Looking for Router/Modem Recommendations

dmdordan

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Jul 16, 2013
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Hey forum-goers,

I'm looking for a new router and modem combo to upgrade the 4-year-old (or older) ones. I'm looking for something that doesn't disconnect under high loads (12+ devices in all). The house is 2300 sq ft. I would like to be able to get wireless to the shed outside as we do currently, which is 80+ feet away from the router (and through some walls). Looking to get the most out of the Comcast package we pay for. I also game online a lot in my free time, if that makes any difference. budget is ~$100 for the two, but any suggestions are welcome

I found this article on the best 2013 routers in another forum and so I'm considering getting something on this list:http://www.squidoo.com/top-wirelessrouter

But that still doesn't help me with what modem to get.

I've also seen this:http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-SURFboard-Gateway-SBG6580-Wireless/dp/B0040IUI46/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

The idea of a modem/router in one box is nice, and it was recommended by lifehacker, but I don't know how it actually measures up (there are quite a few 1-star reviews on Amazon).

Anyhow, suggestions for what would suit my situation would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Derek
 
Solution
I trust CNet review above all others. Especially for random tech, modems, digital cameras, tvs. They know there stuff and have a beautiful layout on that site. I replaced my wireless stuff last fall, and spent $160 total. I got this and this Im very happy with these, but i dont think youll get the distance out of this combo. These are almost a year old now and they dont fit into your price range, I think you should buy one at a time, and spend a little more.

PossumJones

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Jul 24, 2013
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I trust CNet review above all others. Especially for random tech, modems, digital cameras, tvs. They know there stuff and have a beautiful layout on that site. I replaced my wireless stuff last fall, and spent $160 total. I got this and this Im very happy with these, but i dont think youll get the distance out of this combo. These are almost a year old now and they dont fit into your price range, I think you should buy one at a time, and spend a little more.
 
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dmdordan

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Jul 16, 2013
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Yeah honestly that's why I said any input is welcome, is because if people suggest I spend a bit more then I may have to. So I'll take it into consideration. I definitely want something that will last.
 

PossumJones

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Jul 24, 2013
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I was trying to find good suggestions, and all the new routers where in the $150 range, so i checked to see what i bought and it was still kinda pricey. I think unless your having problems or feel like your not getting enough speed, i would wait. Maybe check and see if there are updated drivers for the products you have. Just to mention, "AC" routers seem to be the newest thing. With "optimized tech" for streaming music and video to ac devices Iphone 5, google pads, smart tvs, rokus, etc etc.
 

dmdordan

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Jul 16, 2013
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Yeah, I've also been looking around. It does seem like I may have to spend a bit more. The reason I want to replace them is because I'm pretty sure they're hampering the speed I could be getting. I'm using a Motorola SB5120 modem and a Linksys WRT54g router. They're both 4-5 years old. We get a lot of disconnects where the whole network drops off for a second, or sometimes until I power cycle them. I also get a 200+ ms ping while playing Chivalry (which is odd considering I get roughly 18 on speedtest).

 

PossumJones

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Jul 24, 2013
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Wow, that is a helluva ping! This looks pretty good, its the cheapest out of CNets' top 5. A warning, you will get less range with a dual band router, the 5g band isnt designed for distance, but to deal with interference. As for a modem, I think my modem is a pretty good buy.