Best wireless routers
Synology RT2600ac
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 The good: The RT2600 has longrange, fast Wi-Fi speed and plenty of features. The router can host more than one broadband connection, and works as a network storage server when coupled with an external hard drive. It also includes state-of-the-art firmware that delivers a stellar set of extra features.
The bad: There’s no support for combining two LAN ports into a single superfast connection, and you might wish the router had more than five network ports.
The cost: $230 The bottom line: If you’re looking to create a fast and highly customizable home network with advanced features, look no further than the RT2600AC.
Asus RT-AC88U
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 The good: The RT-AC88U router has eight superfast gigabit LAN ports, speedy Wi-Fi performance and lots of useful features. Its Web interface is smartly designed and easy to use. The bad: The router’s USB 3.0 port is awkwardly placed, and when coupled with an external hard drive, its NAS performance is just average. The cost: $265 The bottom line: You’ll pay a lot for the Asus RT-AC88U, but it has everything you’d want in a router. If you have the money, this is the router to get.
Google Wifi
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 The good: Google Wifi is easy to use and a breeze to set up. It has strong Wi-Fi coverage and fast speed. It costs a lot less than other mesh Wi-Fi systems. The bad: A Google account and a mobile device are required for setup and management. It doesn’t have many advanced features or customizable network settings.
The cost: $129 (single unit) to $299 (set of 3) The bottom line: Google Wifi is the best Wi-Fi system on the market.
Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi System
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 The good: The Orbi Wi-Fi system conveniently delivers large Wi-Fi coverage without compromising speed. The system doesn’t require an account with Netgear to work.
The bad: The system is expensive, and there’s no mobile app for its setup process. The cost: $400 (set of 2) The bottom line: The high cost aside, the Orbi System is a sure and easy way to cover a relatively large home with high-speed Wi-Fi.