Synology RT2600ac
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/synology-rt2600ac/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The RT2600 has long range, fast Wi-Fi speed and plenty of features. The router can host more than one broadband connection, and also works as a robust network storage server when coupled with an external hard drive. It also includes state of the art firmware that delivers a stellar set of extra features.
The bad: There’s no support for combining two LAN ports into a single superfast connection, and you might wish the router had more than five network ports.
The cost: $229.99 MSRP
The bottom line: If you’re looking to create a fast and highly customizable home network with advanced features, look no further than the RT2600AC.
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Asus RT-AC88U
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/asus-rt-ac88u-router/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The Asus RT-AC88U router has eight superfast Gigabit LAN ports, speedy Wi-Fi performance and lots of useful features. Its Web interface is smartly designed and easy to use.
The bad: The router’s USB 3.0 port is awkwardly placed, and when coupled with an external hard drive, its NAS performance is just average.
The cost: $264.99
The bottom line: You’ll pay a lot for the Asus RT-AC88U, but it has everything you’d want in a router. If you have the money, this is the router to get.
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Google Wifi
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/google-wifi/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Google Wifi is easy to use and a breeze to set up. It has strong Wi-Fi coverage and fast speed. It costs a lot less than other mesh Wi-Fi systems.
The bad: A Google account and a mobile device are required for setup and management. It doesn’t have many advanced features or customizable network settings.
The cost: $129.00 (single unit) to $299.00 (set of 3 units)
The bottom line: Google Wifi is the best Wi-Fi system on the market.
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Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi System
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/netgear-orbi-wifi-system/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The Orbi Wi-Fi system conveniently delivers large Wi-Fi coverage without compromising speed. The system doesn’t require an account with Netgear to work.
The bad: The system is expensive, and there’s no mobile app for its setup process.
The cost: $399.99 (set of 2 units)
The bottom line: The high cost aside, the Orbi System is a sure and easy way to cover a relatively large home with high-speed Wi-Fi coverage.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: SF Labs Manager/Editor Dong Ngo and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
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