16 Best Wi-Fi Routers for Home in 2023

TP-LINK AX11000

The most powerful gaming router from TP-Link. The device supports the Wi-Fi 6 communication standard. There are 8 antennas around the perimeter of the case. On the side faces there are WAN and LAN ports, a connector for connecting an external power supply.

The device provides a reliable wireless connection to the Internet, making it possible to play online games with high dynamics without freezing. The system is controlled by a powerful processor with a frequency of 1.8 GHz. OFDMA modules allow you to increase bandwidth by 4 times up to 1 GHz.

Rating of the top 11 best Wi-Fi routers for home

NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500

The router supports the Wi-Fi 6E communication standard and operates at a frequency of 6 GHz, which allows it to transmit up to 9.6 Gbps. The maximum wireless connection speed of the model is 4.8 Gbps. It provides fast loading of web pages, streaming high-resolution video 8K Ultra HD or 7680×4320 pixels and completely covers the needs of online, AR and VR games. Equipped with WPA3, one of the latest Wi-Fi security standards, which protects your network from unwanted hacks and connections.

Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien

This model operates on the Wi-Fi 6 standard and has high speeds of up to 7,685 Mbps. The router is equipped with one internal antenna and four LAN ports with a speed of 1,000 Mbps. Operates at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz with automatic switching between them. Supports MU-MIMO technology.

It is convenient to build a Mesh system based on Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien. The router signal easily overcomes walls and spreads over an area of ​​200 m². The device interacts well with smart home technology and maintains constant signal quality.

To control the Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien, a touch display with an indication of the traffic exchange graph is used. The router is easy to set up via the proprietary Ubiquiti application. The design of the model will easily complement any interior. In addition, the device has an adjustable backlight.

At the same time, Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien is not adapted for Russia. The display shows the temperature in Fahrenheit. Type A power cord plug with three blades, for which you need to buy an additional adapter. Equipped with an older version of WPA2 security, while modern models have WPA3.

Main characteristics

Mercusys MR80X AX3000

The router supports Wi-Fi 6 and belongs to the low price segment. Operates at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz, switching between them if necessary. Maintains a stable connection speed of up to 2,976 Mbps, has a good radius of up to 60 m². The device supports OFDMA, as well as MU-MIMO, which allows it to connect 20-30 devices at once. Has three LAN ports with connection speeds up to 1 Gbit/s.

Mercusys MR80X AX3000 is equipped with a unique BSS color ID. With its help, it is easier for devices to recognize the Wi-Fi signal. The function improves connection quality and goes well with Smart Connect: the router itself determines which frequency is suitable for the device (2.4 or 5 GHz) and connects it.

This model is also popular because of its Access Point mode. So, you can create new Wi-Fi networks, for example, a guest one, connect devices that do not have wireless connection capabilities to the router, and expand the network coverage in your home.

Google Nest Wifi 3800

Google Nest Wifi 3800 supports the Wi-Fi 5 standard and operates at 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies. The smart system is built into the “smart home” from Google Home and is suitable for people who already use the company’s devices: smart speakers, displays, fire safety systems, video doors and others. The router is compatible with earlier versions of Google routers.

Copes with simultaneous broadcasting of 4K streams in different parts of the house. Covers an area of ​​350 m², which is significantly higher compared to other models in the same price segment. Can be used as speakers, controlled by the Google Assistant voice assistant.

The device software continues to be updated by the manufacturer. The system is equipped with Band Steering technology, which determines the most suitable frequency for the connected devices. Equipped with the latest WPA3 security standard.

At a frequency of 2.4 GHz, the speed reaches only 350 Mbit/s, at a frequency of 5 GHz – 1,450 Mbit/s. This is a low figure for modern models that deliver from 2 Gbit/s. You cannot switch between frequencies. In addition, the device does not have outputs for local connection.

Main characteristics

HUAWEI WiFi AX3 Dual core WS7100-20

The device operates simultaneously at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz. Supports Wi-Fi 6 standard and reaches data transfer speeds of up to 2,976 Mbps. Equipped with a powerful quad-core Hi5651T processor, which does not overheat and is capable of processing a large amount of information. Suitable for surfing the Internet, office tasks and online games. Simple and easy to set up, it has three LAN ports of 1,000 Mbit/s. The Huawei AI Life app makes it easy to install, configure and manage your router via your smartphone.

Keenetic Ultra KN-1810

The main advantage of the model: high transmission speed of 2533 Mbit/s. The operation of the router is controlled by a dual-core processor, each of the four antennas is equipped with its own amplifier. The device can connect to the Internet via a wired Ethernet line, optical cable, via an external modem or wireless access point.

The setup interface is simple and clear. There is a built-in FTP server, support for MIM, WISP, Telnet, SNMP, VPN.

Main characteristics

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router Pro

The device with four antennas operates reliably at a maximum speed of 2533 Mbps in large apartments and houses with numerous rooms, corners and walls. Supports external removable drives and backup. The built-in manager is used to download files.

Access to an FTP server, MIM, and firewall are also supported. The router connects to wired and wireless smart home devices via Wi-Fi and Ethernet protocols.

Main characteristics

ASUS RT-N19

The single-band gadget is intended for home use. It can provide access to the network in a private house, apartment or cottage. It is possible to connect it as a repeater and thereby expand the coverage area.

The device has a built-in function for setting priorities for different traffic sources (QoS function). This allows you to create up to three guest networks based on it. The rest of the feature set is basic, so the gadget is only suitable for working on a home network. Connection is via Wi-Fi, there are two connectors for connecting via cable.

Main characteristics

Tenda AC6

The main advantage of this model is its support for Beamfoinig technology, which allows you to communicate despite walls and complex layouts (walls are an obstacle to radio signals. Stable operation and high speed are ensured by four non-removable antennas with a power of 5 dBm each. It is possible to set an operating schedule that reduces traffic in certain days and times of day.Energy consumption is noticeably lower than other models.

Tenda AC6 has the nickname “Obscenely powerful router”. This, of course, is a strong word, but it fully corresponds to reality.

TP-LINK Archer A5

A reliable gadget for creating a home network. Operates simultaneously in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands with a maximum speed of 1167 Mbit/s. Devices are connected via cable or Wi-Fi. The router has a high enough speed to simultaneously play and watch TV programs via IPTV.

Four antennas provide stable coverage. The router has a built-in firewall that protects against intruders entering the network. VPN connection supported.

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 4A Gigabit Edition

The dual-band router does not lose connection in the most complex home layouts thanks to four antennas. RAM capacity of 128 gigabytes facilitates the simultaneous operation of several subscribers. The gadget is especially easy to combine with Xiaomi smart home devices. In the settings, you can provide content filtering as part of parental controls.

Xiaomi – it always remains Xiaomi. Easy to set up and operate, reliable and owner-friendly.

Leaders of past years

ASUS RT-AC58U

The model is perfectly suited for domestic family use. 4 antennas provide a large coverage area with a speed of 1267 Mbps. The MU-MIMO technology used and large internal memory allow you to connect multiple devices at the optimal speed for them.

AiDisk technology is also supported. The external drive is connected to the router via USB. All gadgets working through this router have access to the information on it. Plus support for IPTV, broadcasting TV channels in real time over the Internet. The parental control option is also interesting: restrictions are set via the web interface separately for each connected device.

Setting up the router, updating software, and monitoring traffic are carried out not only through a PC, but also through applications for iOS and Android.

Main characteristics

MikroTik wAP ac (RBwAPG-5HacD2HnD)

The unusual qualities of this model are unique. It is designed for use not only indoors, but also outdoors, for example, in the courtyard of a large country house or estate. The device body is all-weather, protected from rain. The operating temperature of the gadget is from -40 to +70°C.

Two built-in antennas, a quad-core processor, 128 MB of internal memory and 2 gigabit input ports ensure stable operation in any conditions at the maximum distance from the transmitting station.

Main characteristics

Keenetic Speedster (KN-3010)

This model with Mesh Wi-Fi support was developed specifically for use as an Internet center that connects home gadgets into a single network. With one click of a switch, the device transforms into a repeater. There is no need to change any Wi-Fi connection settings after this. The design does not include a USB port. Two radio units provide operation at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz.

There is a “demilitarized zone” (DMZ), a special segment of the local network with enhanced protection by the router.

Main characteristics

ASUS GT-AC2900

The powerful router supports Nvidia GeForce Now service, which optimizes gaming traffic. The AiMesh technology used significantly expands the Wi-Fi coverage area. Connection security is provided by Trend Micro technology.

Connects to wired and wireless smart home devices via Wi-Fi and Ethernet protocols. There is a built-in print server with a USB interface, an FTP server, support for VPN, Dynamic DNS, and a firewall. 4 LAN ports with an average speed of 1 Gbit/s and a maximum speed of 2917 GHz provide a sufficient number and bandwidth of communication channels. The gadget has 512 MB of internal memory and manages 256 MB of flash memory.

The device is made in a characteristic futuristic style with three removable and one internal antenna. The black plastic case with pronounced corners bears the corporate logo on the front surface.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router for your home

To choose a router, you need to decide for what purpose you will need it: watching movies, working or playing games. Select a device taking into account its compatibility with gadgets, bandwidth, coverage range and other factors:

Speed

Typically, router manufacturers indicate in the technical specifications the maximum throughput of devices: from 3 to 7 Gbit/s. In fact, the real indicator depends on the type of connection (for example, whether there is fiber optic in the house or not), the capabilities of the provider and the frequency at which the router operates. The average speed in Russia ranges from 100 Mbit/s to 1 Gbit/s.

Signal range

This parameter determines how freely you will use Wi-Fi at home. For example, if there are many antennas in the router, then the signal will better spread in different directions.

LAN ports

To ensure a continuous signal for your PC, TV set-top box or game console, it is better to use a wired connection via a LAN port. Find out in advance how many there are in the device and what their bandwidth is.

Compatibility

Some smartphones and laptops may not support modern data transfer technologies. For example, new Wi-Fi standards (IEEE 802.11ax), frequencies (6 GHz), data encryption methods (WPA3) and others. Check the technical specifications of your phone or computer before purchasing a router.

Design

Examine the shape, location of the ports, and if necessary, make sure there are fasteners for vertical installation: the mobility of the router depends on this. Also pay attention to the body color and shape.

User interface

With the help of a convenient and intuitive proprietary application, it will be easier to customize the router for yourself. Simple and intuitive network management will make it easier to support the device in case of reboot, Internet outage and other circumstances.

Expert review on choosing a router for your home

Tips for choosing a router for your home are shared by Daniil Karapetyan , system administrator of the telecom operator eTelecom, and Nikita Damaskin , managing director of the provider Eneva (St. Petersburg):

Daniil Karapetyan:

“I would highlight the following router manufacturers:

• Mikrotik is flexible in configuration and provides wide functionality. If you have at least a basic understanding of how the Internet works, these routers are great for advanced network setup;
• Keenetic, in turn, is more user-friendly, the functionality is not so rich, but it is possible to install extensions. Keenetic also has a large range of models, both budget single-band devices and expensive ones with Wi-Fi 6 support;
• If we talk about the budget segment, then D-Link routers are more in demand on the market. They are inexpensive and provide sufficient signal strength for the average apartment.”

Nikita Damaskin:

“First of all, you need to decide or find out the parameters of your network (if the Internet is already connected): connection technology, connection speed, Wi-Fi standard. You can check this information with your provider.

As a rule, home subscribers are connected via a network cable, that is, “over twisted pair” – in this case, a standard router is sufficient. If your provider uses PON technology, you will need an optical terminal. But in this case, the equipment is provided by the provider itself, and you may need to purchase additional equipment only if there is a need to expand your home network.

Another factor to consider when choosing a router is the required connection speed. As a rule, equipment manufacturers indicate the maximum speed that a particular model can provide in the instructions or other accompanying technical documentation. And some even include it in the model name.

Pay attention to what frequency range the router operates on. 2.4 GHz is the range used by most household smart devices. This creates “noisy air” and threatens loss of speed and connection breaks. More modern models are designed for two frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). They automatically select the optimal range and provide high speed home Internet, as provided for in your tariff.”

Popular questions and answers

Popular questions from readers about routers for the home are answered by Daniil Karapetyan, system administrator of the telecom operator eTelecom, and Nikita Damaskin , managing director of the provider Eneva (St. Petersburg).