Advice needed re. new router

[camdave]

I am looking for advice from the WiFi experts on the forum.

I intend buying a new router/modem soon to update a TP-LInk which has served me well for a few years - probably another of the same make.  Before I make a final decision I see that many of the current models offer simultaneous 2.4GHz and 5GHz  connections; I understand the basic pros and cons of this setup – no problem.

However, whereas a single band model (such as I currently have) will have say two 5dBi rated antenna the dual band version will have two simultaneous 2dBi 2.4 GHz and 3dBi 5GHz antenna for example.

My question is (given that I could upgrade our two desktops to 5GHz if I wished) in a relatively small house is there likely to be any real difference in strength and coverage between 2, 3 and 5 dBi signals.

I have spent some time on the internet reading various articles and to be honest I am none the wiser !

[Steve]

My impression is that if you need range stick to 2.5Ghz, if you need isolation from neighbouring WiFi interference and the devices are nearby 5GHz is a sensible addition.

[stevenrw]

If your house is small you probably don't need to be seduced by "AC" wifi routers either. Wireless "N" will probably be sufficient. Whatever worked well on your old TP Link unit will be sufficient for your needs.
However, whilst underlying technology does improve over time often manufacturers update a successful model with an inferior product to maximise profits.
I've always found Broadband Buyer to be a useful website for choice, but, following the "if it ain't broke..." and "Better the devil you know" philosophies, have a look around and see if your old TP Link is still available in the same form and grab one.
If the recently expired one gave you good service for a reasonable time and you are familiar with its interface you'd probably be happy with a repeat.
I've been using a Billion BiPac 7800N for ages and its a fine unit. I picked up a second one in case they stopped producing it, which they now have, for backup just in case this one ever fails.

[nowster]

5GHz provides pretty much "same room" coverage, but that can also be an advantage in the case of dense WiFi deployment (ie. all three 2.4GHz slots [channels 1, 6, and 11] are in use close by).