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RouterMag

Best Budget Routers

Routers and mesh systems under $200. At this price the Wi-Fi standard and the WAN port matter more than extras.

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93 routers

What a budget router should still get right

A lower price does not have to mean a weak router. Most budget models handle everyday browsing, streaming and video calls well. The differences show up in a handful of specs, and those are the ones worth comparing.

Start with the Wi-Fi standard. Wi-Fi 6 is the sweet spot for most buyers, and Wi-Fi 7 has started to appear in this price range. Next, check the WAN port: a gigabit port is plenty for plans up to 1 Gbps, but a faster plan needs a 2.5G port. Then look at coverage and the number of LAN ports for wired gear like a console or a desktop.

For a bigger home, a budget mesh kit often beats a single router. Narrow the list to a lower price band or jump to budget mesh systems.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as a budget router?

Here it means anything under $200, which covers the bulk of what most homes need. Under $100 you get solid single routers for apartments, and between $100 and $200 you find Wi-Fi 7 models and two-unit mesh kits.

Is a cheap router fast enough for streaming and video calls?

For most homes, yes. A Wi-Fi 6 router handles 4K streaming, video calls and a few dozen devices without trouble. Speed matters less than placement, so put the router in a central, open spot.

Should I buy Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 on a budget?

If your phones and laptops are a few years old, Wi-Fi 6 gives you nearly the same real-world speed for less. Wi-Fi 7 is worth it if you are buying for the long term and have, or plan to get, newer devices.

What do cheap routers usually skip?

Multi-gig ports, a USB port, a fast processor and polished security extras. Check the WAN port speed against your internet plan before you decide.