Best Routers Under $100: Top 10 Router Reviews & Buying Criteria Of 2022

Why Buy Expensive Routers With Older Technologies When Pickmyrouter Has The List Of The Best affordable Routers Under $100.

Your happiness turns into sorrow when you search “best WIFI router under 100” on Google. Why? Well, lots of websites with lots of different routers’ recommendations create confusions.

A couple of years ago, I did the same thing. I searched on Google and went through all the top SERP’s results and reviews. After doing research and wasting a lot of time, I could buy a good router.

But, I regretted afterward as I spent too much time on such a small thing. I noticed it was all happened because of not knowing my needs or requirements for a router.  That’s why I decided to write this article to let you know how easy it would be if you consider only four following key factors.

After going through them, I am 100% sure that you’ll be smart enough to find the best one by yourself. However, it is also my duty to think about those people who are not interested in reading, or having enough knowledge about routers. The following list is only for them.

10 Best Wireless Routers Under 100 Reviews 2022

Router	Best For	Rating
Tp-Link Archer AX21	WIFI 6/Home	4.9
Tp-Link Archer A9	Gaming/Streaming	4.9
Speedefy AC2100 K7	Home/Long-range	4.9
Netgear Nighthawk R6700	Home/Gaming	4.9
Google WiFi System	Mesh WiFi/coverage	4.8
Motorola MR1700	DD-WRT/Range	4.8
NETGEAR R6230	Cheap/Small Home	4.8
ASUS RT-ACRH13	Coverage/multiple devices	4.8
Medialink AC1200	Apartment/Range	4.8
D-Link DIR-867	Gaming/Home	4.8

1. Tp-link Archer AX21 – Best WIFI 6 router under 100

Highlights

1. WIFI 6 Dual-band (802.11AX)
2. Up to 1.8gbps WIFI speed 
3. Beamforming & OFDMA technology
4. 4x External antennas
5. 1.5GHz quad-core CPU
6. Simultaneous 40+ devices  
7. 5x Gigabit Ethernet Ports 

Overview

One of the most popular yet affordable WIFI 6 routers from TP-Link called archer AX21 has smashed its competition by providing top-notch features and advanced technologies under 100 bucks. Though, there is no doubt that TP-Link has changed its protocol by providing a unique yet durable design compared to its previous ‘AC’ wireless standard series. 

With incredible WIFI speeds up to 1.8Gbps, the Archer AX21 handles 4K content, be it your streaming or gaming, with ease. Additionally, it can let you connect up to 40+ devices at once while keeping the performance up to the bar. It is because of its powerful CPU, a 1.5GHz processor. As a result, it enables multiple devices connection wirelessly and wired connections via LAN cables through four Gigabit Ethernet ports. 

Besides, it has four external antennas and utilizes beamforming technology to strengthen the network for smooth communication between the router and connected devices. In addition, it offers MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies that allow four times more devices to connect without compromising the speeds. 

However, there is room for improvement with so many incredible features, such as its slow USB 2.0 port. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. Up to the mark performance over 2.4GHz and 5GHz
2. It can handle up to 1Gbps internet plan
3. WPA-3 security
4. Range & coverage
5. The next-gen wireless standard 802.11AX 
6. Easy to set up

What I don’t:

1. No USB 3.0 port

Verdict

The TP-Link Archer AX21 is one of the best routers you have under $100. It offers many high-end features and technologies, such as Tp-Link OneMesh, and OFDMA & MU-MIMO. It can recommend this router for small to medium size homes or apartments.  

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2. Tp-Link Archer a9 – A perfect Home Router

My Views

I was so curious to review the Archer A9 . I gave it the first position on my list. Compared A9 to the rest of the routers, you will notice some significant differences. However, it is true; Archer A9 is more expensive than others. Don’t worry! It comes under $100. I still remember, last year its cost was above $100. That’s why I couldn’t include Archer A9 on the list.

Overview

The Tp-Link Archer A9 is a dual-band router. Its beamforming technology makes the router smarter. A 1Ghz powerful dual-core processor powers it. It has three external antennas for long range and capable of providing good coverage. Media file sharing is also fast as it has one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0. It features four Gigabit Ethernet ports along with one fast WAN port.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• Its powerful WiFI can reach up to 1900Mbps using both bands ( 600Mbps ~ 2.4GHz + 1300Mbps ~ 5Ghz).
• Simultaneous dual-band the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz allow us to connect multiple devices at the same time.
• Beamforming technology ensures a stronger and reliable Wi-Fi connection.
• Tp-Link Tether app is for setting the router up and lets us manage WiFi.
• Being AC1900, It makes 4K Streaming and HD Gaming experience smoother.

What I don’t:

• its status lights are a bit bright. At night, it becomes really annoying.
• It is not mountable.

Verdict

The Tp-Link A9 is worth $100 as it is the only router which offers speeds up to 1900Mbps. It is a complete home Wi-Fi router. A couple of years ago, I bought this router at $119 and used it for a long time. I used to stream 4K and play HD games without any issues, like connection lost and stability.

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3. Speedefy AC2100 K7 – Best for long-range

Highlights

1. Wireless speeds up to 2100 Mbps
2. 4×4 MU-MIMO & Beamforming
3. 7 External antennas (6dBi)
4. Dual-Band (2.4Ghz ~ 300mbps, 5Hz ~ 1733mbps)
5. 25+ simultaneous devices
6. Smart control

Overview

The Speedefy K7 is the only router on the market with seven 6dbi external antennas under 100. The router tops out a maximum shared WIFI speeds of up to 2033Mbps; the 2.4GHz band achieves a maximum of 300Mbps speed while the 5GHz band up to 1733mbps, theoretically. 

In addition to the speed, it utilizes the popular wireless standard 802.11ac to support widely available smart devices. Despite being two separate bands, you get one visible signal as it combines them into one for more stable WiFi. 

The K7 utilizes a dual-core processor to handle multiple simultaneous tasks, such as your web browsing, video streaming, gaming, and others. Besides, it boasts 4×4 MU-MIMO and beamforming technologies for 4K content and heavy-duty tasks on various connected devices simultaneously. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. Fast WiFI speeds (up to 2033Mbps)
2. Excellent coverage (2500 sq. ft.) and range
3. 7x High-gain 6dBi omni-directional external antennas
4. Easy to set up and manage using both web & App

What I don’t:

1. No USB port

Verdict

The Speedefy K7 is an incredible router for home and gaming, even for playing 4K content. Further, I like the fact that it has three operational modes, such as AP mode, repeater mode, and of course, wireless router mode. 

However, there is only one issue with the router is its USB port. If you don’t care or need a USB port, the K7 will be the perfect router for you. 

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4. Netgear Nighthawk R6700 – For Home & Gaming

My Views

The Netgear R6700 holds the first place on this list. Compared to the Motorola MR1700, it has better features and offers better performance. However, when the range and coverage are concerned, the MR1700 will win in that segment.

Overview

Netgear R6700 is a dual-band smart WiFi router. It is capable of providing the maximum speeds up to 1750 (450Mbps using 2.4Ghz band and 1300Mbps using 5Ghz bands). The Dual-core processor is powerful enough for boosting wired and wireless performance. It lets you priortize the devices for better Streaming videos and playing HD games.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• It features advanced QoS for enhancing the streaming and gaming experience.
• Beamforming technology for boosting and improving your Wi-FI range and speeds.
• It also comes with Airtime Fairness feature which prevents network lag when you connect any slower device to it.
• It has the fastest 3.0 USB port for accessing media or adding external storage drive.
• Smart parental controls feature allows you to limit the daily internet time for your family members.
• Great free backup software for your media files, works as a safeguard.

What I don’t:

• It doesn’t support MU-MIMO technology.

Verdict:

The Netgear R6700 is a fast, reliable and feature-packed router. It is a better option than Motorola MR1700 as it has USB ports and beamforming technology, which are missing in MR1700. However, it costs $10 more compared to MR1700. In other words, it is the best router under $100.

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 5. Google WiFi – Best future-proof router 

Highlights

1. Wireless 802.11ac
2. WiFi Coverage up to 1500 sq. ft.
3. Dual-band frequency 
4. WiFi speeds up to 1200Mbps
5. Google Home App

Overview

Google WiFi is a whole-home mesh WiFi system. First, though, it is just a single unit that offers maximum WiFi speeds of up to 1200Mbps and coverage up to 1500 sq. ft., you can connect two more units, each with 1500 square feet of coverage, depending on the size of your home. 

The company has adopted a very simple design and setup; it is very clean and compact enough to fit into the smallest space of your home. However, gamers might have a little disappointment as it has only one port to hook up your ethernet, though you can connect a switch via the additional ethernet port. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. Super easy to set it up
2. WiFi speeds are consistent
3. Compact and very small to fit everywhere
4. fast and user-friendly
5. Automatically finds the fastest band

What I don’t:

1. Some limitations, such as WPA3 support

Verdict

With the Google mesh WiFi system, you can expand your network simply by adding two more units. Since each unit covers up to 1500 square feet, your internet connection will be more reliable and fast in every corner of your room. Moreover, its compact and lightweight design is another factor that adds up more value to the product. 

So Google WiFi is a complete solution for those who want everything simple and easy without worrying much about ins-an-outs of their network. However, I’ll never recommend Google WiFi for multiple wired connections and USB port as it doesn’t come with any. 

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6. Motorola MR1700 – Best Value

My Views

The Motorola MR1700 takes third place as it doesn’t support MU-MIMO and Beamforming. It costs around $80. MR1700 is a newly launched router by Motorola. It is good and comes with a built-in extended range feature.

Overview

Motorola MR1700 is a dual-band Gigabit router. It can work on both bands 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz simultaneously and derive the maximum speeds up to 1700Mbps (867Mbps using 2.4Ghz band, 867Mbps using 5Ghz band). It has six adjustable external antennas, where four of them are dedicated to the 2.4GHz band. Wireless-AC ensures great performance and flexibility.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• Wi-Fi range and throughput are excellent.
• It can be used as a bridge mode.
• Setup is easy; installation is possible within minutes.
• No issues while using multiple devices at the same time.
• Customer support is excellent and friendly. You can contact via email, phone, and web.
• 2-years of warranty.
• Well-priced router and comes under $80.

What I don’t:

• It doesn’t support beamforming and MU-MIMO technologies.
• No USB ports.

Verdict

The MR1700 is an excellent router in terms of the range. However, it doesn’t support the beamforming; still, you get an excellent range and speeds through the Wi-FI using 2.4Ghz frequency band. You can connect multiple devices and use them at the same time without a hassle.

At this price range, I’ll give the Motorola MR1700 a thumbs up! As you get great range and performance with some advanced features, which you might only see in high-end routers.

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7. NETGEAR R6230 – Simple & cheap

My Views

R6230 AC1200 is better than ASUS RT-ACRH13. You might be thinking that R6230 is neither offering MU-MIMO nor beamforming, then why the fourth position? Well, the only reason is its price. Under $60, it offers great features.

Overview

The Netgear R6230 AC1200 is a dual-band Gigabit router. It is quite fast, reliable and can provide combined speeds (300Mbps using 2.4Ghz band and 900Mbps using 5Ghz band) of up to 1200Mbps. It comes with two external antennas for better coverage and range.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• Beamforming+ technology is a big plus; it ensures robust connectivity.
• Using the Nighthawk app, you can set up the router, manage and monitor connected devices.
• Dynamic QoS lets you prioritize bandwidth, helps while playing games and streaming HD videos.
• Simultaneous dual-band allows you to connect multiple devices without any interference.

What I don’t:

• No USB 3.0 port.

Verdict

Despite Being AC1200, the Netgear R6230 is faster than other AC1200 routers. I tested this router on my own and found its speed, WiFi range, and Reliability is better than AC1700 or even AC1750 standard’s router. However, it doesn’t support MU-MIMO. Still, performance and stability are beyond expectations. I didn’t have any issues while streaming videos or playing games. You don’t have to spend more as it is under $60 router.

Still, if you are TP-Link’s fan and your requirement is still stick to AC1200, then you should consider TP-LINK Archer 1200. Archer 1200 is an excellent rival to Netgear R6230 in terms of performance and features.

If it is compared to Netgear R6230, you will see a few difference like R6230 has two external antennas, whereas Archer 1200 has three external antennas. On the other side, you see beamforming+ technology is being used by R6230. Whereas, Tp-Link archer 1200 has none of them.

However, It is not possible Archer 1200 to provide such advanced technologies under $40. Yes, you heard it right, It is cheap, yet very powerful. So if you are willing to buy under $50 router, then the Archer 1200 is made for you.

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8. ASUS RT-ACRH13 – Powerful yet budget-friendly

My Views

The Asus RT-ARCH13 has reserved the fifth position on my list. Unlike Medialink AC1200, It supports MU-MIMO technology. However, it doesn’t offer beamforming. It costs you lower than Medialink AC1200, under $60. You can have good control over devices as its app is quite well-designed and user-friendly.

Overview

Asus ARC13 is a dual-band gigabit router that offers combined speeds ( 867Mbps on the 2.4Ghz and 400mbps on the 5Ghz band) up to 1300Mbps. It features 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and one fast WAN port. You also get one 3.0 USB port on the front side of the router.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• It offers MU-MIMO technology for connecting multiple device.
• It has four 5dBi external antennas enhance coverage and WiFi range.
• Web-based interface for setting it up.
• Asus Router app is very useful and lets us monitor and manage our network with ease.
• It comes with two years of warranty.

What I don’t:

• It doesn’t feature beamforming.
• The LED lights are too bright.

Verdict

I consider the ASUS AC1300 is the best router under budget. At this price point, I don’t think there is any other router that can offer this much features. No doubt! It is better than the Medialink. However, it doesn’t feature Asus AiRadar “beamforming,” but range and performance is top of the line. It also has two operation modes like wireless router mode and access point mode.

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9. Medialink AC1200 – Good looking and stylish

My Views

The Medialink AC1200 deserves the sixth position on the list. It is the best selling router by Medialink. Even you won’t have to pay more for this router as it can come under $70, at this price range, it can easily beat the Motorola MR1700.

Overview

Medialink MLWR-AC1200R is a Gigabit router dual-band router. Its combined wireless speeds (300Mbps ~ 2.4Ghz + 867Mbps ~ 5Ghz) are up to 1200Mbps. You don’t need to be a tech-savvy as its setup is simple and easy. It has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for lag-free gaming and 4k video streaming.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• Beamforming technology focuses the wireless signal directly using two external antennas.
• We can extend the range using the universal range extender mode.
• We can have full control over the router. Even we can turn off the status lights.
• In-built firewall ensures safety and secures us accessing malicious websites.
• Setup becomes quite simple and straightforward, go through a well-written and user-friendly instructions.
• USA-based customer support.

What I don’t:

• It doesn’t have a fast 3.0 USB port.

Verdict

The MLWR-AC1200R is one of the best newly released routers on Amazon. However, its maximum speeds 1200Mbps may be an issue for some people, but you should also consider that it is a low-cost router. It supports all the major ISPs (Xfinity, TWC, Fios & more). You can also use it as a range extender or wireless access point. I don’t face any network issues, even if I connect 20 devices at the same time.

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10. D-Link DIR-867 – Robust & Expensive

My Views

The D-Link DIR-867 is the only router that supports MU-MIMO and Beamforming technology. I wish I could take this router in the seventh position, but due to some missing features, it was not possible. However, Under $70, it comes with some great features.

Overview

D-Link DIR-867 is a dual-band router. It is a feature-packed router and has four external high-performance antennas which ensure a fast and reliable connection. It works on a dual-core processor that provides incredible wired speeds. Besides, Its combined WIFI speeds (450Mbps using 2.4Ghzs band + 1300Mbps using 5Ghz) are upto 1750Mbps.

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

• MU-MIMO technology allows multiple connections at the same.
• Traffic can be optimized for seamless performance using QoS.
• Beamforming for improving coverage and more faster connection directly to our devices.
• For sharing the WiFI with all the devices, it uses 3×3 data Streams. It reduces wait times.
• High performance, you can enjoy simultaneously 4K video streaming and online gaming without any issues.

What I don’t:

• It doesn’t have USB ports.

Verdict

The D-Link DIR-867 is a very powerful router. It has all the features that we need in our daily lives. I don’t know, at this price range how D-LINK manage to provide such advanced features and technologies. However, it doesn’t have USB ports, which is a drawback of this router. USB ports are very helpful while sharing files and using a wireless printer.

Still, if you want a USB port and your budget allows you to go beyond 100 dollars, then consider its AC2600 DIR-882 Model. In this model, you’ll find one USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ( on the front side).

Like Archer A9, the D-Link 882 would be under 100$ bucks in near future or 2022.

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Buying Guide: Features To Consider?

I know that we don’t have much time to read the entire post. Therefore, I’ll keep it short and point-to-point. I only need 2 minutes of yours. That’s it.

Keep these four things in your mind before you buy:

1. Single Band or Dual Band

The single-band router is a thing of the past. So say no to the single band routers. Unfortunately, One and the only option is “dual-band router.”

I wish, I could include “tri-band,” but we can’t afford it in 2022. Till then, We will be saving money and would buy one in 2022.

Verdict: The dual-band router.

2. Ethernet Ports

But, How many ports?

It depends on our needs that how many ports we actually need. However, I do have a solution for this too.

Remember, we are looking for a router under $100, meaning in this price range, we can’t get more than 4 Ethernet ports with 1 WAN port.

USB Ports: 3.0 or 2.0?

We don’t need to worry about this as all modern routers are coming with one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port.

Final Verdict: At least 4 Ethernet Ports, 1 WAN port, and the conjunction of a USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.

3. Wi-Fi Standards: ad, ac, n, g, a or b?

You might have heard of that weird looking 802 number at least once in your life. All the networking standards used this number as a naming system. For example:

Ethernet Networks – 802.3
Bluetooth – 802.15
WiFi – 802.11

The WiFi 802.11 standards are followed by a letter or two, which basically lets us know about the device’s range and speed, and these standards use different bands or frequency bands.

Comparison	802.11 (legacy)	802.11a	802.11b	802.11g	802.11n	802.11ac	802.11ad
Max Speeds	1.2 Mbps	54 Mbps	11 Mbps	54 Mbps	150 Mbps	5400 Mbps	7200 Mbps
Frequency	2.4 GHz	5.8 GHz	2.4 GHz	2.4 GHz	2.4 & 5 GHz	2.4 & 5 GHz	60GHz

Verdict: We will stick to the 802.11ac standard with max speed up to 1200 to 1900. (Sorry, but we can’t buy AC5400 router under 100 bucks)

4. MU-MIMO & Beamforming

Some Basic Network Components Under 100 Bucks

Computer network uses so many other devices too. If you are someone who only knows about routers, then this information is for you as today you will learn other basic network devices as well.

I’ll start with a popular one or basic to advanced.

1. Modem

Our computer uses a modem to send and receive data over a cable or telephone line (DSL, ADSL) or satellite connection. It is a hardware device.

How does it work?

As you know our telephone line is analog and our computer is digital, right? So the modem converts analog form to digital form. There are two most common modems types – the Dial-Up Modems and Broadband modems.

2. Router

With a modem, you can’t share internet connection wirelessly. Whereas, the router is used to join multiple devices together via a wireless or wired connection.

3. Extender or Repeater

As its name implies, A WiFI extender or repeater is used to expand the reach of a WiFI network, it boosts the existing signal. With extenders, you can turn “dead zones” into “working zones”. Place the repeater where your devices don’t receive enough network.

4. Wireless Access Points (WAP)

An access point uses wireless frequencies and works as a router for routing data between devices. In other words, It creates a wireless local area network (WLAN). Via an Ethernet cable, you can connect it to your wired router, hub, or switch. I also reviewed some great wireless access points here.

5. Network Hub

It is a hardware device which contains multiple ports and connects multiple devices on a network. Unlike a switch or router, It doesn’t route data to a specific device, broadcasts data across each connection instead.

Conclusion: How to pick the perfect Wireless router under $100?

Through this article, I’ve tried to compile a list of the best routers under 100, keeping all sort of users in mind. So whether you are a gamer, average person, light user, beginner, or even a heavy user, you won’t have a problem as you have the criteria now.