Electronics

Best Gaming Routers

Are you a big gaming enthusiast? Has poor router been a problem for you while gaming? Have you been looking to get the best routers to play games without any lag? Not sure about what to buy? Do not worry, here we are, with our expert view on some of the best gaming routers available in the market.

When it comes to games, speed is what matters a lot. If you are playing offline games, possessing a good system with all the correct configurations will do the trick for you. But, is not online gaming the future of gaming? What is the fun playing against pre-programmed bots, which do not have any special trick of their own? After certain number of attempts, you will get used to the difficulty level and things will start looking easier for you. The most exciting prospect for any gamer is to compete against an opponent who is on par or above him as far as the tricks of the trade are concerned. And in order to play the online games flawlessly, one of the essential components that you need to possess is a very good gaming router.

Consistency of speed and ability to transmit data at high speed for long intervals of time are two of the most important properties of a good gaming router. When it comes to the best routers for gaming, the consistency with which data is transmitted is excellent and this gives you a lag free gaming experience. Keeping the essentials for a good gaming router in mind, here is a list of 10 best routers for gaming.

Top 10 Best Gaming Routers in 2022

Let us have a detailed look at ten of the best gaming routers that are currently available in the market. Also take a look at our Top 10 Best gaming laptops under $500

We will look at the special features of each of them in detail and we will see what makes them better than all other routers which are currently available in the market. After all, you need to be better than rest of the field to take the title of best. And all of these routers have that X-Factor which makes them better than all other routers.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300

When it comes to the best router for gaming, the first name that comes to our mind is ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300. The first look of the router will assure you that it has been built for the gamers and revelation of the features will only consolidate your belief.

While eight antennas give it a spider-like look, it is similar to a spider as far as grabbing best internet speeds are concerned. Add to the look the special features of the router and there will be no doubt left about the power of this router. Extremely wide coverage accompanies with three bands make it irresistible for gamers and online streaming enthusiasts. Let us have a detailed look at its features.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 5334 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Tri-band)

Processor Speed: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: MU-MIMO, Tri-band (dual 5 GHz, single 2.4 GHz), Game Boost, Built-in access to WTFast Gamers Private Network (GPN™), Game Intrusion Prevention System

What makes it best for Gaming?

When there is a Wi-Fi Network at your house, there are very good chances that people would use it for different purposes and there is a very rare chance that they will leave it alone for you to play games. In such a scenario, the gamers seem to suffer as the internet is jammed or blocked at certain moments. Of course, you will never like your connection to jam all of a sudden while you are about to go for a decisive kill.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300 is one of the best in terms of this, as it has three bands – two of 5 GHz each and one of 2.4GHz. So, you can easily use multiple devices in different bands without much interference. On top of that, there is Game Boost Feature, using which the devices which are being used for playing games.

Firstly, with the availability of two 5 GHz bands, you can use two gaming devices at different ports. So, you can create a gaming zone for your friend or friends. That is accompanies with a 2.4 GHz band which can be used for other peripheral devices. Now, when all the three ports are in use and there are various devices connected to each of them, the Game Boost Feature comes into play. When you enable this feature using the Game Center Dashboard, the router identifies the gaming connections and prefers them while bifurcating the data speeds. The requirement of gaming devices is fulfilled before taking care of anything else.

On top of these, there is a Game Intrusion Prevention System in place to protect the attacks and intrusions while you play the games. So on the whole, the modem looks like one which has been built for gaming, assuring it a place in the top 10.

General Specifications

  • Tri-band (dual 5 GHz, single 2.4 GHz) AC5300 wireless router with the latest 802.11ac 4×4 MU-MIMO technology for maximum throughput (5334 Mbps) and coverage (up to 5,000 sq. ft.)
  • 8GHz 64bit Quad-Core processor maximizes data throughput from 8-ports and dual USB 3.0 for optimizing network traffic and connectivity speeds 3. VPN Fusion enables you to run a VPN and ordinary internet connection simultaneously, effectively maximizing your connection speed to gaming servers (available via firmware update)
  • VPN Fusion enables you to run a VPN and ordinary internet connection simultaneously, effectively maximizing your connection speed to gaming servers (available via firmware update)
  • Game IPS Powered by Trend Micro™ provides multi-stage protection for your gaming network from external attacks and threats, neutralizing them before they reach your network or devices
  • ROG Game Dashboard gives you access to exclusive features like Game Boost, Game IPS, VPN Fusion, and route-optimized low ping time gaming servers using WTFast Gamers Private Network (GPN™) – all to help you optimize your gaming network
  • AiMesh Supported – Upgrade your firmware to easily connect to other compatible ASUS routers to create a powerful and flexible whole-home Wi-Fi network
Pros
  • Huge number of features ranging from Game Boost to Games Intrusion Prevention system is the biggest positive of this router.
  • Presence of two 5 GHz bands mean that the speed can go up to 1.9 Gbps for two bands.
  • Presence of 2 Special Gigabit LAN for gaming along with 6 Gigabit LAN ports means there is enough room for different devices to be connected.
Cons
  • The User Interface on the Settings page is a bit buggy, but it is expected to improve with updates.
  • The price of the router is very high and it is suitable only if you are a gaming enthusiast.

Overall Take

Different features of the router make it very clear that ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300 is only for the gamers. The special features, be it Game Boost, Game Intrusion Prevention, as well as others are developed mainly for the gamers and is answer to all their problems. So, if you are a gamer, you should spend few bucks and buy this router to have absolutely awesome gaming experience.

NETGEAR XR500 Nighthawk Pro

Although NETGEAR XR500 Nighthawk Pro occupies the second position on this list, the router is one of its kinds and can give the top choice a run for its money in almost every aspect. With scintillating design and even more impressive NetDumas’s DumaOS, the router is a delight for all the gamers who had dreamt of turning their home into a great gaming zone.

There is no doubt that the router has been made basically for the gamers but the support that it provides on other devices as well is absolutely fantastic. The features are such that the gamers can customize the connection according to their own need while the presence of 2.4 GHz band means that more devices of lower end can be connected over a very long range. Let us have a quick look at different features, pros, cons and overview of the whole router.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 2.6 Gbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a Dual band

Processor Speed: 1.7 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: 4x Gigabit Ethernet Ports – Maximized wired speeds,  2x USB 3.0 Ports, Option to control the speed allocation for different devices connected on the network.

What makes it best for Gaming?

We all are very well aware that gamers like you do not like lags. However, if there is a Wi-Fi network for you, you cannot expect people to not use it and leave it for you to just play games. And when they are use the same connection that you have been using, what happens generally is that your speed suffers

However, NETGEAR XR500 Nighthawk Pro has a solution for you. The beautiful DumaOS it uses gives you the option of limiting internet speed on different devices. Using this, you can allot the maximum bandwidth to your gaming device and as a result, the constant lags and speed reduction that you come across normally will be diminished. On the other hand, others will also be happy as they would be getting the internet connection that they had been willing for. So, it leaves you with a win-win situation.

There are two bands available- of 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz respectively and both of them are available under the same name. When a device tries to connect on the network, the router analyzes which band would be more suitable for the device and automatically connects the device to the optimal one. As a result, there is no headache of maintaining multiple names and passwords while there is no regular question that you need to answer- which network should I connect to.

The configuration screen, it seems, has been designed specifically for the gamers in terms of looks as well as the options that are provided. So, you will be delighted looking at the options that you have at hand.

General Specifications

  • QoS—Prioritize gaming devices and allocate bandwidth by device to eliminate lag due to queuing at the ISP network.
  • Geo Filter—Fix your gaming lag by limiting distance. Get a guaranteed local connection. Create a blacklist or whitelist of your preferred servers.
  • Gaming Dashboard—Personalize dashboard to view real-time bandwidth utilization by device, ping delays and more on a single screen.
  • Gaming VPN—Connect to the VPN server with a VPN client to protect your network identity.
  • Network Monitor—Check bandwidth utilization by device and application.
  • Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet Ports—Maximize speeds using a wired connection.
  • Dual-Band Wireless Router—Supports two WiFi bands simultaneously to double the available bandwidth and provide a reliable, dedicated WiFi network for smooth online gaming minimizing network congestion.
  • Nighthawk App – Easily setup your router, manage Internet access by pausing and resuming internet instantly. All from your mobile device!
Pros
  • Availability of bandwidth monitoring option, using which you can check the different bandwidths which will be allotted to various devices connected.
  • The router is very easy to install and the game control features along with monitoring screen are exemplary in each and every sense.
  • Presence of 4 Gigabit LAN connections along with two USB ports means various devices can be connected through wire at the same time.
Cons
  • The Geo-Filtering feature is compatible only with limited number of games, not all of them. It would have been great had the feature been supported for all the games that you play.
  • No option to mount the router on wall, thus making it susceptible to constant falls if kept on at a place which is constantly in use.

Overall Take

Though maximum speed is a bit of problem, it is the only blot on NETGEAR XR500 Nighthawk Pro’s otherwise impressive resume. So, if you are looking for a good gaming router within a limited budget, then this is the device that you should go for.  With availability of DumaOS and great game monitoring options, lag free gaming is something which is guaranteed!

NETGEAR R6700 Nighthawk

Third on the list is another router from the Netgear’s shelf, but this one is comparatively less powerful in comparison to the previous one on its list. However, its simplicity and budget pricing is what gives it such a high position in the list. With up to 1750Mbps of maximum speed accompanied with a powerful dual core processor, there is enough room for different kind of online activities. Presence of three antennas means that almost whole of your home is easily covered by this single router. The option of controlling your device with Google Assistant is an icing on the cake now.

Made with the view of gamers in mind, the router is packed with features which are absolute delight for you. Let us have a look at various features of the router and what makes it stand among the big crowd of gaming routers fighting it out for supremacy.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 1750 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a (Dual-band)

Processor Speed: 1 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: Advanced features for lag-free gaming, Prioritized bandwidth for streaming videos or music, Faster for mobile devices.

What makes it best for Gaming?

There are two bands in the router, which can be considered as must for a router to be good for the gamers. Presence of subsidiary 2.4 GHz band alongside the main 5 GHz band means that the traffic of the gamers is expected to be disturbed less by the other slower and smaller devices. Add to that the presence of powerful 1 GHZ Dual Core processor and the performance of the router reaches another level.

NETGEAR R6700 Nighthawk is a giant in terms of storage capacity and storage performances. The router does exceedingly well in terms of both NTFS and FAT32 storage systems and that means the router is very well optimized for storing of your gaming data. The connectivity that the router offers is mind boggling, mainly because of the use of Beamforming+. What it means is you can go to every nooks and corners of your house and still get the best out of it.

The speed on the 5 GHz band is absolutely mind blowing, making sure that you do not suffer while playing your games. The smart management system

On top of these, there is a Game Intrusion Prevention System in place to protect the attacks and intrusions while you play the games. So on the whole, the modem looks like one which has been built for gaming, assuring it a place in the top 10.

General Specifications

  • AC1750 WiFi—450+1300 Mbps speeds
  • 1GHz Dual Core Processor
  • Ideal for homes with 12 or more WiFi devices
  • Advanced features for lag-free gaming
  • Prioritized bandwidth for gaming, streaming videos, or music. 1 USB 2.0 and 1 USB 3.0 Port
  • Refer user manual for troubleshooting steps.
  • Fast access to USB HDD with USB 3.0 ports
Pros
  • The price of the router, considering the features it provides, is definitely a delight for everyone. There is no other router coming close to it in the same range.
  • Presence of Beamforming means that the range of the router is much better than most of the other competitors in the segment. So, there is no concern as far as connectivity in different corners of your house is concerned.
  • VPN support and fast NAS are definitely two of the biggest positives of the router.
Cons
  • The speed on the 2.4 GHz band is close to mediocre, making it a good choice for gaming but not a very good one for the subsidiary devices.
  • The firmware used by the company is not something you can be very enthusiastic about.
  • The wall wart for the device is exceedingly larger, rendering it non-suitable at certain places.

Overall Take

If you have been looking for an excellent gaming router in the mid-range, then this product is tailor made for you. The range of the router and the speed on 5 GHz band makes it an absolute coup at the price it is marketed. So, you can close your eyes and go for this router,

NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200

The third member of the same family in the list, NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200 is a beast as far as performance is concerned. Powered by a 1.7 GHz dual core processor, it is currently one of the fastest routers in the gaming router segment.

The technology of the router is future-proof which assures that you would not have to switch to any other router for a long time. Built with the view to provide best gaming experiences, the router gives great speed on both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands.

If you are a no nuisance kind of a person and performance is all that matters to you, then this router is definitely what you need. Let us have a look at properties and features of this router which make it a top performer in this segment.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 7133 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11ac + 802.11ad (Dual Band)

Processor Speed: 1.7 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: 6 Gigabit Ethernet ports (LAN) + 1 WAN, Two USB 3.0 ports, 20+ Devices, Plex Media Server, Amazon Drive Cloud Backup, High-Performance Active Antennas.

What makes it best for Gaming?

Let’s get to the most important point first – if you want to define this router in one word, that word has to be speed. NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200 is the speed king of the segment, using 60GHz 802.11ad WiFi. It is the fastest Wi-Fi technology that has been developed till date and this assures that the data speed is almost four times what 802.11ac offers.

So, in terms of speed, there is no other router in this segment which can compete with this giant. But for those of you who still prefer wired network for gaming, there are two ports for Ethernet connectivity. This means that you are never out of options. The use of latest technology also assures that you do not need to think of a new router for a long period of time.

The process of installation of the router is very easy. Then, there is the privilege of doing speed checks to get knowledge of how various systems are working. And on top of that, there is the feature of parental control which means you can take care of the time for which somebody is using the network. You can make great use of it by restricting the bandwidth, speed and time on the connected devices. This means that your gaming speeds are not going to suffer.

The feature of pausing internet on any of the connected devices is one of its kinds. If you find that a particular device does not need the connectivity, but you are far away from it, you can use this feature to pause internet connectivity on that device. As a result of this, internet connectivity on other connected devices improves.

General Specifications

  • 11ac Quad Stream Wave2 Wi-Fi plus 60 GHz 802.11ad Wi-Fi—Up to 4600+1733+800 Mbps wireless speed. System Requirements Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux. Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher
  • Plex Media Server – Use Plex to serve all your media from your external USB or NAS drive connected to your Nighthawk X10 router.
  • Powerful 1.7GHz Quad Core Processor – Fastest processor for home router for better 4K streaming, VR gaming, surfing, or anything you throw at it!
  • Dynamic QoS – Prioritizes bandwidth by application and device for the best gaming and streaming experience. Wi-Fi Range- Very large homes. MU-MIMO —Simultaneous streaming of data for multiple devices
  • Additional DFS Channels— No sharing of Wi-Fi with your neighbor with additional interference free channels in 5GHz
  • Nighthawk App – Easily setup your router. Manage Internet access by pausing and resuming internet instantly. Run a speed test. All from your mobile device!. Refer user manual for troubleshooting steps.
Pros
  • The powerful 1.7 GHz CPU is one of the most powerful in its segment, assuring that there are no lags while managing the sophisticated system.
  • Availability of Plex Media server means that the audios, videos and all other files can be accessed easily using the router.
  • The Network Manager is outstanding, with different features giving you full control of the router even when you are away from it.
Cons
  • 11ad is an advanced technology and it is not supported by most of the devices at present. It is one for the future.
  • Only one 5 GHz band means that only one powerful gaming device can be used with full conviction at a time.

Overall Take

If you are looking for a future proof router which takes care of the future technology and provides you maximum speeds, then NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 AD7200 is one for you. If price is not a problem for you, you should go for it as the performance of the router is unmatched and it is going to go a long way.

Linksys AC5400 Tri Band Wireless Router

If you are an individual gamer looking for a good gaming router at cheap price, then this one is definitely not for you. Linksys has continued with its tradition of delivering powerhouses with Linksys AC5400 Tri Band Wireless Router. It is a power packed machine meant to be used by multiple devices in a big house comprising of multiple rooms.

Though this router is like a fat kid in a class full of skinny students, the specifications and features of the device end the debate before it starts. It is one of a kind router in this range, having features which none of the challengers can come close to. Let us have a look at few of them in detail.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 5332 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Tri-band)

Processor Speed: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: Seamless roaming, MU-MIMO, NextGen AC Wi-Fi capability, 4 by 4 AC for swift streaming and gaming experience, 8 Adjustable Antennas.

What makes it best for Gaming?

If LAN gaming is what you like to do, then this router is definitely for you. With 8 Gigabit LAN Ports, you can easily set up a great network for games like Counter Strike. However, being great for LAN connections does not mean it is far behind in online gaming.

Linksys has developed this flagship device with the view to cover all the spheres and hence no area has been compromised with.

Firstly, with the availability of two 5 GHz bands, you can use two gaming devices at different ports. So, you can create a gaming zone for your friend or friends. That is accompanies with a 2.4 GHz band which can be used for other peripheral devices. Now, when all the three ports are in use and there are various devices connected to each of them, the Game Boost Feature comes into play. When you enable this feature using the Game Center Dashboard, the router identifies the gaming connections and prefers them while bifurcating the data speeds. The requirement of gaming devices is fulfilled before taking care of anything else.

On top of these, there is a Game Intrusion Prevention System in place to protect the attacks and intrusions while you play the games. So on the whole, the modem looks like one which has been built for gaming, assuring it a place in the top 10.

General Specifications

  • Minimum System Requirements: Internet Explorer 8, Safari 5 (for Mac), Firefox 8, Google Chrome. Tri-Band Wi-Fi offers a third, dedicated high-speed band to eliminate buffering and lag
  • High-bandwidth applications like videoconferencing and movie streaming are ideal for the two high-speed 5 GHz bands, while lower-bandwidth devices like older wireless-N and -G computers can utilize the 2.4 GHz band.
  • 8 Gigabit ports for wired speeds 10x faster than standard Ethernet for your printers, consoles, and Smart TVs. Compatible with Mac and PC devices
  • Enable Seamless Roaming by pairing Max-Stream Routers with Max-Stream Range Extenders. Your device will automatically switch to the strongest Wi-Fi signal as you move around your house
  • Backed by 3-Year Warranty and Tech Support; Operating Systems: Windows 7, Windows 8.1. Wireless encryption: 64/128-bit WEP, WPA2 personal, WPA2 enterprise
  • Advanced Security features WPA/WPA2 encryption and SPI firewall help keep your network safely connected.
Pros
  • The range of signal of this router is one of the biggest positives, making it a huge hit among people with large homes.
  • There are 8 Gigabit LAN Ports, which means you can set up a wired network for playing LAN games with ease.
  • Maximum speed of 2.1 Gbps provided by the 5 GHz band is a huge plus.
  • Seamless Roaming Technology means smart selection of the strongest network in the house while you are on a move.
Cons
  • The updated firmware is not up to the mark, so be assured that you are using the convenient version.
  • The size of the router is huge, taking up lots of space and giving it archaic look.

Overall Take

The performance of the router is solid in one word. The Linksys MU-MIMO and QoS technology assures that using multiple devices is not a problem with this router. You can use all of them without any lag or data speed reduction. So, the power and performance of the router sets it apart and makes it most suitable for ones who want to use many devices.

NETGEAR Nighthawk X8 AC5000

Netgear has been one of the pioneers as far as best gaming routers are concerned and it done justice to its tag with NETGEAR Nighthawk X8 AC5000. Powered by a 1.4 GHz dual core processor and feature Tri-band technology, it is one of those routers that other companies will try to emulate.

Boasting of feature like QoS, MU-MIMO and most of the modern technologies, the router is the top choice of most of the experts. Let us have a look at the features which make it such a great hit.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 4932 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Tri-band)

Processor Speed: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: Four external Active Antennas plus 4 internal antennas amplify WiFi range. Six gigabit Ethernet ports, MU-MIMO for multiple device use, Quality of Service (QoS) feature.

What makes it best for Gaming?

Firstly, with the availability of two 5 GHz bands, you can use two gaming devices at different ports. So, you can create a gaming zone for your friend or friends. That is accompanies with a 2.4 GHz band which can be used for other peripheral devices.

The maximum speeds obtained on all the three bands are excellent and that means neither your gaming device nor the peripheral devices suffer. High speed on all the bands along with the great QoS feature means you do not face lag at any instance while gaming.

With four active antennas, the router enhances even the weak signals and makes it usable. Add to all these powerful 1.4 GHz Dual core processor and you have a true performer in your hand!

General Specifications

  • TRI-BAND MU-MIMO WIFI —Up to 600 + 2166 + 2166Mbps to deliver more Wi-Fi for more devices simultaneously
  • GIGABIT WIRED —Six Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports with the ability to aggregate two ports for faster file transfers
  • DYNAMIC QOS —intelligently prioritizes video streaming & gaming. System requirements- Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux, Microsoft internet explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher
  • FOUR ACTIVE ANTENNAS —Enhance weak signal and reduce interference. Memory: 128 MB flash and 512 MB RAM
  • Nighthawk App – Easily setup your router. Manage Internet access by pausing and resuming internet instantly. Run a speed test. All from your mobile device!
  • Performance Mode requires 1024QAM support on Wi-Fi client for 5 gigahertz. Up to 2166/600 Megabytes per Second wireless speeds possible when connecting to other 2166 @5gigahertz 802.11ac/600 @2.4gigahertz Mbps devices.
Pros
  • Presence of six Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports means many devices can be connected at the same time.
  • Presences of two 5 GHz bands mean that the speed can go up to 2166 Mbps for two bands. So, you can easily attach gaming devices on these two bands.
  • The device can be setup very easily.
  • The features of the device are all excellent and ensure you have great gaming experience.
Cons
  • The size of the router is bigger in comparison to other routers in the list.
  • The price of the router is a bit on the expensive side, but given the feature it boasts of, price is almost justified.
  • The User Interface is buggy and sluggish, which turns out to be very problematic sometimes.

Overall Take

Though the price of NETGEAR Nighthawk X8 AC5000 is a bit on the higher side, the features are simply amazing. Availability of so many features assure that you get great gaming experience. So, if you are ready to increase your budget for the sake of great experience, then this is the router you should go for.

Linksys Max-Stream AC4000

With the unique fusion of both wired and wireless technology, Linksys Max-Stream AC4000 is definitely the best router in the given pricing range. Developed with the view of gamers in mind, the router packs a punch in form of its powerful processor and smartly designed antenna system.

If you have quite a big house and you are worried whether a single router would be able to  cover the entire space of your house, bring Linksys Max-Stream AC4000 and be assured that you would not be disappointed.

Be it your search for Best Modem router for PS3 or best wireless router for unbound gaming, both your searches are going to lead you to the same router from Linksys. Let us have a look at features and specifications which makes it a giant in the category of gaming routers.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 4000 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Tri-band)

Processor Speed: 1.8 GHz Quad-Core

Special Features: Next-Gen AC Wi-Fi + MU-MIMO + Airtime fairness, 6 active high gain antennas, 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, Seamless Roaming.

What makes it best for Gaming?

There are two kinds of gamers which exist in this world – the traditionalists, who believe that wired connections are still the best and give best speeds and the non-conventional ones, who prefer the wireless connections. If you have both kinds of gamers in the same house, then finding a suitable router was a difficult task. However, your prayers have been answered by the arrival of Linksys Max-Stream AC4000.

With six antennas accompanied by a power-packed 1.8 GHz Quad Core processor, the router gives a beefy look. And when it comes to performance, it very well justifies its look by a performance which can be best described by the word strong.

The MU-MIMO service available on the router ensures that multiple devices can stream at the same time. On the other hand, Quality of Service (QoS) feature is one of the most attractive ones developed by Linksys. This feature smartly allocates maximum bandwidth to the antenna which covers the area with maximum number of people or most demanding devices.

So, the router has been developed to provide you with lag-free gaming in all kind of situations. So, if you have been looking for an all-rounder which covers all the aspects of a good router, then go for this one!

General Specifications

  • Intelligent Tri-Band router with Net Gen. “1.8GHz Quad-Core” CPU and 3 offload processors to release your Wi-Fi performance and provide 3 Ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi bands up to 4 Gbps.
  • Next-Gen AC Wi-Fi + MU-MIMO + Airtime fairness improves network efficiency and provides ultra-fast Wi-Fi speeds to all your home and home office devices at the same time, same speed; “Smart Connect” intelligently selects the best radio band for your wireless device.
  • Advanced Beamforming with 9 high power amplifiers extend and maximize performance and coverage for both 2.4GHz & 5GHz.
  • Minimum System Requirements: Latest versions of Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari (for Mac and iPad), Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer version 8 and newer.
  • 6 active high gain antennas expand Wi-Fi range throughout a large-size home; 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired speeds 10x faster than standard Ethernet for printers, game consoles and Smart TVs.
  • Auto firmware updates always keep your router updated with latest features and security measures.
Pros
  • The high-end 1.8 GHz processor assures power packed performance which even some of the pricier names in the list do not possess.
  • Presences of two 5 GHz bands mean that the speed can go up to great limits for two bands at the same time.
  • Seamless Roaming Technology means smart selection of the strongest network in the house while you are on a move, which is the signature feature of Linksys.
  • Unique design of antennas assures long-distance connectivity and stellar performances.
  • MU-MIMO feature, which is a must for the present day devices with multiple users, is a huge positive.
Cons
  • The 2.4 GHz band has a maximum speed of 750 Mbps, which is not very encouraging.
  • The set-up process is not as simple as other routers in the list.

Overall Take

Intelligent tri-band system, MU-MIMO feature, 1.8 GHz quad core processor and the Seamless Roaming Technology of Linksys are perfect ingredients of a great router for a big house. So, if you have been looking to set up a powerful network which can be used in multiple devices, then Linksys Max-Stream AC4000 is what you should go for!

TP-Link AC1900

If you have been looking for an excellent gaming router in $100 range, then you cannot look beyond TP-Link AC1900. With state of the art features and Beamforming technology included, it is currently one of the best routers in this price range. The features are top of the world and presence of two bands ensures that gaming does not suffer.

While the router might be inferior to other members in the list which are ahead of it, the price at which it is available makes it one of the customer favorites. Backed by the trust of TP-Link, it is one of the most suggested routers in the market at present. Let us have a detailed look at the features of the router.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 1900 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac

Processor Speed: 1 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: 3x Detachable External Antennas, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 Gigabit WAN port,

1 USB 3.0 and 1 USB 2.0.

What makes it best for Gaming?

Beamforming is one of the biggest positives of this router, ensuring that your gameplay does not suffer even if you are far away from the router. Beamforming is one of the best as far as increasing the reach of the network is concerned and TP-Link AC 1900 has pulled off a stunner using this technology.

As you expect in a gaming router, there are two bands – one of 5 GHz, best suited for your gaming devices and another one of 2.4 GHz for the peripheral devices. So, if you are playing connecting the device on 5 GHz band, the addition of devices on 2.4 GHz band does not make much of a difference to your data speed.

For the purpose of streaming, there is AC1900 Wi-Fi, which ensures streaming of 4K videos taking place smoothly. The Wi-Fi is state of art at present and it is one of the best for the purpose of video streaming. So, if you are trying to learn the tricks of the different games using this router, you can do that too.

And last but not the least, the interface for controlling the router is excellent. There is an exemplary mobile interface too, using which, you can control your router using the mobile devices as well. So, on the whole, it is a great gaming router to possess.

General Specifications

  • One of routers for wireless internet, delivers AC1900 speeds up to 1.9GBPS (600+1300 Mbps), compatible with all Wi-Fi devices, 802.11ac and older.
  • Next-generation beamforming technology creates direct connections to all your devices for reliable, fast WiFi.
  • 1GHz powerful dual-core processor easily handles multiple devices (laptops, tablets, phones, smart home, Alexa-enabled devices & more).
  • Easily share media w/ 1x USB 3.0 and 1x 2.0 ports to easily share printers, files, and media across your network.
  • Effort-free network setup w/ the TP-Link Tether App on iOS & Android.
  • Environment: operating temperature: 0℃~40 ℃ (32 ℉~104℉), storage temperature: -40℃~70 ℃ (-40 ℉~158℉), operating humidity: 10%~90% non-condensing, storage humidity: 5%~90% non-condensing. Includes industry leading 2-year warranty and FREE 24/7 technical support.
  • D. Power Ranked TP-Link Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Wireless Routers in 2017.
  • Simultaneous 2.4GHz 600Mbps and 5GHz 1300Mbps connections for 1.9Gbps of total available bandwidth.
Pros
  • Presence of Beamforming is definitely one of the biggest pros of this router.
  • Presence of a 5 GHz bands mean that the speed can go up to 1.3 Gbps for that band.
  • Presence of 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 Gigabit WAN port means you can attach huge number of devices at the same time.
Cons
  • The maximum speed of 600 Mbps on 2.4 GHz band is a bit low in comparison to other routers in the list.
  • The 1 GHz dual core processor is a bit less powerful in comparison to the other routers in the list.

Overall Take

If you have been looking for an efficient gaming router at a price close to $100, then TP-Link AC1900 is the best option that you have at hand. While it is not as powerful as its higher priced competitors, it is efficient and serves the purpose of providing you good gaming data connection. So, choose this router for best results at cheapest prices.

D-Link AC3200

Another one of the beasts on this list is D-Link AC3200, one of the fastest and most feature-oriented gaming routers available in the market at present. With presence of two 5 GHz bands and a 2.4 GHz band, this router is more than enough for you to set up a gaming zone at your place.

With six antennas and Beamforming technology, the device can provide connectivity to almost all the nooks and corners of a 4000 sq. ft. house, quite a commendable job, is not it?

Made with the view of being usable with present as well as upcoming Wi-Fi technologies, it is one of the most efficient gaming routers in the market. It boasts of all the supreme features required in a good quality gaming router and that is what makes it one of the biggest hits on this list.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 3200 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Tri-band)

Processor Speed: 1.0 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: Advanced SmartConnect allocates the best possible band for maximal Wi-Fi performance. Wi-Fi Coverage-Large Home, Works with existing and future Wi-Fi devices, Advanced AC SmartBeam tracks your connected devices for enhanced Wi-Fi speed and range throughout your home.

What makes it best for Gaming?

If you think that people will leave your network for you to play games, then you are surely mistaken. When you have a Wi-Fi network at your house, people will be using it for different purposes. So, the smart choice is to buy a router like D-Link AC3200, one of the best gaming routers available in the market at presence.

With years of experience in terms of routers at its back, D-Link has sent a very challenging product in the market. While it is priced little lower than its competitors providing same kind of features, the build is of superior quality. And when it comes to features, it does not lag behind any of them.

Firstly, with the availability of two 5 GHz bands, you can use two gaming devices at different ports. So, you can create a gaming zone for your friend or friends. That is accompanies with a 2.4 GHz band which can be used for other peripheral devices. Now, when all the three ports are in use and there are various devices connected to each of them, the Advanced SmartConnect feature comes into play. Then, there is Quality of Service feature which ensures that bandwidths are divided as per the requirements in different parts of the house.

On the whole, the device is a power house with many good features. So, if you have a gaming router on the shopping list, then D-Link 3200AC should definitely be your top priority.

General Specifications

  • Ultimate Wi-Fi performance with AC3200 Tri-Band speeds (1 x 600 Mbps in 2.4GHz + 2 x 1300 Mbps in 5GHz) to support more connected Wi-Fi devices to your high speed home network
  • Enjoy 4K/HD video and online gaming simultaneously with 3 x 3 data streams and 6 high-performance antennas
  • The 1GHz Dual Core processor gives you powerful wired and wireless speeds
  • Advanced SmartConnect allocates the best possible band for maximal Wi-Fi performance.Wi-Fi Coverage-Large Home,Compatibility: Works with existing and future Wi-Fi devices
  • Advanced AC SmartBeam tracks your connected devices for enhanced Wi-Fi speed and range throughout your home
  • Intelligent QoS traffic optimization delivers seamless performance for your applications
  • Intuitive user interface for easy installation and network management from your mobile devices or desktop
  • Advanced security features WPA/WPA2 encryption for a safe home network. Box shows the part as “DIR-890L” and the color designation of red is the “/R.”
Pros
  • Presence of two 5 GHz bands means you can use two gaming devices on different bands at the same time.
  • Advanced SmartConnect technology means that maximum bandwidth is provided to the antenna which covers the area with maximum traffic. So, even when one part of the house gets overcrowded with various devices, the network speed does not lag.
  • You can easily install the device through PC while there is also a mobile interface using which you can manage the router efficiently.
  • Quality of Service feature ensures good connectivity across all parts of the house.
Cons
  • The speed on the network is comparatively slower in comparison to other competitors on the list.
  • The User Interface is buggy, which becomes quite problematic in some of the cases.

Overall Take

The router is priced in the higher range and also boasts of all the qualities of a high end router. While its six antenna system and beamforming technology are mind-blowing, the wire is a bit on the slower side in terms of cumulative speed. If you have been looking to use too many devices at the same time, then D-Link AC3200 is the best choice for you.

Asus AC3100

If you have been looking for a dual band gaming router, then Asus AC3100 is definitely one of the options that you should consider. With the huge goodwill of motherboard and graphics card manufacturing at its back, the company has entered the router market and has already made its presence felt.

The four antenna router is an excellent one for PC Gamers and has gained huge acceptance among them. Let us have a look at the features and overviews of the routers and understand what makes it the leader in the market.

Overview of the Features

Wi-Fi Speed: Aggregate speed up to 3100 Mbps

Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Dual band)

Processor Speed: 1.4 GHz Dual-Core

Special Features: MU-MIMO + NitroQAM technology, 4 antenna design with AiRadar, Built-in access to WTFast Gamers Private Network (GPN™), AI Protection Powered by Trend Micro™, ASUS Smart Connect, AiMesh Supported, 8 Gigabit LAN ports 2 USB Ports.

What makes it best for Gaming?

Though the router has only two bands, its adaptability to different gaming devices is unmatched. Although you cannot use too many devices at the same time, you can use different kind of devices. However, there are 8 Gigabit LAN ports, thus you do not need to compromise on the essential devices that need to be plugged into the router.

Quality of Service, referred to in short as QoS, is one of the best features of this router. Using this feature, the antenna which patrols the area of higher traffic is provided greater bandwidth in comparison to other antennas. As a result, even if three or four of your friends are there in a single room, bandwidth allocation would not be a problem.

If you are looking for using too many gaming devices at the same time, then the first router on the list from same company is a better choice. However, if you are willing to use different types of devices at different times, then this is the router that you should be using. All these features make it one of the best gaming routers in the market.

General Specifications

  • 1024-QAM technology – 80% faster 5 GHz at up to 2100 Mbps, 66% faster 2.4 GHz at up to 1000 Mbps; Utilities: Firmware restoration.
  • 33% greater 2.4 GHz coverage with a 4-transmit, 4-receive (4T4R) antenna design, able to reach our widest-ever coverage up to 5000 square feet.
  • Expansive Connectivity Options: with exclusively has 8 x Gigabit LAN ports for up to eight Ethernet-compatible devices to connect simultaneously.
  • Powerful 1.4 GHz dual-core processor, Faster USB data transfers enjoy up to over 100 MB/s speed and the router download/upload speed (WAN-LAN throughput) up to 1.8 Gbps.
  • Smart Connect- Automatically chooses the best band available for you, Dimensions:11.8 x 7.4 x 3.3 ~ inch (WxDxH).
  • ASUS Ai Protection powered by Trend MicroTM ensures your online experience is safe and secure. By combining automatic vulnerability detection, malicious site blocking and parental controls, AI Protection keeps everyone safe and sound.
Pros
  • Fits with almost all types of gaming devices and hence is a huge hit among the gaming enthusiasts.
  • The router can be installed very easily while the firmware designed by ASUS is also a huge positive.
  • The presence of MU-MIMO means multiple users using the router at the same time is no problem at all. The requirements are taken care of by the MU-MIMO feature.
  • Presence of 8 Gigabit ports means that there are many ports available despite connecting all the necessary peripheral devices.
Cons
  • The router is expensive and is only suitable for high-level gamers looking for an excellent gaming router.
  • Connecting too many wireless devices is a bit of problem when it comes to this router.

Overall Take

When it comes to the ASUS router, build and software provided gives it definite advantage over other routers. Things are no different with Asus AC3100, as the superior build and great trust of ASUS makes it one of the most popular routers in the market. If you are ready to invest few good bucks for getting a good router which can be used with multiple devices, then go for it.

These are some of the best gaming routers available in the market based on various budgets. Knowing the pros and cons of each of them, you should look at the features and services which suit you the most. Then, go for the router which satisfies all your needs within the given budget. We hope after reading this article, the process of choosing the best gaming router would become easy for you. Happy Gaming!

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