The Best Wifi Router for 2023
If your router is outdated, it could be slowing down your internet connection. Our testing of leading brands can assist you in finding the ideal replacement.
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Achieving the highest internet speed is just one part of the equation. To fully utilize it, you need a Wi-Fi router capable of harnessing those speeds.
The good news is, you don't have to break the bank to get the best Wi-Fi routers.
For instance, the TP-Link Archer AX21, priced at less than $100, is an excellent choice for most homes. It's our top router pick based on testing, and it's a Wi-Fi 6 model.
However, the right router for your network depends on various factors, such as your home's size, layout, and streaming preferences. We've put numerous recent models to the test to provide options for every scenario.
Now is an ideal time to upgrade your internet equipment. Routers have significantly advanced in recent years, offering impressive speeds and features worth considering.
Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, has become more widespread, promising faster and more efficient home network performance.
Additionally, the market offers a range of mesh router options, many of which are more affordable than traditional router combo systems.
As you explore the market, you'll also come across Wi-Fi 6E routers that can transmit signals using newly available bandwidth in the 6GHz band.
However, keep in mind that routers with these capabilities may come at a higher cost.
With so much to consider, upgrading your router can be overwhelming. That's where we step in. Whether you're seeking gaming routers, mesh systems, Wi-Fi 6 routers, or simply a budget-friendly option, we're here to streamline the process and guide you toward the ideal Wi-Fi router for your requirements.
Stay tuned for regular updates to this post as we consistently test networking devices. When we encounter a new router that deserves attention, we'll promptly include it in this list along with links to our latest test data, ensuring you always have access to the best router options.
Best Wifi Router of 2023
If you're on the hunt for the best Wi-Fi router under $100, the TP-Link Archer AX21 is a top contender.
Priced affordably and offering dual-band Wi-Fi 6 support, it delivers impressive speeds, with up to 1,201Mbps (1.2Gbps) on its 5GHz band.
What sets this router apart is its reliable performance, making it a great fit for small to medium-sized homes. Setting it up is a breeze, thanks to TP-Link's user-friendly Tether app.
When compared to similar routers from Asus and Netgear, the AX21 shines with faster downloads, extended range, and minimal latency.
Moreover, it features bandsteering that seamlessly switches between the 2.4 and 5GHz bands within a single network.
You also get handy extras like guest network controls and a quality of service engine for prioritizing traffic to your most essential devices.
While it may not max out gigabit network speeds, it consistently reaches close-range speeds of around 700Mbps or more, more than sufficient for the majority of households.
Don't overlook this affordable and reliable Wi-Fi router option to enhance your home network.
For the ultimate Wi-Fi experience, your best bet is to invest in the best Wi-Fi 6 router, especially if you're considering a mesh router.
What you should look for is Wi-Fi 6 support and a tri-band configuration, which includes the standard 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, along with an extra 5GHz band used as a dedicated wireless backhaul for seamless communication between the router and its satellites.
While many tri-band mesh routers cost upwards of $300 or even $400, the TP-Link Deco W7200 offers this at less than $200.
This price point is an incredible steal for a Wi-Fi 6 tri-band mesh router, and it doesn't disappoint in terms of performance.
In fact, in my real-world speed tests, it outperformed most competitors, with only the AX6000 version of Netgear Orbi managing to surpass it (but at a significantly higher nullcost).
Additionally, TP-Link's setup process is a breeze, with satellite extenders that seamlessly integrate into the mesh network as soon as they're plugged in. Don't miss out on this fantastic deal for top-notch Wi-Fi performance.
If you're ready to upgrade from your budget router, consider the Linksys Hydra Pro 6. This dual-band, AX5400 router with full Wi-Fi 6 support and 160MHz channel support delivers excellent performance.
It outperformed other routers in speed tests, including the Asus RT-AX86U. While it's a bit pricey for a dual-band router, its steady and reliable performance makes it a standout choice. Look out for sales to grab it at a more affordable price.
Gaming routers often come with a hefty price tag, but the Asus RT-AX86U dual-band router, priced at less than $300, offers excellent value. Its standout feature is its superior latency management, leading all routers tested for the lowest average latency.
Online gamers will appreciate this. Additionally, it provides a range of app-based controls and features, including a mobile boost mode for prioritizing gaming traffic to your phone.
Beyond gaming, the RT-AX86U offers full Wi-Fi 6 support, delivering stable speeds and good range. You can expand its range by adding other Asus "AIMesh" devices to create a mesh network.
This router checks all the boxes for a great gaming router and is one of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers available, even for non-gamers.
The budget-friendly AC1200 version of the Netgear Orbi mesh router, while not as feature-rich as pricier options and lacking Wi-Fi 6 support, presents excellent value in the mesh router category.
Priced under $200 for a three-device setup, including the router and two satellite extenders, it performs admirably against competitors like Nest Wifi and Amazon's Eero mesh router with Wi-Fi 5 in our speed tests. It's especially suitable for homes with internet speeds up to 300Mbps.
Netgear Orbi boasts the fastest average top speed at close range compared to those three systems and maintains strong signal strength, as observed at the CNET Smart Home.
The router's design, featuring heat-venting contours, adds a touch of style. If you're considering mesh routers but hesitant due to high costs, this affordable option is worth a try.
How to shop for a Wi-Fi router in 2023
In today's landscape, Wi-Fi 6 has firmly established itself as the standard for cutting-edge Wi-Fi devices. If you're in the market for an upgrade, consider investing in a Wi-Fi 6 router for the latest features and top-notch speeds. While Wi-Fi 5 routers still get the job done, they lack the advancements of Wi-Fi 6.
For smaller homes and apartments with internet speeds up to 500Mbps, an entry-level Wi-Fi 6 router like the TP-Link Archer AX21 will efficiently handle your daily network needs.
However, if you reside in a larger home with gigabit-level speeds or have multiple power users, consider a more robust midrange model like the Linksys Hydra Pro 6 or the Asus RT-AX86U.
If your home spans multiple stories or is expansive in size, upgrading to a mesh router for enhanced reliability over longer distances is a sensible choice.
While there are several strong contenders, the TP-Link Deco W7200 stands out as a cost-effective option with impressive test results. Alternatively, the Eero Pro 6E is my preferred mesh choice for homes with gigabit connections.
The Eero Pro 6E is part of the expanding
lineup of Wi-Fi 6E routers.
These devices operate in the 6GHz band,
providing ample bandwidth and minimal interference.
Ry Crist/CNET
The Eero Pro 6E system belongs to the growing category of routers supporting Wi-Fi 6E, which includes access to the interference-free 6GHz band.
Keep in mind that only Wi-Fi 6E devices can connect over this band, but it offers a future-oriented option. As more home Wi-Fi devices become 6GHz-compatible, the appeal of Wi-Fi 6E will increase.
Nevertheless, it might be prudent for forward-thinking consumers to hold off until 2024, when the full ratification of Wi-Fi 7 is expected.
While some manufacturers like TP-Link are releasing Wi-Fi 7 routers in 2023, it seems premature to invest now since the standard isn't fully ratified, and there's no Wi-Fi 7 device certification process in place yet.
How we test Wi-Fi routers
In 2020 and 2021, like many others, I worked from home, including conducting router tests. In 2022, my testing setup returned to our facility in Louisville, Kentucky.
My testing process remains consistent. I set up each router in our lab, conduct speed tests from various nearby rooms, and record the results.
I test in multiple rooms, starting both near and far from the router, to assess real-world performance.
This process is repeated three times during different times of the day. I also conduct tests with a Wi-Fi 6E device (Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphone) and assess individual band performance if the router allows.
Additionally, I evaluate router features, ease of use, security standards, smart home compatibility, and overall value compared to competitors. Common router questions will be addressed below.
FAQS For Wifi Router
WHAT DOES A WI-FI ROUTER DO?
Your router is the bridge between your modem and the online world, allowing you to send and receive data wirelessly via Wi-Fi.
Additionally, it facilitates connections with other devices in your home, such as printers and remote storage servers. It's a crucial component for staying connected and accessing the internet without the need for physical wires.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON A ROUTER?
Choosing the right Wi-Fi router depends on your specific needs. For smaller homes or apartments with a moderate number of devices, a reliable dual-band router in the $100 range is likely sufficient.
If you have a larger home, consider investing in a mesh system to ensure consistent speeds throughout every room.
For those working from home, engaging in online gaming, or sharing bandwidth with multiple users, a high-speed tri-band router is a valuable investment. Your choice should align with your usage demands and the size of your space.
HOW DO I SET UP A WI-FI ROUTER?
Setting up your Wi-Fi router can be done in two ways: the traditional method or the modern, user-friendly approach.
The old-fashioned way involves physically connecting the router to your modem using an Ethernet cable and accessing its settings by entering its IP address in a web browser.
On the other hand, the easier and more contemporary method is to use the router's dedicated app, which usually provides step-by-step guidance and can have your network up and running in as little as 5-10 minutes.
Both methods allow you to access the router's settings and modify your Wi-Fi password as needed. The choice between them depends on your preference and comfort level with technology.
WHAT DO THE DIFFERENT WI-FI BANDS MEAN?
Consider your Wi-Fi router as a radio that sends and receives signals through airwaves, much like a radio picks up audio broadcasts in AM or FM airwaves. However, a Wi-Fi router operates in the 2.4 and 5GHz airwaves (and even 6GHz for advanced Wi-Fi 6E routers).
Most routers come equipped with separate radios for these bands, allowing you to connect to the one that suits your needs.
Some routers can automatically manage your connection between these bands, but you can often configure them to create distinct Wi-Fi networks for each band.
The 2.4GHz band offers extended coverage but has limitations on speed. In contrast, the 5GHz (or 6GHz) band provides much faster speeds but has a shorter range compared to 2.4GHz.
Generally, the 5GHz band is your best choice for a fast, reliable connection at close to medium distances, while the 2.4GHz band is ideal for devices located at the farthest reaches of your Wi-Fi network, where extended range is more crucial than blazing speed.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME TO UPDATE MY ROUTER?
Typically, you won't need to think about replacing your router more frequently than once every five years or even longer.
However, there are a few factors to consider that might justify an upgrade.
First, Wi-Fi standards receive major updates every few years. The latest, Wi-Fi 6, brought faster top speeds and improved efficiency, particularly for networks with numerous connected devices.
The next significant update, Wi-Fi 7, is anticipated in 2024 and is poised to offer even faster speeds and enhanced utilization of the 6GHz band once it becomes a ratified standard.
You needn't rush to upgrade with each new generation, but it's worth monitoring if you seek top-tier Wi-Fi performance.
Equally important is ensuring your router receives regular firmware updates to defend against the latest security threats. If it doesn't, upgrading might be a wise choice.
Additionally, consider an upgrade if your router lacks support for WPA3, the most recent Wi-Fi security protocol.
If you're contemplating an upgrade because your home's internet speeds disappoint, test these speeds at various distances (bearing in mind that your connection speed is limited by your ISP plan).
If speeds remain robust near the router but drop
significantly in distant rooms, upgrading to a router with more powerful radios or opting for a mesh router with multiple devices could prove a valuable investment.
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