Having a large home has several advantages, including extra space, privacy, and the ability to spread out. However, when it comes to Wi-Fi, size can be a two-edged sword. As you walk from room to room or from one floor to the next, you may discover that your Wi-Fi signal isn't as strong as you'd like. The best Wi-Fi extenders for large homes might make all the difference in this scenario. These gadgets are specifically designed to improve your existing Wi-Fi signal, expanding its range so that even the most remote areas of your home have reliable internet access.
 | TP-Link Archer AXE75 | |
 | TP-Link Archer AX55 | |
 | Asus RT-AX86U | |
 | TP-Link Archer AX21 | |
 | Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro | |
 | Reyee RG-E5 | |
 | TP-Link Deco W7200 | |
 | TP-Link Archer C80 |
Whether you're a casual internet user, a gaming enthusiast, or a tech enthusiast, the correct WiFi router may greatly improve your network connectivity and accommodate the growing need for bandwidth-intensive apps, smart home devices, and uninterrupted streaming.
The Best WiFi Routers of 2024 – Buyer's Guide
1. TP-Link Archer AXE75
Best Router overall
The TP-Link Archer AXE75 is a standout in the WiFi 6E router market, providing powerful functionality at a reasonable price. This router stands out for its WiFi 6E technology, which operates in the less congested 6GHz band, offering a dependable and high-performance wireless network.
The Archer AXE75's price is particularly outstanding, making it a viable alternative for customers looking to reap the benefits of WiFi 6E without breaking the bank. This router not only future-proofs your network, but it also provides a strong and fast connection thanks to its support for the most recent wireless standards.
The Archer AXE75 is designed to provide a seamless experience and includes modern features including OFDMA technology, which ensures efficient data transmission in busy areas.
Furthermore, the router's user-friendly interface and simple setup make it appropriate for both tech experts and newcomers to advanced networking. Overall, the TP-Link Archer AXE75 provides a compelling combination of cost, performance, and future-ready technologies in the WiFi router category.
Pros
- Simple installation process
- Affordably priced
- Utilizes 6GHz transmissions
- Consistent throughput performance
- Incorporates HomeShield software
- Ready for mesh networking
Cons
- Average file transfer performance
- Lacks multi-gig ports
- Certain features require a subscription
2. TP-Link Archer AX55
The Second-best WiFi Router
The TP-Link Archer AX55 is a WiFi 6 router that balances price and performance. It provides a cost-effective alternative for those looking to take advantage of WiFi 6 technology. Performance was consistent throughout my two-story, 1,600-square-foot home, but fell significantly in the backyard.
Over a few weeks of testing, my stability was good, with speeds and ranges in the upper midrange. Despite a minor drop-off in the back garden, the router maintains great stability over an extended testing time, scoring highly in both speed and range tests.
This router meets the main criteria for a modern wireless network, including MU-MIMO, beamforming, and WPA3 security. It has four gigabit Ethernet LAN connections, a single gigabit WAN port, and a convenient USB 3.0 port on the back to meet a variety of communication demands.
TP-Link's Tether app improves the user experience by allowing for traffic review, band splitting, guest network creation, scheduled reboots, automated upgrades, and even LED control for night settings.
The router's ease of installation adds to its user-friendliness, making it accessible to those seeking a simple setup process. In addition, the Archer AX55 includes HomeShield software, which provides security capabilities to help protect against internet attacks.
Its balanced performance, affordable price, and compatibility with WiFi 6 make it a good option for many customers in need of an improved wireless experience—even though it might not have all the cutting-edge capabilities found in higher-end routers.
Pros
- Affordable
- Awesome parental controls
- Good Performance
- Cutting-edge capability
- WPA3 support
Cons
- Below average range
- Dual-core technology
- Explicit beamforming only
3. Asus RT-AX86U
Best for Gamers
The Asus RT-AX86U continues to impress with its extensive list of features and high-end performance. It is designed to provide a seamless online experience, with quick and dependable connectivity for a wide range of devices.
Its gaming-specific features, such as reduced latency and priority settings, make it an excellent choice for serious gamers. The router's customization capabilities allow customers to customize their network settings, giving them more flexibility and control over their WiFi experience.
In addition to its technical prowess, the RT-AX86U puts security first, with a lifetime protection feature against any cyber threats. This dedication to cybersecurity guarantees a safe and secure home network without the need for ongoing subscription costs.
The router's longevity is further enhanced with a two-year guarantee, which provides users with a longer period of dependable performance and support.
For those looking for a WiFi 6 router that smoothly combines high-speed connectivity, gaming optimization, and comprehensive security features, the Asus RT-AX86U is a solid and dependable option.
Pros
- Impressive speed and performance
- Lifetime security software updates
- Multi-Gig input and port aggregation
Cons
- Missing geofencing and ping heatmap
4. TP-Link Archer AX21
Best Budget Router
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a dependable entry-level WiFi 6 router that combines price with impressive performance. Its dual-band capabilities, particularly the 5GHz band with rates of up to 1,201Mbps, meet the expectations of modern connectivity.
Despite its basic look, this router delivers practically faultless performance, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized houses.
The router's easy setup and management using TP-Link's Tether app increases its popularity, offering a hassle-free experience for users. Notably, the AX21 outperforms competitors in testing against recognized router brands such as Asus and Netgear, giving better download speeds, longer range, and reduced latency.
The addition of features like band steering, guest network management, and quality of service engine expands its capability.
Although it may not reach the pinnacle of gigabit network speeds, the AX21 provides constant and sufficient speeds, making it a practical and cheap option for homes looking for a dependable improvement to their home networking experience.
Pros
- Good performance at a low price
- Mesh-ready
- Basic parental controls
Cons
- No multi-gig ports
- No network security software
- Not support 160GHz channels
5. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro
Another Solid Choice for Gamers
The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro is a remarkable WiFi 6 router known for its amazing speed and strong capabilities, with a focus on gaming enthusiasts and power users. Despite its imposing physical dimensions, this router incorporates a slew of modern technology to provide unrivalled performance.
It has a wide range of connectivity choices, including 10Gbps and 2.5Gbps network interfaces, ensuring lightning-fast data transmission speeds.
The router was designed with gamers in mind, and it includes a gamer-friendly user interface as well as a suite of settings to maximize the gaming experience.
Its support for link aggregation provides users with large capacity, which improves overall network performance. The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro uses the most recent 802.11ax (WiFi 6) technology to deliver lightning-fast speeds and dependability.
In addition to its amazing performance, the router contains useful security features including free anti-malware software and strong parental controls. These features help to create a secure and safe networking environment for all connected devices.
Despite the lack of WiFi 6E capability, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro remains an excellent choice for anyone seeking top-tier performance and sophisticated gaming capabilities in a WiFi 6 router.
Pros
- High-speed performance
- Extensive signal coverage
- 10Gbps LAN/WAN capabilities
- Lifetime parental control and network security software
- Abundance of gamer-centric settings
Cons
- High cost
- Large size
6. Reyee RG-E5
Best Affordable Router
The Reyee RG-E5 is an appealing alternative for users looking for an affordable WiFi 6 router with useful capabilities. With a coverage area of 3,000 square feet, it meets the connectivity needs of both small and medium-sized spaces.
Notably, when paired with other Reyee devices, the router may serve as the centre component of a mesh network, giving consumers the ability to seamlessly expand their network coverage.
The introduction of a one-touch button simplifies the setup process, which stands out. While the Reyee RG-E5 focuses on cost, it does not sacrifice vital features. The router has four gigabit Ethernet ports in the back, allowing wired connections for devices that require stable and high-speed internet connectivity.
The addition of eight adjustable flipper antennas on top improves signal strength and coverage, resulting in a more reliable and consistent WiFi experience.
In performance tests, the Reyee RG-E5 delivered a remarkable 849.2 Mbps at a distance of 15 feet, demonstrating its capacity to provide fast and dependable wireless access.
Although the router lacks several premium features, such as additional security software, port aggregation, and a USB port for network storage, its price, coverage, and performance make it an appealing option for those wishing to adopt WiFi 6 technology without breaking the bank.
Pros
- One-button mesh network
- Excellent midrange performance and range
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Lacks extra security / WPA3 encryption
- No USB port
7. TP-Link Deco W7200
Top choice for mesh routers
The TP-Link Deco W7200 is a feature-rich mesh router that combines the power of WiFi 6 technology with a tri-band design to provide efficient and high-speed wireless connectivity. The Deco W7200 improves data transmission between the router and its satellites by supporting three independent traffic bands, the normal 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, as well as an additional 5GHz band devoted to wireless backhaul.
This mesh router stands out as a low-cost solution that provides great performance equivalent to more expensive options. In-home speed testing, the Deco W7200 performed admirably, giving it a dependable alternative for customers looking for a blend of performance and price.
One remarkable feature of the TP-Link Deco W7200 is its simple setup process. When the router's satellite extenders connect, they effortlessly integrate into the mesh network, providing consumers with a hassle-free installation experience.
Overall, the Deco W7200 is an appealing choice for anyone wishing to upgrade their home network to the latest WiFi 6 technology without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Easy to install and manage
- Strong throughput and signal performance
- HomeShield security software included
Cons
- No USB ports
- Lacks multi-gig connectivity
- Not support 160MHz channel
8. TP-Link Archer C80
Best Budget Router
For families and small enterprises, the TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 Router is a flexible, fast networking device. With data transmission speeds up to 1900Mbps, its dual-band WiFi technology guarantees dependable performance for bandwidth-intensive operations like gaming and streaming.
With its cutting-edge MU-MIMO technology, the router distinguishes itself by allowing numerous devices to receive data concurrently without sacrificing performance. It is therefore a great option for homes with plenty of users and gadgets.
Security is also a top priority for the Archer C80, which has parental controls and firewall protection to improve online safety. In general, it offers a smooth networking experience by combining performance, dependability, and cutting-edge features.
However, it is worth noting that the Archer C80 may struggle to handle streaming and gaming activities on many devices at the same time. If you have a busy home with a lot of internet consumption, this router may not be the best option for you.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Strong WiFi signal
- Easy setup
Cons
- limited placement possibilities
FAQs
Q: What is the best WiFi router overall?
Determining the best WiFi router overall depends on specific needs and preferences. Some popular options include TP-Link Archer AXE7, TP-Link Archer C80, and Asus RT-AX86U, offering advanced features, high speeds, and reliability. It's advisable to consider factors like coverage area, number of devices, and budget before making a decision.
Q: Should I purchase a mesh network instead?
A: The size, layout, and WiFi requirements of your home will determine whether you should acquire a mesh network. Mesh networks excel at providing continuous coverage over vast or multi-story areas, reducing dead zones. If you have problems with WiFi coverage, various access points, and easy scaling, a mesh network could be a good investment for better connectivity.
Q: What router is ideal for a multi-story home?
A: An ideal router for a multi-story home has good signal penetration and coverage. Consider a mesh router solution, such as TP-Link Deco, to ensure consistent and dependable WiFi throughout all floors. Mesh systems excel at minimizing dead zones and enhancing connectivity in multi-level spaces.
Q: How to buy a WiFi router?
A: When selecting a WiFi router, consider the size of your home, the number of devices, and your internet usage. Look for dual-band or tri-band capability, WiFi standard (e.g., WiFi 6), and security features. Choose a router that meets your demands, gives adequate coverage, and is simple to set up and administer.
Q: How do WiFi routers get tested by Wifiperfect?
Wifiperfect thoroughly tests WiFi routers to assess their effectiveness in a variety of locations and real-world scenarios. Signal strength, coverage range, data transfer speeds, and general reliability are all evaluated during the testing process. This thorough methodology ensures that consumers can make informed decisions about the routers' efficiency in improving WiFi connectivity in a variety of settings.
