802.11ac routers review: 20 models tested @ Hardware.Info

Overall, the best routers are the ASUS RT-AC68U, Apple AirPort Extreme, D-Link DIR-868L, and the Netgear R7000 Nighthawk, with Apple's offering being the fastest in almost every test. You cannot ignore this router when strictly focusing on performance, and as such, a Hardware.Info Gold Award is appropriate. Another such award goes to the D-Link DIR-868L, which achieves excellent scores in almost every test. The ASUS RT-AC68U and the Netgear R7000 Nighthawk boast slightly lower performance, but do offer far more configuration options. They are rewarded with a Silver Award. If you are looking for a decent router, but are unwilling to spend a lot of money, then the Buffalo WZR-1750DHP and the Linksys EA6400 would make excellent choices. These, too, will take home a Hardware.Info Silver Award. Finally, there's Bronze Awards for the D-Link DIR 860L and the Edimax BR-6478. These are the most interesting 802.11ac routers if you're on a strict budget. We would not recommend purchasing routers with 100 Mbit ports.