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Forum Discussion

Harshparker's avatar
Harshparker
Aspirant
Oct 24, 2018
Solved

What is the difference between a really expensive router (ex. Netgear nighthawk) vs some cheap

While not always a case, the basic rule of thumb is that the more money you put in your router, the more devices you can have connected simultaneously without noticing slowdown. More expensive routers usually sport newer features, such as faster speeds, as well.

If all you do is check your email and read the news on your phone/laptop you shouldn't need anything more than some cheap Wireless-N router.

  • Agreed. The WNR3500Lv2 and R6020 are good routers and cheap. These days you pay the big money for faster WiFi. The 3500 also has Gbit Ethernet.

3 Replies

  • Agreed. The WNR3500Lv2 and R6020 are good routers and cheap. These days you pay the big money for faster WiFi. The 3500 also has Gbit Ethernet.
      • TaterSalid's avatar
        TaterSalid
        Virtuoso
        If you are looking to buy, I really like the 3500. I ran a v1 from 09 until last month without issues. I wanted new and bought the v2 for $50. The WiFi is good unless you need faster speed. It has been out for a few years and Netgear will eventually drop the support. When that happens this router is supposed to work on 3rd party firmware like dd-wrt.