We recommend the TP-Link Archer AX55 for most home streamers. It balances quality features, like a fast transfer rate and good coverage, and an affordable price. But if you’re looking to get into competitive gaming or otherwise put a strain on your internet bandwidth, then the Nighthawk XR1000 or Asus ROG Rapture GT-AC5300 would be better suited to the challenge.
Speed: We’re not talking about the speed of your internet (how fast information passes from your modem to your router), but the speed of your wireless data transfer (how fast information passes from your router to your computer). This speed is mostly dependent on your router’s wireless technology (e.g. Wi-Fi 6), internal processor, and coverage area. Make sure you get a router that gives you enough speed for your daily activities. Coverage: Wi-Fi routers often have built-in antennas and other features that can boost their range. Those with bigger houses may want to opt for a mesh router system, which uses multiple devices to boost coverage. Price: Some of the newest routers cost way more than they need to, while sporting unnecessary (and sometimes faulty) features. We think it’s usually best to go with a well-trusted and well-tested model that’s cheaper, even if it’s a few years old. Compatibility: Most routers will work with most internet connections, but you should still double check that your modem and computer will work with the device you’re buying. Special features: Some modems have special software and hardware that can make them especially good for gaming, wireless security, reliable streaming, and other priorities. Find a router that’s optimized for your lifestyle.
This router is as powerful as it looks, with eight external antennas, two 5 GHz bands (and one 2.4 Ghz band), Wi-Fi 6 technology, a computer-grade internal processor, and plenty of other features. It’s great for streaming, gaming, and literally anything else you can throw at it. At this price point, you will lose out on a few features. You’ll get Wi-Fi 5 instead of 6. You’ll have to live with a 1,300 Mbps transfer rate. You’ll be stuck with USB 2.0 instead of 3.0. But, let’s be honest, a few years ago we were all happy without those things anyways. This router has a powerful 1.5 GHz processor, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and up to 5.4 Gbps transfer speeds. But what really makes this the best router for gaming is the DumaOS 3.0 software inside. According to NETGEAR, this Duma operating system can prioritize your gaming traffic, connect you to the best servers, and lower your ping by up to 93%! The best mesh Wi-Fi router on the market right now is NETGEAR’s Orbi AX 6000. This sleek device uses tri-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, giving you up to 6 Gbps of speed (that’s just absurdly fast). It allows you to connect up to 100 (!) devices at once, without buffering. It has more than enough power to keep you, your family, and even your neighbors streaming video in high definition.
TP-Link Archer AX55: This reliable Wi-Fi 6 router is the perfect mix of cost and performance, making it ideal for most casual internet users. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AC5300: If you’re looking for the most powerful wireless router on the market, then this is the machine for you. It will give you incredible speeds with tri-band Wi-Fi 6 technology and good coverage with eight built-in antennas. TP-Link AC1750: Those who just want a simple, reliable router for streaming, light gaming, and other low-bandwidth tasks will do great with this super affordable device. Nighthawk XR1000 Gaming Router: For those who want to stay at the top of their game, there’s the XR1000, with super-fast wireless technology, gaming optimization, and a powerful internal processor. NETGEAR Orbi AX6000 Mesh System: This mesh router system will give you the best coverage (and speeds) available for your large house, apartment complex, or small business.
These are the features that we considered while evaluating the best wireless routers. We weighted these features differently, depending on the category (i.e. we gave more attention to price for our best budget pick). But, in all cases, we chose products that we think are reliable, fairly priced, and well-liked by other customers. While some routers—like the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500—are beginning to use Wi-Fi 6E, we don’t think it’s worth adopting this early for most people. The products are still buggy and pricey. And, frankly, most people don’t even have the internet speeds that would require Wi-Fi 6E transfer speeds.
