Router and supplier questions

[geezerone]

Hello

I have come to the decision at last to replace my flaky Netgear WNR1000v3 with something a little more capable of streaming to multiple devices - need both 2.4 and 5 Ghz frequencies.

I was considering the Trendnet TEW-DRU812 ac1750 device which has had mixed reviews at polar ends of the spectrum which is a little concerning. Can find it for a tad under £68 from Dabs/BT shop but there are two models - V1 and V2 with the latter having a USB3.0 port and able to accept dd-wrt F/W as well as apparent bug fixes. Amazon reviews also state they are receiving V1 models too though they are great with returns albeit pricier.

No one can tell me which one is stocked and don't know how I would stand if I get a V1 router - dabs aren't saying they can check and the manufacturer is saying it 'should' be the V2?

Anyone used this router and or dabs/bt shop and if so, how did you find it including dealing with returns?

Budget is tight so can't go for a £100+ device but all ears for any similar suggestions and gigabit ethernet and pref ac speed a plus. Did see a Netgear R6300 for £99 on Amazon.co.uk but reports of range and firmware corruption as well as a V1 and V2 issue there putting me off.

[Funkstar]

You could contact broadbandbuyer.co.uk. They don't appear to have that model listed, but they might be able to get it for you as they do other Trendnet gear. Being a specialist outfit they are more likely to be able to help make sure you get the right version.

[geezerone]

Thanks for the idea. Turns out after further investigation that the V1 is in an orange package whereas the V2 has a blue package.

Think I will look for alternatives as not convinced with this router.

[MrJim]

I use an Asus RT-N66U, which is about £105 online. It's been absolutely rock solid though, & has various custom firmwares available for it, including DD-WRT:

http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Asus_RT-N66U

I returned a graphics card to Dabs earlier in the year (within the first week of delivery). I did have to pay the return postage, but the refund was very fast (three days or so, if I remember correctly).