Why it's best: Whether you need a three-stream capable router or not, the Cisco Linksys E4200 is one of the fastest routers on sale today. The E4200 performs as well as it looks, with throughput rates that generally outperform others in the high-end category whether wired or wireless. If you have a fast internet connection and you download content often, this is one of the best router choices available.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Although most people don't associate ASUS with routers, the RT-N56U is an extremely capable wireless router. The 'trendy' design masks the fact that this is one of the fastest routers tested by SmallNetBuilder, with top-level routing speeds and plenty of wireless performance.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The highest-performing home router in Netgear's lineup is now the WNDR4000. Those of you upset about the drop in 5GHz performance of the WNDR3700v2 should consider the fact that the WNDR4000 is equipped with three-stream capability in the 5GHz band, drastically improving wireless throughput speeds. Just make sure you have a wireless device that is equipped with a 3x3 antenna arrangement.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Netgear WNDR3700v2 receives internal updates which provide minor boosts in range and 2.4GHz performance at the cost of a noticeable drop in 5GHz throughput speeds. This router still performs better than most others, so spending a bit extra to add the capabilities of the WNDR3700v2 to your network is worth much more than the extra cost.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Considering its price and reputation, you wouldn't be wrong to expect world-beating performance from the Apple AirPort Extreme. This router offers up outstanding performance in the 5GHz band, but falls flat in the 2.4GHz band when compared to the overachievers recommended here. All of the Ethernet ports are Gigabit, though you only get 3 with the AirPort Extreme. Consider this router only if all of your wireless devices support 5GHz operation.... Read Full Review
