The Best Wi-Fi 6 Routers for 2024

Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Arnav Sharma

In the ever-evolving landscape of home networking, the arrival of Wi-Fi 6 and its subsequent iteration, Wi-Fi 6E, has been a game-changer, with many devices now needing a Wi-Fi 6E router to fully utilize their capabilities. As we step into 2024, the market is full of routers that promise to leverage these technologies, enhancing our connectivity experiences, from budget routers to high-end Wi-Fi 6E devices. From seamless gaming sessions to efficient work-from-home setups, the importance of a robust Wi-Fi setup has never been more pronounced. This blog lists the best Wi-Fi 6 routers of 2024, catering to a range of needs from gaming to large home coverage, and even the emerging Wi-Fi 7.

ASUS RT-AX86U Pro (AX5700)

The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro boasts a sleek, angular design that’s both modern and functional, with external antennas that enhance signal strength and coverage. Its robust build quality signifies durability, and while the design is eye-catching, it’s compact enough to blend into most home environments without being obtrusive. The router includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, including a dedicated gaming port that automatically prioritizes any connected device, ensuring low latency for gaming—a must-have feature in affordable Wi-Fi 6 and high-end router models.

Features and Performance

One of the most notable features of the RT-AX86U Pro is its support for the Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, offering faster speeds, greater capacity, and reduced network congestion compared to previous Wi-Fi generations. With a combined wireless speed of up to 5700 Mbps, it’s capable of handling multiple devices and intensive bandwidth activities like 4K/8K streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers with ease.

The router is equipped with ASUS’ AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, providing comprehensive, real-time network security. It also supports ASUS AiMesh, enabling users to create a flexible, scalable whole-home Wi-Fi network by connecting multiple AiMesh-compatible routers.

The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro shines in terms of gaming features. It includes a Mobile Game Mode for a lag-free mobile gaming experience, Open NAT for easy port forwarding, and VPN Fusion, allowing users to run a VPN and ordinary internet connection simultaneously.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the RT-AX86U Pro is straightforward, thanks to the ASUS Router app, which guides users through the process with clear instructions. The app also allows for easy management of network settings, parental controls, and device prioritization directly from a smartphone.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 

The GT-AX11000 boasts a bold and aggressive design characteristic of ASUS’ Republic of Gamers (ROG) lineup, with angular lines and customizable Aura RGB lighting that adds a touch of personalization. Its large footprint and eight high-performance antennas promise extensive coverage and signal stability, making it a standout both in terms of aesthetics and functionality, akin to what you’d expect from a tri-band router. The build quality is top-notch, with durable materials that reassure users of its longevity. The router features a plethora of ports, including four Gigabit Ethernet ports for gaming devices and a 2.5G WAN port for high-speed internet connections.

Features and Performance

As a tri-band Wi-Fi 6 router, the GT-AX11000 is designed to maximize bandwidth for the best possible gaming and streaming experience, positioning it as a high-end router in today’s market. It supports a total bandwidth of up to 11000 Mbps, distributed across one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands, ensuring optimal network allocation for gaming, streaming, and general use.

The GT-AX11000 is packed with features tailored for gamers, including the ROG-themed Gaming Center interface for easy management of network prioritization, and GameFirst V and Game Boost technologies that prioritize gaming packets. It also includes a dedicated 2.5G gaming port, VPN Fusion for using a VPN and regular internet connection simultaneously without performance loss, and AiProtection Pro for comprehensive, real-time network security.

For those looking to expand their network, ASUS AiMesh support allows for the seamless integration of multiple AiMesh-compatible routers, creating a powerful whole-home Wi-Fi system, ideal for both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 environments.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the GT-AX11000 is streamlined through the ASUS Router app, which provides an intuitive interface for not only initial configuration but ongoing management. Users can easily adjust settings, monitor network traffic, apply parental controls, and prioritize devices and applications to ensure peak performance for gaming sessions.

TP-Link AX5400

The TP-Link AX5400 boasts a sleek, modern design with six high-gain antennas strategically placed to maximize coverage and enhance signal strength throughout your home. Its compact, unobtrusive form factor allows it to fit seamlessly into any room setup. The router is well-built, with a sturdy case that can withstand the rigors of daily use. On the back, it hosts several Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, providing flexibility for users to connect various devices directly, making it a versatile option for Wi-Fi 6 devices and beyond.

Features and Performance

The AX5400 supports dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, which translates to faster speeds, greater capacity, and reduced network congestion. With theoretical speeds of up to 5400 Mbps (combined over the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands), it is well-suited to handle multiple devices simultaneously, making it ideal for busy households with high streaming, gaming, and browsing demands.

One of the standout features of the AX5400 is TP-Link’s HomeShield security service, offering robust network and IoT protection, parental controls, and quality of service (QoS) options to manage bandwidth usage effectively. The router also supports OneMesh, allowing users to create a seamless mesh network by pairing with compatible range extenders for enhanced coverage without signal drop-offs.

Setup and Usability

TP-Link has made the setup process straightforward with the Tether app, guiding users through the configuration process with ease, making even sophisticated dual-band and tri-band routers user-friendly. The app also serves as a central hub for managing network settings, monitoring connected devices, and implementing parental controls, providing a user-friendly experience for both novices and advanced users.

NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6

The NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 routers are known for their striking design, featuring angular lines and a sleek, futuristic appearance that sets them apart in any setting. The routers typically come equipped with multiple external antennas to enhance signal range and stability, ensuring robust wireless coverage throughout your home or office. The build quality is solid, reflecting NETGEAR’s commitment to manufacturing durable and reliable networking devices. Many models also include multiple Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections, alongside USB ports for sharing storage or printers over your network, a common feature in dual-band and tri-band routers.

Features and Performance

NETGEAR’s Nighthawk WiFi 6 routers support the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, offering significant improvements in speed, capacity, and efficiency over previous-generation Wi-Fi. These routers are designed to accommodate the growing number of Wi-Fi devices in households and businesses, ensuring smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing experiences even in dense network environments.

Key features across the Nighthawk WiFi 6 series include advanced security settings, making them an affordable Wi-Fi 6 option with robust protection.

• Improved Network Capacity: With OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, these routers can handle more simultaneous connections, reducing latency and improving bandwidth efficiency.
• Powerful Processing: Equipped with powerful processors, Nighthawk routers efficiently manage network traffic and prioritize gaming and streaming applications for an optimized online experience.
• Advanced Security featuring affordable Wi-Fi 6 options and comprehensive cybersecurity measures.Many models come with NETGEAR Armor™, powered by BitDefender®, offering comprehensive cybersecurity protection for your connected devices, a feature particularly crucial for high-end router models.
• Easy Setup and Management: The Nighthawk app facilitates straightforward setup and network management, allowing users to monitor internet traffic, set up guest networks, implement parental controls, and more.

Overall comparison:

The Evolution to Wi-Fi 6E and Beyond: A Glimpse into Wi-Fi 7

Wi-Fi 6E builds upon the foundation laid by Wi-Fi 6, offering wider channels and access to the less congested 6 GHz band, ensuring faster speeds and lower latency. This is crucial for applications that demand high bandwidth, such as streaming 4K/8K videos, online gaming, and more. The mesh system architecture, a hallmark of Wi-Fi 6 and 6E routers, extends this enhanced connectivity across larger homes, eliminating dead zones and providing a seamless internet experience in every corner. As we look to the future, Wi-Fi 7 looms on the horizon, promising even greater speeds and efficiency. However, for 2024, Wi-Fi 6 and 6E are the stars of the show.

Best Wi-Fi 6 Router for Gaming: Tri-Band Gaming Router Excellence

Gaming demands not just speed but stability. The best gaming routers of 2024 come equipped with tri-band technology, including Wi-Fi 6E, to support Wi-Fi and wired devices with prioritized bandwidth for gaming devices, marking a significant upgrade for Wi-Fi 6 devices. These routers reduce lag and ensure an uninterrupted connection, which is essential for competitive gaming and streaming, benefits significantly enhanced by tri-band router technology.

Best Wi-Fi Router for Large Homes: The Mesh System Revolution

For larger homes, a single Wi-Fi router often isn’t enough to cover every nook and cranny, especially without a high-end router designed for extensive coverage. This is where a mesh system comes into play. The best Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers of 2024 offer extensive coverage, easy setup, and seamless roaming. This means you can move across your home without experiencing signal drops, making it ideal for smart home devices, working from home, and enjoying entertainment in any room.

FAQ: Wi-Fi 6 Routers of 2024

Q: What should you consider when looking for the best Wi-Fi 6 router in 2024 for gaming?

AA: When searching for the best Wi-Fi 6 router for gaming in 2024, you’ll want to ensure it supports the Wi-Fi 6 standard for the best performance. Look for a tri-band gaming router, ideally one that offers full support for Wi-Fi 6 to handle both your current needs and future upgrades. A tri-band Wi-Fi 6e router would provide an excellent option, as it supports Wi-Fi 6e and is designed to deliver one of the fastest experiences, ensuring your gaming sessions are uninterrupted. Make sure your Wi-Fi 6 router also has the capacity to connect to a wide range of devices, including older Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 4 devices, to keep all your tech connected.

Q: For a large home, which type of router should you consider to ensure the best Wi-Fi coverage in 2024?

AA: For a large home, the best choice in 2024 would be a Wi-Fi 6 mesh router. Mesh systems, especially those that support Wi-Fi 6, are designed to provide excellent Wi-Fi coverage across large spaces. A tri-band Wi-Fi 6e mesh system would be even more advantageous, as it includes the latest technologies for wider coverage and better signal. Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems, like the Synology Router Pro 6, offer seamless connectivity over larger areas, ensuring that there are no dead spots and that the Wi-Fi signal remains strong, even at close range or in more remote areas of your home.

Q: What are the advantages of upgrading to a Wi-Fi router from an older router model?

AA: Upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6e router from an older router model brings several advantages. First, Wi-Fi 6e routers provide full support for the new Wi-Fi 6 standard, offering improved performance, higher data rates, and more efficient data encoding. This results in smoother streaming, gaming, and overall internet use. Additionally, a Wi-Fi 6e router supports Wi-Fi 6e, which operates in a new band of frequency, leading to less interference and more available channels. This upgrade ensures your network is ready for future Wi-Fi 6e and Wi-Fi 7 devices, making it a forward-thinking choice. With a router that supports Wi-Fi 6e, you’re getting one of the best Wi-Fi experiences available on the market.

Q: Why should gamers consider a tri-band Wi-Fi 6e router in 2024?

AA: Gamers should consider a tri-band Wi-Fi 6e router in 2024 for several reasons. Firstly, a tri-band router offers dedicated bands for gaming traffic, minimizing latency and ensuring that games run smoothly without interference from other devices on the network. Additionally, the Wi-Fi 6e component means the router can operate on the 6 GHz band, providing cleaner, less congested airwaves for gaming devices. This is particularly important for competitive online gaming where every millisecond counts. The tri-band Wi-Fi 6e router delivers the best performance, with many routers on this list being specifically designed to cater to the needs of gamers by offering features like quality of service (QoS) adjustments, which prioritize gaming traffic over other types.

Q: If you’re on a budget, how can you still get a high-quality Wi-Fi 6 gaming router in 2024?

AA: If you’re on a budget but still want a high-quality Wi-Fi 6 router in 2024, consider looking for an affordable Wi-Fi 6 router that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. Many Wi-Fi 6 routers offer great value, providing the benefits of the Wi-Fi 6 standard, such as improved efficiency and capacity, at a lower cost. Look for a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router, which can offer significant improvements over older models while still being budget-friendly. Additionally, many manufacturers have introduced budget Wi-Fi 6 options that don’t skimp on important features like strong encryption and good range. Reviews and comparisons can help you find the best budget Wi-Fi 6 routers, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on quality.

Q: What should you consider if you want the best gaming experience with your new router?

A: If you want the best gaming experience, look for a tri-band gaming router, which is designed to offer the most stable and fast connection for gaming. These routers prioritize gaming traffic to reduce lag and ensure a smooth gaming session.

Q: Why is a Wi-Fi 6 mesh router recommended for extensive coverage?

A: A Wi-Fi 6 mesh router is recommended for extensive coverage because it uses a mesh system to provide excellent Wi-Fi 6 connectivity throughout your home. This system ensures that you get a strong signal no matter where you are in your house, eliminating dead zones.

Q: What makes the Wi-Fi 7 router a significant upgrade for your home network?

A: The Wi-Fi 7 router represents a significant upgrade for your home network because it supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and better handling of multiple devices connected to your network. It’s a future-proof option that ensures your network is ready for next-generation devices.

Q: Looking for a budget-friendly option? What router should you consider?

A: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider a budget router that still offers reliable performance. These routers may not have all the advanced features of more expensive models but are perfect for basic internet browsing, streaming, and online gaming.

Q: What are the benefits of upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 mesh system in 2024?

A: Upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 mesh system in 2024 benefits you by providing wider coverage and better performance across your home. Wi-Fi 6 technology ensures faster speeds, increased capacity, and reduced latency, making it ideal for modern households with multiple devices.

Q: Which routers are considered the best Wi-Fi routers you can buy in 2024?

A: In 2024, the best Wi-Fi 6 routers you can buy include those that have been thoroughly tested and proven to deliver top performance. These routers stand out as some of the fastest on the market, offering excellent speed, coverage, and reliability for all your internet needs.

Q: Why should someone looking for a new router in 2024 consider a mesh system?

A: Someone looking for a new router in 2024 should consider a mesh system because it offers seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, eliminating dead zones and ensuring that you get a strong and reliable connection no matter where you are. Mesh systems are particularly beneficial for larger homes or those with complex layouts.

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