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How to Choose the Best Wifi Router in Uganda: Pro Tips

wifi router

KWT Products |

Key Takeaways

  • A wifi router helps your devices connect to the internet through a specific process involving wave range. Read on to discover them and find out which one is the most suitable for your budget and needs.
  • There are 3 types of wifi routers tailored to different needs, and if you’re buying one for your home or office, you need to check out the 4 most important factors we’ve compiled right below.  
  • There are three most popular brands providing high-quality wifi routers in Uganda. You can also visit the KWT Tech Mart website to shop for some of the top products from these brands.

What Is a WiFi Router?

A WiFi router is a device that connects to your internet service (usually through a modem) and distributes the internet connection wirelessly to devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart home gadgets. 

In other words, it serves as the middleman between your internet provider and your devices.  It broadcasts signals that your devices can connect to within a certain range and enables them to access wirelessly or with wires to the internet. They can also allow your devices to communicate with each other when needed. 

wifi router

A wifi router from D-link. Source: Unsplash

How the Wifi Router Actually Works: 

  • Allows Sharing a Single Internet Connection:
  • For the devices to connect to the internet, the wifi router needs to assign a unique IP address to each device. To better understand, you can imagine a building where each apartment has an individual number so the information can be delivered to the correct resident.

  • Manages Traffic Flow:
  • When multiple devices use the internet at the same time, wifi routers can help manage data traffic for better performance. Just like on a highway, a router will act like a traffic controller and direct data packets (information) to the right device without congestion.

    Routers prioritize data packets based on factors like urgency (online gaming vs. browsing) to maintain optimal speeds for all devices.

    router price in uganda

    A wifi router helps different devices connect to the internet when it’s on. Source: Unsplash

    Types of WiFi Routers

    Basic Home Routers 

    Best for small homes or apartments with few connected devices.

    • They are simple, affordable for everyday use, and provide a stable internet connection but don’t often support many devices at once or offer wide coverage. 
    • Common types: 
      • Wireless routers: These wifi routers allow your devices to access the internet wirelessly by broadcasting signals within a certain range, so your smartphones, laptops, or tablets can operate on a wifi signal. 
      • Wired Routers: Unlike the wireless ones, these routers don’t broadcast a wifi signal, so if your computers, televisions, and other devices want to connect to the internet, they need a cable. 
    wifi router price in uganda

    A wireless wifi router. Source: Unsplash

    Dual-Band Routers: 

    Best for homes with many devices or if you need a balance of speed and coverage for streaming or gaming.

    Dual-band routers can operate on two frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band offers broader coverage but lower speeds, while the 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but shorter range. 

    Mesh Routers 

    Best for large homes or buildings with WiFi dead zones

    • Mesh routers use multiple units that work together to create a single, seamless network across a larger area. 
    • Common types: 
      • Distribution Routers: These wifi routers are best fit for offices that often need larger networks. They can work with other routers in a system to extend wifi coverage and allow many devices to work seamleslsy and simultaneously.
      • Edge Routers: These are options for enterprise-level use. They can enable communication between internal networks and external connections as well as protect enterprise traffic from external threats.  
    Mesh Routers

    A wifi router with three antennas for a larger coverage. Source: Unsplash

    Additional Router Types 

    • Core Routers: These are heavy-duty routers used in large-scale and distinct enterprise networks to handle massive amounts of data traffic. They don’t operate outside of the organization.
    • Virtual Routers: These operate as software-based solutions rather than physical hardware. They have similar functions as the normal router, but they can serve more specialized network needs, like redundancy or network virtualization in business environments.

    Key Features to Consider When Choosing a WiFi Router

    Bandwidth 

    This is your internet speed, and it defines the highest speed you can achieve when using your devices. You should choose a router with a bandwidth that matches your internet plan. For example, if your internet provider allows 150Mbps but your wifi router’s bandwidth is just 75Mbps then you can only access the internet with the speed of 75Mbps. It’s like paying for a good internet plan only for a medium experience. 

    Coverage Area 

    Consider the environments you usually use the internet. Remember to choose a wifi router that emits a strong and wide signal so you can be able to access the internet from all the areas of your house or office. 

    Security Features

    Opt for a wifi router with security protocols like WPA3 encryption so it can protect your network from unauthorized access. Some routers also offer built-in firewalls and other security measures.

    Security Features

    A speed test to evaluate the wifi router bandwidth. Source: Unsplash

    Number of Devices Supported

    If you have many devices (smartphones, computers, smart TVs, etc.)and you expect to use them at the same time, make sure the router can handle that number of devices. Current wifi routers often allow from 10 to 100 or more devices and choosing a suitable connectivity limit can really make a difference in the internet speed.

    Popular WiFi Router Brands in Uganda

    In Uganda, brands like TP-Link, Huawei, and D-Link offer some of the most popular wifi routers. Here’s an overview of these brands if you’re planning to buy one:

    TP-Link 

    TP-Link is a well-known brand globally and is quite popular in Uganda due to its affordable yet reliable networking solutions. They offer a wide range of routers to satisfy many different needs. 

    • Popular Models:
      • TP-Link Archer C6: A dual-band router ideal for home use, offering good speed and coverage.
      • TP-Link Deco M4 Mesh System: Great for larger homes or offices, ensuring seamless coverage across multiple rooms.
      • TP-Link TL-WR840N: A budget-friendly option perfect for smaller homes or apartments.
    • Why It's Popular: TP-Link is widely available in electronics stores and online platforms in Uganda. It's known for being user-friendly, with good after-sales support and easy setup processes.
    TP-Link

    TP-Link 840N. Source: KWT TechMart 

    Huawei 

    It is a leading global tech company and provides robust networking solutions, especially in the African market. Many internet service providers use Huawei wifi routers in Uganda.

    • Popular Models:
      • Huawei B535-932 4G Router: Supports 4G LTE connections, ideal for areas without reliable fixed-line internet.
      • Huawei WiFi AX3 (WiFi 6): Offers high-speed internet with WiFi 6 technology, suitable for heavy internet users.
      • Huawei WS5200: A dual-band router designed to handle multiple devices efficiently.
    • Why It's Popular: People favor Huawei due to its high-speed routers that support mobile data (4G and even 5G in some areas), making them perfect for locations where fiber internet isn't available. They are often bundled with internet packages by local ISPs.
    Huawei

    Huawei WS5200. Source: Huawei

    D-Link 

    D-Link has been a trusted name in networking for years. They offer a broad range of routers both for home and business use in Uganda. The brand also provides reliable and secure network solutions at competitive prices.

    • Popular Models:
      • D-Link DIR-615: A budget-friendly wireless N300 router perfect for home use.
      • D-Link EXO AX1500 (DIR-X1560): A WiFi 6 router providing faster speeds and better performance for connected devices.
      • D-Link COVR-C1203: A mesh system that provides seamless WiFi coverage for larger homes or offices.
    • Why It's Popular: D-Link is widely available in local tech shops in Uganda and online marketplaces. It's a great choice for users looking for secure, long-lasting networking equipment with robust customer support.
    D-Link EXO AX1500

    D-Link EXO AX1500. Source: Dlink

    WiFi Router Prices in Uganda

    Budget-Friendly Wifi Routers (100,000 - 300,000 UGX)

    • Ideal if you’re on a tight budget or have minimal internet needs (like basic web browsing, social media, or streaming on a single device). 
    • Wifi router price in Uganda: ~$25 - $80 (Approx. 100,000 - 300,000 UGX)
    • Options & features:
      • Basic wireless N routers (300 Mbps speed).
      • Good for small apartments or single rooms.
      • Limited range and fewer device connections.
    • Examples:
      • TP-Link TL-WR840N (about 120,000 UGX): A basic N300 router suitable for simple home use.
      • D-Link DIR-615 (around 150,000 UGX): Reliable and affordable, great for small households.
    D-Link DIR-615

    D-Link DIR-615. Source: Dlink

    Mid-Range Wifi Routers (300,000 - 600,000 UGX)

    • For users needing better performance, faster speeds, and improved coverage, especially in medium-sized homes.
    • Wifi router price in Uganda: ~$80 - $160 (Approx. 300,000 - 600,000 UGX)
    • Options & features:
      • Dual-band routers (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz).
      • Better speeds (up to 1200 Mbps or more).
      • Suitable for moderate streaming, online gaming, and multiple devices.
    • Examples:
      • TP-Link Archer C6 (around 380,000 UGX): Offers dual-band support and good coverage for medium-sized homes.
      • Huawei WS5200 (about 500,000 UGX): Provides fast, reliable internet for multiple devices.
      • D-Link DIR-X1560 (WiFi 6) (approximately 600,000 UGX): For users who want to future-proof their setup with WiFi 6.
    TP-Link Archer C6

    TP-Link Archer C6. Source: TPLink

    High-End Wifi Routers (600,000 - 1,200,000 UGX)

    • Perfect for tech enthusiasts, gamers, or those with large homes and many connected devices.
    • Wifi router price in Uganda: ~$160 - $320 (Approx. 600,000 - 1,200,000 UGX)
    • Options & features:
      • Advanced dual-band or even tri-band support.
      • Enhanced range, high-speed internet (up to 2400 Mbps).
      • Mesh networking systems for seamless coverage in larger homes.
    • Examples:
      • TP-Link Deco M4 Mesh System (around 800,000 UGX for a 2-pack): Ideal for eliminating dead zones in large houses.
      • Huawei AX3 WiFi 6 Router (about 700,000 UGX): Offers the latest WiFi 6 technology for faster speeds and better performance.
      • D-Link COVR-C1203 Mesh System (close to 1,000,000 UGX): Ensures seamless coverage and is great for large households.
    TP-Link Deco M4 Mesh System

    TP-Link Deco M4 Mesh System. Source: TPLink

    Premium Wifi Routers (Above 1,200,000 UGX)

    • Best for users with professional networking needs or enterprise setups that require ultra-fast speeds and advanced features.
    • Wifi router price in Uganda: $320+ (1,200,000 UGX and above)
    • Options & features:
      • WiFi 6E routers or high-end mesh systems.
      • Enhanced security features, VPN support, and QoS settings.
      • Suitable for large businesses or tech enthusiasts with high data demands.
    • Examples:
      • TP-Link Archer AX90 (WiFi 6): High-speed tri-band router for serious gamers or power users.
      • Huawei 5G CPE Pro 2 Router: Great for areas where 5G networks are available, offering extremely high speeds.
    TP-Link Archer AX90 (WiFi 6)

    TP-Link Archer AX90 (WiFi 6). Source: TPLink