6 Best Routers Under $100: Reviews For Gaming & Home Use

Why Invest in Your Own Budget Router?

Routers Under $100 Compared

Choosing High-Quality Affordable Routers

Usage

Compatibility

ONT Configurations

Some areas are configured to support internet services via fiber-optic cables. If this is true for your area, be sure to talk to your ISP about the ONT configuration needed for service on your router, but most routers should be able to support such services.

Plan Speed vs. Router Speed Capability

A router can support a set amount of data transference at one time, so if your plan speed exceeds your router speed, you will not be able to take advantage and will face a bottlenecking issue.

Wireless Standard/Protocol

Wireless standards have changed drastically over the years. While there are a few variations, nearly all routers use 802.11 and some letter designation, which changes some aspects of the device like speed, range, and device support.

Antennas & Ports

Routers typically have at least one antenna to broadcast signals farther, though some go up to more than 8. To connect directly to the router for a stronger signal, there are typically up to four LAN ports, and to help set up a storage device to be connected to wirelessly, there are USB ports. There is also one ethernet port to connect to the modem.

Number of Wireless Bands/Frequency Channels – Single vs. Dual Band

Whether a router is a single/dual/tri-band device indicates how many different groups there are for connections, and some bands will support different frequencies to help with device support and signal strength and range.

Security Features & Controls

Many routers now come with companion apps or software to help give more control over the devices connected to a network, the network traffic going through the router, and blocking of content on the network.

MU-MIMO and Beamforming

Multi-user, multiple input, multiple output (or easier to say MU-MIMO) is a system that allows for a greater range of devices to have individual connections to the router and avoid conflicting connections. Beamforming is a feature that allows for a directed signal to be sent to an individual device and improve its connection to the network.

Coverage Area & Quality

Coverage area is typically measured in square feet. If the signal has to pass through multiple walls or thicker material like brick or stone, you may notice a weaker signal, so consider a larger coverage area than your home if this is the case. For some situations, satellites or Wi-Fi extenders can help alleviate connection issues, though they will need to be bought separately.

Ease of Setting Up

Similar to the security and control features, smartphone apps or software have become standard tools to help guide setup for routers. However, without a guide, the main setup is merely connecting to power and the modem via the appropriate cables. Always be sure to consult the instructions provided with the device to troubleshoot set up issues or concerns.

Price & Warranty

As with all electronics, warranties cover typical usage conditions and any issue related to normal wear and tear. With all the advances in electronics, there are many more affordable ways to produce the parts for routers. Hence, you no longer need to pay a premium price for quality materials, and many great routers can be found under $100.

1. NETGEAR Nighthawk R6700

Our Top Pick

NETGEAR has long been known as a reliable name in networking accessories, and it should be no surprise to see the NETGEAR Nighthawk R6700 top our list as the best router under $100.

Despite being the most budget-friendly model in the Nighthawk line from NETGEAR, the R6700 can handle speeds offered by some of the best ISP plans and provide coverage for a small home or a majority of a larger home. Setup is quick and easy with the NETGEAR app taking the guesswork out once the router is plugged in and connected to the modem.

The R6700 is built to handle up to 25 devices connected at once and provide stable connections for each device. It does feature Beamforming + to allow for boosted speed, signal strength, and range for select devices, making it ideal for devices that require more bandwidth like those used for gaming or video calls.

You can prioritize traffic using Quality of Service by logging into the router and enabling either Downstream QoS or Upstream QoS. Downstream QoS is recommended for streaming or downloading while Upstream QoS is ideal for gaming and helps eliminate lag.  

Outside of all the network control, you can also adjust content settings and other controls using Disney Circle and NETGEAR Armor. Both have free trials included in the purchase of the NETGEAR Nighthawk R6700.

2. TP-Link AC1900

Runner Up

A router is a device that directs network traffic and does not necessarily have to include a wireless access point to be considered a router.

Recognized in 2017 and 2019 with the JD Power Award for highest customer satisfaction for wireless routers, the TP-Link AC1900 is the best WIFI router under $100 on our list thanks to its excellent wireless capabilities and controls.

Smart Connect technology works to route devices to connections that are the most free while the Airtime Fairness technology adjusts usage based on the needs of the device, giving more bandwidth for activities like streaming, gaming, or uploading.

The AC1900 does include Beamforming technology for higher efficiency coverage on the wireless network and targeted connections for devices. However, there is no coverage range stated by the manufacturer for this device.

Some customer reviews have noted adequate coverage in 2,500 sq. ft homes, but if you need coverage over large areas (2,500+ sq. ft), you may need to look at an extender for your network.

TP-Link does offer a 2-year warranty on the device and 24/7 customer service, so if you have any issues with the device, you can expect assistance and be covered in case of hardware failure due to any defects in the device caused in the production process.

3. Amazon Eero

Best Home Router Under $100

For those looking for a home router under $100 without having to spend a lot of time setting up or looking for a solution that can be expanded on easily, the Amazon Eero is a top choice. Naturally being from Amazon, the Eero works with Echo devices and the Amazon Assistant Alexa.

Alexa voice commands can be used through the Echo device to control Wi-Fi access for devices or individuals in the home quickly. The device sets up in less than 10 minutes and automatically applies updates, so maintenance is simple.

The device's 1,500 sq. ft range should cover many homes. If you need more coverage, you can easily add another Eero to the network to create a mesh network that will include a much wider area and route network traffic automatically between Eero systems for the most optimal connection.

Mesh networks provide more stable and reliable connections than typical extenders and allow devices to switch between access points seamlessly, so you do not have to manage multiple connections on a phone, computer, or tablet.

With a sleek minimalistic design, the Amazon Eero fits into any home, and when you want to expand your network, simply tell your Alexa to order another Eero.

4. MikroTik hEX S RB760iGS

Best Rated Under $100 for Wired Connections

If you do not require a wireless connection, a wired router can provide the same ability to configure network traffic between devices while delivering high speed, stable wired connections.

The MikroTik hEX S RBY60iGS is the best rated router under $100 for wired connections thanks to its ability to bring the IT quality performance in a home router. This is a fantastic option for people who know a bit more about how to manually configure router OS systems to get the optimal experience for their network connected devices.

If you need to securely connect your device to the internet, this router supports firewall customization and creation in a more intuitive process than other similar wired routers.

Powered by a dual-core 880 MHz CPU and 256 MB RAM, the MikroTik hEX S can handle complex network traffic and needs. Thanks to the construction of the shell, heat dissipation is not a concern despite this router having a more powerful internal system than others.

For those that do not require wireless and are looking for a simple setup and solution to network routing needs, this can also be a quick setup and as close to plug-and-play as you can get with a router.

Also Recommended: Best Wired Routers

5. NETGEAR R6230

Best Range Router Under $100

The best range does not always mean the biggest range and the NETGEAR R6230 is the best range router, and best NETGEAR router under $100, on our list thanks to its excellent strength and signal stability throughout its range.

Known for routers that can seriously stretch a budget, NETGEAR has put their Nighthawk technology into a budget-friendly router great for up to 20 devices simultaneously.

Since this router is based on Nighthawk technology, setup is as easy as connecting the router to power and the modem, loading up the Nighthawk app on your smartphone, and walking through the steps.

After setup, the Nighthawk app can be used to manage parental controls like internet access or website filtering as well as setting up guest networks or manage device settings.  You can quickly see what devices are connected to either the 2.4 or 5 GHz signals, which are assigned automatically by the device to whichever band will give the best signal.

You can also remove devices connected to the network from the app to make sure that your network stays secure and only for those you want on your network. Enjoy the quality of Nighthawk technology on the NETGEAR R6230 for under $100.

Also Recommended: Best WiFi Routers for Long Range

6. ASUS RT-ACRH13

Best Gaming Router Under $100

Steps For Setting Up Cheap WIFI Routers

Be sure to follow any instructions provided with your new router. Below are some basic steps to setting up any router.

For more information about the physical setup of the router, watch this video from Howcast.

Troubleshooting Guide: Fixing Router Issues

Common issues with a router can typically be resolved or improved with just a little effort. If you have problems with lower connection strength or speed, try turning off the modem and router and then restarting the modem and then the router.

This reboot process helps deal with issues caused by the internal processes of the device. If you still have issues with connection speed and strength, consider moving the router to a more open location in the home and making sure it is further away from other devices that may broadcast a signal like Bluetooth enabled devices.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Which Wi-Fi frequency has the best range?

2.4 GHz will provide a larger range but weaker signal.

Which router reviewed above is best for a two or three-story homes?

Are there downsides to using cheap routers?

Less expensive routers will typically have fewer features in terms of parental controls, but they do fit the bill for most users and ISP plans.

Are wired or wireless routers better?

Wired routers require an ethernet connection between the router and device, while wireless routers have an access point for devices to connect via Wi-Fi. Wired routers are better for taking advantage of fast internet packages while wireless routers are better for those looking to connect phones or tablets.

What are the best brands of budget wireless routers?

NETGEAR, ASUS, and TP-Link are some of the best known brands for their quality when it comes to wireless routers.

Conclusion