Can't decide on a router - Help certainly needed

[majax]

I'm looking for a new router to replace my Linksys E4200. It overheats. I'll have about 10 devices connected to it (Roku, iphone, ipad, laptop, 5 Android phones etc...). I'd really appreciate a recommendation. Here are some requirements I have:

Requirements:
1) Has to be 802.11 AC router.
2) Will be using Private Internet Access VPN.
3) Brands will consider: Asus, TP-Link, NetGear, D-Link
4) Must have at least one USB 3.0 port

Right now, I have it down to 4 routers:

1) RT-AC68U
2) Archer C7 AC1750
3) RT-AC66U
4) R7000

I'm just confused as to which one to buy. I don't know a huge amount about routers, so I'm hoping someone can recommend one or tell me what I should be looking for between these models. Each model seems to have pros and cons. I'm also confused about the different firmwares that are available for these models. I keep reading people saying that they just use DD-WRT or Tomato firmware and that further confuses me.

 

[Ralston18]

Majax,

Would like to recommend one of the four but I am not directly familiar with any of those models. (FYI: I have a Linksys 1900 AC. So far it has worked well and I have had no problems.)

You have already established a "price range" within the current list of choices so that consideration is a bit moot....


Here are some suggestions (albeit a bit generic) to help you decide based on my experience and procedures that I have used.

1) If possible go to a store and look at each model. See how well constructed the product seems to be. Find out what comes in the box: cables, manuals, quick start sheet, etc. Find out if you know anyone who has any of the models - how has the model worked for them?

2) Go to the vendor's web site and look at the appropriate user manual. Browse through the pages to see how well written and understandable the manual is. Diagrams and explanations are nice. Look for limitations that may not be clearly stated or vaguely referenced.

3) Visit the vendor's FAQ and forum pages. Read what problems people are having and what the solutions may be. Manufacturer support is an important consideration and a "skimpy", dumbed-down site can be a bit of a warning....

4) Read product reviews at different sites.

5) Look for customer purchase reviews at popular selling locations. Hopefully, the reviews will be verified as an actual purchaser. Do not look for just a list of two or three reviews. The more reviews the better....

6) What warranties are offered and by whom? How easy is it to return a failing or failed device? How much and who pays?

Sums up to additional work on your part but you will probably learn a lot in the process and then be more comfortable with making a choice on your own. Especially if that choice eventually corresponds with a recommendation that you feel is worthy and meaningful.

Buying anything in these times is always risky to some extent. And some purchases just will not work out...

As for DD-WRT and Tomato firmware they are replacement programs for the manufacturer's firmware built into the router. However, the manufacturer's firmware is upgradeable and can, therefore, be replaced.

When you read the user manuals what you see are the various options and features originally built into the router. All of the configuration screens, settings, choices, etc. that you see on the router are from the firmware.

DD-WRT and Tomato firmware usually provide additional or more advanced functions within the router. Both have websites with lots of information and details regarding the necessary "how-to's". If not done right you can end up with a dead ("bricked") router.

Replacing the firmware is something you probably do not need to be concerned about right now unless you eventually plan to do some advanced routing. If so check the DD-WRT and Tomato websites to see what routers are supported. Details are important.

Will hope that other forum members will offer additional suggestions and guidance.

 

[Ralston18]

Majax,

Would like to recommend one of the four but I am not directly familiar with any of those models. (FYI: I have a Linksys 1900 AC. So far it has worked well and I have had no problems.)

You have already established a "price range" within the current list of choices so that consideration is a bit moot....


Here are some suggestions (albeit a bit generic) to help you decide based on my experience and procedures that I have used.

1) If possible go to a store and look at each model. See how well constructed the product seems to be. Find out what comes in the box: cables, manuals, quick start sheet, etc. Find out if you know anyone who has any of the models - how has the model worked for them?

2) Go to the vendor's web site and look at the appropriate user manual. Browse through the pages to see how well written and understandable the manual is. Diagrams and explanations are nice. Look for limitations that may not be clearly stated or vaguely referenced.

3) Visit the vendor's FAQ and forum pages. Read what problems people are having and what the solutions may be. Manufacturer support is an important consideration and a "skimpy", dumbed-down site can be a bit of a warning....

4) Read product reviews at different sites.

5) Look for customer purchase reviews at popular selling locations. Hopefully, the reviews will be verified as an actual purchaser. Do not look for just a list of two or three reviews. The more reviews the better....

6) What warranties are offered and by whom? How easy is it to return a failing or failed device? How much and who pays?

Sums up to additional work on your part but you will probably learn a lot in the process and then be more comfortable with making a choice on your own. Especially if that choice eventually corresponds with a recommendation that you feel is worthy and meaningful.

Buying anything in these times is always risky to some extent. And some purchases just will not work out...

As for DD-WRT and Tomato firmware they are replacement programs for the manufacturer's firmware built into the router. However, the manufacturer's firmware is upgradeable and can, therefore, be replaced.

When you read the user manuals what you see are the various options and features originally built into the router. All of the configuration screens, settings, choices, etc. that you see on the router are from the firmware.

DD-WRT and Tomato firmware usually provide additional or more advanced functions within the router. Both have websites with lots of information and details regarding the necessary "how-to's". If not done right you can end up with a dead ("bricked") router.

Replacing the firmware is something you probably do not need to be concerned about right now unless you eventually plan to do some advanced routing. If so check the DD-WRT and Tomato websites to see what routers are supported. Details are important.

Will hope that other forum members will offer additional suggestions and guidance.