D-Link DIR-655 Xtreme N Gigabit Router

Pros: Good Range, High Speed, Gigabit, Compact

Cons: USB Port can't be used to network a USB Hard Drive, Signal deteriorates with wall and floor interference

Summary: I picked up this router a few months ago from amazon, and I feel that I can finally write a review about the thing, as I've been using it for quite a while.

This router replaced my awful Belkin N-1 Router, which I've been troubled with for over six months. Unlike Belkin's N-Wireless offering, this router SCREAMS. Throughput is amazing (about 80MBPS with a "Very Good", or 4/5 bar connection). That translates to a download rate of about 2.5 megs per second in mixed g/n mode (using an N-Wireless laptop). Webpages load quickly, as well. My deteriorating Dell desktop's internet speed was given new life via a Gigabit Ethernet connection. This router also handles my Xbox 360 (Ethernet) very well, as I've experienced little to no lag when playing online.

I guess this applies with all routers, but it's worth mentioning that when the router's signal goes through walls and floors, the range suffers a bit. The other side of the house on the floor below has a "Poor", or a 1/5 bar connection. It's worth noting, however, that when I'm working outside (with the router's signal going through only one wall), I get a "Good", or 3/5 bar connection at approximately 75 feet away!

The only annoyance I found with this router is that the included USB Port can't be used to network a USB Hard Drive. I contacted D-Link and the representative explained the purpose, but it really didn't make much sense to me (and I'm pretty tech savvy).

Despite it's one flaw, the D-Link DIR-655 is one of the best (if not the best) consumer wireless router available. It's(generally) great range, fast download speeds, and Gigabit Ethernet support make the router fantastic. 9/10!