7 most powerful Wi-Fi routers

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Often people are faced with the fact that the router they purchased cannot cope with the distribution of the Internet throughout the apartment. The fact is that many models are equipped with rather weak antennas, the signal from which does not break through concrete, and sometimes even brick walls. If you want to get a powerful router, then choose something from our list. In this collection, we will consider not only home routers, but also real monsters equipped with a large number of antennas – they are usually used in hotels, shopping centers and other crowded places. We will also tell you about those routers that provide the ability to exchange data at an extremely high speed. This review is based on an analysis of the technical characteristics of routers at https://rankquality.com/routers/.

Rating of the most powerful Wi-Fi routers

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Most Powerful Routers by Range	1	MikroTik HAP AC	RUB 7,050
	2	TP-LINK Deco P7 (2-pack)	–
	3	Eltex WEP-2ac	RUB 23 937
Most powerful routers based on data transfer rate	1	ASUS GT-AX11000	RUB 28,065
	2	TP-LINK Archer C5400	RUB 17,300
	3	ASUS GT-AC5300 Rapture	RUB 22,928
	4	Linksys WRT3200ACM	–

Most Powerful Routers by Range

MikroTik HAP AC

Rating: 4.9

Over 7 thousand rubles are asked for this relatively small box. This allows us to understand that the router is capable of a lot, although you should not expect record performance from it. For example, a 4G modem can be connected to this device, thereby expanding its functionality. Such a modem will allow you not to be left without the Internet if something happened with a regular operator.

This model supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard. This makes it possible to transfer data at a very high speed. In particular, it is enough even for online viewing of 4K video. Of course, simultaneous work in two bands is available here, so old mobile phones will not be left out.

In this article, we talk about the most long-range routers. MikroTik HAP AC has no problems in this regard. If you place it somewhere in the park, then all devices within a radius of 500 m will be able to connect to the Internet! Indoors, the range is of course reduced. The exact numbers in this case will depend on the number of walls and what material they are made of. But you can definitely count on 100 m, and most often on a more impressive parameter!

A router with such a price tag cannot have only standard functionality. Here it is supplemented by the ability to create a file server from a router. To do this, you need to connect a storage device to its USB 2.0 connector – a flash drive or an external hard drive. Otherwise, this device is unlikely to surprise with anything. It is capable of working in repeater mode, it also supports Dynamic DNS, but we have long been accustomed to all this.

Almost the entire rear panel of the device consists of connectors. These are four LAN ports supporting data transfer at speeds up to 1000 Mbps. If your TV does not support high-speed Wi-Fi, then you can connect to one of these connectors. Curiously, the router is capable of receiving power via an Ethernet cable. This allows you to understand that it consumes minimal amounts of electricity.

As you can see, this router does not have external antennas. Instead, it uses six internal 2.5 dBi antennas. This allows the device to distribute the network in all directions with the highest quality. The power of the transmitter installed here is 29 dBM.

It remains to add that this model has 16 MB of flash memory and 128 MB of RAM. This is quite enough to handle a lot of various operations. There is no doubt that dozens, and most likely hundreds of mobile devices will be able to access the Internet through this router.

Advantages

• Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard;
• Decent transmitter power;
• LAN ports support 1000 Mbps;
• Can be used as a file server;
• A large number of internal antennas;
• Decent amount of memory;
• It is possible to connect an LTE modem;
• Implemented receiving power through an Ethernet cable.

disadvantages

• I would like a faster USB connector;
• No external antennas;
• Not all users will be able to understand this volume of settings;
• You cannot customize the behavior of LED indicators.

TP-LINK Deco P7 (2-pack)

Rating: 4.8

One of the most unusual routers sold in Russian retail. This device has a round shape. This alone hints that the router can easily distribute the network in absolutely all directions. It also does not seem like a foreign stain in a modern interior. Some people will especially like the lack of outdoor antennas here. However, it must be admitted that they could make the router even more powerful.

If the model discussed above can be used as a router, connecting several computers and printers to it, then with TP-LINK Deco P7 this trick will not work. Alas, this model is equipped with only two LAN ports. However, in the conditions of an ordinary Russian apartment, this number is often enough. Problems can only arise in some offices. It should be noted that LAN connectors support data transfer rates up to 1000 Mbps. This is good news! At this speed, you can count on even comfortable viewing of 4K videos, not to mention solving less complex tasks.

The main advantage of TP-LINK Deco P7 is that usually in stores they sell kits consisting of two of these routers. This allows for a mesh network that provides seamless wireless access. As a result, you don't have to worry about a 23 dBM transmitter inside the router. Even with it, a couple of devices will network the largest room. At the same time, it will provide laptops and smartphones with access to the network using Wi-Fi 802.11ac. In laboratory conditions, a speed of 867 Mbps can be achieved from a router. In fact, the speed will be lower, but it is enough for absolutely all buyers.

The router software allows you to organize a guest network. It will not require a password, but its data transfer rate will be limited. Also, the software is supplemented with its own antivirus and support Amazon Alexa, thanks to which a smart home is usually implemented. Synchronization with other devices included in them is carried out by means of Bluetooth 4.2.

Modern Wi-Fi routers are getting more and more memory. In this case, you are waiting for 256 MB of RAM and 32 MB of permanent memory.

Advantages

• Four internal antennas are used;
• Supported by Amazon Alexa;
• Built-in module Bluetooth 4.2;
• Power is provided by a USB Type-C connector;
• The set includes two routers;
• There is a built-in antivirus;
• Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard;
• Neat appearance.

disadvantages

• Cannot be used as a file server;
• Only two LAN ports are built in;
• High price;
• Can't be hung on the wall.

Eltex WEP-2ac

Rating: 4.7

Another representative of our collection, shaped like a saucer. If someone outside notices this device, then he will mistake it for a fire alarm or something similar. The shape of the router is due to the presence of four antennas inside, directed in different directions. Perhaps, Eltex WEP-2ac is intended exclusively for professionals. This is hinted at by a confusing interface in which the devil will break his leg. This is also indicated by the lack of a power connector. Only electricity supplied through the Ethernet port can make the router work. You can also use the injector, but it is not included in the kit.

Like almost all modern routers, Eltex WEP-2ac supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard. Of course, the device is capable of simultaneously operating in two bands. This will allow you to connect to the network and some old smartphone, familiar only with the 802.11n standard. This device is capable of providing maximum data transfer at a speed of 867 Mbps. But this is, of course, in the laboratory. But the real speed should be enough even for online viewing of videos in 4K resolution, which will definitely please the owners of modern TVs. It's a pity that the router is not able to provide access to an external hard drive connected to it. There is simply no USB port here, so you can forget about DLNA. In fact, Eltex WEP-2ac only supports the connection of an Internet cable, and all sorts of printers and other peripherals are left out, especially if it does not include a Wi-Fi module.

The manufacturer claims a 200 meter indoor range. It is provided by a transmitter with a power of 21 dBM. It seems that this will be enough even for hotel owners. The amount of memory located here does not cause any problems. More precisely, the buyer is waiting for 256 MB of RAM and 128 MB of permanent memory.

Perhaps the main disadvantage of this router is its high cost. Even astronomical, because for this model they ask for almost 24 thousand rubles. A rare owner of an ordinary apartment wants to spend that kind of money on such a device. He will not give a damn about TEINET and SNMP support. We have already said above that this is the best choice for the hotel owner. It is enough to put two such routers at different ends of the corridor, and the entire floor will be provided with wireless access! In this case, the second router automatically pulls the settings from the first.

Advantages

• Implemented support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Decent range;
• There are four antennas inside;
• Many modern technologies are supported;
• Large amount of memory;
• Elegant appearance.

disadvantages

• Cannot be used as a file server;
• Few LAN ports;
• Very high cost;
• Power supply – only via Ethernet cable;
• The interface is not easy to learn.

Most powerful routers based on data transfer rate

ASUS GT-AX11000

Rating: 4.9

Above, we talked about Wi-Fi routers, the antennas of which are internal. Such devices distribute access to the global web absolutely throughout the entire area of ​​the premises. The disadvantage of such devices is a certain limitation in the data transfer rate. It will not be felt only if a few smartphones and tablets begin to connect to the router. But if their number exceeds a dozen, then Internet access will become very slow. If you need the maximum data transfer rate in any case, then you need to buy ASUS GT-AX11000. This is a real monster, which includes 8 external antennas!

This model differs not only in the number of antennas, but also in support of the Wi-Fi 802.11ax standard. Unfortunately, in devices sold in Russia, its support is blocked. This is due to the fact that it is not yet certified in our country. But when all the formalities are over, the router will be able to please you with a data transfer rate of 10756 Mbps! But, of course, a smartphone should also have the corresponding support. If you do not have a modern flagship at your disposal, then you will have to be content with less speed. Which will also suit, rest assured.

This model can be used as a router without any problems. Its rear panel houses three gigabit LAN ports and one LAN jack supporting 2.5 Gbps. Also on the case of the router there was a place for two USB 3.0 connectors. They can be used to implement both a file and FTP server. Also, the router is able to independently download files from the Internet in the background; you do not need to keep the computer turned on for this. The easiest way to access photos and videos from your TV is through DLNA technology, which all smart TV devices have support.

ASUS GT-AX11000 supports a ton of security features. Also, work with VPN tunnels is implemented here. There are no problems with the amount of memory. In total, the user is waiting for 1 GB of RAM and 256 MB of permanent memory. This is definitely enough to fulfill requests coming from a huge number of devices. But less than ten years ago, only top smartphones could boast of such a memory size!

The USB ports located here can be used to connect not only external hard drives and flash drives. The router should calmly identify the 4G modem as well. Its activation will happen at the moment when the staff operator suddenly encounters problems, ceasing to provide you with wired access to the Internet.

The manufacturer of this model does not declare how much area his creation covers. But there is no doubt that it is calculated in hundreds of meters, no matter what walls stand in the way. It is not for nothing that 8 antennas are installed here! By the way, they cannot be removed, which will definitely disappoint someone. Also, not everyone will like the weight of this device, which is an impressive 1717 g.

Advantages

• A huge number of all kinds of settings;
• A very large number of external antennas;
• 802.11ad and 802.11ax standards are supported;
• Huge coverage area;
• Support for LTE modems has been implemented;
• Incredibly high speeds can be achieved;
• There are two USB 3.0 ports;
• Background file download is available;
• Huge amount of memory;
• There is a LAN port with a speed of 2.5 Gb / s.

disadvantages

• Scary high cost;
• Large weight;
• The antennas are non-removable.

TP-LINK Archer C5400

Rating: 4.8

Another router that includes many external antennas. Here their number is equal to eight pieces. In this case, the antennas are also located along the perimeter of the device, providing wireless access to all devices around. Very, I must say, high-speed. In laboratory conditions, data transmission at a speed of 5334 Mbit / s is possible!

Unlike the instance discussed above, TP-LINK Archer C5400 does not support the latest Wi-Fi standards, which have not yet been certified in Russia. However, 802.11ac is enough for most buyers. Also, this simplification allowed the manufacturer to reduce the cost of the router, which also cannot but please many consumers.

This model has a transmitter with a power of 23 dBM. The network will be visible over a large area, no matter what walls are present on it. Wireless access can be used not only to access the Internet, but also to play media files contained on the hard drive connected to the router. A USB 3.0 port is used here to interact with it. There are several ways to implement this function – they allow you to get a file or FTP server. There are also four gigabit LAN connectors on the router case. They are used to interact with computers, printers and other peripherals.

In a word, this is a very powerful and very functional router. Although it must be admitted that such a monster could get more LAN ports. Also, claims arise for antennas that look too flimsy. They cannot be removed, so breaking any antenna will lead to a serious problem. Well, one cannot fail to note the large size – some consumers find it extremely difficult to find a place to install such a Wi-Fi router.

The functionality of this model can be called somewhat limited, especially against the background of the creations of ASUS and Keenetic. For example, there is no VPN client here. Also, the manufacturer did not add a TELNET connection. In a word, TP-LINK Archer C5400 is like a mid-budget router, to which a much larger number of antennas were screwed, and the functionality was left the same. However, we are evaluating only the starting firmware. It is possible that gradual updates will significantly expand the functionality.

Advantages

• Eight external antennas are used;
• Good means of protection;
• There is support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Extremely powerful transmitter;
• Can be used as a file and FTP server;
• All LAN ports support Gigabit speed.

disadvantages

• High price;
• Not very wide functionality;
• Antennas are non-removable;
• Decent size.

ASUS GT-AC5300 Rapture

Rating: 4.7

Another creation of ASUS, equipped with a huge number of external antennas. They surround the device around the perimeter. Eight antennas allow you to distribute the Wi-Fi network in a circle. However, in the settings you can set the directional action of the router. In this case, he will try to understand where exactly the smartphone is now, directing the signal in his direction. This allows you to both get to a significantly remote device and increase the data transfer speed.

Like another router from ASUS, this one supports the Wi-Fi 802.11ad standard. With its use, as well as with the involvement of some other technologies, you can achieve a speed of 5334 Mbit / s! This is more than enough for viewing content in 4K resolution. But what can I say, here you can feel the groundwork even for watching an 8K video online, which we can only dream of so far.

This unit can be used as a router. Up to eight devices can be connected to it via patch cords! Moreover, each LAN port here has support for 1000 Mbps. There is also room for two USB 3.0 ports on the case. Most often they are used to connect an external hard drive to the router. This allows you to turn your device into a file server. Most importantly, the firmware allows you to use a special application that will download files in the background. You can also connect an LTE modem to the USB port. If the operator of the wired Internet starts having problems, this little thing will allow you not to notice them, if only you have money on your mobile account. Therefore, only the loss of electricity can deprive you of access to the global web!

This router includes 1 GB of RAM and 256 MB of permanent memory. This is quite enough to process requests from dozens, and maybe hundreds of devices. As for software, it includes a lot of possibilities. At the same time, ASUS understood that ordinary people buy their routers. In this regard, the firmware allows you to configure the device in a semi-automatic mode.

This router has practically no flaws. However, we must admit that the device turned out to be too large. In some cases, finding a place for this almost two-kilogram monster will be extremely difficult. Also, many will be scared off by the price. Not everyone will want to pay 23 thousand rubles for a Wi-Fi router. People simply don't understand how such a device can cost about the same as a good video card.

Advantages

• Easy customization;
• There is support for Wi-Fi 802.11ad;
• Very high data transfer rate;
• A huge number of LAN ports;
• Wide functionality;
• Large number of external antennas;
• You can organize a file and FTP server;
• Huge amount of memory;
• You can connect an LTE modem.

disadvantages

• The router is big and heavy;
• Extremely high cost;
• Sometimes USB devices don't want to be detected;
• Some specimens are not capable of boasting wide coverage.

Linksys WRT3200ACM

Rating: 4.7

All powerful Wi-Fi routers cost a lot of money, there is nothing you can do about it. Even for the Linksys WRT3200ACM, which closes our selection, they ask 18 thousand rubles. Alas, many people will not be able to afford such a purchase. However, this model cannot be called an adequate purchase for a mass consumer. You should take it only if you are ready to squeeze everything out of it. And she is able to offer many opportunities! Even despite the lack of support for the latest Wi-Fi standards.

First, let's note the appearance of the device. This is a rare case when the body of the router is painted not only black, but also blue! Also noteworthy are the four external antennas, which are unusually low here. All this allows the device to decorate, and not disfigure the interior of the room.

This router is mainly designed to work with the Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard. The maximum device is capable of delivering 3200 Mbit / s. Such a result is achieved only in laboratory conditions, but real numbers will suit the vast majority of buyers. The router not only provides access to the global web, but also easily turns into a file server. There are two USB ports for this purpose. However, please note that only one connector corresponds to the high-speed standard. The second one is recommended to use for the organization, for example, a print server.

As we already mentioned, the router has four antennas. They are removable here. This makes the device as reliable as possible. If suddenly the device falls to the floor or a cat suddenly starts to gnaw it, then in the future everything will cost by replacing the antenna. The router provides a decent coverage radius, but it still cannot be called a record one. It is noticeable that this model is more about speed than about coverage radius. As for the routing function, it is implemented through four Gigabit LAN ports.

Perhaps the Linksys WRT3200ACM can be found fault with only because of its functionality. Alas, this is not the best choice for any enterprise. The professional will immediately notice that the router manufacturer has a minimum number of experienced developers. However, the functionality of the device can still be expanded. To do this, just install a third-party firmware. This is how a VPN connection can be realized, for example.

It remains to add that the Linksys brand is not so well known in our country. In this regard, you risk not finding this model in the nearest store. If this is important to you, then it is better to consider buying one of the routers discussed above.

Advantages

• Third-party firmware supported;
• Implemented support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Very high speeds are possible;
• Built-in four Gigabit LAN ports;
• File server function available;
• The antennas are removable;
• Modest size and weight;
• Great design.

disadvantages

• By default, the functionality is not broad;
• The cost may seem prohibitive.

Conclusion

Now you know which routers are the most powerful. At the same time, we tried to tell not only about those models that are capable of transmitting a signal over a huge territory, but also about devices that provide the ability to download files at an extremely high speed. Long gone are the days when we were limited by the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard, when using which problems can begin already when watching an online 4K video. New technologies are now in use that rival wired connections without any problems. It remains to be regretted that the Russian Federation is in no hurry to certify particularly fast standards.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.