Considering buying a modem/router to save money? Explore the pros and cons, potential savings, and tips for choosing the right device for your needs.
It's a big question, and we have run the numbers for you!
It generally costs $5 to $10 per month to lease a router from the cable company, and those we recommend in our Ratings range from $79.99 to $129.99. Simple math reveals that if you buy a router, it will quickly pay for itself in monthly savings on your bill, as well as improve your Voiply Experience.
A new router should speed up file transfers between devices in your home and allow you and the people you live with to stream more videos simultaneously. Our top pick, the TP-Link Archer AX50 (AX3000) Dual Band Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Router, $129.99, should get you consistent speed throughout the house (depending on doors, walls, and other obstructions).
But you can pay far less for a good, basic dual-band 802.11ac router (meaning it uses two frequencies, 2.4 and 5GHz, to avoid interference with other devices and nearby Wi-Fi networks). For example, the TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router (V2)starting at $79.99.
For Customers with Cable internet that require a modem, we have the top picks here for you:
Our top pick: Which modem/router combo is best?
We recommend the Motorola MG7700 modem/router combo. It works with most major cable internet providers and can handle internet speeds up to 600 Mbps. Its Wireless Power Boost feature—which expands its signal range—makes it a good option for larger homes.
The 5 best modem/router combos:
Motorola MG7700 : Best overall
ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
NETGEAR C3700
Motorola MD1600