What wireless features matter most over short distances?

[OMGponies]

Most wireless router reviews I see mention wifi performance over large distance, but I live in 800 sf, so range isn't a concern of mine. However, there are 30+ wireless networks around me (my floor, above and below) and interference is a problem, especially on my bluetooth.

Is DFS worth considering in my next router? Or is some other feature more important? I'm currently using a ten year old WNDR3700 so I assume any new wireless router will have improvements, but I'd like to make an informed decision.

 

[thiggins]

If you have 5 GHz capable clients, DFS should definitely be on your shopping list, at least if you are in the U.S. and don't live next to an airport or weather radar system. Since DFS isn't currently commonly supported, you may find those channels relatively unused.

Interference with Bluetooth comes from 2.4 GHz networks, so that will probably be the same in your new router.

The ability to switch 5 GHz to 40 MHz or 20 MHz bandwidth also can help mitigate interference with neighboring networks. The tradeoff is lower throughput. But with AC devices you may not notice the difference.

 

[sfx2000]

I live in 800 sf

Pretty much anything actually - any commodity BHR - AC1900 class - should work fine in 800 sq ft. Both 2.4GHz and 5GHz.

If your broadband provider offers a gateway device - it's likely good enough.

Can't imagine things like the mesh stuff helping on a small footprint.

 

[OMGponies]

@thiggins thanks, I appreciate the feedback. I have 4 5 GHz AC devices (laptops & smartphones) that will likely all be connected at the same time and yes I'm in the US (Austin). I'll definitely consider DFS. Also, I hadn't realized the ability to switch between 20 and 40 MHz could make a difference.

I have Apple devices so I'll be finding a wireless router which meets their recommendations so I'm sure I'll get improvements over what I have, but since distance isn't a factor I can try to improve the quality of my signal in other ways.