Every day, router manufacturers come up with new marketing terms and buzzwords to convince you that their appliance is superior to the rest. However, they don't have the performance data to back this up.
Gadget Review has teamed up to review and extensively test the best Wi-Fi routers available today. This will give you a comprehensive breakdown of all the information you need about the best wi-fi routers in a variety of categories for 2023.
Router Choosing Process
We've tested dozens of routers, both new and old, to create our annual roundup.
We tested our top picks on a wide range of devices including smartphones, tablets, desktops, and laptops with a 1GB symmetrical fiber optic line.
The routers that we tested had to have a minimum wireless bandwidth rating (at least 1900AC), four ethernet ports on their backs, one USB port to allow media server options, and transmit on both the 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies.
All routers tested here were capable of transmitting at least 250Mbps on 5GHz and maintained a rate of 300Mbps when connected to a hardwired connection.
These are the main categories that we reviewed and tested:
- Best Home Router
- Wireless routers at their best
- Best Router for High Performance
- The Best Budget Router
- Best Gaming Router
- The Best Security Router
- Best Overall Router
Software and configuration options, as well as features, were thoroughly tested to ensure the best performance, reliability, price, and quality in the top wi-fi routers in 2023.
The Best Home Wi-Fi Router
The Asus Zenwifi XT Router
The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT dual-band mesh router system can handle even the most complex internet needs. This is equivalent to having a WiFi network inside your home that connects all your devices at lightning-fast speeds. Two units can be used to cover your entire home with strong signals. There will not be any dead spots. It also has powerful security features to protect your online existence. A mobile network is easy to establish and manage.
Rating?
Our experts give the Asus ZenWifi AX XT a rating of 4.75/5.
Why We Choose It?
- ZenWiFi AX XT has AX6000 speeds which makes it ideal for families with multiple devices and high bandwidth consumption.
- Dual-unit mesh technology allows for the placement of devices at different locations to increase wifi coverage and eliminate dead areas in the home.
- ZenWiFi AX XT makes it easy to monitor and manage your network with its user-friendly setup process and mobile app.
- This router has advanced security capabilities that protect your online identity and maintain network security.
- The ZenWiFi AX XT is reliable and trustworthy. Asus is a well-respected company in the tech sector and is well-known for its high-quality products.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- Although the ZenWiFi AX XT is more expensive than other home routers, it's still affordable for those with tight budgets.
- Some people may find it difficult to set up the dual-unit mesh system, especially those with limited technical knowledge.
- The ZenWiFi AX XT might not work with all devices or networks. It is therefore important to confirm compatibility before purchasing.
- Some router units are bulkier than other mesh systems and may take up more space. This makes them less visually appealing.
- Users may want additional customization options such as firmware tweaking that the ZenWiFi AX XT might not offer.
The Best Wireless Wifi-Routers
The Linksys MR9000
Although the Linksys MR9000 might appear outdated from the outside, it is quite modern.
But after running it through everything, from streaming to downloading, we can confidently state that this router may have been five years away.
The MR9000 features cutting-edge technologies like MU-MIMO beamforming, and the ability to create a mesh network using Linksys' USB dongle.
This is all done on top of the Linksys Smart WiFi dashboard technology, which makes it easy to customize and control the way your network handles traffic from guests and family members.
Rating
Our experts give the Linksys MR9000 a rating of 4/5.
Why We Choose It?
- High-speed performance: This provides many devices with reliable and fast Internet connectivity.
- This allows for greater network configuration options.
- The MR9000 has advanced security features such as parental controls, VPN support, guest networking, and parental controls that contribute to network security.
- Options for customization: The MR9000 supports open source firmware. This allows users to modify and extend its functionality.
- Linksys is a trusted name in technology and its products are well-respected for their quality. You can be sure that the MR9000 will work well and will be reliable.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- Although the MR9000 is more expensive than similar wireless routers, it may still be affordable for those with limited budgets.
- Some users may have difficulty setting up and configuring the MR9000, especially those with limited technical skills.
- The MR9000 might not work with all devices or networks. It is therefore important to confirm compatibility before you buy.
- Some users may find the MR9000 less visually pleasing than other wireless routers.
- Some people may prefer a router that offers a better customer service system than the MR9000.
The Best High-Performance Wifi-Router
Netgear Orbi WiFi 6E
Netgear Orbi WLAN 6E is a cool router system that will greatly enhance your online experience. This router is the king of home internet.
It ensures that all your devices have reliable and fast connections. The Orbi WiFi 6E will allow you to surf the internet without buffering or lag. The Orbi WiFi 6E will provide a seamless and uninterrupted gaming, streaming, and surfing experience.
The Orbi WiFi 6E's mesh technology is another great feature. This ensures that everyone in your home has reliable internet access. You will have an internet connection no matter where you are located in your home.
It uses WiFi 6E which is faster than standard WiFi and offers more advanced features.
Rating
Our experts give the Netgear Orbi Wifi6E 5/5.
Why We Choose It?
WiFi 6E technology: Orbi WiFi 6E supports WiFi 6E technology. This allows for many devices to have faster and more stable internet connectivity. This allows you to experience higher speeds, lower lag, and better overall performance, especially when using multiple devices.
Mesh technology: The Orbi WiFi 6E uses mesh technology. This is a combination of a primary router, satellite devices, and a secondary router that work together to provide home-wide coverage. This ensures reliable and consistent internet service throughout your home, even in remote areas.
Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports. The Orbi WiFi 6E has multiple Gigabit Ethernet connectivity options, allowing you to connect wired devices at even faster rates.
This is particularly useful for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and gaming.
Orbi WiFi 6E has powerful security features such as WPA3 encryption, automatic firmware upgrades, and other advanced security features to protect your network. This is crucial for protecting your online activity as well as sensitive data.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E premium router is expensive and may not be affordable for some people.
- The Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E router is a new introduction that may not be available in all countries.
- This router uses the 6GHz frequency band which isn't often supported by devices.
- The range of the router may be less in larger homes and those with multiple stories.
- For some users, the process of setting up may seem complicated.
The Best Budget Wifi-Router
The TP-Link Archer AX50
The TP-Link Archer AX50 is a cool router that offers consistent and fast internet speeds. This allows you to enjoy all your online activities without buffering or latency. This router allows you to stream TV shows and movies, play online games, and video chat with your friends.
You can also download files quickly and easily. WPA3 encryption protects your data and online activity with the Archer AX50. Its sleek, contemporary design will be a great addition to your local area and set it apart from other routers.
Rating
Our experts give the TP-Link Archer AX50 a rating of 4.25/5.
Why We Choose It?
- The Archer AX50's price is competitive, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a router with great performance and a low cost.
- Fast speeds: The Archer AX50 is a modestly priced device that allows you to stream movies, play games and browse the internet at lightning speed.
- Dual-band capability: The router can be used to transmit at both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This allows you to choose the frequency that suits your needs best.
- Even for those with limited technical knowledge, the Archer AX50 setup is easy. The quick start tutorial and the Tether app are both helpful in configuring the router within minutes.
- The Archer AX50 features cutting-edge technologies like beamforming that improve signal coverage and reliability.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The Archer AX50 may not be able to provide adequate coverage for large homes or areas with multiple levels. This could lead to weak or lost signals.
- The Archer AX50 has some great features, but it might lack the other things gamers or advanced users want.
- The Archer AX50's web interface may not be as intuitive or user-friendly as other routers.
- Users who need VPN connectivity may find it difficult to use the Archer AX50's built-in VPN capabilities.
- Some customers have complained that the TP-customer Link service is poor and makes it difficult to resolve any problems with their router.
The Best Gaming Wifi-Router
The Asus ROG Rapture GT–AXE16000
This router is high-end and designed for gamers and those who need reliable Wi-Fi connectivity. It is part of Asus’s Republic of Gamers product line. It features advanced features like support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), multi-gigabit Ethernet connections, and configurable RGB lighting.
The GT-AXE16000 can deliver speeds up to 6,000 Mbps with its WAN port at 2.5Gbps and eight Gigabit LAN ports at Gigabit LAN for wired devices.
The GT-AXE16000 also features gaming-specific features such as optimized game traffic, WTFast's game accelerator, and ROG Gaming Center, which allows for monitoring and controlling.
Rating
Our experts give the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 a rating of 5/5.
Why We Choose It?
- High-Speed Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax connectivity): The GT-AXE16000 supports Wi-Fi 6 (the most recent standard). This allows for reliable wireless access for gaming and other bandwidth-intensive applications.
- Multiple Gigabit LAN port options: The router has a 2.5Gbps WAN and eight Gigabit LAN ports. This gives you many connectivity options, such as gaming consoles and desktop PCs.
- Gaming-specific Features: The GT-AXE16000 includes gaming-specific features such as optimized game traffic, WTFast's game accelerator, and the ROG Gaming Centre app for monitoring and controlling.
- Advanced Security Features Your router comes with advanced security features such as parental controls and network protection.
- The GT-AXE16000 features programmable RGB lighting, which allows users to customize their gaming setup and add style to their home network.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The GT-AXE16000 gaming router is high-end and may be more costly than other options, making it unaffordable for some customers.
- The GT-AXE16000 has many complex capabilities that can prove to be overwhelming for some users. You may prefer a simpler solution if you are looking for a more straightforward solution.
- If you don't have a large network or require high-bandwidth activity such as gaming, the GT-AXE16000 might be too much.
The GT-AXE16000 router is large and may not suit smaller apartments or homes. - Despite being compatible with Wi-Fi 6, GT-AXE16000 doesn't support MU-MIMO. This technology allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously to the router and receive equal bandwidth.
The Best Security Wifi-Router
The Aircove ExpressVPN
AirCove ExpressVPN bundles the AirCove router and the ExpressVPN virtual private network (VPN). VPN services are designed to protect your online privacy and security.
They encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address to make it harder for third parties to track or monitor your online activities.
AirCove ExpressVPN bundle combines a router and a VPN service. This combination offers an easy and convenient way to protect your home networks as well as all devices connected to them, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
ExpressVPN is known for its reliable and fast VPN servers that can improve the performance of your internet connection to enable gaming and other high-bandwidth applications.
Rating
Our experts give the Aircove ExpressVPN 4/5.
Why We Choose It?
- ExpressVPN is integrated into the AirCove router making it harder for hackers to intercept and steal your sensitive data.
- ExpressVPN will hide your IP address making it harder for internet services and websites to track your location or online activities.
- ExpressVPN protects your privacy: You can surf the internet with no worries about your ISP collecting, monitoring, or collecting your browsing history (ISP)
- Prevent ISP Throttling ExpressVPN can encrypt your internet traffic, which will prevent your ISP from restricting your connection.
- This can improve your internet connection's performance.
- ExpressVPN allows you to connect to servers from different locations. This can allow you to access content that is blocked in your area, such as streaming services and websites.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- AirCove ExpressVPN packages may be more costly than other security-focused routers on the market.
- ExpressVPN and the AirCove router may not work with all networks and devices, which could limit their utility for certain customers.
- ExpressVPN is well-known for its reliable and speedy VPN servers. However, including it in a router could cause performance
- issues such as slow internet speeds or connectivity problems.
- The AirCove ExpressVPN bundle is more complicated than other security-focused routers. This may make it difficult for those with limited network knowledge.
- The AirCove ExpressVPN bundle might offer fewer customization options than other routers that are security-focused. This may limit its ability to meet the needs of some users.
The Best Overall Router
The TP-Link Archer AXE7
The TP-Link Archer AXE7 router is powerful and affordable. The compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) ensures that it can provide reliable connections to all your devices including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, smart home devices, and laptops.
The Archer AXE7 can be used for small and large business networks as well as home networks. It has six gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.5Gbps network port. The Archer AXE7 is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable router that is easy to use.
Because of its performance, features, and affordability, the TP-Link Archer AXE7 router is widely considered to be the best overall router.
Rating
The TP-Link Archer AXE7 is rated 5/5 by our experts.
Why We Choose It?
- Wi-Fi 6 Support: Archer AXE7 supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offers faster speeds, more consistent connections, and greater network capacity than previous Wi-Fi standards.
- High-Speed Performance: The Archer AXE7 offers high-speed connections with six gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.5Gbps network port.
- The Archer AXE7's user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and manage your network.
- The Archer AXE7 has powerful security features such as WPA3 encryption to protect your network from potential attackers.
- The Archer AXE7 is a Wi-Fi 6 router that's quite affordable, which makes it an excellent choice.
- Multiple Devices: The Archer AXE7 supports multiple devices and is an excellent choice for homes that have many connected devices.
- The Archer AXE7 can be used in a variety of network configurations, which makes it an adaptable and flexible router.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The Archer AXE7 router is strong, but it might not be the best option for large homes or businesses with many rooms and walls because of its limited range.
- The Archer AXE7 doesn't support mesh networking. If you require a network solution that covers large areas, you might want to look elsewhere.
- The Archer AXE7 router is not the best option if you need a router that has built-in VPN capabilities.
- The Archer AXE7 gaming router is capable of delivering high-quality gaming performance, but it does not have dedicated gaming features like optimized network paths or game-specific QoS settings.
- The user interface of the Archer AXE7 is intuitive and simple. It may not be as customizable as other routers which could make it less appealing for those with more experience.
Conclusion!
In conclusion, a good Wifi router is essential for a fast, reliable, and secure internet connection at home or in the office. With the increasing number of devices and bandwidth-hungry applications, a high-quality router can make a significant difference in the overall internet experience.
Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the features, specifications, and user reviews when choosing a Wifi router that best fits your needs and budget. By investing in one of the best Wifi routers available, you can enjoy seamless connectivity, faster speeds, and better coverage for all your online activities.