Which Wi-Fi ADSL2+ modem should I purchase?

I was probably the last OzBargainer to acquire a Smartphone (that Y550 in April; I resisted as my $10 Nokia 1800 was indestructible) and soon I may be the last member to get a Broadband service. My address classifies as Regional NSW, 2.5km from the exchange, and I am considering the iPrimus ADSL2+ $69.90 pm deal. They offer a modem for $129 + $14.95 delivery. All they can tell me is it is a Home Gateway Audio Code MP264 which is exclusive to iPrimus. I feel I can save money getting one from MSY, for example, next time I am near a branch. So may I please have advice regarding which Wi-Fi modem to purchase? Many thanks for considering this. And do I actually need a Router? Wouldn't a Wi-Fi modem also provide internet to our Smartphones and laptop? NBN is not expected here before 2020.

Comments

  • +2

    When I read the title I thought you were talking about a 3G/4G device.
    Should say "Which wi-fi ADSL router should I purchase?"
    Also specify which router iPrimus are offering - it may be a good device/deal.

    • Thank you. I have altered the title and expanded my explanation.

  • +1

    Billion are pretty much the best ADSL2+ modem/routers you'll find. Draytek and Fritzbox both deserve an honuorable mention.

    I'd go Billion for most home users, and make sure you get a VOIP capable model if there is any indication that there will ever be NBN coming your way in the next few years. For business users who run their own servers or remote access Draytek are a good choice. Home users who go mental on torrents, streaming TV and stacks of fast-and-heavy gaming might prefer a Fritzbox.

    The reasoning isn't hard and fast - its just a question of what features they offer, how easy they are to set up, and how reliable they are for the task at hand.

    • Thank you. No NBN here before 2020. It was quicker to build railroads 100 years ago.

    • Woud you pease give me the exact model nub for Billion?i use tpg network.Thank a lot

  • +3

    TPLink TD-W8980 is pretty hard to beat for the price

    • Thanks. $99 at MSY.

    • +1

      +1 :)

    • +2

      $69 + delivery ShoppingExpress sale which ends today
      http://www.shoppingexpress.com.au/buy/tp-link-td-w8980-wirel…

      • Appreciated.

    • With the TD-W8980 and Archer C2 AC750 both around the same price, which would be the one to get in your opinion?

      • +1

        Well you need a modem, so I'd choose the modem, W8980.
        Archer C2 is a router only, it has no modem functionality.

        • Cheers, but it's back to regular price. Will keep an eye out cos 2.4 is getting very congested.

        • @mcmonte:
          Still a bargain at regular price.
          Be aware that 5GHz range is not as good as 2.4GHz, so don't be buying a Dual band device to improve range.

        • @scubacoles:

          Yeah our setup is "cosy" so range isn't an issue.

          My concern is the current (ISP-bundled) D-Link 2730B is okay when the air is clear. inSSIDer confirms streaming/downloading slowdown in the evenings when everyone, their dog, their TV etc is up.

          Might actually hold out for an NBN bundle where they include a newer modem/router.

        • @mcmonte:
          Yeah, that's not a modem problem.. it's a backhaul problem either from the exchange or to the open internet.

    • Hi ,is both of this ones suitabe for Tpg adsl 2+??

      • Yes..

        There's not really any compatibility issues with ADSL modems and providers. And brand ADSL modem will work with any ISP. (just make sure you're getting a modem/router and not just a router)

        If you want to get picky, on longer line lengths, try to look for a modem with a Broadcom chipset.

        • Thank a lot for your reply.Its just home user,I need to replace my old one, dont know which one include wireless router and internet??? Would you mind suggest for me ????

        • Just look for the word "modem".
          In the above example, only the TD-W8980 is a modem.

  • +1

    To be fair that iPrimus offering looks decent for the money assuming you need/want VoIP functionality.
    Next nearest in terms of that feature set are probabaly the Billion 7404VDPX or 7800VDPX and you're looking at $200ish for them.

    • Well, I haven't ruled it out yet. But the lack of a model number discourages me somewhat.

      • +1

        But they have supplied a model number.. Googling "Audiocodes MP264" brings up a few pages from different ISPs.

        Here's the iPrimus page http://www.iprimus.com.au/support/technical-support/hardware…

        • Thanks. I assumed it was a description rather than a brand name. I've never heard of that one before.

    • +1

      If you want built-in VOIP capability and a known brand, then another option to consider is the Fritz!Box 7360
      http://www.warcom.com.au/products/58693_fritzbox-avm7360-ads…
      $148.05 (delivery free today)

      But note this does not support PSTN failover like the Billion VOIP modems.

      • +1

        Wow! Fritzbox prices have plummeted since I last looked at them!

        • +1

          Other models are considerably more expensive.

          It looks to me that the 7360 has been positioned to get some of the lower end market. The version sold overseas includes a cable splitter that allows support of PSTN, but that cable is excluded in the Aus version and PSTN is officially unsupported here - perhaps only to reduce functionality to match the price point.

  • Netgear D6100 $125 at IJK and $134 at MSY. Had been using it for 3 months flawlessly for a home with a desktop, laptop, smart TV, ipad and 2 mobile phones. It's a very simple wireless dual-band ac ADSL2+ modem/router with limited cable connections.

  • Looking for a new wireless modem router dual band for 3 bedroom house. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

    • As above

      • +2

        thanks for dropping so much knowledge in this thread SC! greatly appreciated.

        • Yes. Much appreciated.

        • @elkherd
          @PJC:
          Awww! Shucks guys.. Happy to be of assistance.. :-)

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