The best wifi 6 router will provide you with the latest wireless technology. The newest wifi standard is known as 802.11ax or simply “ax.” Not only can these routers run with the fastest speed of the best wifi, but they also include advanced features like extended ranges for larger homes and high levels of network stability for your wired connection as well as your wireless devices.
An ax router will be easy to set up and use, enabling you to immediately enjoy fast streaming, online gaming, multiple connected devices, and fewer dead zones throughout your home. In addition, it’s one of the best routers you can buy because it features the most updated wireless standard and lets you get the most out of mobile devices.
Keep reading our buying guide to learn more about the best wifi 6 routers.
Top WiFi 6 Routers
#1 NetGear R6700AX AX1800 Router
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router features incredible download and upload speeds that will appeal to streamers and professional gamers. It also features 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, so supports wired connections to computers and other devices.
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- Incredible speed
- Supports 20 devices
- 4 Ethernet ports
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- Bulky
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The Netgear R6700AX AX1800 router connects up to 20 devices, making it a good choice for homes and small businesses. This router has a coverage of up to 1,500 sq. ft, so it’s a good choice for offices and apartments. It features Wi-Fi 6 technology, offering cutting-edge connectivity features. This Wi-Fi router connects to cable modems for seamless integration with existing systems. However, this router has a large footprint.
Featuring download speeds of up to 1 Gbps, this device supports seamless UHD 4K streaming and multi-player gaming. In addition to DSL modems, this device works with fiber and satellite systems.It has four Gigabit Ethernet ports for accommodating wired connections from computers and other devices. This Netgear router comes with a free trial for Parental Controls, allowing users to protect their families against harmful content. LED lights on this device allow users to monitor various network parameters easily.
#2 TP-Link AX21 AX1800 Router
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router uses advanced beamforming technology to direct network signals towards connected devices, minimizing internet dead zones. It supports transfer speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps and works with most service providers
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- Exceptional beamforming tech
- Four high-gain antennas
- Super-fast connectivity
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- Large
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The TP-Link AX21 AX1800 router uses advanced Wi-Fi 6 tech to minimize problems associated with network congestion. It’s capable of speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps, so it’s suitable for use in high-bandwidth applications. It features both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, so it connects a wide variety of devices. Using OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, this router intelligently rations the bandwidth between multiple connected devices, optimizing the user experience on each connected device. However, this model takes up space.
This router has beamforming technology and four high-gain antennas that focus the network signal on connected devices. An advanced front-end chipset module (FEM) offers great performance. The router runs on a powerful 1.5GHz quad-core processing system, reducing latency and maximizing uptime. This router is compatible with most US service providers, including AT&T, Xfinity, Spectrum, and Verizon. It features WPA3 security technology, delivering the latest in network encryption and has a USB port and 4 Ethernet Gigabit ports.
#3 Amazon eero 6 Router
Award: BEST FOR MULTIPLE DEVICES
WHY WE LIKE IT: This Wi-Fi router doubles as a network anchor device, connecting and managing various smart connected devices. The router covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. of space and supports over 75 devices.
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- Incredible coverage
- Integrated Zigbee smart home hub
- Comes with two extenders
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- Has just one Ethernet port
- Limited speed
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The Amazon eero 6 router is a mesh system with the potential to cover an astounding 5,000 sq. ft. of space. This system supports data transfer rates of up to 500 Mbps, so it’s ideal for offices and homes. It works with the eero app for hassle-free setup and troubleshooting. This model has built-in Amazon Alexa, allowing users to change settings with their voice. However, the router only has one Ethernet port.
This device supports an astounding 75 devices, making it a good choice for organizations and very large homes. It comes with two extenders to enhance Wi-Fi signal strength in far flung corners of the home. The Wi-Fi system has a compact design that can easily be placed on tables or bookshelves. With a sleek white finish, this Wi-Fi system adds visual appeal to the home or office. It doubles as a Zigbee smart home hub for connecting and managing compatible devices on the network.
#4 ASUS RT-AX3000 Router
Award: BEST FOR LARGE HOMES
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router uses advanced bandwidth sharing tech to optimize the internet connection on connected devices. It has incredible data transfer speeds of up to 3000 Mbps and covers up to 3,000 sq. ft.
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- Incredible speeds
- MU-MIMO and OFDM tech
- Covers up to 3,000 sq. Ft.
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- Intermittent signal loss
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The ASUS RT-AX3000 router features future-proof Wi-Fi 6 technology, allowing homes and businesses to connect a big number of people. This router is equipped with OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology for optimizing bandwidth between various connected devices. The device supports 160MHz bandwidth and provides dual-band speeds of up to 3000 Mbps. The router works with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to change settings with the voice. However, this router loses the signal occasionally.
AiProtection Pro safeguards connected devices against a number of security threats. This router works with the ASUS Router app for painless customization and configuration. With a coverage of up to 3,000 sq. ft., the Wi-Fi router is ideal for large homes and business premises. This router uses AiMesh technology to connect with other compatible routers, covering large areas. It supports up to 30 devices, making it a good choice for busy homes, restaurants, and offices.
#5 Linksys E7350 AX1800 Router
Award: BEST COMPACT
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router has guest access and other advanced features, blending convenience with security. It has a vertical design with internal antennas to saves space.
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- Outstanding space-saving design
- Excellent security features
- Super-fast connectivity
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- Buggy firmware
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The Linksys E7350 AX1800 router boasts a space-saving vertical design and astounding connection speeds. This router covers up to 1,500 sq. ft, of space, so it’s adequate for apartments and small homes. With Wi-Fi 6 tech, this device boasts a number of advanced features. It works with a mobile app for hassle-free setup and configuration. This router has advanced security functions that include parental controls. However, the firmware occasionally reboots without warning.
This Wi-Fi system has a WPS button for adding devices to the network at the push of a button. The device supports up to 20 devices, so it will appeal to organizations and homeowners with many devices. It allows users to set up guest access for connecting devices without compromising the security settings. Featuring a vertical design with internal antennas, this router saves space and can be placed on small tables and bookshelves.
#6 D-Link DIR-X5460-US AX5400 Router
Award: BEST MESH ROUTER
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router boasts six high-gain antennas that help minimize the dead zones in the house. It features four GbE LAN ports and two USB connectors for attaching devices and storage drives.
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- Incredible coverage
- Mesh tech enables expanding coverage
- Gigabit Ethernet and USB ports
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- Bulky
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The D-Link X5460-US AX5400 router has six high-gain antennas, broadcasting network signals effectively in big homes. The router supports incredible speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps. Owing to its great coverage and data transfer speeds, this device is suitable for homes and organizations with heavy bandwidth needs such as broadcasting and streaming. Featuring OFDMA technology, this device enhances the way data is sent to devices connected simultaneously for efficiency. However, this router is big and has a large footprint.
A Target Wake Time (TWT) feature helps connected devices to reduce battery consumptions. This D-Link router features mesh technology, allowing users to connect to link up more than one router. It has four Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting computers and other devices directly to the router. A USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 port allow users to connect storage devices and dongles. This system also boasts a WPS button for effortlessly connecting to various devices.
Beginner’s Guide to Wifi 6 Routers
What is a Wifi 6 Router?
A wifi 6 router is a device that allows you to wirelessly access the internet, connect to other devices on your network (like a printer), or share files. You can connect to a wifi router with a computer, smartphone, or another electronic device like a tablet and experience a faster connection than previous wireless protocols.
Wireless routers compatible with wifi 6 will support the latest wifi technology, enabling connected devices to communicate faster and more efficiently. Routers with the wifi 6 standard are also backward compatible with devices using older wifi standards.
These routers frequently have advanced features like MU-MIMO, support for both the 2.5GHz and 5GHz band, and a gigabit ethernet port for increased versatility with wired devices. This makes them some of the best routers for multiple devices. It’s a great gaming router or a good mesh router to use with your mesh wi-fi system at home or in the office. It features excellent performance in terms of both speed and versatile connectivity.
Wifi 6 Routers vs Wifi 5 Routers
WiFi 6 provides several benefits over previous standards. Wi-Fi 6 routers can transfer data up to 10 Gbps, compared to the 3-4 Gbps speed of Wi-Fi 5 routers. Wifi 6 routers are also more efficient, meaning they can achieve better throughput at longer ranges. It’s the best wifi technology for streaming 4K videos and playing online.
A wifi 6 router also features an increased number of streams. It can handle up to 12 streams on the 2.4 and 5GHz bands, more than the eight allowed on Wi-Fi 5 routers. This will enable devices to communicate with the router more quickly and efficiently.
Wifi 6 routers also use less power than wifi 5 routers and older, which can be highly beneficial for things like internet-connected security cameras or those concerned with their power consumption.
You can connect to an 802.11ax router with older standards like 802.11ac, but this will limit the router’s speed and range. Conversely, you can connect to an 802.11ac router with a Wi-Fi 6 device, but this will also reduce the performance of your router.
Wifi 6 routers are also more expensive routers offering more solid performance for all of your smart home devices. In addition, you may find that upgrading your wireless network from a wifi 5 router to wi-fi 6 support gives you a better internet connection for your smart devices.
How a Wifi 6 Router Works
Wifi 6 routers work similarly to other routers. They use antennas to send and receive data between devices and the internet. However, wifi 6 routers contain an additional antenna to handle the increased number of streams.
You should experience a relatively easy configuration with a wifi 6 router. Most allow you to plug them in and follow the steps indicated on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Once you’ve configured your router to work with your home network, you can set up additional features like VPN protection, parental controls, and more.
A wifi 6 router works seamlessly with a variety of devices, whether they be old or new. You can connect your 4K TV, laptop, phone, and other devices without any problems and enjoy faster streaming and gaming. If you’re looking into a wifi 6 router, you may want to check out some of the best Arris routers.
Why Should You Buy a Wifi 6 Router?
For many tech-savvy people, wifi 6 is the most desirable protocol because it’s the latest and greatest technology. However, if you haven’t already upgraded to wifi 6, it’s important to do so, allowing you to take advantage of the speed and enhanced connectivity. This is especially important in a house that loves to stream Netflix or Hulu, play online games, or connect dozens of devices simultaneously.
Is a Wifi 6 Router Worth Buying?
- They’re fast: Wi-Fi 6 can offer 10 to 20 times faster speeds than previous versions. Not only does this enable faster streaming and online connectivity, but it will also prevent the network latency that used to come with connecting multiple devices simultaneously.
- They’re much easier to set up: Wifi 6 routers can be installed without any hassle. You can simply plug them in and use your phone, tablet, or laptop to complete the configuration process.
- They work with your old devices: Wifi 6 routers are backward compatible with devices that use older wifi standards. So, even if you don’t have any devices with the latest and greatest wifi technology, you can still enjoy all of the benefits. Plus, this makes it easy to update your old devices as you see fit and begin enjoying faster internet on them right away.
- They’re more efficient: Wifi 6 routers are built to provide efficient connectivity and maximum range. This makes it easier to enjoy a reliable connection throughout your home, no matter how many people are online simultaneously.
- They’re compatible with Alexa: You can use your voice to control wifi 6 devices, such as when you say, “Alexa, turn on the lights.”
Why a Wifi 6 Router May Not Be For You
- They’re expensive: It may be challenging to afford a wifi 6 router if you’re looking to upgrade your network. They are more expensive than previous models unless you’re looking for the cheapest wifi 6 router. This will save you money, but it won’t give you the same features.
- They’re large: These routers are bulkier than older models, so they may not fit well in smaller homes or apartments. In addition, some wifi 6 routers have antennas that are 11-16dBi, which can extend up to 6 feet. This means they may stick out of bookshelves or cabinets.
How Long Will a Wifi 6 Router Last?
Generally, a wifi 6 router will last around 10-15 years. If you decide to upgrade before this point, most manufacturers will allow you to trade your old router in for a credit or discounted price on a new one. Hearing that your device will last a long time is a great thing because it makes it worth the extra cost.
However, the thing that’s most likely to happen before your router gives out is another upgrade in wireless technology. Wifi 7 is already in the works, and it will only be a couple of years before it’s available to you. That’s not to say you can’t continue using your wifi 6 router even after it’s obsolete, but many people would rather upgrade, meaning you could be looking at a new router in another 2-3 years.
How to Choose a Wifi 6 Router
The best wifi 5 router will come with a variety of features that may or may not be important to you. When choosing a wifi 6 router, consider what kinds of devices you need to connect, whether or not you need a modem, additional features, and how much you’re willing to spend.
Best Wifi 6 Router Key Factors
1. Do I really need a wifi 6 router?
Not every device needs the latest and greatest wifi technology. If you only have a laptop, phone, or tablet that you use for light browsing or entertainment, you probably don’t need to upgrade to wifi 6. Your devices will still connect at fast speeds.
However, if you have a lot of devices that you regularly connect to wifi for gaming, streaming, or shopping, you’ll want a router with high speed and plenty of ports. Routers with USB ports can be especially useful, as they allow you to connect printers, hard drives, and other peripherals easily.
2. Do I also need a modem?
Many routers come with a built-in modem. If you don’t have one or need to upgrade your current modem, it may be worth looking for a router that includes this feature. Combining the router and modem into one device can help simplify your setup process and save you some money.
While a router with a built-in modem will cost more than a router without one, you’ll spend less when buying an all-in-one device rather than purchasing two separate components.
3. What other features do I need?
If you plan to connect a variety of devices, such as tablets, phones, computers, and printers, make sure your router has plenty of ports. Otherwise, you’ll be left with nowhere to plug in all of your items. Easy setup is also a nice feature if you’re looking for the best wifi 6 router for your money. This makes it easy to get started without having to call a technician.
Some people also like routers with parental controls, which allow you to restrict certain types of content or time spent online. This can be helpful if you want to make sure your children are safe and aren’t spending too much time on their devices.
You may also want to look for a wifi 6 VPN router, which will allow you to connect securely when browsing or streaming. This encrypts your connection while streaming, so your data isn’t compromised, and is an excellent feature for those concerned about their privacy online.
4. How Much Should I Spend?
The best wifi 6 routers range in price from about $50 to over $300. A lower-priced router may suffice if you don’t need USB ports or extra features, but you’ll want a more expensive device if speed and connectivity are important to you.
How much money you’re willing to spend will depend on what kinds of devices you need to connect and how many of them you have. If you only have a few devices, a cheaper router will work just fine. However, if you have a lot of gadgets that need wifi, it’s worth investing in a more expensive model that can handle all of your needs.
When shopping for the best wifi 6 router, keep in mind that the device will likely be obsolete in a few years. If you’re not ready to upgrade again in a couple of years, it may be wiser to spend more upfront and get a router that will last longer.
