How the Top Wireless Routers Measure Up

In the years before I got my wireless router, there were long ethernet cords in my home office that made walking to my computer a tripping hazard. When I finally broke down and went shopping for a wireless router, I didn't know where to start. Since then, I've learned a few lessons along the way and here's my breakdown of the top wireless routers.

Asus RT-N56U Dual-Band Gigabit Wireless-N Router ($124 - $137)

Its compact design makes it small enough to fit inside of my purse. That was a big plus because my desk is so cluttered with electronics, I barely have enough room for my coffee mug. Tech bloggers swear by its speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the price was out of my range.

Netgear N750 Wireless Dual-Band Gigabit Router ($120 - $180)

It has neat features like Live Parenting Controls to help shield your little ones from anything inappropriate online. It also comes with built-in file sharing and options to limit access with password protection. Since my son is still in diapers, I decided not to buy this one, but if you have teenagers or preteens this might be a good option.

Belkin N750 DB Wireless Dual-Band N+ Router ($100 - $130)

This one is a beauty. With its sleek, modern design it looks like something out of "Back To The Future." It offers connection for 2 USB ports, which comes in handy for external devises or printing. But it was a little too pricey for me.
Linksys E1200 Wireless-N Router ($50 - $80)

Since affordability was my priority, I ended up getting this one. I paid $49.99 plus tax. It doesn't have some of the exciting features of the other wireless routers mentioned above, but it works just fine. When I ran into some trouble setting it up, I was pleased at how nice and patient the customer service representative was on the phone. A few months later, when I got a new laptop and forgot my access code, another equally friendly customer service representative helped me through my crisis.

There are several wireless routers on the market today, but it didn't take me long to decide. My needs were basic. I only wanted to ditch my ethernet cords and join modern society. I found what I needed for less than the cost of a dinner date and my Linkysys is still going strong.