Start with the shape of your home and the way you use the internet, rather than choosing a router by its largest advertised speed. A compact apartment with a few devices has different needs from a multilevel home with several people streaming, gaming, and working at once. Thick walls, long hallways, and crowded neighboring networks can affect coverage as much as the router itself.
Compare the wireless standard, available frequency bands, wired ports, and security features. Newer standards can improve efficiency with compatible devices, but an older phone or laptop will not gain every benefit. Ethernet ports are useful for a desktop, television, or game console that stays in one place. Look for current security support and regular firmware updates, too.
Before buying, consider whether a single router can serve your layout or whether a mesh system would be more practical. Mesh units can extend coverage, but they need thoughtful placement and may use wireless capacity to communicate. Put the main router in an open, central location, update its software, and test coverage in the rooms you use most. A good fit is the one that delivers stable service throughout your real routine.