. If you need 100/1000 Mbps LAN ports, then pay your attention to TP-LINK Archer C1200.
For gamers and everyone who needs high performance. So the best choice for them in 2023 will be the TP-LINK Archer C3150 router. But it only makes sense to pay a lot of money for this device if you have a really heavy load on the network – for example, two devices are running an online game, while at the same time someone is using Smart TV and watching high quality video.
And a good "country" option is the TP-LINK TL-MR6400. This model will allow you to do without additional devices in the country, where there is no cable Internet.
- https://www.expertcen.ru/article/ratings/10-luchshih-wi-fi-routerov.html
- https://ZnaiWifi.com/obzor/luchshie-wi-fi-routery-tp-link.html
- https://expert-kachestva.ru/luchshie-tovary/tsifrovaya-tehnika/rejting-wi-fi-routerov-tp-link.html
- https://MarkaKachestva.ru/rating-of/5680-luchshie-wi-fi-routery-tp-link-rejting.html
- https://naseti.com/o-routerah/tp-link.html
