Best Wifi router is basically device that is created to work like normal routers do, however, at the same time, these devices also act as wireless access points, which means that they are responsible for providing WiFi to the nearby devices as well as computers.
The best wireless routers are available with 3, or at least 2 bands to provide the maximum performance.
How To Buy A Best Wifi Router For Multiple Devices in 2024
Buying a wireless router sure does sound like an easy job, you just have to walk into your closest computer shop, and simply buy the wireless router you’re looking for. If you’re feeling lazy, you can even order it online, wait for it to arrive, and set it up.
However, do keep in mind that the above theory only applies to two type of people; those who know everything about wireless routers, and those who just want a wireless router for the sake of it, and aren’t really looking to put on some hardcore work on it.
For everyone else, wireless routers can be a tricky bit, and choosing the right one can often lead to more confusion than one would want. With that out of the way, if you are one of the people who don’t know what they should be looking for when buying a wireless router, the best way is to read what we have to say.
We are going to explore some of the things you should be looking at when buying a wireless router. These things will definitely help you in making a decision, and you’ll be able to buy a wireless router without much hassle in the first place.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look
The Price of The BestWifi Router
The first thing you should be looking at is the price of the router, while the price may not play an important role in some other sort of computer equipment, when it comes to wireless router, it certainly matters.
Wireless routers can cost you a lot of money, and at the same time, can be really budget friendly. The important part you need to know here is that if you spend $500 on a wireless router hoping that it would speed up your internet, you’re wrong.
Wireless routers are not there to speed up your internet, and will only operate on the speed that you have chosen as a plan from your internet service provider. So, with that in mind, make sure that you’re buying the wireless router that is neither slower than the speed provided to you by your ISP, nor faster than it, because if it is, you won’t be getting any benefit from it.
Different Wireless Standards For Wireless Routers
There’s no point in buying a wireless router if the people aren’t going to use the WiFi, keeping that in in mind, when buying a wireless router, it is important to look at your wireless standard. Most modern devices use the 802.11ac standard.
This standard basically means that your devices are capable of reaching 100 mbps provided your internet service provider is offering the same speed to you. Now, in case your devices don’t have the 802.11ac, or your internet service provider isn’t giving you the speed of 100 mbps.
So, make sure that when you’re buying a wireless router, it either supports all the standards, and if it doesn’t, don’t end up spending money on a router that supports the standard that isn’t even available to you.
Choosing Between Different Bands
Wireless routers are available in three bands, single, dual, and triple bands. While the entry level user will be okay with a single band router, if you’re looking for something higher for a faster internet connection, you may need to choose from either a dual band router, or a single band router.
A dual band router works on a single 2.4 gigahertz band, and a 5.0 gigahertz band; as for the tri-band router, you get a single 2.4 gigahertz band, and two 5.0 gigahertz bands. Do keep in mind that the 2.4 gigahertz band is there to provide the user with longer range, but slower internet speeds, whereas the 5.0 gigahertz band offers a shorter range, but a lot of speed.
Choosing between all three of these bands is rather simple; for anyone living in a densely populated area with a lot of people simultaneously connecting to one network, dual, or triple band routers are the best choice. However, if you are just getting a router for a home, and you don’t plan on having several connections at one time, then you would be okay with a single band router.
However, the important thing to consider here is that there’s a stark difference in price for the single, and dual/tri-band routers. Avoid spending more on a router that you don’t even need.We are now going to look at some of the top wireless routers available in the market.
Best Wifi Routers For Multiple Devices Reviews:
1.) Asus N66U
When it comes to quality products, not a lot can come close to the brilliance that is Asus. The company has released some of the finest products back to back. Their motherboards, and graphic cards are among the finest, however, today is a bit different, today, we are going to take a look at their Asus RT-66U Dark Knight Double Wireless N router.
This Batman inspired router is a dual band wireless N router that offers a lot of features for a very nominal price tag. It offers one of the best coverage we have tested in any wireless router, and the wireless connectivity remains as stable as possible.
In our test environment, the router’s range wasn’t really effected, and we didn’t see any dead zones. Sure, we did witness some areas where the signals were lower than the others, but the connectivity remained as stable as possible.
The 5.0 gigahertz band on this router remains the star of the show, and provides some of the best data rates, provided your internet is actually that fast. There is a handful of features available on this router, and in case you are wondering, you can even use it as a standalone VPN server, a feature that is definitely something to look for.
Another good thing about this wireless router is the design and construction, it’s really stealthy, and will look good with almost every setup. You also get 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and a USB 2.0 port on the router.
While the Asus RT-N66U is certainly an impressive router with a lot in its name, there are some subjective issues that can have an impact on the user experience. For starters, the firmware on our test unit was marred by some glitches here and there, and although the performance on the 2.4 gigahertz band was commendable, obvious improvements were still required.
Last but not the least, the USB port on the router is only USB 2.0, something that came as a surprise considering how this router is almost armed to teeth for the price you’re paying.
Even though the Asus RT-66U Dark Knight Double is far from perfect, the fact that it is still one of the most capable dual band wireless routers out in the market can’t be denied. Thanks to the stellar speed, amazing build quality, and some of the best management options available in any wireless router.
Sure, it has some drawbacks, but those don’t really hold this router back from making its way on the list.
2.) Google WiFi
Google took everyone by surprise when they released the Google WiFi, their own breed of wireless routers with a special twist. The reason why the tech world was surprised because so far, we have seen Google as the leading innovator in mobile operating systems, so, having something other than a software upgrade was surprising for us.
It would be wrong to call this a wireless router because Google WiFi is more of a WiFi systems; you get three wireless routers in the package, each one is identical to the other, and they are very small in size with no apparent antennas.
This approach is to make sure that the wireless coverage is present in every corner of your home. This means that no matter where you are, you will be getting the same wireless coverage you would when you’re standing next to the router. For those wondering, you can buy a single router, or all three of them.We put the WiFi system through its paces, and needless to say, we got really, really surprised with the results.
First of all, the router manages to dish out some serious speeds when connected with an internet network fast enough, and when you combine all three of the devices, you get some of the best coverages we have seen on a WiFi system. However, even the range of the single router was pretty decent for the price. Another great thing about Google WiFi is the installation progress, as soon as your set yourself for going through the entire process, you’re brought a very familiar Google experience, something you get to see in their smartphones.
Needless to say, setting up this router is something that is very, very easy, and even if you’re not a wireless router expert, you’ll be able to sift through the setup without any frustrating moments.Not everything sets in place though, in order to setup, and manage the Google WiFi system, having a Google account, and a mobile device is absolutely necessary. Last but not the least, the Google WiFi system lacks some of the advanced features that most power users usually require.
While it’s not the most advanced wireless router when it comes to features, the performance and the value for money alone makes this router a worthy purchase for any home network. It’s simple to setup, easy on the eyes, and doesn’t take a lot of space.
3.) TP-Link Archer C9
TP-Link is a company which has reached the status of a household name, believe it or not, perhaps the most common router company is TP-Link, and that’s not a bad thing. The company has released some of the best routers we have the pleasure to use for both professional, and personal use.
The good thing is that unlike some other companies that are focusing on the higher end market, TP-Link has their focus on almost all the markets available. You don’t have to worry even if you’re looking for something mid-range, TP-Link will have you covered. As for today, we are looking at TP-Link Archer C9 AC1900.
The dual band router managed to surprise us with the stellar performance it provided on both the 2.4 gigahertz band, and 5.0 gigahertz band. In our testing, the C9 AC1900 became well known for providing large coverage, and brilliant speeds even when the range was long, making it one of the best options for people who want to have the best coverage regardless of the place they are in.
Another great thing about this wireless router is the whole process of setting it up, while most routers take you through some really difficult steps, the Archer C9 AC1900 offers you a really, really simple installation procedure that will only take a few minutes.
Speed, and setup process aside, the best thing about this router is the amount of features you are getting for the price you are paying. In a market filled with routers that make you pay more and offer you less features, the TP-Link Archer C9 AC1900 dares to be different by doing the opposite, and providing you a wide range of features, the same features you’d expect from higher end options.
You’re also getting one USB 3.0 port, one USB 2.0 port, one gigabit Ethernet port that you can use to connect this router with your modem, and four additional gigabit Ethernet ports for you to provide wired connections to other devices if needed.
While there are a several good things about the C9 AC1900, there is a minor shortcoming too. On short distances, the router fails to compete with the fastest one in the bunch, however, bear in mind that this shortcoming is nothing more than subjective, and shouldn’t be considered a deal breaker at all.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C9 AC1900 is one of the most capable wireless routers available in the market that is offering a lot more than the amount of money it is demanding, a trait that is no less than commendable in the modern market.
4.) Linksys WRT1900ACS
We’re quickly moving on the top of the food chain, and now we are looking at something slightly expensive, yet completely worth the price tag. Say hello to the Linksys WRT 1900ACS, Linksys is a company that shouldn’t be unknown to anyone due to their sheer dedication in the networking market, and their release of some of the best networking products.
This retro looking device is a dual band router, and while the looks may make it seem like a device that doesn’t want to take itself seriously, the performance numbers paint an entirely different picture. Want to know? Let’s find out.
The router is packed with really, really powerful hardware, and while some people may question the amount of firepower this router packs, it all allows this router to give the user some stellar performance numbers. The speed on both 2.4 and 5.0 gigahertz is among the best we have seen, the router didn’t face any issues like performing worse at longer ranges, and managed stability and speed together.
When turned into a NAS, the router provided some of the best transfer speeds we have seen on a wireless router, and last but not the least, the router has a very cool, retro looking design, that allows you to stack multiple routers on top of each other.
The router also supports OpenVPN and a number of ports including 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, one USB 3.0 port, and one more port that doubles up as either a USB 2.0 port, or an eSATA port that lets you host an external drive.
Overall, there really isn’t anything that is holding the router back; sure, it’s an expensive router with a fairly large footprint, but then again, considering the market it is aimed at, these things don’t really matter to people who are going to buy this router.
5.) Netgear Orbi WiFi System
We are halfway through our list of best routers, and we are going to take a look at another WiFi system, however, this time, it’s from the beloved Netgear. There’s no denying that everyone has had experience with Netgear, and more often than usual, the experience has been really, pleasing. The company has created some of the finest routers in the market, that have been our personal, and professional favourites.
The routers in the WiFi system look a lot different than what we are used to seeing from Netgear, however, this change of design is a nice change of pace from the usual black designs that we have witnessed too many times. The system comes with 3 identical devices that will work in synergy to provide coverage across the entire place.
Setting up this WiFi system was easy as a walk in the park, and once the setup was done, the testing process was another joyous moment. There’s no denying that the WiFi system is among the fastest we have seen, the throughput remained brilliant, and there were no inconsistencies in the performance.
Considering how the 3 devices work in synergy, the range was never an issue, as we were getting full signals along with the maximum speeds everywhere. With that said, the WiFi also supports the highly revered Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) The router also has an impressive number of LAN ports for people who prefer wired connections, as well as USB ports.
Last but not the least, the Netgear Orbi WiFi system is easily among the best systems when it comes to the freedom that the users get with the configuration; there are a lot of options that can be configured according to the likings, and preferences of the user.
With all the good things aside, there are some downsides of this otherwise amazing router too. The router’s USB ports don’t offer much functionality, and that’s a sad thing, because it can be a potential deal breaker for some people.
Overlook the shortcoming, and you’ve got yourself one of the best wireless routers you can buy in the market, with plenty of options, and amazing performance.
6.) Synology RT1900ac
The great thing about reviewing tech products is that more times than usual, we get a product from a company not a lot of people have heard about. This creates an environment of suspense and surprise, and often, we are left surprised by just how good the product is. Today, we are looking at something similar from a company called Synology.
Say hello to the Synology RT1900ac, this simple looking router performs a lot better than it looks, or the name may suggest. As you can already tell, it is a dual band router, but the good thing is that it can also double up as a pretty decent, and fast NAS.
After going through a surprisingly robust, and easy to use setup, what we came across was a router that is giving more than you’d imagine. The RT1900ac is one of the best routers we have had the pleasure to use, the performance on it is stellar, and the router doesn’t really lose performance over long ranges.
The speeds remain consistent, and regardless of the band you’re utilizing, the router walks with its chin up in all the testing there is. Another great feature is that if you decide to pair this router up with an external hard drive, it becomes an amazing NAS, something that a lot of people prefer, since buying NAS can be a costly affair.
Moving on, you get ton of features on this router, minimalistic looks, one USB 3.0 port, one SD card reader. There are also a couple of LAN ports at the back that will help you provide internet connection to wired devices.
With all the good things aside, one would only try to find a chink in something like this; well, in the case of Synology RT1900ac, the only downside to this amazing wireless router is that the range on the 5.0 gigahertz band is somewhat low.
If you can look past the shortcoming, you’ve got yourself a wireless router that is really budget friendly, comes with a ton of features, delivers great performance, and can act as a NAS as well.
7.) Netgear Nighthawk X6
We are finally bringing in the big guns; the first flagship level router that we are going to feature in the list is the Netgear Nighthawk X6 AC3200. This is one of the flagship models from Netgear, featuring top of the line hardware, and some pretty stellar performance numbers.
Not to mention, it is the first tri-band router in the list. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some interesting details.
Right from the get go, the router looks like it came straight out of the Batman universe; it’s angular, it’s black, and it has a lot of antennas that collapse into the router’s upper body. However, we’re not talking about looks here, we are talking about the performance.
Once you go through the somewhat similar setup process that we get to see on Netgear products, and get the router up and running, you’re welcomed with some of the best performances that you can imagine However, before we begin, you should know that the performance of the 2.4 gigahertz band on our unit was somewhat bugged, and remained inconsistent.Moving on, the 5.0 gigahertz band performed brilliantly, and offered some of the best speeds we have seen on a router in a long time.
The data rates were stellar, and consistent, and there wasn’t a single moment in which we thought that this router isn’t adequate.Another great feature is that you can turn this router into a powerful NAS by simply coupling it with an external hard drive through the USB port on the router.
There’s no denying that this is a superior, flagship router, but bear in mind that despite the price difference, it doesn’t really perform any better than the dual band counterparts, plus, the range on this router is relatively low, making it a less viable option for people who want to have a good experience with.
8.) D-Link DIR 885L/R
The next tri-band router on our list is the D-Link DIR-885L/R, and if you think this name is confusing, wait till you hear the full name that may confuse you even more. However, names aren’t the thing we want to talk about here. Here, we are all about the performance, and considering how it’s a triband router, great things are expected.
For starters, the router looks like a race car, and for those who want something bold and outspoken, this is the one you’re looking for. Moving on from the looks, and actually setting up the router, you’ll realise that despite being feature packed, this router still manages to have a relatively easy setting up process.
Once the setting up is done, you’re free to take a ride on what we have witnessed as one of the fastest routers in the market at the moment. Apparently, sleek design isn’t the only redeeming quality of this router as it performs like a champion, and provides amazing range, and impress throughput.
It also supports the highly revered MU-MIMO, can have open source firmware install on it, and gives you 4 LAN ports, as well as a USB 3.0 port for your file transferring needs.
Considering how it can double up has a NAS, we went ahead and tested it, however, we were a bit disappointed as the file transfer speeds remained mediocre at best.
If you are okay with somewhat disappointing file transfer speeds, then the D-Link DIR-885L/R is one of the best routers out in the market, thanks to the sleek design, stellar performance, and support for open source firmwares.
9.) Asus AC-88U
Asus is a name that works closely with the word “innovation”, and while we believe that there’s little innovation left in the router industry, Asus is always there to surprise us. Today, we are going to take a look at the Asus AC-88U, a top of the line wireless router that costs a pretty penny, but provides enough features to actually future proof this router.
The router comes in the futuristic red and black combo that is pretty common on high end Asus products, and while it may look too bold for a router, it sits well with the design. You get 4 antennas, and 8 gigabit Ethernet ports that are there to give you top of the line performance.
With that said, the performance is super simple, and easy to understand thanks to Asus’ user interface, and once the router is setup, you’re welcomed with a router that performs at its best and doesn’t manage to disappoint the hardcore networking enthusiasts.
The WiFi performance is superfast, and that is perhaps the most important factor of any wireless router, no matter the distance, the router will perform brilliantly as long as the connected device is standing in the range of operation.
Considering how it’s Asus, there’s no denying that the attention to detail is astonishing, Asus has put some serious work in the web interface, making it really simply, intuitive, easy to use, and at the same time, loading with features.
The only downside in our opinion is the middling NAS performance that you get when you couple this this router with an external hard drive. Other than that, the performance side of thing with the entire router is just too good.
Thanks to the amazing performance, ease of use, striking design, and one of the best web interfaces, the Asus AC-88U is easily one of our favourite wireless routers in the list.
10.) Linksys EA9500
“Linksys has something for everyone”, this is something that we commonly hear when it comes to Linksys, mainly because the company prides itself for having a number of products that are targeted towards people with different price ranges. They have some mid-range products, and then they have some absolute overkills.
Right now, we are looking at their latest overkill, the Linksys EA9500. This AC5400 wireless router is one of the fastest, most expensive routers in the market that is actually faster than the internet speeds of majority of people. Let’s find out just how fast this beast is.
Straight off the bat, the router is quite large, thanks to the powerful hardware, and 8 superfast Gigabit LAN ports on it. Accompanying the router are 8 antennas that are there to provide one of the best long range performances we have seen in quite some time.The WiFi performance is one of the best we have seen, and the router comes with support for seamless roaming, a feature that lets you easily extend your network whenever you please.
The router has ton of additional features including a feature known as parental control that lets you block the unnecessary websites.All in all the, the Linksys EA9500 is quite possibly a router that is only fit for the future, the reason behind is rather simple, internet fast enough to be used with this router is definitely a rarity, especially when we are talking about commercial areas.
There is nothing wrong with this router apart from the fact that it’s a total overkill, and we believe you’re already aware of that.
11.) TP-Link Talon AD7200
The last router on the list is the TP-Link Talon AD7200, or in simple words, “an overkill”. The Talon AD7200 is one of the very few routers to support the fastest 802.11ad standard, a standard that is only used by a very few clients. What’s more? It’s incredibly large and bulky, and breaks all the speed barriers known to the internet users.
Let’s take a look.The Talon AD7200 offers a rather interesting design with total of 8 antennas that can collapse onto the top of the router, and flush with the top. Thanks to the powerful hardware, the antennas, 4 Gigabit Ethernet, and two USB 3.0 ports, the router is quite large, and bulky to begin with, but then again, this isn’t something you’d be carrying around.
The setting up process of this otherwise intimidating router is rather simple and straight forward, and once that’s done, you can finally start using the internet. The performance on this router is quite possibly the fastest we have seen; the router manages to best a wide range of products in both short, and long range, and to be honest, that didn’t surprise us at all.
It’s packed with features, and has support for MU-MIMO, and in simpler words, it’s a router that is built for future internet speeds, and standards, because in all honesty, internet fast enough for this router is a rarity at the moment.
Conclusion
Conclusion time is often the hardest in these roundups, we can’t simply pick the fastest router in the market, and call it a winner. There are several factors that make up for a good router. After carefully looking at all the routers we tested, it’s safe to say that the victor on base of customers’ reviews is the Netgear Nighthawk X6. While the router is not the fastest, it provides the most value for money by giving some of the best features, and some of the best performances from the bunch.
Needless to say, the Netgear Nighthawk X6 is the clear winner here.