Understanding Dual-Band vs. Tri-Band Routers

Whether you're out shopping for a new router to replace an old one or you're researching the routers your Internet provider offers with your subscription, it’s easy to get confused by all the different tech terms. Single-band, dual-band – and now tri-band? Don’t they all do the same thing?

Yes and no. These days, it’s helpful to know what’s different between dual-band vs. tri-band routers in particular, as these are the most common router types you can find. Today, we’ll explore what each router type brings to the table and your home’s Internet connection, plus go over which router option is best for different households.
 

What Are WiFi Bands?

In a nutshell, WiFi “bands” refer to the specific radio frequencies your router uses to transmit data to your devices. These frequencies determine how well your network handles speed, distance, and interference. Additionally, using these specific bands prevents some kinds of traffic from interfering with WiFi signals.

Most WiFi devices operate on two main frequency bands:
 

• 2.4 GHz, a lower frequency that covers a longer and wider range but results in slower speeds. It’s also more prone to interference since many household devices (like microwaves and baby monitors) use this frequency.
• 5 GHz, a higher frequency that provides faster speeds and less interference but doesn’t cover as much distance as 2.4 GHz.

Both of these bands are essential for distributing your WiFi signal, and the type of router you choose (dual-band or tri-band) determines how these bands are allocated and used.
 

What is a Dual-Band Router?

A dual-band router is a device that supports the two common WiFi frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. This means it transmits two separate wireless signals, giving you the flexibility to connect your devices to the band that best suits their needs.

For example, the 2.4 GHz band is ideal for devices that require a stronger range, such as smart home gadgets, older phones, or laptops in distant rooms. On the other hand, the 5 GHz band is better for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming in 4K, online gaming, or video conferencing.

Seen in this light, a dual-band router allows you to separate high-speed activities (using the 5 GHz band) from devices that just need a stable wireless connection (on 2.4 GHz). The separation of a dual-band router reduces network congestion and improves overall performance.
 

What is a Tri-Band Router?

A tri-band router is exactly what it sounds like: it produces three wireless bands instead of two. Typically, these bands include:
 

• One 2.4 GHz band for basic connectivity.
• Two 5 GHz bands for handling high-speed devices or multiple data-heavy activities.

In recent years, WiFi 6E tri-band routers have introduced a game-changing third band: 6 GHz. This band provides even faster speeds and lower latency, offering cutting-edge performance for users with compatible devices.
 

Two Types of Tri-Band Routers

Because there are two types of tri-band routers to pick from, it’s helpful to know what each provides to your household network.

Traditional tri-band routers, which include the more common WiFi 6 routers, produce one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands. They’re perfect picks for busy households with many devices because the extra 5 GHz band helps distribute the load. For instance, you could dedicate one 5 GHz band to streaming and gaming while leaving the other for other devices, minimizing interference and maximizing speed for everyone.

Newer WiFi 6E tri-band routers are cutting-edge. Instead of transmitting two 5 GHz bands, they feature a 2.4 GHz band, a 5 GHz band, and the newest 6 GHz band. The 6 GHz band offers several significant benefits, like:
 

• Low congestion. Unlike 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, the 6 GHz band isn’t congested with other devices, leading to cleaner, faster signals.
• Higher speeds. With more bandwidth available, 6 GHz delivers blazing-fast speeds that are ideal for ultra-HD streaming, cloud gaming, or downloading large files.
• Low latency. The reduced interference and additional channels mean smoother performance, especially for demanding activities like online gaming or virtual reality.

If you have connected devices that support WiFi 6E (such as newer smartphones, laptops, or gaming consoles), investing in a tri-band router with 6 GHz capabilities can future-proof your network and make your household Internet better than ever.
 

Which Router Do You Need?

Deciding between a dual-band and a tri-band router ultimately comes down to your Internet usage, household size, and the number of devices connected to your network.
 

Generally, it’s a good idea to choose a dual-band router if you have a small household or fewer devices. A dual-band router is more than sufficient for casual browsing, occasional streaming, and light gaming. It’s also a more budget-friendly option!

However, it’s often wiser to choose a tri-band router if you have a larger household, many connected devices, or multiple people streaming, gaming, or working simultaneously. A traditional tri-band router can handle the additional load efficiently.

What about WiFi 6E routers? These are only great options if you have WiFi 6E-compatible devices. But if you do, spending a little extra for the 6 GHz band might be well worth it – particularly if you’re after the fastest speeds possible.
 

Get Fast, Affordable Internet You Can Count On

At Shentel, we know that the right router can make your home Internet experience exceptional. That’s why we offer both dual-band and tri-band routers with our Internet plans – including certain WiFi 6E routers!

Lightning-fast speeds, dependable service, and affordable prices, all from one plan. Get in touch with us today to explore plans and upgrade your home’s Internet connection.