The Best Wi-Fi Routers Featured in This Article
- Asus ZenWiFi AX Xt* – Best Home Wifi Router – $342 on Amazon
- Linksys MR9000 – Best Wireless Router –$115 on Amazon
- Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E – Best High-performance Wifi Router – $589 on Amazon
- TP-Link Archer AX50 – Best Budget Wifi Router – $115 on Amazon
- Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 – Best Gaming Wifi Router – $642 on Amazon
- Aircove ExpressVPN – Best Security Wifi Router (built-in VPN) – $189 on Amazon
- TP-Link Archer AXE7 – Best Overall Wifi Router – $115 on Amazon
Introduction
It seems like every day lately, router manufacturers are coming up with some new buzzword or marketing term to sell you on why their networking appliance is better than the rest, without actually having the real performance to back it up.
That’s why we’ve teamed up with Gadget Review to extensively test and review the best wifi routers on shelves today in order to give you a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the best wifi router in a number of categories for 2023.
ReadWrite’s Router Choosing Process
To create this year’s roundup of the best routers on the market, we’ve run dozens of newer and some not-so-new models through the wringer to find the best of the best.
Using a 1GB symmetrical fiber optic line, we pushed our top picks to the absolute limits of what routers could do, testing on a variety of devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
To make this list, the routers we tested needed to have a minimum wireless bandwidth rating of 1900AC, have at least four ethernet ports on the back, one USB port for media server options, and be able to transmit on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz spectrum. All the routers here hit the spec of transmitting at 250Mbps or more on 5GHz and were able to maintain a rate of 300Mbps over a hard-wired connection.
The main categories we tested and reviewed for are:
- Best Home Router
- Best Wireless Router
- Best High-Performance Router
- Best Budget Router
- Best Gaming Router
- Best Security Router
- Best Overall Router
Features like software and configuration options were also thoroughly tested in order to find the best mix of performance, reliability, and price in the best wifi routers of 2023.
The Best Home Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the Asus Zenwifi AX XT
The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT is a high-quality dual-band mesh router system that can accommodate even the most demanding internet requirements. It’s the equivalent of having a WiFi network in your home that ensures all your devices are connected at lightning-fast rates. With two units, you can cover the entire residence with powerful signals; there will be no dead spots. Additionally, it includes powerful security capabilities to safeguard your online existence. It is simple to set up and maintain your network through a mobile network.
What is the ReadWrite Rating
Our experts rate the Asus ZenWifi AX XT a 4.75/5.
Why We Picked It
- The ZenWiFi AX XT offers AX6000 speeds, making it suited for families with several devices and heavy bandwidth consumption.
- The dual-unit mesh technology enables the placement of devices in different locations to enhance wifi coverage and eliminate dead zones in the home.
- The ZenWiFi AX XT’s user-friendly setup procedure and mobile app for network management make it simple to manage and monitor your network.
- The router is equipped with advanced security capabilities to protect your online presence and maintain network security.
- You can believe that the ZenWiFi AX XT will operate well and be trustworthy because Asus is a well-known company in the tech industry and is known for producing high-quality products; therefore, you can rely on its performance and dependability.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The ZenWiFi AX XT may be more expensive than comparable home routers, making it less accessible to those on a tight budget.
- Setup of the dual-unit mesh system may be challenging for some persons, particularly those who lack technical expertise.
- The ZenWiFi AX XT may not be compatible with all devices and networks; therefore, it is essential to verify compatibility prior to purchase.
- The router units may be bulkier than other mesh systems and need more room, making them less aesthetically pleasing to some.
- Some users may desire further customization options, like firmware tweaking, which the ZenWiFi AX XT may not provide.
The Best Wireless Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the Linksys MR9000.
The Linksys MR9000 may appear to be a throwback on the outside, but after putting it through its paces with everything from downloads to streaming, we can confidently say that this router might have come from five years in the future.
The MR9000 is outfitted with cutting-edge technologies such as MU-MIMO beamforming and the ability to establish a mesh network with Linksys’ USB dongle design. It runs all of this on top of the innovative Smart WiFi dashboard technology from Linksys, which makes it easier than ever to personalize and control how your network handles traffic from family members and guests on the fly.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the Linksys MR9000 a 4/5.
Why We Picked It
- High-speed performance: The Linksys MR9000 supports dual-band wireless-MR9000 speeds, providing many devices with quick and dependable Internet connectivity.
- The router is equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, allowing for more network configuration choices.
- The MR9000 is equipped with advanced security features, such as VPN support, parental controls, and guest networking, which contribute to network security.
- Customization options: The MR9000 supports open-source firmware, allowing users can modify and extend its functionality.
- Linksys is a well-known name in the technology field, and its products are renowned for their quality, so you can rely that the MR9000 will function well and be dependable.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The MR9000 may be more expensive than comparable wireless routers, making it less accessible to those on a budget.
- Setup and configuration of the MR9000 may be difficult for some users, particularly those with limited technical knowledge.
- The MR9000 may not be compatible with all devices and networks; therefore, it is essential to verify compatibility before purchasing.
- The MR9000 may be bulkier than competing wireless routers, making it less aesthetically pleasant for some users.
- Some individuals may prefer a router with a more robust customer service system, which the MR9000 may not offer.
The Best High-performance Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E.
The Netgear Orbi WiFi 6E is an extremely cool router system that will significantly enhance your online experience. It is the king of home internet, ensuring that all of your gadgets enjoy quick and dependable connections. With the Orbi WiFi 6E, you will be able to do everything you want online without experiencing any lag or buffering. Whether you are gaming, streaming, or simply surfing the web, the Orbi will ensure a smooth and uninterrupted experience.
Another great feature of the Orbi WiFi 6E is that it employs mesh technology, which ensures that your entire home has access to a reliable internet connection. Therefore, regardless of where you are in your home, you will always have a solid connection. And because it employs WiFi 6E, it is faster and more advanced than standard WiFi.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E a 5/5.
Why We Picked It
- WiFi 6E technology: The Orbi WiFi 6E supports the most recent WiFi 6E technology, which allows many devices with faster and more stable internet connectivity. This means you can experience faster speeds, decreased lag, and enhanced overall performance, particularly when utilizing several devices.
- Mesh system: The Orbi WiFi 6E employs mesh technology, which consists of a primary router and satellite devices that collaborate to give home-wide coverage. This delivers in robust and steady internet service throughout your entire home, including in regions that are difficult to access.
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports: The Orbi WiFi 6E features multiple Gigabit Ethernet connections, enabling you to connect wired devices for even faster rates. This is especially advantageous for bandwidth-intensive activities such as gaming and streaming.
- The Orbi WiFi 6E is equipped with powerful security features, such as WPA3 encryption and automated firmware upgrades, to safeguard your network. This is essential for safeguarding your online activity and sensitive data.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E is a premium router that may be too costly for certain individuals.
- The Netgear Orbi Wifi 6E is a newly introduced router that may not be accessible in all countries.
- The router employs the 6GHz frequency band, which is not commonly supported by devices.
- The router’s range may be reduced in larger homes or those with multiple stories.
- Some users may find the setup process to be difficult and complex.
The Best Budget Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the TP-Link Archer AX50
The TP-Link Archer AX50 is rather cool because it offers super-fast and consistent internet rates, allowing you to enjoy your favorite online activities without latency or buffering. You may stream movies and television shows, play online games, video chat with friends and family, and download files quickly and easily using this router. The Archer AX50 is also equipped with innovative technology, such as WPA3 encryption, which safeguards your online activity and personal data. Moreover, its sleek and contemporary style will look fantastic in your area and set it apart from other dull routers.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the TP-Link Archer AX50 a 4.25/5.
Why We Picked It
- The Archer AX50 is priced competitively, making it a wonderful alternative for individuals in search of a budget-friendly router that nevertheless offers excellent performance.
- Fast speeds: Despite its modest price, the Archer AX50 provides fast speeds, allowing you to stream films, play games, and browse the web without interruption.
- Dual-band capabilities: This router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, allowing you to select the optimal frequency for your requirements.
- The Archer AX50 is simple to set up, even for individuals who lack technical expertise. Follow the quick start tutorial or use the Tether app to configure the router in a matter of minutes.
- The Archer AX50 is loaded with cutting-edge technologies, including beamforming, which enhances signal coverage and dependability.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The Archer AX50 may not provide sufficient coverage for larger homes or locations with several levels, resulting in weak or lost signals.
- Although the Archer AX50 offers some advanced features, it may lack other things that advanced users or gamers seek.
- Compared to other routers on the market, the web interface of the Archer AX50 may be less user-friendly and less intuitive.
- The Archer AX50 does not include built-in VPN capability, which may be problematic for users who require VPN connectivity.
- Some consumers have stated that TP-customer Link’s service is subpar, making it difficult to fix any issues you may experience with the router.
The Best Gaming Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000
It is a high-end gaming router built for gamers and anyone that require speedy and dependable Wi-Fi connectivity. It is part of Asus’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) product line. It has sophisticated features such as support for the most recent Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, multi-gigabit LAN connections, and configurable RGB illumination.
With a 2.5Gbps WAN port and eight Gigabit LAN ports for wired devices, the GT-AXE16000 is capable of delivering speeds of up to 6,000 Mbps. It also offers gaming-specific features like optimized game traffic, the WTFast game accelerator, and the ROG Gaming Center app for monitoring and control.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 a 5/5.
Why We Picked It
- High-Speed Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) connectivity: The GT-AXE16000 supports the most recent Wi-Fi 6 standard, enabling dependable wireless access for gaming and other bandwidth-intensive applications.
- Multiple Gigabit LAN Ports: The router is equipped with a 2.5Gbps WAN port and eight Gigabit LAN ports, giving numerous connectivity options for wired devices, including gaming consoles, desktop PCs, and more.
- Gaming-Specific Features: The GT-AXE16000 contains gaming-specific features, including optimized game traffic, the WTFast game accelerator, and the ROG Gaming Center app for monitoring and control.
- Advanced Security Features The router is equipped with advanced security features, such as parental controls, network protection, and AI threat detection, to safeguard your network and connected devices.
- The GT-AXE16000 has programmable RGB illumination, letting users tailor their gaming setup and add a stylish touch to their home network.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The GT-AXE16000 is a high-end gaming router that may be more expensive than other available solutions, making it inaccessible to some customers.
- There are numerous complex capabilities on the GT-AXE16000, which can be daunting for some users. If you choose a less complicated solution, you may wish to try a different router.
- The GT-AXE16000 may be overkill if you do not have a large home network or do not require high-bandwidth activities such as gaming.
- The GT-AXE16000 is a big router that may not be suitable for smaller residences or apartments.
- Despite supporting Wi-Fi 6, the GT-AXE16000 does not support MU-MIMO, a technology that allows several devices to connect to the router simultaneously and receive equal bandwidth.
The Best Security Wifi Router
The Router Picked is the Aircove ExpressVPN
AirCove ExpressVPN is a package that combines the AirCove router with the virtual private network (VPN) service of ExpressVPN. A VPN service is designed to safeguard your online privacy and security by encrypting your internet connection and concealing your IP address, making it more difficult for third parties to trace or monitor your online activities.
By combining a router with a VPN service, the AirCove ExpressVPN bundle offers a simple and convenient solution to safeguard your home networks and all devices linked to it, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. ExpressVPN is renowned for its fast and dependable VPN servers, which can enhance the performance of your internet connection for gaming and other high-bandwidth apps.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the Aircove ExpressVPN a 4/5.
Why We Picked It
- With ExpressVPN incorporated into the AirCove router, all of your home network’s internet traffic will be encrypted, making it more difficult for hackers and other hostile actors to intercept or steal your sensitive data.
- ExpressVPN will conceal your IP address, making it more difficult for websites and internet services to track your location and online activities.
- Protect Your Privacy: With ExpressVPN, you can surf the internet without worrying about third parties, including your ISP, collecting or monitoring your browsing history or personal information (ISP).
- Prevent ISP Throttling: Particular ISPs may limit your internet speed for certain forms of internet traffic, including video streaming and gaming. By encrypting your internet traffic with ExpressVPN, you may prevent your ISP from restricting your connection, hence improving your internet connection’s performance.
- By allowing you to connect to servers in different places, ExpressVPN can also enable you to access content that may be blocked in your region, such as streaming services or websites.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- The AirCove ExpressVPN package may be more expensive than other security-focused routers available on the market.
- The AirCove router and ExpressVPN service may not be compatible with all devices and networks, limiting their utility for some customers.
- Although ExpressVPN is renowned for its speedy and dependable VPN servers, incorporating it into a router can lead to performance concerns, such as poor internet speeds or connectivity issues.
- Setting up and setting up the AirCove ExpressVPN bundle can be more difficult than with other security-focused routers, which may not be suited for individuals with limited networking expertise.
- Compared to other security-focused routers, the AirCove ExpressVPN bundle may offer fewer customization options, limiting its ability to fulfill the specific demands of some users.
The Best Overall Router
The Router Picked is the TP-Link Archer AXE7
The TP-Link Archer AXE7 is a high-performing router that provides exceptional value. It enables fast and dependable connections for all of your devices, including smartphones, laptops, game consoles, and smart home devices, thanks to its compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). In addition to a 2.5Gbps WAN port and six gigabit LAN ports, the Archer AXE7 is appropriate for even the most demanding home and small business networks. In addition, its user-friendly setup and control interface, coupled with strong security features such as WPA3 encryption, make the Archer AXE7 a fantastic option for individuals who desire a powerful and user-friendly router. The TP-Link Archer AXE7 is the finest overall router for many consumers due to its combination of performance, features, and cost.
ReadWrite’s Rating
Our experts rate the TP-Link Archer AXE7 a 5/5.
Why We Picked It
- Wi-Fi 6 Support: The Archer AXE7 supports the most recent Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, which provides faster speeds, more consistent connections, and a larger network capacity than prior Wi-Fi standards.
- High-Speed Performance: Equipped with a 2.5Gbps WAN port and six gigabit LAN ports, the Archer AXE7 provides speedy and stable connections for all of your devices.
- With its user-friendly interface, the Archer AXE7 is straightforward to set up and administer, allowing you to get your network up and running quickly.
- The Archer AXE7 is equipped with powerful security features, including as WPA3 encryption, to protect your network and data from potential attackers.
- In comparison to other Wi-Fi 6 routers, the Archer AXE7 is quite inexpensive, giving it an excellent value.
- Multiple Devices: With support for multiple devices, the Archer AXE7 is an excellent option for homes with numerous connected devices.
- The Archer AXE7 is compatible with numerous network setups and usage scenarios, making it a flexible and adaptable router.
Reasons You Might Avoid It
- Although the Archer AXE7 is a strong router, it may not be the greatest option for large houses or businesses with numerous rooms and walls due to its limited range.
- The Archer AXE7 does not enable mesh networking, so if you need a network solution that covers a big area, you may want to explore it elsewhere.
- If you require a router with built-in VPN capabilities, the Archer AXE7 is not the greatest option, as it lacks this capability.
- While the Archer AXE7 is a good gaming router, it lacks dedicated gaming features such as optimized network pathways or game-specific QoS settings, which are available on certain other routers on the market.
- The Archer AXE7’s user interface is generally simple and intuitive. However, it may not allow as much customization as other routers, which may be a disadvantage for more skilled users.
Image Credits: All images provided by the Amazon site; Thank you!
