Verizon Cr1000A Vs G3100: Which Router Is Better?
With more people working from home and streaming entertainment in high definition, having a reliable wireless router is more important than ever.
If you’re an Xfinity or Verizon Fios customer trying to decide between the Verizon G3100 Wi-Fi 6 router and the older CR1000A model, this comprehensive comparison will help you pick the best option.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: the newer Verizon CR1000A is generally better than the G3100 due to its support for faster Wi-Fi 6E technology, tri-band connectivity, and advanced features like MU-MIMO beamforming.
However, the CR1000A is still a very capable router that may be a better value.
Overview and Key Differences
Brief background on Verizon routers and how the CR1000A succeeds the G3100
Verizon is a well-known telecommunications company that offers various services, including internet connectivity. When it comes to routers, Verizon has introduced several models over the years to enhance their customers’ browsing experience.
One of their most popular router models was the G3100. The G3100 was a reliable router that provided users with decent Wi-Fi speeds and coverage.
However, as technology advanced, Verizon recognized the need for an upgraded router that could meet the increasing demands of modern internet usage. This led to the development of the CR1000A, which succeeded the G3100.
The CR1000A is designed to handle the growing number of devices connected to a home network and provide faster and more reliable internet speeds.
It incorporates the latest Wi-Fi standards and advanced features to ensure a seamless online experience for Verizon customers.
The main differences between the two models – Wi-Fi standards, speeds, bands, processors, design
One of the key differences between the G3100 and the CR1000A lies in the Wi-Fi standards they support.
The G3100 utilizes the 802.11ac standard, while the CR1000A takes it a step further by supporting the newer 802.11ax standard, also known as Wi-Fi 6.
This means that the CR1000A is capable of delivering faster speeds and improved performance compared to its predecessor.
When it comes to speeds, the CR1000A offers impressive capabilities.
It can deliver speeds of up to 2.4 Gbps, ensuring a lag-free experience for streaming, gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. On the other hand, the G3100 has a maximum speed of up to 1.3 Gbps, which is still commendable but falls short of the CR1000A’s capabilities.
Another notable difference is the number of bands supported by each router.
The G3100 operates on dual bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, while the CR1000A operates on tri-bands, including an additional 6 GHz band. This tri-band setup allows the CR1000A to handle more devices simultaneously and provide a more stable connection.
In terms of processors, the CR1000A features a more powerful quad-core processor, which enables it to handle multiple tasks and devices more efficiently.
The G3100, on the other hand, is equipped with a dual-core processor, which may not be as capable of handling heavy network traffic.
Lastly, the design of the two routers also shows some differences.
The G3100 has a sleek and compact design, while the CR1000A has a more modern and futuristic appearance. Both routers come with multiple Ethernet ports for wired connections and have easy-to-use interfaces for setup and management.
Summary table comparing specs side-by-side
| Feature | G3100 | CR1000A |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) |
| Max Speed | Up to 1.3 Gbps | Up to 2.4 Gbps |
| Bands | Dual bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) | Tri-bands (including an additional 6 GHz band) |
| Processor | Dual-core | Quad-core |
| Design | Sleek and compact | Modern and futuristic |
Wi-Fi Performance
Explanation of Wi-Fi 5 vs Wi-Fi 6 and what it means for speed/coverage
Before diving into the comparison between the Verizon CR1000A and G3100 routers, it’s important to understand the difference between Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6.
Wi-Fi 5, also known as 802.11ac, has been the standard for wireless networking for several years. It offers fast speeds and good coverage, making it suitable for most homes and small offices.
On the other hand, Wi-Fi 6, or 802.11ax, is the latest generation of wireless technology. It provides even faster speeds, increased capacity, and improved performance in crowded areas where multiple devices are connected simultaneously.
Expected wireless throughput for each band on the G3100 vs CR1000A
When it comes to wireless throughput, both the G3100 and CR1000A routers offer impressive performance.
The CR1000A, being a Wi-Fi 6E router, is designed to deliver faster speeds and better overall performance compared to the G3100, which is a Wi-Fi 5 router.
In real-world testing, the CR1000A has been shown to provide up to 40% faster speeds than the G3100 on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
This means that you can expect smoother streaming, faster downloads, and improved online gaming experiences with the G3100.
Range and coverage area – similar but edge to G3100
When it comes to range and coverage area, both the G3100 and CR1000A routers offer similar performance.
They are capable of covering large homes and offices without any signal dropouts or dead zones. However, the CR1000A has a slight edge here due to its advanced Wi-Fi 6E technology.
With its improved range and coverage capabilities, the CR1000A can provide a more consistent and reliable Wi-Fi signal throughout your space, especially in areas where the signal strength might be weaker.
MU-MIMO and beamforming benefits on CR1000A
The CR1000A router comes equipped with MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) and beamforming technologies, which further enhance its performance.
MU-MIMO allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, resulting in improved efficiency and faster speeds.
Beamforming, on the other hand, focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly towards connected devices, ensuring a stronger and more stable connection.
These features make the G3100 particularly beneficial in households or offices with multiple devices connected to the network at the same time.
Hardware Design
Size and general aesthetics – CR1000A is a newer, sleeker design
When it comes to size and general aesthetics, the Verizon CR1000A router takes the lead.
With its sleek and modern design, it seamlessly blends into any home or office environment. The CR1000A is designed to be compact and unobtrusive, making it easy to place it anywhere without it being an eyesore.
Ports – both have 1 WAN, 4 LAN, 1 USB. CR1000A adds 2nd USB.
Both the Verizon CR1000A and G3100 routers offer a standard set of ports, including 1 WAN, 4 LAN, and 1 USB.
However, the CR1000A also includes an additional USB port, allowing for more flexibility in connecting external devices such as printers or storage devices.
Antennas – G3100 has 6 removable antennas, CR1000A has 4 internal
The number and type of antennas can play a significant role in the performance and range of a router.
The Verizon G3100 router comes with six removable antennas, which allow for greater customization and potentially improved signal strength. On the other hand, the CR1000A router has four internal antennas, providing a more streamlined and compact design.
Processor – CR1000A has newer quad-core 1.5GHz, G3100 is dual-core 800MHz
The processor is a crucial component of any router as it determines how efficiently it can handle network traffic.
The CR1000A router boasts a newer quad-core 1.5GHz processor, offering faster processing power and smoother performance. In comparison, the G3100 router features a dual-core 800MHz processor, which may not be as powerful as the G3100.
Memory – G3100 has 512MB, CR1000A has 256MB
Having an ample amount of memory is essential for a router to handle multiple devices and maintain a stable connection.
The CR1000A router comes equipped with 512MB of memory, which allows for efficient multitasking and smooth operation. In contrast, the G3100 router has 256MB of memory, which may not be as robust as the CR1000A.
Software, Features, and Management
When comparing the software, features, and management options of the Verizon CR1000A and G3100 routers, there are several key factors to consider.
Firmware – CR1000A uses latest Fios router OS, G3100 on older version
The CR1000A router utilizes the latest Fios router operating system, ensuring that users have access to the most up-to-date features and security enhancements.
On the other hand, the G3100 may be running on an older version of the firmware, which could limit its capabilities and compatibility with newer technologies.
Parental controls and security – both have robust options
Both the CR1000A and G3100 routers offer robust parental control features, allowing users to restrict access to certain websites and set time limits for internet usage.
Additionally, they both provide strong security options, including firewall protection and the ability to create guest networks to isolate devices from the main network.
CR1000A has advantages like VLAN tagging, traffic metering, DFS channels
One advantage of the CR1000A router is its support for VLAN tagging, which enables more advanced network setups and segmentation. It also offers traffic metering, allowing users to monitor and control data usage.
Additionally, the CR1000A supports DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) channels, which can help reduce interference from other devices operating on the same frequency.
Setup and configuration – CR1000A setup easier with app, G3100 all web-based
The CR1000A router offers a user-friendly setup experience with the Verizon Home app, which guides users through the process step-by-step.
On the other hand, the G3100 setup is entirely web-based, requiring users to access the router’s settings through a browser.
While both options are relatively straightforward, the app-based setup of the CR1000A may be more convenient for some users.
Admin controls – both allow port forwarding, exposed IP, DNS, etc.
Both the CR1000A and G3100 routers provide a range of administrative controls, including the ability to set up port forwarding, manage exposed IP addresses, and configure DNS settings.
These features allow users to customize their network setup to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Price and Value
Current retail and rental prices for each model
When it comes to comparing the prices of the Verizon CR1000A and G3100 routers, it’s essential to consider both the retail and rental prices.
As of the latest update, the CR1000A is available for purchase at a retail price of $199.99. On the other hand, the G3100 is priced slightly lower at $179.99.
If you prefer renting the routers, the CR1000A can be obtained for a monthly fee of $20, while the G3100 is priced at $15 per month.
It’s worth mentioning that these prices may vary depending on your location and the specific deals offered by Verizon. It’s always a good idea to check the official Verizon website or visit a local Verizon store to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Resale value favors G3100 due to recency
When considering the resale value of routers, the recency of the model plays a significant role.
The CR1000A, being the newer model, tends to have a higher resale value compared to the G3100. This is because newer models often have more advanced features and are in higher demand among consumers.
If you are someone who frequently upgrades their routers or plans to sell them in the future, the CR1000A may be a better option for you.
It’s important to note that the resale value of routers can fluctuate over time, and it’s influenced by various factors such as market demand, technological advancements, and the condition of the router itself.
CR1000A justifies a higher price for future-proofing, but G3100 still has a decent value
The higher price tag of the CR1000A may initially seem daunting, but it comes with some notable advantages.
One of the key benefits of the CR1000A is its future-proofing capabilities. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, which offers faster speeds, improved performance, and better connectivity for devices.
This makes the CR1000A a great investment for those who want to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their network can handle the demands of future technology.
However, it’s important to remember that the G3100 is still a solid router in its own right. It offers reliable performance and coverage, making it suitable for most everyday internet needs.
If you don’t require the advanced features of Wi-Fi 6 and are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the G3100 still provides decent value for money.
Ultimately, the choice between the Verizon CR1000A and G3100 routers depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Consider factors such as your internet usage, future upgrade plans, and the importance of having the latest technology.
It may also be helpful to read reviews and compare the features of each model to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
In summary, the Verizon CR1000A is the superior router overall, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6E support, tri-band design, and updated hardware. It delivers faster wireless speeds and has extra features that power users will appreciate.
However, the G3100 remains a very capable router that’s still fast enough for most homes. If you don’t need blazing speeds, the G3100 can save you money while providing reliable connectivity.
When deciding between these two Verizon routers, weigh your need for future-proof technology against how much you want to spend.
The CR1000A is the clear performance winner, but the G3100 still gets the job done for a lower cost.
