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BEST ROUTERS OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
NETGEAR Orbi RBK852
NETGEAR
Orbi RBK852
Mesh Wi-Fi System
Tri-band mesh Wi-Fi 6 system that blankets large homes with fast, reliable wireless coverage. It supports multiple devices and provides seamless roaming throughout your space.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Outstanding whole-home coverage
  • Fast, reliable speeds
  • Strong security features
  • Simple installation
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Large units
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
ASUS
ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
Gaming-Focused Wi-Fi Router
Tri-band Wi-Fi 6 router built for gamers. It offers ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and advanced customization for the ultimate gaming experience.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Exceptional gaming performance
  • Advanced customization options
  • Strong security features
  • Expandable with AiMesh
CONS
  • Bulky design
  • High price
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
NETGEAR Orbi RBK852
Mesh Wi-Fi System
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Speed: 6 Gbps
Coverage: Up to 5,000 sq. ft.
LAN Ports: 4 per unit
Antennas: 8 internal per unit
Security: NETGEAR Armor, WPA3

The NETGEAR Orbi RBK852 mesh system is designed for users who require whole-home coverage without sacrificing speed or reliability. Leveraging Wi-Fi 6 technology, this system delivers up to 6 Gbps of combined wireless speed, making it suitable for streaming, gaming, and smart home devices across expansive properties.

The Orbi RBK852 includes a router and a satellite, each equipped with eight internal antennas to maximize coverage and minimize dead zones. Its tri-band architecture dedicates one band for backhaul communication, ensuring consistent performance even as more devices connect.

Advanced security features, including NETGEAR Armor, protect your network from online threats, while the Orbi app simplifies setup and management.

PROS
  • Outstanding whole-home coverage
  • Fast, reliable speeds
  • Strong security features
  • Simple installation
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Large units
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
Gaming-Focused Wi-Fi Router
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Speed: 11,000 Mbps
Processor: 1.8 GHz quad-core
LAN Ports: 4 x Gigabit + 2.5G
USB Ports: 2 x USB 3.1
Antennas: 8 external
Security: AiProtection Pro, WPA3

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is tailored for gaming enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance. With tri-band Wi-Fi 6 support, it delivers combined speeds up to 11,000 Mbps, ensuring lag-free gaming and smooth streaming even with multiple devices connected.

The router features a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor and eight external antennas for robust, stable connections.Gaming-specific features include Game Boost, which prioritizes gaming traffic, and a dedicated gaming port for wired connections.

The router also supports AiMesh for expanding coverage and AiProtection Pro for comprehensive network security. Customizable RGB lighting and an intuitive interface make it a standout choice for gamers who want both performance and style.

PROS
  • Exceptional gaming performance
  • Advanced customization options
  • Strong security features
  • Expandable with AiMesh
CONS
  • Bulky design
  • High price
Linksys MR7350
Affordable Wi-Fi 6 Router
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Speed: 1.8 Gbps
Coverage: Up to 1,500 sq. ft.
LAN Ports: 4 x Gigabit
USB Ports: 1 x USB 3.0
Antennas: 2 external
Security: WPA2/WPA3

The Linksys MR7350 is an excellent entry-level Wi-Fi 6 router for users seeking improved speed and efficiency without breaking the bank. With speeds up to 1.8 Gbps, it supports smooth streaming, gaming, and web browsing for multiple devices.

The router covers up to 1,500 square feet, making it suitable for apartments or smaller homes.Mesh compatibility allows users to expand coverage by adding compatible Linksys mesh products. The MR7350 features parental controls, device prioritization, and WPA3 security.

The Linksys app provides a straightforward setup process and ongoing network management, making it accessible for users of all experience levels.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Wi-Fi 6 support
  • Expandable with mesh
  • Simple setup
CONS
  • Limited coverage area
  • Basic feature set
Amazon eero 6
Compact Dual-Band Router
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Speed: 900 Mbps
Coverage: Up to 1,500 sq. ft.
LAN Ports: 2 x Gigabit
USB Ports: None
Antennas: Internal
Security: WPA3, automatic updates

The Amazon eero 6 brings Wi-Fi 6 performance to smaller spaces with a compact, unobtrusive design. It delivers speeds up to 900 Mbps and covers up to 1,500 square feet, making it suitable for apartments, condos, or small homes.

The router supports mesh networking, allowing users to add more eero devices to expand coverage as needed.Setup is quick and easy using the eero app, which also provides network management and security features.

The eero 6 includes built-in Zigbee smart home hub functionality, enabling direct connection to compatible smart devices. With automatic updates and WPA3 security, it keeps your network safe and up to date.

PROS
  • Compact design
  • Easy to set up
  • Mesh expansion capability
  • Smart home integration
CONS
  • Lower maximum speed
  • Limited wired ports

How our picks compare

SpecificationTP-Link Archer AX6000NETGEAR Orbi RBK852ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000Linksys MR7350Amazon eero 6
Wireless StandardWi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Speed5952 Mbps6 Gbps11,000 Mbps1.8 Gbps900 Mbps
Processor1.8 GHz quad-core-1.8 GHz quad-core--
LAN Ports8 x Gigabit4 per unit4 x Gigabit + 2.5G4 x Gigabit2 x Gigabit
USB Ports2 x USB 3.0-2 x USB 3.11 x USB 3.0None
Antennas8 external8 internal per unit8 external2 externalInternal
SecurityWPA3, HomeCareNETGEAR Armor, WPA3AiProtection Pro, WPA3WPA2/WPA3WPA3, automatic updates
Coverage-Up to 5,000 sq. ft.-Up to 1,500 sq. ft.Up to 1,500 sq. ft.

Selecting the right router for your home or office can make a significant difference in your internet experience. With the growing number of connected devices and the increasing demand for high-speed, reliable connections, choosing a router is no longer a simple task. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and find the best router for your needs.

Begin by assessing your internet usage and the size of your space. If you live in a small apartment with only a few devices, a basic router may suffice. However, larger homes or offices with multiple floors and many connected devices will benefit from a more robust model, possibly with mesh networking capabilities to ensure coverage in every corner.

Next, consider the speed of your internet plan. Purchasing a router that supports speeds higher than your plan offers will not increase your actual internet speed, but it can help future-proof your setup if you plan to upgrade your service. Look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offer improved performance, better handling of multiple devices, and enhanced security features.

Security is another crucial factor. Modern routers come with built-in security protocols like WPA3, which provide stronger protection for your network. Some models also offer automatic firmware updates, parental controls, and guest networks, which can help keep your data safe and your network organized.

Pay attention to the number and type of ports available. If you have devices that require a wired connection, such as gaming consoles or desktop computers, ensure the router has enough Ethernet ports. Some routers also include USB ports for connecting external storage or printers.

The user interface and ease of setup are important, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. Many routers now offer mobile apps that simplify the installation process and allow you to manage your network remotely. These apps can provide insights into device usage, allow you to prioritize bandwidth, and help you troubleshoot issues without needing to access a complicated web interface.

If you have a smart home with many connected devices, look for routers that can handle a high number of simultaneous connections without sacrificing performance. Some models are specifically designed to manage the demands of smart home ecosystems, ensuring smooth operation for everything from security cameras to smart speakers.

Budget is always a consideration. While it can be tempting to opt for the most affordable option, investing in a quality router can save you frustration in the long run. Higher-end models often come with longer warranties, better customer support, and more advanced features that can extend the life and usefulness of your network.

Finally, read reviews and check for firmware support from the manufacturer. A router that receives regular updates is less likely to be vulnerable to security threats and more likely to receive performance improvements over time.

By carefully evaluating your needs, understanding the available features, and considering future requirements, you can select a router that will provide fast, reliable, and secure internet access for years to come.