To help you find the best wifi routers for long range, we analyzed a wide variety of different networking products and ranked them based on their overall performance, range, and customizability options. We recommend finding a long-range router that fits your space while giving you a little more than what you need in the range department. We also recommend finding an option that can handle speeds higher than what you currently pay for with your ISP so you’ll always have a future-proof option available to you. The best long-range wireless routers also offer the ability to adjust network settings so you can prioritize certain devices over others and control parental settings to keep all your devices safe.
After our research and ranking, we selected the Netgear Nighthawk X6 as the best Wi-Fi router for long range available today. Keep reading on to learn more about this advanced wireless router and the best router options that made the list.
Top 10 Best Wi-Fi Routers for Long Range
#1 Netgear Nighthawk X6 Router for Long Range
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This long-range router offers tri-band technology so you get comprehensive coverage for multiple devices, along with excellent long-range performance, even through obstacles. This top option also gives you a lot of customizability and top speeds to match even the top gigabit router or fastest internet plans.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent throughput on 5GHz band
- Tri-band for more versatile connectivity
- Doesn’t overheat during use
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Doesn’t include e-SATA port
- Larger, bulkier than other options
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 indeed features a polarizing design with its sharp, angular lines and a multitude of spiky antennas, but this doesn’t hinder the router in any way. You may not like the design, but once you use it, you’ll have to admit that the router’s advanced technology outshines any unique design choices. This long-range wireless router is extra fast and provides comprehensive internet coverage, even in large homes. In fact, you’ll get a total range of up to 3,500 square feet, thanks to its six external antennas and beamforming technology.
Related: Also read our post on the best wifi mesh systems.
On top of that, the Nighthawk X6 also provides tri-band functionality, so you’ll get three different Wi-Fi signals to which you can connect your devices. Tri-band routers like this one provide you with two 5GHz bands and a single 2.4GHz band. We recommend connecting your gaming consoles and streaming devices to the 5GHz bands for optimum performance. When it comes to set up and configuration, you’ll have a fairly easy go of things here. The X6 router is bigger than other options, so finding the right spot for it can get a little difficult at times. However, the basic configuration is as simple as plugging the Wi-Fi router in, setting a network name and password, and connecting your devices. Fortunately, the X6 offers plenty of customizability, including parental controls and Quality of Service (QoS) options, if you need them. It’s one of the best routers for streaming options on our list.
#2 Google Nest Wi-Fi Router for Long Range
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Compact, easy to install, and high performing, this Wi-Fi router for long-range is perfect for the fully connected household. It works with Google Voice Assistant to offer seamless compatibility with your smart home setup, and it offers high speeds at long ranges for all your devices.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Ultra-compact form factor
- Seamless smart home compatibility
- Doesn’t overheat during use
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Disappointing speaker volume
- Not many customization settings
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Google has been constantly expanding their smart home device lineup in recent years, and the Google Nest Wi-Fi router is part of those efforts. This is a whole-home mesh router that is powerful and incredibly user-friendly, making it an easy choice for anyone with a comprehensive smart home setup. The device itself is ultra-compact and can fit anywhere in your home. It’s also designed with a subtle aesthetic that looks good out in the open or tucked away. Of course, this small size means you won’t get quite as many physical connection options. In fact, the router only offers two gigabit Ethernet ports and no USB options.
Performance with the Google Nest wireless router is also pretty good, although speeds don’t compete with many of the more advanced options available today. You’ll get a dual-band setup here, with top speeds around 2 Gbps, which is still fast enough for most home internet connections today. The Nest will provide ranges upwards of 3,500 square feet with just two units, but you can add more if you need a larger coverage range. Of course, since this is a Nest smart device, you’ll get compatibility with Google Voice Assistant, and you’ll even get a speaker on the extender units, but it isn’t very loud, which is a bit of a letdown. Along with the best Chromebooks on the market, you’ll have the perfect Google setup.
#3 TP-Link Archer A7 Router for Long Range
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: This Wi-Fi router for long-range is compact, fast, and very user friendly. All of these features, along with its extensive configuration options and affordability, make this option the best router for long-range performance on a budget.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Extensive network configuration options
- User-friendly installation process
- Impressively fast speeds through obstacles
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- USB port is 2.0 version
- UI is a little clunky
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
If you’re on a strict budget, but you still want long-range performance for larger homes or living spaces, then you can’t beat the TP-Link Archer A7. This is one of the most affordable long-range routers available on the market today. Even better is the fact that the router doesn’t sacrifice much in the performance or user-friendliness department to achieve such affordability. The router is compact with just three adjustable antennas. Fortunately, you’ll still get plenty of physical connectivity options with the Archer A7. It has four gigabit Ethernet ports, as well as a single USB 2.0 port.
When it comes to performance, the Archer A7 doesn’t hold back. It’s a dual-band wireless router with a 2.4GHz channel and a 5GHz channel. While this may not be as good as a tri-band router, it still performs really well at both close- and long-range distances. We were also impressed by its speed and the strength of its Wi-Fi signals through obstacles. The Archer A7 also offers extensive configuration and customization settings. The user interface to adjust these settings can be a little clunky at times, but it allows you to adjust a wide variety of options. You’ll be able to adjust things like Quality of Service prioritization and parental controls with ease, giving you full control over your network and wireless devices. It’s a great option for anyone looking for the best router for Verizon Fios.
#4 Netgear Orbi RBK50 Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router doesn’t just perform well at long ranges, it also provides extensive coverage across every inch of your house due to its mesh capabilities. It’s also incredibly easy to use, install, and customize, making it perfect for managing multiple devices in your house.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Strong MU-MIMO performance
- Up to 5,000 square feet of coverage
- Minimal speed drop at range
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Doesn’t include USB ports
- Large individual units
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Netgear Orbi RBK50 is a powerful mesh router that excels at providing strong signal strength at long ranges. This is because it uses a central router combined with additional satellite devices to provide a blanket Wi-Fi coverage across your entire home. Not only can this mesh router emit a signal to cover upwards of 5,000 square feet, but it also provides strong, overlapping coverage so your devices will always get the top speeds possible. This also means you won’t get as large of speed drops at longer ranges than you would normally encounter with a standard single router.
The Orbi RBK50 also offers an incredibly user-friendly experience. You can install the mesh system and get it running through the use of a smartphone app. The app also allows you to change a variety of different user and management settings like parental controls, schedules, and Quality of Service. You can also adjust security settings. We were impressed that the Orbi RBK50 features tri-band functionality and advanced MU-MIMO settings, both of which make this router a no-brainer for use with multiple connected devices. It’s a great option for anyone looking for the best small business router.
#5 Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR 4K CONTENT
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re looking to stream 4K content on your favorite streaming platforms, then you can’t go wrong with this futuristic, powerful Wi-Fi router for long-range. With Wi-Fi 6 compatibility and dual-band technology, you’ll get the best overall experience and speeds for your streaming needs.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Easy to install and configure
- Compatible with Wi-Fi 6
- Fast, dual-band channels
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Minimal parental control options
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 features one of the most unique designs in the wireless router market we’ve seen to date. With two large fins that house eight high-performance antennas and powerful internal components, the RAX120 offers best-of-class speeds and signal strength. This is why it’s the best long-range router for streaming 4K content in large homes. It features a coverage rating of around 3,500 square feet, which is perfect for most large homes. Plus, it has excellent support for multiple devices thanks to its MU-MIMO and Dynamic QoS functionalities.
The Nighthawk RAX120 provides total wireless speeds up to 6 Gbps. And while it’s only a dual-band router, it still performs superbly across both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels. As we mentioned earlier, the router’s design is something to talk about, but don’t let the unique nature of the aesthetic turn you away from getting this device. It’s also designed with four gigabit Ethernet ports, two of which can be aggregated to give you faster file transfer speeds. It also features a multi-gig Ethernet port for faster, hardwired speeds to your most-used streaming device. Overall user-friendliness is worth noting here, as well. Netgear’s routers are well-known for their easy-to-use interfaces, and the RAX120 is no different. You’ll be able to use an app to adjust all the settings you ever need to create a customized network for your home. Make sure you have the best 4K monitor for optimal viewing.
#6 TP-Link Archer AX6000 Router for Long Range
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This wireless router is designed extremely well, with plenty of connectivity ports and a sleek aesthetic that looks good anywhere you install it. Plus, it offers blazing fast network speeds, comprehensive management options, and advanced security settings for a truly comprehensive home network.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Advanced security options
- Eight Ethernet ports
- Wi-Fi 6 compatibility
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Disappointing smartphone app
- No support for mesh networks
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The TP-Link Archer AX6000 easily takes our Best Quality award for its overall design and form factor, along with its comprehensive user settings and best-of-class performance. It’s one of the larger routers on the market today, with eight adjustable antennas and eight gigabit Ethernet ports. Plus, it’s packed with a ton of high-quality internal components like a 1.8GHz quad-core processor. All of these features combined give you a truly revolutionary home network experience that will impress you every time.
When it comes to performance, the Archer AX6000 will give you up to 3,500 square feet of coverage and blazing fast speeds up to 6 Gbps, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 compatibility. You’ll also get a lot of options for customizing your network, which is always a nice plus. The Archer AX6000 allows you to adjust everything from the comfort of your smartphone, but the app is a little awkward at times. Most impressively, the AX6000 comes with advanced security features, like a lifetime subscription to TP-Link’s HomeCare software, which includes antivirus and robust parental controls. If you travel a lot you’ll also want to consider the best travel router.
#7 Amazon eero Pro Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR SMART HOMES
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’ve got a fully smart home and need comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage for all of your smart devices, then this wireless mesh router is a great choice for you. With tri-band functionality, Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, and an easy setup process, this router will get you up and running in no time with fast, reliable speeds throughout your home.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- User-friendly installation process
- Reliable signal strength at range
- Compatible with Alexa voice assistant
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Only two Ethernet ports
- Minimal network customization options
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Running a lot of smart home devices can be a pain in the neck if you have an unreliable, short-range wireless router. That’s where the Amazon eero Pro comes into play. This powerful long-range router offers blazing fast speeds at long ranges thanks to its mesh network design. You’ll get comprehensive coverage for large homes and Wi-Fi 6 compatibility for even faster network speeds. Like other whole-home mesh routers, the eero Pro features a single central router and the ability to add satellite devices for a broader coverage range.
You’ll also get tri-band functionality with the eero Pro, which gives you more options for prioritizing more important, bandwidth-heavy devices on the 5GHz channel and less important devices on the 2.4GHz channel. Like many other Amazon devices, the eero Pro is compatible with the Alexa voice assistant, so you can get a true smart home experience. We were also impressed by the eero Pro’s overall design, which is compact and easy to install anywhere in your home. Unfortunately, you’ll only get two gigabit Ethernet ports on the router, but that’s to be expected with a smaller design like this. Make sure you have the best smart TV for streaming for the best streaming experience.
#8 Asus RT-AX88U Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR NETWORK CUSTOMIZATION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Packed to the brim with advanced features and network configuration options, this Wi-Fi router for long-range is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to customize their home network. This powerful device also features fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds, built-in malware protection, and extensive parental control and QoS options.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Good malware protection options
- Extensive QoS customization options
- Fast speeds with Wi-Fi 6 technology
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- No multi-gig port
- Firmware isn’t the best
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
If you’re looking for the best-of-class customization options, then look no further than the Asus RT-AX88U wireless router. You can pretty much adjust anything you want through the router’s user-friendly interface. Some of the best features to adjust here include the robust Quality of Service (QoS) options and extensive parental controls. You’ll also get built-in malware protection and gaming boost options to really fine-tune your network for your individual needs.
Performance is also something the Asus RT-AX88U does well. It’s compatible with Wi-Fi 6, meaning it will always give you the fastest speeds you can get from your home network. Plus, it features a powerful 1.8GHz quad-core processor which keeps everything on your router running smoothly. We were also impressed by the RT-AX88U’s overall design. It features four adjustable antennas and an understated edgy design that looks good no matter where you place the device. Plus, you’ll get a whopping eight gigabit Ethernet ports and a cutting-edge USB 3.1 port. It’s one of the best computer accessories on our list.
#9 Linksys EA9500 Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR MULTIPLE USERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you have a ton of devices connected to your network at any given time, then this wireless router for long-range is an excellent choice for you. The device offers powerful speeds, extensive management options, and a futuristic Seamless Roaming functionality, which allows devices to switch between the standard and extended networks without disconnecting.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Innovative Seamless Roaming functionality
- Eight gigabit Ethernet ports
- Excellent throughput at any range
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Large and bulky design
- Extensive settings can be overwhelming
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Linksys EA9500 is the best Wi-Fi router for multiple devices at long range in this buying guide because of it’s amazing MU-MIMO capabilities and powerful signal strength, thanks to its eight high-quality antennas. The router can also be used as a mesh router for whole-home coverage. In mesh mode, the router also features an innovative feature called Seamless Roaming, which allows your devices to switch between standard and extended networks without needing to disconnect. This is a really great experience for homes that have a lot of ground to cover for a multitude of devices.
The Linksys EA9500 is easy to install, although it is large and bulky, which may make it a little more difficult to install in tight spaces. However, this larger size also means you’ll get added benefits like eight gigabit Ethernet ports and two USB ports for file transfers. We were also impressed by the sheer amount of customization options the Linksys offers, although it can also be overwhelming at the same time. Fortunately, you can simply install the router and not change any of the settings and still get a good experience. You might also be interested in the best openWRT router as well.
#10 Asus RT-AC88U Router for Long Range
Award: BEST FOR ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re a gamer, you absolutely can’t go wrong with this powerful long-range router. With gaming boost options, blazing-fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds, and stellar support for multiple devices, this long-range router will keep you connected in even the most heated moments of your online games and entertainment.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Eight Ethernet ports
- Gaming acceleration settings
- Excellent MU-MIMO capabilities
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Disappointing file transfer speeds
- USB ports are placed awkwardly
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Asus RT-AC88U has long been considered one of the best long range routers available on the market today. It can cover spaces up to 5,000 square feet without losing signal strength or speed, which is a truly impressive feat. Plus, its dual-band functionality provides upwards of 3 Gbps across both channels. You’ll also get compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 technology, which means you’ll have a router that will stay relevant for years to come, even as you change ISPs and speeds.
The Asus RT-AC88U gaming router also sports a high-quality design that’s durable and compact overall. While it may not be as small as other routers, it can fit in most of the traditional router placement locations. The best part about the router’s design, though, is the fact that you get eight gigabit Ethernet ports for hardwiring gaming consoles and other streaming devices for the best speeds. The RT-AC88U also features plenty of gaming-centric settings like a WTFast Game Accelerator and Quality of Service prioritization. This way, your gaming devices always get the fastest and most reliable networks, even at long ranges. For an all-in-one device, check out our best modem and router buying guide.
How We Decided
When it came to ranking the best Wi-Fi routers for long-range, we first started by only including options that cover at least 2,500 square feet of space with their wireless signal. Additionally, we awarded bonus points for routers that offered more range. We also preferred long-range routers that offered reliable performance through the obstacles that are likely to stand in the way between them and other wireless devices, like doors and walls.
Next, we measured each of the options included in this buying guide based on their overall performance. This analysis mostly focused on overall speed, reliability, and signal strength. The best Wi-Fi routers for long-range offer high-speed ratings that will ensure you always get the most out of your internet service, even if you upgrade to a faster plan in the future. We preferred routers that offered at least 1 Gbps of speed and awarded bonus points for speeds higher than that.
Finally, we considered the overall design and durability of the routers we included in our analysis. The highest-rated routers feature at least four gigabit Ethernet ports for hardwiring streaming devices and gaming consoles to your modem. We awarded bonus points to options with multiple USB ports and other ports like microSD cards or multi-gig ports. Durability is also another important consideration, and we preferred options that last a long time, even after taking a bump or two.
Best Wi-Fi Routers for Long Range Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Range
Of course, the first thing you should consider when purchasing a new Wi-Fi router for long-range is the distance the device can emit a wireless signal. Most long-range wireless routers can cover areas from 2,500 square feet to 3,500 square feet. However, the very best long-range routers can cover areas as large as 5,000 square feet. The range of your router ultimately depends on the quality of the device’s internal hardware and external antennas. With the best Wi-Fi router for long range, outdoor use isn’t out of the question either. Many of these routers can provide a wireless signal to your patio and backyard, as well. - Speed
Your wireless router will only ever provide as much speed as you get from your internet service provider. However, depending on the router you purchase, you may not get the fullest extent of speed from your ISP. This is why it’s important to know the speed your router is capable of. We recommend purchasing an option that can handle the same speed you get from your ISP or more. - Design and Ports
The design of your long-range Wi-Fi router is another factor to consider during your buying decision. The device you purchase should be of a size that fits into your home or living space. Some routers have internal antennas, while others have external antennas. If you don’t like the look of external antennas, you may also want to consider that before clicking the buy button. You should also consider the ports and connectivity options your router provides. If you have streaming devices, network storage devices, or gaming consoles, you may want to hardwire them directly to your router. As such, you may want to purchase an option that has enough connection ports for your needs. - Network Management Settings
Most long-range wireless routers have a user interface that allows you to customize different configuration options for your network. Some routers offer more customizability than others, so ensure you purchase one that gives you exactly what you need. Some examples of the things you can customize on your network through your router include parental controls, Quality of Service prioritization, and security settings.
