[topcat]

I need to replace my old graphite airport base station. Do any non-Apple base stations have advantages over Apple's Airport Express at similar prices?

[[APi]TheMan]

Originally Posted by topcat

I need to replace my old graphite airport base station. Do any non-Apple base stations have advantages over Apple's Airport Express at similar prices?

Yes, they're cheaper, and can be configured easily using a web-based configuration interface. I'd recommend a Linksys Cable/DSL router such as a Linksys WRT54G. I've been using Linksys routers for four years now, and it's what I always suggest to my friends, family, and clients.

Apple's routers are very expensive, and something as generic as a Cable/DSL router from a 3rd party vendor will be anywhere from $60 - $150 cheaper.

[GSixZero]

The Airport Extreme Basestation is overpriced, especially with the need for a switch. With that said, I have one and I like it very much. I have 2 Expresses as well, and together they're all very easy to set up. With WDS turned on I was a very happy man.

The Express is a very good value, in my opinion. It's a little more expensive still, but you get airtunes, wireless printer server, and the super small form factor that you won't see anywhere else. Great for traveling.

[ghporter]

I second [APi]TheMan's recommendation of Linksys equipment; I have even longer experience with their products, and I'm still a fan. And the reasons? Both [APi]TheMan and GSixZero laid them out pretty well. Sure, Apple's products are prettier, but they really don't give you the level and quality of performance commensurate with their price (i.e. they should be far more like professional gear for what you pay for them).