Having an internet connection, you need to ensure that you’re well-equipped with all the tools to enjoy seamless connectivity. This isn’t limited to just internet connection – you need to get your hands on the best wireless router, quality Ethernet cables, and much more.
What we can offer insight into here is some of the best wireless routers that emerged competitive last year. These routers have brought an amazing performance with the relentless connectivity that we’re about to look at. Sit back, relax and gaze upon these superb routers and their performance.
1. TP-Link Archer AX11000 Next-Gen Tri-Band
When we’re talking about the best wireless routers in the market, we can surely mention the phenomenal TP-Link Archer AX11000 Next-Gen Tri-Band here. Getting a stunning 4.5 outstanding rating on PC Mag’s review, this next-gen router is one of the best there is.
Specs
- Wi-Fi 6 technology for fabulous wireless connectivity
- 11ax wireless specifications
- Multi-gig WAN support
- Real-time latency information
- 4X4 MU-MIMO data streaming
- Dynamic frequency selection or DFS with 160 MHz channel bandwidth support
- Tri-band router with separate 5 GHz bands
Pros
- Surreal user interface made for gaming
- Numerous ports that bring seamless connectivity on the go
- Known for its high-end performance for
- Lifetime malware controls
- Amazing LED indicators
- Outstanding parental control
Cons
- Bit bulky in physical structure
Performance
- Theoretical data rate of 1.1 Gig on 2.4 GHz and around 4.8 Gig with 5 GHz
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a high-end gaming wireless router in the market, then choosing the TP-Link Archer AX11000 Next-Gen Tri-Band is an amazing option for you!
2. TP-Link Archer AX21
We got the TP-Link Archer AX21 next on the list that you should surely get your hands on. It’s one of the best wireless routers in the market especially for its amazing specs that come in great pricing. It’s also regarded as one of the most budget-friendly routers in the market.
Specs
- Wi-Fi 6 supported
- Dual band connectivity with automatic band steering
- 11ax transmission protocol
- Adjustable antennas, fool-proof ports
Pros
Low cost and budget friendly
- 2 Gbps top internet speed on the 5 GHz band; 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz
- Flawless performance for small to medium-sized user count
- Easy to install
- Low latency, Enhanced range
- Automatic band steering i.e. switches from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz band as needed
- QoS for prioritizing traffic
Cons
- Entry-level router not for high-end use
- Lacks advanced features for router settings
- 1 Gbps cap on wired connections using WAN port
- Not a Wi-Fi 6E (lacks ultra-wide 6 GHz Spectrum)
Performance
- 30% faster than Wi-Fi 5
- Faster performance for multi-use
- Enhanced range - can be used in separate rooms from the device’s location
- Minimized latency
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for something not so costly that brings seamless connectivity for everyday internet, then this one is the choice.
3. Netgear Orbi (dual-band, AC1200)
The Netgear Orbi (dual-band, AC1200) is one of the top-rated mesh routers that one can surely pick when they’re looking for the best routers in the market. The reason for its popularity is that it has achieved the best average internet speed in various router speed tests.
Specs
- Next-gen Wi-Fi 6
- WPA3 security supported
Pros
- Great perks within the given package
- Strong signal strength and range
- Supports a number of voice assistants
- 300 Mbps surreal internet speed (866 Mbps on 5 GHz)
- Dual band with automatic steering
- Easy to install
Cons
- Lacks dedicated Wi-Fi backhaul
- No additional ports
- Not so catchy design
- Lacks advanced Wi-Fi setup features
- $70/ year for antivirus protection (after 30 day trial period)
Performance
- Held competitive speed (400 Mbps) on minimal distance
- Averaged a good speed compared to competitors within the domain costing more
- Botched for a while between bands
- Notably stronger signal strength
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a wireless router in the mesh category at a low price, then getting your hands on Netgear Orbi (dual-band, AC1200) is a win-win situation in terms and performance.
4. Asus RT-AX86U
The Asus RT-AX86U is another gaming router that has been termed one of the best because of its amazing performance. Coming from Asus, one of the top brands for high-end gaming tech, the RT-AS86U brings outstanding gaming experience that every gamer dreams of
Specs
- Wi-Fi 6 supported with dual band technology
- 3 removable antennas
- 1 WAN/1 Multi-Gig WAN port
- 4 Gigabit LAN
- 2 USB 3.0
- 8 GHz quad core processor
- Surreal, appealing design
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Port aggregation
- Software security protecting from unauthorized attacks
- 2-year warranty
- Peak range up to 95 feet
- Amazing when it comes to pushing signals through walls and ceiling
- Boosts speed for phone and tablets
- Better perks in the given pricing
- AIMesh that makes it a centerpiece of your mesh network
Cons
- Lacks ping heat map
- Lacks geo fencing
Performance
- Peak speed of 929.27 Mbps
- Amazing throughput even at 75-feet
- No glitches or errors during multi-use (streaming, gaming, file sharing, etc.)
- Configuration done in under 10 minutes via Asus Router App
Bottom Line
Considering the above given perks, the Asus RT-AX86U is surely amongst the perfect choices for gaming routers and can easily be opted for.
5. D-Link DIR-867
The D-Link DIR-867 is another compelling choice when it comes to choosing inexpensive gaming routers. It packs some exciting features that makes it a great choice.
Specs
- Parental controls
- 11ac supported
- Dual band powered
- 880 MHz CPU, 128 MB flash memory, 128 MB RAM
- MU-MIMO data streaming
Pros
- Easy installation
- Reasonable pricing as per features
- QoS for traffic orientation
- VPN supported
- Non-slip bottom, sturdy hanging brackets
- Beamforming (C2C signal transmission)
- D-Link Smart Connect supported
- Can be operated via mobile app
Cons
- Parental controls are somewhat limited
- Plastic body
- Non-removable antennas
- Tad slower on MU-MIMO test
- No USB ports
Performance
- Solid throughput in range tests
- 450 Mbps speed on 2.4 GHz band, 1.3 Gbps on 5 GHz band
- Good as per budget friendly MU-MIMO performance
Bottom Line
Comparing its prices with the rest of the wireless routers in the domain, the D-Link DIR-867 brings excellent perks, making it a viable choice especially for an affordable wireless router.
6. Linksys EA6350 AC1200
The Linksys EA6350 AC1200 Dual-Band Smart Wi-Fi Wireless Router is also ranked amongst the best wireless routers in terms of budget. The specs are amazing in terms of price and you’re getting enhanced speed with consistency that every user wants.
Specs
- Dual band supported
- Fast USB port
- 4 Gigabit LANs
- Single core 800 MHz CPU
Pros
- Amazing speed with consistency
- Easy to install and manage
- An affordable choice
- Beamforming supported
- Parental control, speed test, media prioritization supported
- Setup includes MAC filtering, DHCP settings and advanced features
Cons
- Non-removable antennas
- Lacks MU-MIMO data streaming
- Guest networking is only available on 2.4 GHz band
Performance
- 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, 867 Mbps on 5 GHz band
- Fastest speed seen on budget routers on 5 GHz band
- Good for file transfers
Bottom Line
It’s easy to configure and also provides frequently used settings on its panel alongside connected devices. So, if you’re looking for a smart wireless router especially within budget, then choosing the Linksys EA6350 AC1200 is a great decision.
Choosing a Wireless Router
Well, we just saw some of the best wireless routers that make a compelling choice based on their performance. However, here are some of the features that you should be considering while buying or choosing a wireless router:
- It should be dual-band – choose the latest technology and protocols
- Has minimal latency/ latency management to improve connectivity
- Ensure seamless connectivity irrespective of its placement
- Be not costly - budget-friendly
- Cater to your needs – should have additional LAN ports or USB port
These are some of the factors that should be considered when choosing a wireless router. It’s not the complete list but still caters to the need for making an optimal choice.
Closing Thoughts
Well, there you have it! We’ve covered pretty much solid stuff when it comes to finding the best wireless router for your needs. The aforementioned ones make a compelling choice and you can look for them in deals online. Plus don’t forget to consider the factors for choosing a reliable wireless router. If you got some more tips or have experience with some other wireless routers, feel free to list them in the comments!
