If you're in the market for a router, you've probably come across the terms single band, dual band, and tri band. It can be confusing to decide which one to choose, especially if you don't know what they mean or how they compare.
Fear not, dear reader, as we're here to provide a factual and unbiased comparison of single band, dual band, and tri band routers.
Single Band Routers
Single band routers operate on a single frequency band (2.4 GHz) and send all data packets over that one frequency. This means that if you have multiple devices connected to the router, they'll all be fighting for bandwidth on the same channel.
On the plus side, single band routers are generally less expensive and can still provide decent internet speeds for basic browsing and streaming.
Dual Band Routers
Dual band routers operate using two frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and will automatically direct traffic to the least congested frequency.
This means that devices that require a lot of bandwidth (such as streaming or gaming) can use the 5 GHz band while devices that don't require as much bandwidth (such as phones or laptops) can use the 2.4 GHz band.
Overall, dual band routers provide more flexibility and faster speeds than single band routers.
Tri Band Routers
Tri band routers operate using three frequency bands (one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz bands). They're designed for heavy internet usage with multiple devices connected, and can handle a lot more traffic than single or dual band routers.
However, they're also more expensive and may not be necessary for most users who don't have a ton of devices operating simultaneously.
Conclusion
In the end, it really depends on your specific needs and budget when it comes to deciding between a single band, dual band, or tri band router. If you only have a few devices and don't need super fast internet speeds, a single band router could work for you. If you have multiple devices and require faster speeds, a dual band router is a good choice. And if you have a large household with a lot of devices, a tri band router might be worth the investment.