What are the features to look for in a router for 100Mbps internet? These days, modern routers can do a lot more than just connect one device to the internet. Thus, the best router for any wireless speed will likely have dual-band Wi-Fi or better to support multiple connected devices. Next, the best 100Mbps routers have plenty of processing power to handle data and networking functions. Most experts suggest a router with at least 256 MB of memory.
Finally, the best routers have an excellent range. Even a budget router today should be compatible with range extenders and cover an area of at least 2,000 square feet. We recommend upgrading to a new router if you’re adding a new smart home device such as a connected thermostat, pet monitor system, speakers, or gaming setup. You’ll also get better wireless coverage in areas where you experience a “dead zone” on home Wi-Fi devices.
Keep reading to learn more about the best 100Mbps routers and how to choose the ideal router for your high-speed wireless network setup.
Top Routers for 100mbps
#1 TrendNet TW100-S4W1CA 4-Port Broadband Router
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: It has an app for easy managing and comes with Firewall protection to protect connected devices from hackers. It can support Internet connections for up to 153 users and filter out up to 32 different web URLs.
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- Supports Internet access for up to 153 users
- Can be remotely managed through a web interface
- Instantly recognizes other devices through Plug and Play
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- Even the simplest of changes require a reboot
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The Trendnet 4-Port Broadband router boasts four ports and can hit data transfer speeds of up to 100mbps for each LAN port. Its data transfer rate stands at 0.1 Gbps, and since it also comes with advanced Firewall protection, all the connected devices will also remain protected from hackers. Thanks to its Plug and Play feature, the router instantly recognizes other connected devices and can also be used to configure virtual servers. Unfortunately, previous users have complained that even the simplest changes require a reboot.
This router also comes with support for up to eight concurrent VPN sessions and allows for easy setup and remote management thanks to its Web interface. It comes in a very compact box, and weighing only four ounces, it shouldn’t be a problem to carry around. The router only supports a single-band frequency class and filters up to 32 URL entries.
#2 Archer A5 by TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Internet Router
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: It comes with five LAN ports and can be remotely managed through an app. Users will also be able to manage multiple device connectivity through it.
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- Remote management is easy to do through its TP-Link Tether App
- Dual-band frequency class allows for widespread usage
- Users will be able to set up guest network access
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- Has poor range
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The Archer A5 is a very popular dual-band wireless router that supports 100mbps speeds and boasts a data transfer rate of up to 1.2 Gigabytes per second. The router supports both wireless and Ethernet connectivity, sporting five different ports for users to choose from. Its dual-band frequency class is designed such that its 2.4GHz band allows for speeds of up to 300mbps for stress-free web browsing, and its 5GHz band allows for up to 867mbps for HD video streaming and online gaming. The router also features two external antennas for optimal coverage, but some previous buyers were still not impressed with its range.
Remote management of this router is very easy to do through the TP-Link Tether app. The app allows users to create a guest network to share WiFi access without compromising on security and exercise bandwidth control so that users will also be able to designate more bandwidth to data or gaming. Users will also be able to pick the devices that can easily connect to the network and set up parental controls to limit Internet usage for their kids.
#3 Portable 4G LTE USB WiFi Router
Award: BEST FOR PORTABILITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: Its small size makes it pretty easy to move around with. It can support connections for up to 10 users, and since it is plug and play, it does not require any setup.
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- Great for portability
- Supports up to ten users
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- Requires a SIM card to work
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This portable 4G LTE WiFi adapter from EB Tools is a great little mobile tool that allows users to connect to a wireless network or configure a hotspot. The adapter is used by plugging into the computer’s USB port and, once activated, can support wireless connectivity for up to ten users. The adapter is compatible with a wide range of software, and since it comes with a built-in 4G/3G+ WiFi antenna, its connectivity is pretty good. However, unlike other standalone routers, it requires a SIM card to work.
The adapter also allows for a connectivity speed of up to 100mbps and comes with a memory card slot that can accommodate SD cards with a capacity of up to 32 GB. It features a SIM card slot and does not require a lengthy setup process since it is plug-and-play.
#4 Vonets VBG1200 Industrial Mini Dual Band 2.4GHz/5GHz Wifi Router
Award: BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES
WHY WE LIKE IT: It is ideal for users who need connectivity in close-knit spaces. It also has modules like automatic temperature control and will automatically reconnect previous WiFi hotspots whenever it is switched on.
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- Ideal for up to twenty connections
- Has protocols to prevent from overheating
- Works in two different modes
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- Range is limited to 500 meters
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The Vonets VBG1200 may look small, but it packs quite a punch as far as Internet connectivity is concerned. It offers a combined data transfer rate of up to 1200 mbps, where its 2.4GHz band offers up to 300mbps, and its 5GHz band offers up to 900mbps. This WiFi router can also be set to operate in different modes. Owners can have it work as a router to connect devices to the Internet through WiFi and Ethernet connectivity or be configured to provide Internet access only through a wired connection. It can also be used as a repeater to boost a current network. Unfortunately, its range is limited to 500 meters.
The router comes with an aluminum alloy shell for fast heat dissipation and automatic overvoltage protection. For more efficient functioning, users can also have it automatically reboot to release storage space on the device or even reduce its transmission power to avoid heating up.
#5 Yoidesu 4G LTE USB WiFi Modem Router
Award: BEST FOR EASE OF USE
WHY WE LIKE IT: All owners have to do is plug it into a computer’s USB port and it will get working. It can support up to 10 users and has a firewall for cyber protection.
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- Supports up to 10 users
- Has a memory card slot
- Has a firewall for cyber protection
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- Requires a SIM card to work
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This 4G LTE USB modem from the Yoidesu store offers a data transfer rate of up to 100 mbps and will only have to be plugged into a computer’s USB port to create a hotspot. The adapter allows for up to 10 users to be connected and comes with a memory card port that’ll hold micro SD cards of up to 32GB in size. Since the adapter is plug-and-play, users will not have to go through any setup process to have it working. The only thing they would need to have at hand is a SIM card.
The modem is easily compatible with a wide range of software and a built-in 4G/3G+ WiFi antenna for sustainable connectivity. It also features both WPA-PSK and WPA2-PSK security protocols for added cyber protection.
#6 Netgear RP614 Web Safe Router
Award: BEST FOR INTERNET SHARING
WHY WE LIKE IT: It can be used to share a network connection through either wired or wire free connectivity. It has four Ethernet ports and includes a firewall that extends protection to connected devices.
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- Great for sharing Internet connections
- Has four Ethernet ports
- Sleek design
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- Requires an access point to be used as a hotspot
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The Netgear RP614 is a convenient web-safe router with a LAN port bandwidth of up to 100mbps per second for each port. The router comes with four Ethernet ports for wired connectivity and is very compact for easy placement. It also comes with filtering controls that allow parents to keep an eye on Internet activities and limit URL access. Its firewall protection also keeps all connected devices safe. However, it cannot be used as a hotspot without an Access point.
Installing it is also pretty easy since it also features a Smart Setup Wizard, which automatically detects the type of Internet connection in use and offers the correct steps to follow through with. The router is easily compatible with all Ethernet cables and has a very sleek design.
Beginner’s Guide to 100Mbps Routers
What Are 100Mbps Routers?
Routers are devices that route connections on a local area network such as your home or office Wi-Fi network. In general, a router sends and receives wired or wireless signals from an ISP and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to the connected devices on the network. A 100Mbps router may be any Wi-Fi router that allows for Wi-Fi speeds of 100 Megabits per second or more. This includes most Wi-Fi 5 routers designed to use fiber-optic-enabled high-speed Ethernet cables, along with the best 4G LTE router.
100Mbps may not sound like much in the era of routers that advertise 1000Mbps download speeds. Still, actual speeds depend on the quality of the broadband infrastructure, the amount of traffic on the network, and the router’s data processing speed.
100Mbps Routers vs Routers in General
Like any traditional router, a 100Mbps WiFi router allows you to set up a wireless network and connect that network to the internet. What makes a 100Mbps router distinct is that it must be capable of 100Mbps internet speeds.
Most routers advertise download speed since this tends to be faster than the maximum speed for uploads, but some routers can manage nearly the same upload and download speeds. 100Mbps routers may differ in their top upload speeds, but they all enable a 100Mbps or faster download speed.
Like other routers, 100Mbps routers can feature one or more ethernet ports and USB ports for a wired connection. Also, like most routers, 100Mbps models may be single-band, dual-band, or tri-band. Routers for 100Mbps internet are also more likely to include both 5GHz and 2.4GHz connectivity than a basic budget router.
Unlike routers for gigabit internet optimized for the fastest fiber-optic connections, a 100Mbps router will perform equally well with the internet connection speeds typical of most residential broadband networks.
How 100Mbps Routers Work
An excellent router for typical broadband internet will allow you to manage your home or office wireless network and provide a stable, reliable connection to the internet. Routers use a wired or cellular data connection to communicate with an ISP and access the internet. They may or may not include a built-in modem that translates analog cable or optical signals into digital packets.
Many top-rated 100Mbps routers have advanced features to boost range and help maintain a more stable and reliable wireless connection throughout the premises. Some models feature external antennas or adjustable antennas with beam-forming technology. Some modern 100Mbps routers come as a set of three or more mesh routers designed to work together and provide uninterrupted coverage with strong signals in all areas of the home or building.
A quality 100Mbps router will also come with advanced features for network configuration and internet security. Modern Wi-Fi routers typically use the 802.11ac “Wi-Fi 5” or the newer 802.11ax “Wi-Fi 6” wireless standard for improved network security and bandwidth. Most dual and tri-band routers also come with MU-MIMO technology, allowing multiple users to stream data or upload files simultaneously.
Why You Should Buy a New 100Mbps Router
You might want to consider a new 100Mbps router if you’re looking to upgrade your home Wi-Fi connection and want a good balance between excellent performance and affordable price points. Even if you aren’t in a position to change your internet plan or the local telecom infrastructure, a new router may give you a noticeable boost in Wi-Fi speeds along with an extended range and fewer dead spots.
Avid gamers and streamers may also want to consider a router for gaming that provides reduced latency while making the most of the ISP’s 100Mbps internet hookup. In addition, a more advanced router can provide better Wi-Fi coverage and faster real-life Wi-Fi speeds even without changing your service.
Households with many wireless and smart devices running on the same network may find that switching to a new router will deliver faster Wi-Fi speeds. Newer routers can spread out the traffic more efficiently and make use of the 5GHz band.
Compared to older 100Mbps internet routers, newer options offer greater wireless bandwidth and support more connections. New routers also have more options for extended coverage, helping avoid dead spots. In terms of performance, many new routers will deliver faster speeds, even using the same 100Mbps internet connection.
Is A 100Mbps Router Worth Buying?
- You Have a Large Space: Regardless of a router’s theoretical speed, the actual network speeds of each wireless device depend on the strength of the signal, the traffic on the network, and the processing capability of the router. Thus, switching to a 100Mbps router with excellent coverage will give you a noticeable boost in connectivity, especially in a larger space.
- You Stream Video and Transfer Large Files: A new 100Mbps router may be an ideal option for individuals and households looking to enjoy HD video streaming without causing a bandwidth drain and slowing down everyone else on the network. A router using the 5 and 6 GHz bands can allow for acceptably fast file transfers without affecting connectivity for smart devices and web browsing.
- You Play Online Games: Online games require excellent wireless performance to run smoothly, and they also take up a lot of bandwidth. Thus, upgrading to a gaming router that offers reduced game latency and gives you the option of adding a wired Ethernet connection can help preserve internet access speeds while simultaneously supporting responsive gaming.
Why a 100Mbps Router May Not Be For You
- Using ISP-Provided Router: Many people use the router that comes with internet service installation and rarely consider that the router affects the quality of the Wi-Fi connection. Thus, a cheap router may not allow users to get the most out of an advertised 100Mbps broadband connection. Still, if it works fine for your needs, you may not need a new router.
- Fiber-Optic Broadband Users: While the latest FTTx connections theoretically offer extreme speeds of 1000Mbps or more, the actual speed of your Wi-Fi depends on the router and the number of internet users on the network. Thus, depending on your layout, you may want a Wi-Fi router optimized for range or online gaming, even if you have a Gigabit Ethernet connection.
How Long Will a 100Mbps Router Last?
Routers used in the home and office generally last about five years on average. The hardware may be more or less durable, and some routers physically last longer than five years, but many internet users replace their routers sooner. As internet infrastructure improves and Wi-Fi standards change, the best compatible routers may be different as well.
To get the most longevity out of your router, you might want to choose a model that’s compatible with the latest Wi-Fi 6 standards and offers user-configurable options for guest networks, range extenders, and other networking features. Up-to-date routers with MU-MIMO technology are more “future proof” and will remain usable with next-generation internet protocols.
As with other electronic and communications devices, routers last longest when kept safe from excess heat and humidity. A router cabinet can help protect the device from accidental damage and spills, but you’ll want to make sure to choose an open-fronted piece that doesn’t interfere with the wireless signal.
How to Choose the Best 100Mbps Router
To pick the best 100Mbps router for your needs, you’ll want to consider factors such as the size of the area you need your Wi-Fi network to cover, the number of users and devices on the network, and what type of internet service you have. In general, the best routers for a 100Mbps connection offer plenty of computing power to handle network management and provide at least a dual-band wireless signal so you can connect multiple devices.
100Mbps Router Key Factors
1. Do You Need Wired Connections?
Many routers come with one or more ethernet ports so that you can run a wired connection while connecting wirelessly with other devices. Ethernet cables may offer a faster connection for live-streaming or large file transfers while keeping the Wi-Fi free for other devices. Modern 100Mbps routers often have dual ethernet ports and a port aggregation feature for faster combined speeds.
2. How Much Coverage Do You Need?
The size of the area is a critical factor in deciding on the best Wi-Fi router for 100Mbps speeds. If the location you want your Wi-Fi network to cover is larger than about 3,000 square feet, you might want to consider a mesh router system or a router with beamforming antennas and range extenders.
3. What Advanced Features Do You Want?
The best router can make a big difference in terms of networking features, even using the same 100Mbps internet plan. A Wi-Fi router with different configuration options may be helpful if you want to set up a VPN or custom security features like address filtering.
4. What Type of Broadband Services Are Available?
The right router for a location also depends on what types of internet connection infrastructure is available. For example, if you have fiber-optic broadband with Gigabit speeds, you’ll get the best performance out of your 100Mbps router. On the other hand, an LTE router can offer comparable wireless performance in some areas and may be more convenient in locations where the installation process for a cable modem is difficult.
5. How Many Devices Do You Use?
The average user has about 11 different wireless devices. If you want to run many Wi-Fi devices at once, use your home network for HD video streaming, online gaming, or smart home automation, make sure to look for a router that supports the higher-bandwidth Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 protocols.
