Wireless routers

We've tested 12 store-bought routers and 10 ISP-supplied models to assess their WiFi performance and security, plus how easy they are to set up.

February 2019

Synology

RT2600ac

Price

$389

Score

Good

Recommended

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When we asked our testers which router they’d buy after this test, they said the Synology. It has excellent security and fibre speeds. The router is very good at channel switching and its 5GHz network is excellent. It has four external antennas and is fairly large, which means it may not fit with your décor.

Test results

73
WiFi performance
78
Ease of use and setup
90
Security

Good points

Good WiFi performance.
Excellent 5GHz WiFi performance.
Easy to use
Excellent for security.
Excellent fibre speed.
Very good for channel switching.

Bad points

Only OK 2.4GHz WiFi performance.
Very noticeable interference on 5GHz signal.

Model

Avg price
$389

Speed test results

Fibre
9.3/10
WiFi performance 2.4GHz
5.5/10
WiFi performance 5GHz
9.0/10
Obstruction 2.4GHz
Noticeable interference from obstruction
Obstruction 5GHz
Very noticeable interference from obstruction
Channel switching ability
Very good at channel switching

Specifications

Fibre
Yes
WiFi bands (GHz)
2.4 & 5
Antennas
4
Antenna placement
Two on rear, one on each side, can fold 90° and rotates 360°, removeable
Dimensions (WxDxH) [mm]
77 x 280 x 169
Weight (g)
695