How to Buy a Router or Network Equipment: Wi-Fi, Mesh, 4G, Switch
Start with where your internet comes from
The type of connection decides what to buy. If your internet is fibre (GPON) or Ethernet, an ordinary router is what you need. For a home without wired internet, people take a 4G/5G router with a SIM card. It matters that the router supports the connection type your internet provider uses, so check this before buying.
Coverage and number of users
For a flat of about 800 sq ft, one modern router is usually enough, while a house with several floors more often needs a mesh system or several access points joined by cable. Concrete and metal walls weaken the signal, so mention the materials. The number of devices (smart TVs, cameras, phones) matters too: a weak router with a dozen clients starts to lag.
Standards and ports
Wi-Fi 5 still works, Wi-Fi 6 has become the typical choice, and Wi-Fi 7 costs more and is needed only if you have compatible devices. Port speed matters too: if your internet is gigabit, make sure the router's ports are not limited to 100 Mbps. For an office and CCTV, switches with PoE are useful, as they power cameras and access points over the cable. There are many brands: TP-Link and Asus for homes, MikroTik and Ubiquiti for more complex networks.
What to put in your request
- what exactly: router, mesh, access point, switch, 4G or fibre modem, cable or rack;
- specifications: Wi-Fi 5/6/7, speed, bands, number and speed of ports, PoE;
- coverage area: flat in sq ft, floors, number of users;
- connection type: fibre, Ethernet, 4G/5G;
- number of devices;
- brand and model: for example TP-Link Archer AX55;
- new or used;
- setup or installation, city, budget.
Example: “I need a Wi-Fi 6 router for an 800 sq ft flat in Jurong West, fibre internet, gigabit ports, for example a TP-Link Archer AX55. New, with setup, budget up to $77.”
How to compare offers
Look at the exact model and hardware revision, because the name can match while the specifications don't. Check whether a cable and power adapter are included and whether the router works with your provider's equipment. If you need setup, find out whether it is included in the price and what a visit costs. For a PoE switch, ask about the total power budget.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
You write one request on BlaBlaPrice, and sellers and network technicians reply in the chat with price, terms and setup. They see their place among the others and compete, so terms are often better. The best-value offer is shown first, with reviews next to it. Your phone number is hidden, and it is free for buyers. More in the “How it works” section.
To connect devices you may also need peripherals and servers, if you are building a network for an office.
