Linksys vs Netgear

Hello,
I have been using Linksys WRT54GL and I really liked it but the time has come for me to buy another router for home use.

I would like it to be:
->open source firmware
->N-compatible
->dual band

I have been particularly interested in:
->Netgear WNDR3700
->Linksys: E2000, E2100L, WRT400N, WRT160NL

I would really appreciate your help regarding making the choice. Any opinions, recommendations?

Although I really like Linksys, from what I have read it seems that the quality of their products has changed; moreover - the Netgear router has probably the strongest hardware...

Thank you for your help!

Theriel

 

Netgear WNDR3700
- DD WRT compatible
- Supports Wireless N
- Runs on 2,4Ghz and 5Ghz

 

I'd go with the netgear. I've had 2 routers from them and have been pleased all around. I'm using the Netgear WNR2000 v2 /w DD-WRT

 

Quality of Linksys' product is still OK however Netgear WNDR3700 is better than Linksys E3000 (somehow missing from your list).
Linksys equals Broadcom- they do know how to write firmware for those chips and you list is full of their routers based on Atheros chips. That may mean firmware may not be as good which would force you to use DD-WRT which in turns reduces performance compared (in exchange for more features)
That said Linksys E2100L looks interesting.

You may want to take a look at Netgear WNR3500L

 

I just bought the WNDR3700 three days ago, primarily due to smallnetbuilder range/throughput tests. And it lives up to the hype. My kids laptops and game consoles suffered from periodic drops and poor signal when using WRT610n(selling now as E3000), mainly on other side of 3500 sq. ft. ranch-style house. 60-80 feet from router depending...

I never paid attention to Xbox and PS3 signal levels, but my son said "WOW, I've never seen it at 90 (on PS3), it's usually 30." I did however, pay attention to their laptop levels, and they have gone from 1-2 to full bars with the new router at any point in the house.

As far as speed, speedtest.net tests are about the same, and really should be. But web pages load smoother and faster. This may just be a new toy placebo effect though. I never really had problems with the 610n personally, but my main and mine and wife's lappies are almost always in the same room as router. And I'm not much of a file transfer guy, so I haven't compared those actions for throughput speeds yet.

I only bought the new one because we had family in this last week, and wife had her lappie in living room for most of the week and was complaining about drops. Glad I did so far. Should have listened more to kids complaints. They are happy now too

 

All of the routers listed can run opensource firmware, all are quite good.

I wonder why you listed a WRT160N against a WNDR3700 though? If you can afford the 3700, it is certainly a better router. Another router you missed is the Netgear 3500 which is comparable to the Linksys 2000 series, which are both great mid to upper level routers.


If you just need a good simple router, ANY of the ones listed on this page thus far will work for you. Pick one in the $100 range and you will be well set. The more you plan to tax it, the higher you should go. If you run lots of torrents, mixed speeds (B, G, N), webcam streaming or want extra features, I would say aim for the WNDR3700. The more expensive the more features, memory and faster the CPU to handle more connections (torrents can use A LOT).

 

Theres also the Asus RT-N16 but it doesnt have dual band.

The Netgear would be your best bet though.