Alright, Singaporeans, let’s talk routers. Whether you're streaming your favourite shows on Netflix, gaming like a pro, or just working from home in your HDB flat, a good Wi-Fi connection is crucial. But with so many router brands out there—TP-Link, ASUS, Netgear, and the like—how do you know which one is best for your needs? It’s like choosing between kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs at your local kopitiam: it can be a tough call, but I’ve got your back.
We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of these router brands, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and help you figure out which one’s best for your home or office. We’ll also take into account the MRT-heavy commute, the island’s humid weather, and our love for mega-sales like 9.9 and 11.11. Ready? Let’s go!

Editor
Lloyd Kelly Miralles chevron_right
Table of Contents
TP-Link: The Affordable All-Rounder

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers or those looking for no-frills performance.
Mini Verdict: If you're on a budget or just need a router that works well without breaking the bank, TP-Link is a solid choice. They’ve been a popular option for Singaporeans for years, thanks to their balance between performance and price.
- What’s good? TP-Link routers often offer excellent value for money, especially during flash sales on Shopee SG or Lazada SG. They're generally easy to set up, and if you're just using the internet for browsing, streaming in HD, or occasional gaming, you'll be happy with the performance.
- What’s not so great? Don’t expect TP-Link routers to deliver ultra-high speeds for demanding tasks like 4K streaming or gaming with zero lag. While decent, some of their entry-level models can struggle with lots of devices connected simultaneously.
Real-life scenario: You’ve got a standard HDB flat and need a reliable router to handle your Netflix binge sessions and Zoom meetings. TP-Link's Archer AX50 (Wi-Fi 6) is a great deal at around SGD 130 – 200. Throw in a cashback deal from Shopee, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic budget buy.
ASUS: The High-Performance Workhorse

Best for: Gamers, streamers, or large households with heavy Wi-Fi usage.
Mini Verdict: ASUS is the go-to choice for users who need raw power. They’ve built a reputation for high-performance routers that can handle gaming, 4K streaming, and multiple devices without breaking a sweat.
- What’s good? ASUS routers pack cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi 6, multi-device support, and prioritisation for gaming (QoS). Their RT-AX86U router is especially popular with gamers for its super-low latency and fast speeds. They’re a great pick if you're running a busy home or small office network.
- What’s not so great? The downside? You’ll be paying a premium for these features. ASUS routers can get expensive, and the more feature-rich models often have a steep learning curve, with a complex setup process if you want to tweak advanced settings.
Real-life scenario: You're a serious gamer in Singapore, always looking for the best deal on Shopee SG or Lazada SG during 9.9 sales, and you need a router that won’t lag during your nightly gaming sessions. The ASUS RT-AX86U at around SGD 300 fits the bill. Plus, if you get it during a mega-sale, you'll save a chunk of cash.
Netgear: The Premium Choice for Speed and Reliability

Best for: Users who want ultra-fast Wi-Fi and are willing to pay for it.
Mini Verdict: Netgear is like the Ferrari of the router world. If you’ve got a high-speed fibre plan and need something that can handle high-speed, high-demand applications like 8K streaming or heavy gaming, Netgear delivers.
- What’s good? Netgear’s Orbi Mesh Systems are particularly well-loved for large homes or office spaces. The NETGEAR Nighthawk series, with its advanced features, is perfect for Singaporeans living in big condos or landed properties. These routers often support Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, providing excellent coverage and lightning-fast speeds.
- What’s not so great? As with any premium brand, Netgear comes with a hefty price tag. Expect to pay around SGD 400 – 900 for a decent model. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider a more affordable alternative.
Real-life scenario: You’ve got a large condo or office space in Singapore and need a router that can support multiple users streaming, gaming, and working at the same time. Netgear’s Orbi AX6000 mesh system is a top contender, but it’ll set you back about SGD 700. But if you're all about smooth performance with no interruptions, it's worth every penny.
Xiaomi: The Affordable, Sleek Option for Simple Use

Best for: People who need a budget-friendly router for simple tasks.
Mini Verdict: If you’re just looking for something that does the job without needing all the bells and whistles, Xiaomi has got you covered. They're easy on the wallet and great for light internet usage.
- What’s good? Xiaomi routers, like the Xiaomi Mi Router AX1800, are very budget-friendly and get the job done for basic activities like browsing, social media, and streaming in HD. They have a clean, modern look that’ll fit nicely in your living room.
- What’s not so great? Xiaomi routers are not built for heavy-duty tasks. You won’t get the best performance for gaming, heavy 4K streaming, or large families with tons of devices. The firmware can also be a bit hit or miss, especially if you want to make adjustments.
Real-life scenario: You’re in a rental flat and just need a basic, inexpensive router that will handle a couple of devices for light browsing and occasional video calls. The Xiaomi Mi Router AX1800 (around SGD 50 – 70) will do the trick, and you’ll still have cash to spare for your next Qoo10 shopping spree.
Other Notable Brands: D-Link, Linksys, and TP-Link Deco Mesh Systems

Besides the big names above, other router brands like D-Link, Linksys, and TP-Link’s mesh systems (e.g., Deco M5) also have their place.
- D-Link: Known for reliability and solid performance at an affordable price. The D-Link DIR-1960 (SGD 100 – 150) is a good mid-range option for households.
- Linksys: Known for its easy-to-use setup and stable performance, Linksys Velop Mesh Systems are great for larger spaces. Expect to pay around SGD 200 – 500 for a mesh system.
- TP-Link Deco Mesh Systems: Their Deco M5 or Deco XE75 Pro offer excellent whole-home coverage at an affordable price, starting around SGD 300 – 500.
Which Router Brand Should You Choose?

It all depends on what you're after. Here’s a quick recap:
- TP-Link: Best for those on a budget who need decent performance for basic internet usage (around SGD 50 – 200).
- ASUS: A great choice for gamers and heavy internet users who need high performance (around SGD 200 – 300).
- Netgear: If you want the absolute best in speed, reliability, and coverage, and are willing to pay for it (around SGD 400 – 900).
- Xiaomi: Ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly, simple option (around SGD 50 – 70).
- D-Link / Linksys / TP-Link Deco Mesh: Good for affordable, reliable routers with solid coverage (around SGD 100 – 500).
Where to Buy Your Router in Singapore

- Shopee SG: Always check for flash sales and cashback offers, especially during 9.9 or 11.11. You can often score a good deal on TP-Link and Xiaomi models.
- Lazada SG: A reliable option for higher-end models like Netgear Orbi and ASUS routers, with regular sales and promotions.
- Qoo10: Known for bundles, so you can get a router with additional accessories at a good price.
- Amazon.sg: For premium, international models, especially if you’re eyeing something like the Netgear Nighthawk series.
Conclusion
Choosing the right router in Singapore comes down to balancing performance and budget. Whether you’re looking for a reliable Wi-Fi network to handle your Netflix binging, gaming, or remote work, there’s a router out there for you. So, before you grab the next deal off Shopee SG or Lazada SG, take a moment to consider what you need. After all, good Wi-Fi is the backbone of every modern Singaporean home, so make sure you choose wisely!