The 10 Best Wi-Fi Routers for Multiple Devices

If you are like my family and I, you maybe have many devices that require a router for the connection. In my home alone, there are two laptops, one desktop, about four tablets, and three televisions with at least ten streaming platforms. The only device we have that does not require a router is our phones, we have Wi-Fi with our phone service. Are you wondering if the router we have can handle all of this? Yes, it can.

Ideally, home routers usually reach 150 feet – 300 feet operating on 2.4 GHz, which can be affected by obstructions, such as walls, floors, appliances, and shockingly other electronic devices. In buying, the rule of thumb is that the more you spend on a product, the better it will be. That is not always the case. Some inexpensive products work just as well as an expensive product. With routers, if you are a gamer, then effective is better. But for an everyday Joe like me, I’d rather have a practical router that fits my budget and one I can afford as long as it gets the job done. 

For me, a good router needs to have sustainable speed, no lagging, and fast connectivity. But then again, if it were up to me, I would choose one with the most incredible-looking styles. 

The router’s performance also depends on how the router is being used. For instance, a gamer may need a router that performs at high speed for connectivity, whereas a router with the minimum speed would be perfect for someone that uses Wi-Fi for general daily use. 

When purchasing a router, consider the following advice:

• 128MB of RAM and a multi-core processor. This is where the team “bigger is better” may come into play. Having a multi-core processor and RAM that works exceptionally well is ideal if you are a Wi-Fi multi-tasker like I am. This helps while gaming, backing up data, streaming videos, and other internet activities you do.
• Choose a dual-band frequency or higher router. A router with multiple bands offers wireless signals that can broadcast in two or more frequencies. The benefit to this can have more comprehensive coverage with a frequency of 5GHz.
• Do not use routers’ convention name when deciding. The convention name is a fancy way to say modem. Just because the convention name sounds sophisticated does not mean it is the best. When buying a modem, it is best to purchase one with a bandwidth no lower than AC1200.
• Verify real-life speed online. The numbers shown for the routers’ speed are theoretical. It Is best to do research and read reviews on the routers’ speed you want to buy.
• A smartphone app to use from anywhere on the internet. There are pros and cons for routers that offer these features.

• Pros – easy to uses, able to set wireless routers, having the ability to check the routers’ working state, and the ability to manage features.
• Cons – some routers offer only the basics like Wi-Fi passwords, and there is a possibility the app may only work when connected to the router’s Wi-Fi.

• USB 3.0 port preferably needed. Because many devices have USB connectivity, having a router with a USB port is good to have. 
• QoS (Quality of Service) advance. QoS is only beneficial if the manufacturer incorporates it into the router. In other words, if the manufacturers incorporate this feature into the router, it automatically decides how to split the bandwidth. This is called Adaptive QoS, Intelligent QoS, or Dynamic QoS.

• Integration for smart homes. Smart homes are becoming the wave of the future with smart devices and sensors like Alexa. Having a router that can integrate with your smart home allows voice command usage.
• Mesh Wi-Fi support. Depending on the vendor, mesh Wi-Fi is an option. Some vendors require you to purchase everything separately, whereas some vendors offer mesh Wi-Fi with the router.
• Advanced features, security system, VPN, and antivirus. Maximize using these benefits; it is best to purchase an expensive router. Ideally, 512 MB or higher, 256 MB of RAM, and a dual-core system are perfect for advanced features. 

I have chosen 10 routers to review. I did not choose them because of their prices, the company that made them, or how they look (although I thought about it). I chose them because they are some of the best routers for multiple devices. Each router’s score is based on popularity, features quality, previews, and brand reputation.

10. NETGEAR Nighthawk

• Rating 3.5 out of 5 stars
• NETGEAR
• A little too expensive for me with the ratings it received
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
• Voice-controlled
• Tri-band frequency
• 6GHz Wi-Fi band
• Data transfer not mentioned
• Covers 60 devices and up to 2,500 sq. ft.
• Compatible with all Wi-Fi devices and any Internet Service Provider up to 2Gbps – cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite 
• Smart connection for Wi-Fi name – Amazon Alexa, Beamforming Technology, and Google Assist Voice Control
• Network security protection on unlimited devices (30-day free trial)
• Ethernet ports for gamers, streamers, computers, and other devices
• Guest Wi-Fi access, Dos, VNP, and Firewall included

Although this router has some excellent features, the price is too steep for my pocket. This router is best suitable for extreme gamers and those who watch videos.

9. ASUS ROG Rapture Wi-Fi

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• ASUS
• Too expensive for the features it has, or should I say the features it does not have
• Wireless, wired, and USB connectivity
• Voice-controlled
• Tri-band frequency
• Game accelerator – triple-level
• 11,000 Megabits transfer per second
• Advanced parental control
• Security protection to prevent internet threats

If you are a gamer, this router is for you. I find it to be too expensive for what it does not offer. There are routers that a less costly and provide more.

8. Linksys AX1800 Smart Mesh

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Linksys
• Reasonable price
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
• App-controlled
• Dual-Band frequency
• 1,500 sq. ft. coverage supporting more than 20 devices
• 6-Speed Wi-Fi up to 1.5Gbps
• 4K streaming, gaming, and video calls

This is the perfect router for younger adults starting on their own, offering just enough for what they may need.

7. ASUS AX5700

• Rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
• ASUS
• No price was given for Amazon purchase
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
• App-controlled
• Dual-Band frequency
• Microsoft Windows and Apple iOS operating system
• 5,700 Megabits transfer per second
• 2Gpbs speed wired and wireless
• Home network security with lifetime free advanced Parental Controls, ASUS AiProtection Pro

Here is another router I think is overpriced for what it does not offer. However, I love the different model styles. This is another router that is good for gamers.

6. NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• NETGEAR
• Reasonable price for what it does
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• App-Controlled
• Tri-Band frequency
• 4.2 Gigabits transferred per second
• It covers 5,000 sq. ft. Over 40 devices, with extra satellites (not included) coverage, are extended for an additional 2,500 sq. ft.
• Provide 2Gbps coverage for compatible internet services for cable, DSL, satellite, and fiber
• Ports for gaming consoles, computers, streaming players
• 30-day free trial protection against viruses, malware, and data theft for home devices
• Hardware warranty for 1-year

The only downfall about this router has to buy another satellite to get extended footage. In a way, which is not a negative thing. It all depends on the size of your house.

5. TP-Link Wi-Fi

• Rating 4.3 out of 5 stars
• TP-Link
• Excellent and affordable price
• App-controlled
• Dual-Band
• Simultaneous connection to multiple devices
• 75% lag reduction for online gaming, video chat, and 4K videos
• Advanced security protections

This router received an award from JD Power in 2017 and 2019 for customer satisfaction, highlighting Amazon’s Choice.

4. ASUS AX6000 Wi-Fi

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• ASUS
• Worth the price
• Wireless, wired, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity
• Dual-Band frequency
• Microsoft Windows and Apple iOS operating system
• 6,000 Megabits transfer per second
• Ultrafast to handle busy networks
• Smart home capability
• Four antennas and 8 LAN ports
• Hi-grade security

For me, simple is better. Not every device needs bells and whistles to prove it is worthy. Everything does not have to be as complex as it seems.

3. TP-Link Archer

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• TP-Link
• Why for the price
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Tri-Band

That is all I have for this router. Disappointed? Me too! Companies should be held accountable for not providing enough details about their products to make a competent and reasonable decision. I need to know as much about a product as possible. Honestly, for me, the only cool thing about this router is the look. If you are a Sci-Fi geek like I am, you will appreciate the look. With the lack of details for this router, I am trying to wrap my head around how it made the Top 10 List for routers. The only thing I can think of is that this model is not made anymore. If that is the case, I can understand why not much is being said about it. It must have been one of the best at one point.

2. TP-Link AX6000

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
• TP-Link
• Price is attractive
• Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
• Voice-controlled
• Dual-Band frequency
• 5,952 Megabits transferred per second
• Long-range Wi-Fi signal with a stable connection
• Signal elimination and interference
• The processing power of 1.8GHz Quad-Core for stable performance
• Free lifetime subscriptions for forceful parental control, QoS, and TP-Link Home antivirus
• 2017 and 2019 JP Power Award for customer satisfaction 

It means a lot when a product gets awarded for customer service. It is the workers that make the company. 

And last but not least, the best of the best!

1. NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router R6700

• Rating 4.3 out of 5 stars
• NETGEAR
• I would pay the price
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Voice-controlled
• Dual-Band frequency
• 1,300 Megabits transferred per second
• Recommended for up to 25 devices 
• Ethernet port for game consoles and computers
• USB connections for printer connection, shared storage drive, or to create personal cloud storage
• A free 30-day trial for home protection against viruses, data theft, and malware for smart devices, computers, and smartphones
• 30-day free trial for Smart Parental control – monthly fee after the trial period is over
• Wireless security for guest Wi-Fi access, VPN Firewall, and DoS 

Playing it safe is a good idea especially if you are undecided about choosing a router. It is always best to purchase a router that is not too expensive nor too inexpensive and one that gives a wide range of features.

Purchasing a router is just like buying a car; keep looking until you get it right. Is there such a thing as the perfect purchase? No, the key to the ideal investment is research and reading reviews. Deciding which is the best router depends on how you are using it.

Gamers probably want a high functioning, dual-core router, and a high bandwidth. The average family or individual looking for a router doesn’t really need all of the bells and whistles. So, only get them if you want them. When using the router for web surfing and simple use, you can get by with being a basic router.

Overall, choose a router that will best suit your needs and your family’s internet usage. This might take a little research, of course, and perhaps you want to ask your family, but with so many routers on the market, you have plenty of options to choose from.