Shopping for a new router

[Coolme]

Our wireless router died and I'm looking for a replacement unit. I think the new one should be "N" compatible. For the rest reliability and performance is the primary concern. I'm looking to spend around 50-60 euros. So far I have something in mind like the Linksys WRT160N and the Netgear WNR2000. What do you think? Is there anything else out there that is better for this price? Thank you.

[OS-Wiz]

I'd get the LINKSYS WRT160NL with the extrenal antennas.

[Soul Assassin]

I like the D-Link DIR-825 and DIR-855. Linksys has gone downhill and Netgear was never good.

[Coolme]

The D-Link routers you mentioned here are out of my price range. The Linksys seems good although I don't really like the design but that's secondary.

What about the Belkin N+ router or the Netgear WNR3500 RangeMax? There is a D-Link that's closer to what I want to spend, it's the DIR-635 or even the DIR-655, any good? There is just so many choice, I did a search on this forum for routers but most of the posts are referring to "G" models. Eventually I'll just have to pick one and get going.

[tntnardo]

After reading numerous review's I just ordered a D-Link 655 ... Most of the review's were positive. I ordered a refurbished from Best Buy for $79.00 +s&h

[Coolme]

I noticed the DLink routers came out in 2007. I don't really know if that matters but for comparison the Linksys WRT160NL and the WRT320N are both from mid 2009. Are the external antennas important features about those routers because I see some only have them internally? Right now I'm debating whether I go for either of the Linksys I just referred here or the DIR-635 from D-Link. Any experience with those here?

[OS-Wiz]

Been there done that with the Dlink, Netgear, Linksys stuff. For me, Linksys wins. And I like the external antenna(s), better, solid connections.

[ImaNihilist]

There are only two products I can recommend for entry level: The Cisco WRVS4400N, and the Apple AirPorts. Everything else I've ever tried has to be "reset" constantly, and IMO that's unacceptable. A router should NEVER have to be reset unless you are pushing a firmware update.

You can save money and buy a $50 router, but have fun getting pissed off at having to reset it at least once a week.

If you buy a good router it will last forever and never have to be reset. And if you ever want a new one, you can sell the old one. Buy a $200 Cisco route today, and you'll never have a problem with it and be able to sell it for $120 in 3-years. Buy a $50 crap-box and you'll end up having to buy two of them in three years and they'll both end up being worthless.

If $200 is too much to spend on a router, consider getting an Apple AirPort express for $99. I know, you'll have an evil Apple product in your house. It's okay, you can hide it away and you don't have to tell anyone.

[[PinPals]Apu]

I use a Dlink 655. Its awesome, never had a problem with it and always gives me strong signals throughout my house.

[Coolme]

I come from a Linksys WRT54G and it worked well for me for a couple of years. I looked at the Apple Express and it seems pretty small in size for a router. I'm going to look for some reviews on that little piece of hardware. Glancing at the picture, it seems though I wouldn't be able to add a switch to the router. For that purpose I would need the Apple Extreme Base Station.

Been there done that with the Dlink, Netgear, Linksys stuff. For me, Linksys wins. And I like the external antenna(s), better, solid connections.

OS Wiz: What would you choose between the WRT320N and the WRT160NL?
They are the same price where I live.

Thanks for all the help.

[tntnardo]

There are only two products I can recommend for entry level: The Cisco WRVS4400N, and the Apple AirPorts. Everything else I've ever tried has to be "reset" constantly, and IMO that's unacceptable. A router should NEVER have to be reset unless you are pushing a firmware update.

You can save money and buy a $50 router, but have fun getting pissed off at having to reset it at least once a week.

If you buy a good router it will last forever and never have to be reset. And if you ever want a new one, you can sell the old one. Buy a $200 Cisco route today, and you'll never have a problem with it and be able to sell it for $120 in 3-years. Buy a $50 crap-box and you'll end up having to buy two of them in three years and they'll both end up being worthless.

If $200 is too much to spend on a router, consider getting an Apple AirPort express for $99. I know, you'll have an evil Apple product in your house. It's okay, you can hide it away and you don't have to tell anyone.

I've had my $49.00 Linksys WRT54GL for 3 yrs and have NEVER had to reset it ... Maybe just luckly but I have not heard of the amount of problems you suggest with the cheap $50 units. I run 4 desktops and 2 laptops from it .. Just my 2 cents worth ....

[Ashpool]

WRT54GL and flash it with Tomato Firmware.

It's my standard answer but with my router lasting for months at a time without a reboot... It's a pretty good answer. Hell you don't even need to tweak anything if you're not up to it.

It's not 802.11n-capable. Whatsoever. But it's the Toyota Pickups of consumer routers - the damn things just won't die.

[ua549]

I have a Buffalo WHR-HP-G54 router that has never been rebooted since its initial installation (IIRC) about 5 years ago.
My next AP (802.11n) will most likely be a Cisco Airport.

[OS-Wiz]

OS Wiz: What would you choose between the WRT320N and the WRT160NL?
They are the same price where I live.

Thanks for all the help.

The WRT160NL.

[Coolme]

The WRT160NL.

OK thanks.

I'm going to end up with either the DIR-825 or the WRT160NL.

Just have to read some more reviews.