TechRadar Verdict
With speeds near that of Draft N it could be a cheap alternative
Pros
- +
24-hour telephone support
Increased wireless range from standard 802.11g
Theoretical speeds up to 108Mb/sec
Cons
- -
More expensive than standard 802.11g
Not futureproof
Only available from PC World
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The main benefit of this Belkin model is increased wireless range, so you can use devices further away from your wireless access point, for example. The G MIMO is not as good as the latest Draft-N kits hitting the market now but provides you with much of that power at a better price point.
Higher-end MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) models - such as the other Belkin router we've reviewed here - are designed to have better throughput as well as that allimportant boosted range. After all, for most home uses it's unlikely that you'll need much throughput, for the simple reason that sharing an internet connection isn't that testing for any router.
The increased range capabilities this router gives are quite compelling, and you can get better reception out of any wireless device, even though it can't have Belkin's proprietary wireless card plugged into it - that's PC-only for the moment. The G MIMO does have a rather aged look, though; this router chassis has been used by Belkin for some time now. And, with other manufacturers coming out with better-looking models, we're sure it'll only be a matter of time before Belkin does the same.
However, it is fair to say that Belkin should have done better when it first released this model; it's only been out for a matter of months. At the time of writing, the kit was exclusive to PC World. And yes, it is an expensive choice. It also won't be compatible with the new 802.11n standard. But, as a way to boost range in your home environment at a reasonable price, it's a worthy contender for those with wireless dead spots. Dan Grabham
