BEST BUYING GUIDE FOR DUAL BAND ROUTERS IN 2024
Dual-band routers are networking devices that operate on two different frequency bands simultaneously which are the 2.4GHz band and the 5GHz band. By offering improved performance and reduced interference, these routers provide better data transfer rates and support a larger number of Wi-Fi devices. The 2.4GHz band is suitable for longer-range coverage and compatibility with older devices, while the 5GHz band is less crowded, enabling faster speeds and better performance for modern devices. These routers are widely used in homes, offices, and public spaces to deliver a seamless and efficient wireless network experience.
There are several types of dual band routers available in the market, each with their unique features and specifications. Amazon India also offers a wide range of dual band routers. In this buying guide, BestBaba’s team will try to cover everything you need to know to choose the best one for your use. Choosing the best one among multiple options can be a daunting task for you so this buying guide from BestBaba will provide you with the necessary information to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a dual band router in India. BestBaba’s expert team has shortlisted the 10 best dual band routers available online on the basis of thousands of customers’ reviews, feedback and ratings.
POINTS TO CONSIDER WHILE BUYING DUAL BAND ROUTERS
WIRELESS STANDARDS: Prefer to look for routers that support the latest wireless standards, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). These standards offer better speed, range, and overall performance compared to older standards.
DUAL-BAND SUPPORT: Ensure that the router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This will allow you to connect devices that require longer range and those that demand higher performance.
SPEED AND THROUGHPUT: You must check the router's maximum speed rating for both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Higher speed ratings are generally better, especially if you have many devices connected simultaneously.
NUMBER OF ANTENNAS: More antennas can lead to better coverage and signal strength. Routers with external, adjustable antennas tend to offer more flexibility in directing the signal. You should prefer to go with the ones which come with more antennas as compared to other ones.
RANGE AND COVERAGE: Consider the size of the area you need to cover with Wi-Fi and ensure that the router has sufficient range to reach all corners of your home or office.
MU-MIMO TECHNOLOGY: Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, reducing latency and improving overall network efficiency. You must be very smart in choosing the technology related to it.
ETHERNET PORTS: If you have devices that require a wired connection, check the number of Ethernet ports available on the router. Having Gigabit Ethernet ports is preferable for faster wired connections.
USB PORTS: Routers with USB ports offer additional functionality, such as file sharing or connecting a printer. Consider the type of USB port (USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) and its potential use.
SECURITY FEATURES: Look for routers with WPA3 encryption support for enhanced security. Also, ensure the router has firewall capabilities and options for guest network access.
FIRMWARE UPDATES: Regular firmware updates can improve the router's performance, security, and functionality. Check if the manufacturer provides firmware updates and if the process is user-friendly.
WARRANTY AND SUPPORT: Check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer and the availability of customer support in case you encounter any issues.
PARENTAL CONTROLS AND QOS: If you have children or need to manage bandwidth allocation, you should consider routers that offer parental control features and Quality of Service (QoS) settings.
BEST DUAL BAND ROUTERS IN INDIA
The TP-Link Archer C20 is an AC750 Dual Band Wireless Cable Router available on Amazon India. This router is designed to provide high-speed Wi-Fi with a maximum throughput of 750Mbps. It features support for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, ensuring a reliable and stable connection for various devices in your home or office. With four 10/100 LAN ports and one 10/100 WAN port, the Archer C20 offers multiple options for wired connections to devices like computers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. The router also comes equipped with three antennas, which help to extend the Wi-Fi range and improve signal strength, providing wider coverage throughout your living space. The Archer C20 offers several convenient features, including a guest network function, allowing you to create a separate network for visitors, ensuring that your main network remains secure and private. Additionally, the parental control feature empowers you to manage internet access for children by setting up restrictions on certain websites and controlling their online activities. TP-Link is a reputable brand known for producing reliable networking devices, and this router is no exception. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and configure, while regular firmware updates ensure you always have the latest features and security enhancements. If you are looking for a cost-effective and versatile dual-band router with essential features such as guest network support, parental control, and fast Wi-Fi speeds, the TP-Link Archer C20 in its stylish blue design could be an excellent choice for your home or small office network. You must give it a chance to perform.
The Tenda AC10 AC1200 Wireless Smart Dual-Band Gigabit WiFi Router is a powerful and feature-packed networking device. With its support for MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, this router can efficiently handle multiple devices simultaneously, providing seamless and lag-free internet access to all connected devices. The AC10 offers dual-band support, with a high-speed 5 GHz band reaching up to 867Mbps and a 2.4 GHz band reaching up to 300Mbps. This ensures that you can enjoy smooth streaming, online gaming, and browsing experiences, even when multiple devices are using the network concurrently. For those requiring wired connections, the router comes equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect devices like gaming consoles, PCs, and smart TVs with high-speed wired connections for optimal performance. One standout feature of the Tenda AC10 is the built-in VPN server support, enabling secure remote access to your home or office network. This is especially useful for individuals or businesses that require a secure and encrypted connection while accessing their network from outside locations. Additionally, the router offers WiFi scheduling options, enabling you to set specific times when the Wi-Fi is turned on or off, helping you conserve energy and control internet access for certain periods. It's essential to note that the Tenda AC10 is a standalone router and not a modem, so you'll need to pair it with a separate modem to access the internet. Tenda is a well-known brand in the networking industry, known for producing reliable and affordable routers. The AC10 continues this tradition, providing a robust and versatile solution for home and small office networks. If you're looking for a feature-rich dual-band router with MU-MIMO support, Gigabit Ethernet ports, VPN server capabilities, and flexible WiFi scheduling options, the Tenda AC10 in its elegant black design is worth considering for upgrading your network setup.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
Dual-band routers provide better speed, less interference, and improved performance for devices that support the 5 GHz band. They are ideal for streaming, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
Most modern devices support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. However, older devices might only support the 2.4 GHz band. Dual-band routers ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices.
MU-MIMO stands for Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output. It allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, improving efficiency and reducing latency for connected devices.
Setting up a dual-band router involves connecting it to a modem, accessing the router's configuration page through a web browser, and following the setup wizard. You will need to provide a network name (SSID) and password for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
It's a good practice to check for firmware updates regularly and install them when available. Firmware updates can improve performance, security, and fix bugs in the router's software.
