If your router is a few years old and struggling to deliver fast speeds or frequently dropping connections, upgrading to a new router or a mesh-networking kit can significantly improve your Wi-Fi’s range, stability, and speed across your home. Whether you’re using laptops, smart devices, or other essential gadgets, having a reliable and modern router is key to a seamless experience.
How We Tested and Selected the Best Routers
Up-to-Date Technology
We focused on routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards, like Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, ensuring they can handle busy networks with many connected devices efficiently.
Fast Connection
To evaluate speed, we simulated a busy household in a 2,300-square-foot home and tested routers at opposite ends to see which provided the fastest, most reliable connections.
Solid Range
A well-placed router should offer full coverage throughout a small house or apartment, ensuring a stable internet connection in every corner.
Minimal Lag
Great routers minimize delays, even when handling multiple devices simultaneously. We tested to ensure the routers maintained performance under heavy loads.
Top Routers for 2024
TP-Link Archer AX3000 Pro: Best Overall
For most users, you don’t need the fastest or most expensive router to enjoy solid internet performance. The TP-Link Archer AX3000 Pro strikes the perfect balance between price and performance. Priced between $100 and $150, this router delivers reliable and responsive Wi-Fi 6 coverage throughout a home, even when multiple devices are connected at once. During testing, the AX3000 Pro impressed with its speed both near and far from the router, ensuring strong connectivity even for large families.
This router also offers a degree of future-proofing, capable of handling 1- to 2-gigabit internet speeds. This means you won’t need to replace it for another five to seven years, making it an excellent long-term investment for home networking.
TP-Link Archer BE550: Best for Future-Proofing
If you’re looking for a router with more advanced, cutting-edge technology, the TP-Link Archer BE550 is the ideal choice. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, making it more expandable and ultimately faster than most other models on the market. If your home already includes devices with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, or if you’re paying for a multi-gigabit internet service, the Archer BE550 is worth the extra $100 for future-proofing. Its superior speed and broader capabilities make it a great upgrade for tech-forward households.
Eero 6: Best Budget Router
For those on a budget, the Eero 6 offers an easy-to-set-up, affordable solution without compromising coverage. At under $90, it provides a solid, reliable network for small homes or multi-room apartments. Plus, it can easily expand into a mesh network if your needs grow over time. Its small size also makes it one of the easiest routers to conceal, making it a great choice for those who want strong Wi-Fi coverage at an affordable price without the router being an eyesore.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for top-notch performance, future-proof features, or a budget-friendly option, upgrading your router can significantly improve your home’s Wi-Fi experience. From the TP-Link Archer AX3000 Pro’s balanced performance to the Eero 6’s affordable yet solid coverage, there’s a solution for every home and need.
