Best Wi-Fi Router for Long Range With Buying Guide 2020

What is a Wi-Fi/Wireless router?

Before we dig deeper into the whole ‘best Wi-Fi router for long rang’ discussion, we need to make sure you all know what Wi-Fi or wireless router is.

The Wi-Fi or wireless router is a device that converts the internet signal into wireless signals that are picked up by your laptops, smartphones, tablets, and many other Wi-Fi-capable devices. The Wi-Fi router is responsible for accepting the signal from those devices and create a two-way air highway for data to flow in both directions and essentially provide you with full access to the internet.

The initial internet signal to your home is provided by an internet service provider (ISP) of your choice and comes through a cable, DSL line, or fiber. These incoming signals are collected by the modem, which is basically a translator that transforms the ‘internet’ signal into a digital signal that your computer and other electronic devices will be able to understand.

Wi-Fi or wireless router is connected to the modem with a wire. Moreover, these days there are modem/Wi-Fi router combos available as well and are practical solutions for home use.

Should I buy my own Wi-Fi router for a long range?

In 2020, we are all so used to the wireless internet connection, that we can hardly imagine using wires for our laptops or computers. Moreover, smartphones are not even able to be connected to the internet via wires, thus it makes sense for basically all users to install and use a Wi-Fi router of some sort.

Furthermore, most ISP will offer you their own router but be aware that there is typically catch; they will charge you monthly fee for it and it will normally be an entry-level router. As such, you can buy your router and it will cost you less than you’d spend on renting the IPS’s one in the first year.

Now, whether you need a Wi-Fi router for long range is another question that may only be answered by knowing your needs and your home size.

If you have a very small apartment that has relatively thin walls and is relatively open-spaced, then you will be able to get by with a short-range router just fine. However, if you live in a large apartment or house and want to ensure proper signal throughout your home, a Wi-Fi router for long rang is definitely the way to go.

What to consider when purchasing a Wi-Fi router for long range?

This section is essentially a buyer’s guide for the Wi-Fi router for long range. We did our best to keep things short and sweet and to the point. Make sure to account for each of these aspects when choosing the best Wi-Fi router for long range for your home or office.

Internet’s top speed

The internet speed is measured in Megabits per second (Mbps or Gbps, which is 1000x larger unit) and this tells us how fast the router can move the data (upload and download speed; download speed is always faster).

You don’t want your router to limit your speed, as such make sure your Wi-Fi router is able to handle speeds greater than your ISP is offering. If you don’t know what speed your ISP is offering you, call their support.

Determine how much area you need to cover

This will include determining the best position of your router, the thickness, and type of your walls, floors (if you have a multi-level home), etc. In which rooms do you want to have the signal? Do you have a terrace where you want to have internet access as well? Perhaps the pool area?

Also, keep in mind that for extra-large homes a single unit Wi-Fi router for long range may not be enough – you may need to purchase additional units to get the signal to every corner of your home.Count how many devices need to connect

Make sure to consider the maximum amount of devices you plan to connect to your router. Take a couple of minutes and think things over. Consider computers, laptops, your entire household’s smartphones, tablets, wireless sockets, speakers, smart TV sets, robot vacuum … It depends on how many members there are in your household and how gadget-oriented you are. Once you have determined that number, make sure to go with a router that will be able to support all those devices.

Do I Need a Router with MU-MIMO Technology?

MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output technology) is a must-have for those who need the best possible data flow on several devices at the same time. The MU-MIMO is great but you need to have devices that support MU-MIMO otherwise it doesn’t make any sense.

Single-band vs. dual-band

Before we focus on single and dual-band, you need to know that there are various Wi-Fi standards. Here is the full list that starts with the oldest one:

11b is now Wi-Fi 1
11a is now Wi-Fi 2
11g is now Wi-Fi 3
11n is now Wi-Fi 4
11ac is now Wi-Fi 5
11ax is now Wi-Fi 6

When buying a router, make sure it is at least ‘AC’. Though, if you aim for top performance and can afford it, go with the Wi-Fi 6.

The initial Wi-Fi routers all operated on the 2.4GHz but the ‘N’ standard (see above) introduced the 5GHz band.

To ensure the maximum coverage of your devices, you should make sure your best Wi-Fi router for long range is dual-band (can use 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands). The best routers have three bands – one 2.4GHz and two 5GHz bands.

Security and software features

This depends on the type of work/tasks you do on your network and the sensitivity of the data. If you want to be in full control and have the maximum security, you should go for one with advanced firmware that includes a decent firewall and offers any additional features you may require, or supports the installation of third-party advanced firmware like DD-WRT that can offer those features.

For all parents out there, keep in mind that there are also routers with built-in parental controls that can be useful. Certain routers even let you allow and restrict internet access for your children based on time slots. These normally also let you offer guest access for your visitors so that you won’t need to provide them with your primary Wi-Fi password.

Understand router range and router speed

Advertised speed – This is the speed you see in a brand advertisement and on product packages. This advertised speed means nothing when you are actually using a router. You need to keep in mind that advertised speed usually isn’t the same as the actual speed. So make sure to read review to get the information on true speed.

Ceiling speed – This speed corresponds to the capacity of your devices. It shows the maximum speed a device can handle when connected to a wireless network. So, for instance, if your device is capable of 500 Mbps speed as its ceiling speed, you can’t benefit it in any way by adding a router with 800 Mbps speed.

Router range – The range of a router is the maximum distance between a router and a device where you can still catch the signal. This is also greatly affected by the wall and other objects between the router and the device. The range of routers differs, depending on the number and quality of antennas they have. So, you need to understand the range and match it with the area you want to cover.

Make sure your router supports WPA2 encryption

WPA2 encryption is the latest security type you can acquire in routers these days. Thus, make sure your router contains this feature. Luckily, every router in the AC category is required to support this encryption.

WPA and WEP are outdated encryption types and you better avoid them.

Outline your budget

When it comes to the best Wi-Fi router for log range models, you need to prepare to pay slightly more. As such, make sure you are not out of your budget. There is still quite a span on the prices of various Wi-Fi routers for long range that should enable you to stay within your budget range.

Speak to customer service

This is very easy to do if you are purchasing in person. The department personnel should know quite a lot about the routers and will be able to advise you regarding your needs. Moreover, they will already know if any of the models have been reporting any issues. If you are shopping online, this may not be as practical, but if it is a router specialized store, you can still call their support and ask for their advice.

Research a specific router

Once you have selected a couple of routers that you like, make sure to research each of them. Find sites with review and customers rating to help you determine user experience and thus establish which your winner is.

10 Best Wi-Fi Router for Long Range Models

In this section, we will take a closer look at the best Wi-Fi router for long range models. This will be extremely useful for all of you who want to make things as simple as possible by simply selecting one of the presented models that best suits your needs.

We will start with a less capable (more affordable) option and move toward the most advanced (most expensive) and truly the best Wi-Fi router for long range models.

Tenda AC1200 Dual Band Gigabit Smart WiFi 5 Router

Specification and Main Features:

Dual-band
SPEED: Tenda WiFi 5 Gigabit router delivers up to 867Mbps@5GHz + [email protected] fast speed dual-band WiFi
RANGE: 4x 6dB external high-gain antennas ensure that this 802.11ac router offers a far-reaching and stable wireless internet signal, which can cover your home up to 1200 sq. ft
2X2 MU-MIMO & Beamforming Technology: link up to 35 wireless devices simultaneously, and offer you a full home wireless internet of higher speed
LAN PORTS: 3 Gigabit LAN ports
SECURITY & EXTRA FEATURES: Support WPS, Guest WiFi, Parental Control, Client Filter, WiFi Schedule, Secure IPv6, AP mode, Repeater Mode. Use “Tenda WiFi” App to set up or manage your home network at home or remotely
Less buffering
Ideal for 4K stream and online game
All Tenda router comes with Industry-leading 3 Year Warranty

Why buy it?

If you have a smaller and midrange apartment and looking for an affordable but reliable Wi-Fi router, the Tenda WiFi 5 Gigabit is a great option. It offers solid speed and can support up to 35 devices. It also packs 2×2 MU-MIMO and beamforming.

MOTOROLA Model MR1700 – Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: It provides a high-speed Internet link for all your local WiFi and Ethernet devices – HDTVs, smartphones, game stations, computers, tablets, and more. Up to 867Mbps@5GHz + [email protected] speeds.
RANGE: Up to 1000 sq. ft.
DUAL-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
ANTENNAS: 4 antennas for the 2.4 GHz frequency band, the best band for long-range Wi-Fi. This results in extended range and high speed, with better performance than some much more expensive routers.2 antennas for 5GHz.
LAN PORTS: 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
EASY SETUP: user-friendly firewall, parental controls, guest network capability, Dual Core Processor, and more.
EXPERT SUPPORT: USA-based support + 2-year warranty from Motorola

Why buy it?

If you want high speed and solid range at a reasonable price the Motorola MR1700 is the one for you. It has a total of 6 external antennas, which is more than many more expensive routers.

TP-Link AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: Dual-band router upgrades to 1750 Mbps high speed internet; 450Mbps @ 2.4GHz + 1300Mbps @ 5GHz
RANGE: Up to 2500 sq. ft.
DUAL-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
ANTENNAS: 3 external antennas for long range Wi-Fi
LAN PORTS: 4 Gigabit LAN ports, fast access to multiple connected wired devices
JD Power Award —Highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers in 2017 and 2019
Great compatibility: works with Alexa, compatible with all Wi-Fi devices, 802.11ac and older
Ideal as a gaming router
Reducing buffering
Ideal for 4K streaming
Integrated USB port acts as a Media Server, easily Share Your USB drive content
TP-Link Tether app easily set up and remotely manage Your Home network
Industry-leading 2-year warranty and free 24/7 Technical Support

Why buy it?

Still relatively affordable for an AC1750 router. Offer impressive range, 4 LAN ports, and a practical USB port. Connects 50+ devices and offers solid speeds. This router should be more than an average small or mid-sized home needs.

MOTOROLA MR2600 WiFi Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: Dual-band router offers speeds up to 800Mbps at 2.4 GHz and up to 1733Mbps at 5 GHz
RANGE: Up to 2000 sq. ft.
DUAL-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
LAN PORTS: 4 Gigabit LAN ports
USB PORT: USB 3.0 port with DLNA media sharing support
ANTENNAS: Four external adjustable antennas provide concurrent 4X4 performance for both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz connections. 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology dramatically speeds up your network, allowing high-speed communication with multiple WiFi devices.
Implicit and explicit Beamforming targets the WiFi signal to each of your WiFi devices resulting in blazing fast WiFi speeds and extended range.
EXTRA FEATURES: Dual Core processor, Smart QoS (Quality of Service) support, user-friendly firewall, IPv4 and IPv6 support, parental controls, guest network capability, and more.
Expert, friendly support from the USA. 2-year warranty from Motorola
Support for up to 253 client devices

Why buy it?

Great speed on both bands, MU-MIMO technology, Beamforming, USB 3.0, and many extra features.

TP-Link Archer A10 – AC2600 Smart Wi-Fi Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: 1733 Mbps on 5 GHz, 800 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, high-speed Wireless Internet Router
RANGE: Up to 2000 sq. ft.
DUAL-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
LAN PORTS: 4 Gigabit LAN ports and one WAN port
USB PORT: USB 3.0 port with DLNA media sharing support
ANTENNAS: 3 external antennas and 1 internal antenna for wireless networks amplified, Beamforming for signal focused to connected devices
JD Power Award: Highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers 2017 and 2019
Higher overall throughput: MU-MIMO + Smart Connect + Airtime Fairness for maximum throughput
Secure remote access: open & PPTP VPN Server for secure remote access to your home network via the Internet, parental control, and QoS
Easy Setup: Intuitive Phone UI and Tether app for quick network set up within minutes
Great compatibility: Works with Amazon Alexa, turn on/off guest Wi-Fi with simple voice commands
Industry-leading 2-year warranty and 24/7 Technical Support

Why buy it?

Great speed, solid coverage, and many extra features, including VPN and parental security features make this model one of the best Wi-Fi router for long range models.

NETGEAR Nighthawk X6S Smart WiFi Router (R8000P) for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: AC4000 speed up to up to 750Mbps @ 2.4GHz and up to 1625 Mbps on each of the two 5GHz bands
RANGE: Up to 3500 sq. ft.
TRI-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and dual 5GHz.
LAN PORTS: 4 Gigabit LAN ports and one WAN port
USB PORTS: Share a storage drive and printer with any connected device, and create personal cloud storage to access from anywhere, using the 1×3.0 and 1×2.0 USB ports.
ANTENNAS: 6 amplified antennas
RECOMMENDED FOR UP TO 55 DEVICES: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices.
LOADED WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Designed with a dual-core 1.8GHz processor, Beamforming, MU-MIMO, Smart Connect, Amazon Alexa Voice Controls, and more.
SMART PARENTAL CONTROLS: Pause device internet access, view site history usage, and filter websites for free.
SAFE & SECURE: Supports WPA2 wireless security protocols. Includes Guest WiFi access, DoS, Firewall, VPN, and more.

Why buy it?

This is the first of the extremely powerful routers, that provide extreme speeds and extended range, which makes it suitable for a larger home and advanced and demanding users.

TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band Gaming Router Archer C5400X

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: AC5400 Tri-band Wi-Fi over one 2.4GHz @ 1000Mbps and two 5 GHz bands @ 2167Mbps
RANGE: Up to 3500 sq. ft.
TRI-BAND WIFI: operates on 2.4GHz and dual 5GHz.
LAN PORTS: 8 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 Gigabit WAN port
USB PORTS: Share a storage drive and printer with any connected device, and create personal cloud storage to access from anywhere, using the 1×3.0 and 1×2.0 USB ports.
ANTENNAS: 8 amplified antennas
MU-MIMO and Airtime Fairness maximize total throughput and response rates.
JD Power Award- Highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers 2017 and 2019
WiFi Router Made for Gamers: Leading-edge 1.8 GHz 64 bit Quad-core CPU and 1G RAM accelerates the loading
RangeBoost strengthens reception and Beamforming sends targeted Wi-Fi to keep devices connected at farther distances than other wireless internet routers
Advanced security: Protect your network and connected devices with a free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare featuring next-level antivirus, robust parental controls, and QoS
Dynamic optimization prioritizes traffic to eradicate latency

Why buy it?

The TP-Link Archer C5400X is an advanced router suitable for pro-level gamers and other advanced users.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 Wi-Fi 6 Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: AC5400 Tri-band Wi-Fi over one 2.4GHz @ 1.2Gbps and 5 GHz bands @ 4.8Gbps
RANGE: Up to 3500 sq. ft.
LAN PORTS: 4 x 1G and 1 x 2 5/5G Ethernet ports
USB PORTS: 2 x 3 0 USB ports
ANTENNAS: 8 amplified antennas
Supports WiFi 6 devices
12 SIMULTANEOUS STREAMS: Provides more capacity so more devices can use WiFi at the same time
LOADED WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Designed with a 64bit 2 2GHz quad-core processor + MU-MIMO Smart Connect OFDMA Alexa Voice Controls and more
SMART PARENTAL CONTROLS The Nighthawk app lets you manage device internet access and filter websites
SAFE & SECURE Supports WPA2/WPA3 wireless security protocols Includes Guest WiFi access DoS Firewall VPN and more
NETGEAR Armor Advanced Threat Protection

Why buy it?

For extremely advanced users who want to stream 4K/8K content and be able to use the latest WiFi 6 technology. Note that this router is well over $400, thus definitely not one of the affordable ones.

TP-Link Deco Whole Home Mesh WiFi System (Deco S4)

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: 2.4GHz @ 300Mbps and 5 GHz bands @ 867Mbps
RANGE: Up to 5,500 sq. ft. (3pack); They promise No Dead Zone.
Incredibly fast AC1200 speeds make the deco capable of providing connectivity for up to 100 devices.
With advanced Deco Mesh Technology, units work together to form a unified network with a single network name.
Devices automatically switch between Decos as you move through your home for the fastest possible speeds
Robust Parental Controls: Limit online time and block inappropriate websites according to unique profiles created for each family member. Easy to keep your children safe while they’re online.
Setup is a breeze with the Deco app available on your Android or iOS device. Turn on/off guest WiFi with Alexa voice commands.
Industry-leading 2-year and 24/7 technical Support

Why buy it?

This is a Mesh WiFi system, which means that it uses several units to ensure that connection is available through the building. It is a great option for those with large homes and not extreme demands for speed. It eliminates the need for WiFi extenders. Affordable mesh WiFi.

Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi system Router for Long Range

Specification and Main Features:

SPEED: Best for internet speeds up to 350 Mbps
RANGE: Up to 5,000 sq. ft. (3 pack)
LAN PORTS: 2 per device
Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz
WiFi Mesh system: replaces the traditional WiFi router, WiFi extender, and internet booster by covering a 5+ bedroom home with fast and reliable internet powered by a mesh network
Cutting edge home WiFi – Unlike the common internet routers and wireless access points, eero automatically updates once a month, always keeping your home WiFi system on the cutting edge.
Quick & easy setup – Replacing your old WiFi router has never been easier than with the eero Pro Mesh WiFi System. Setup takes minutes and the companion mobile app makes managing your home WiFi simple and intuitive.
World-class security: eero adheres to the best standards in network security by issuing one-time passwords for eero app access and only allowing WPA2-compatible devices onto your network.

Why buy it?

This is a great option for everyone with a large home and no need for extreme speeds. It is one of the best WiFi mesh solutions available on the market to meet large home internet needs.

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How to know which Wi-Fi router is the BEST?

Below is a list of characteristics of a high-quality Wi-Fi router. If you want a proper or even the best Wi-Fi router for long range, you should aim for it to have those covered.

Your router should have a multi-core processor and at least 128MB of RAM – to ensure smooth operation and prevent overload
The router that you choose should be dual-band or more – by having 2.4GHz and 5GHz (on or even two) bands you ensure to successfully connect a wide range of devices
Tip: Verify online the real-life speed of the router that you buy – speed provided by the manufacturers are not reliable, thus make sure to follow the guidelines presented above
APP for fast and easy setting adjustments – Your router should have a smartphone app, preferably one that you can use from anywhere on the internet
The router should have a USB port, preferably USB 3.0 – this can make files easily accessible to all devices on the network
Smart-home integration ability should be included – even if you are not yet using the benefits of a smart-home, you will definitely do so in the near future.
Support for Mesh Wi-Fi – it is great and highly practical if you can just buy additional units that expand the range of your network
VPN, antivirus, firewall, parental control, and other advanced features – security should always be one of the consideration points; the best WiFi router for long range will always cover that aspect successfully.

How do I get faster internet?

Below are the three most common objectives that limit users from getting the speed they need or want.

Upgrade Your Router

If your router is not good enough, it may be limiting the speed that is actually available to you. Make sure that the ACTUAL router speed is above the speed provided by your ISP.

Test Your Internet Speed

It’s a good idea to occasionally test your internet speed to make sure you’re getting what you’ve paid for. Do so at different locations throughout your home so you know if it’s strong in the areas where you need it most.

There are several online utilities and apps you can use to test speed.

Buy More Bandwidth

If the package you are on does not meet your need, consider upgrading to a higher speed. If available, consider fiber internet.

FAQs

What if I don’t have Wi-Fi where I live?

If you have an internet connection (ISP), you just need a proper WiFi router and you can have WiFi.

How can I get more coverage?

For more speed, you will either need to upgrade your router or your internet package. However, the range and the signal power is completely up to the router.

How do I keep my data safe?

Using routers with high-security features helps greatly. Also, ensure it supports WPA2 encryption.

How can I boost my Wi-Fi signal?

By upgrading your router or using WiFi extenders.

Single-band vs. dual-band

Always choose dual-band WiFi routers to enable wider device range connection. All AC1200 or better should have dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz).

Which is better — a router or a mesh Wi-Fi system?

If you are not in need of extreme speeds and have a large home, a mesh Wi-Fi system is a great option. However, if you are a pro-gamer or intend to stream 4K content or have a small apartment and want to go with a budget-friendly option, a router will be the right choice.

What is the standard Wi-Fi standard?

There are six WiFi standards: 802.11b is now Wi-Fi 1, 802.11a is now Wi-Fi 2, 802.11g is now Wi-Fi 3, 802.11n is now Wi-Fi 4, 802.11ac is now Wi-Fi 5, and 802.11ax is now Wi-Fi 6. Currently, the most standard one would be WiFi 5 or ‘AC’ standard.

What features are necessary for a good router?

See the ‘How to know which Wi-Fi router is the BEST?’ section above.

What are the necessary router requirements for serious gaming?

High speed, reliability, no overheating, secure connection, preferably separate band for gaming to name a few.

Do I need a tri-band wireless router?

Unless you are a serious gamer or a person that deals with an extremely large data transfer that requires extra security, you should get by just fine with two bands.