Top-Rated Wi-Fi Routers for Fast, Reliable Internet
â–¼ Summary
– The AVM FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro is a fast, reliable Wi-Fi 7 router with strong privacy features, European manufacturing, and no account requirement for setup.
– The TP-Link Archer BE3600 is the cheapest Wi-Fi 7 router tested but has limited range, disappointing band steering, and requires subscriptions for advanced features.
– The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro is a high-performing 5G mobile hotspot but is too expensive for most users, despite its versatility and long battery life.
– The Asus RT-BE86U offers excellent 5-GHz performance and Wi-Fi 7 features but lacks a 6-GHz band, making it a solid choice for average homes when prices drop.
– The Firewalla Gold SE is a security-focused router with robust monitoring and parental controls but requires pairing with another router for Wi-Fi and may intimidate beginners.
Finding the perfect Wi-Fi router can make all the difference for fast, reliable internet at home or work. While some models stand out as clear winners, others offer decent performance at lower price points, though they may come with compromises. Here’s a breakdown of additional routers tested, along with their strengths and weaknesses.
AVM FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro (£374) This tri-band Wi-Fi 7 router delivers solid performance with a 2.5-Gbps WAN/LAN port, four gigabit LAN connections, and a USB 3.1 port. What sets it apart is its privacy-focused design, developed and manufactured in Europe. It includes a DSL/fiber-optic modem, DECT base station for cordless phones, NAS storage, and Zigbee smart home support. The straightforward web interface doesn’t require an account, making setup hassle-free. While it’s not yet available in the US, it’s a strong contender for European users upgrading to Wi-Fi 7.
TP-Link Archer BE3600 ($99) As the cheapest Wi-Fi 7 router tested, this dual-band model sacrifices the 6-GHz band and higher bandwidth. Performance was decent at close range but dropped off quickly with distance. The band steering was unreliable, often defaulting to the slower 2.4-GHz network. It’s best suited for small apartments, but the required subscription for full security and parental controls is a drawback.
Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro ($800) A high-end 5G mobile hotspot and router, the M6 Pro offers tri-band Wi-Fi 6E with a 2.8-inch touchscreen and 13-hour battery life. It supports up to 32 devices and doubles as a Wi-Fi repeater. However, its steep price and limited battery-optimized speeds make it hard to justify for most users.
Asus RT-BE86U ($260) This dual-band Wi-Fi 7 router lacks the 6-GHz band but delivers excellent 5-GHz performance. With one 10-Gbps and four 2.5-Gbps ports, plus USB connectivity, it’s packed with features like AiMesh, VPN support, and free security software. While slightly pricey now, future discounts could make it a top choice.
TP-Link Archer GE800 ($350) Designed for gamers, this tri-band Wi-Fi 7 router boasts RGB lighting, dual 10-Gbps ports, and blazing speeds. However, fan noise and heat output were noticeable, and subscriptions are needed for full security features. It’s a strong performer but falls just short of being the best gaming router.
Firewalla Gold SE ($479) A privacy-focused powerhouse, this device acts as a router with advanced security, ad-blocking, and VPN support. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi, requiring a separate access point. Ideal for security-conscious users, though its complexity may deter beginners.
TP-Link Archer AXE75 ($130) An affordable Wi-Fi 6E option, this router delivers fast 6-GHz speeds at close range but struggles with distance. The inconsistent 5-GHz performance and subscription-based security features hold it back.
Routers to Avoid
- Netgear Nighthawk RS200 ($206) – Frequent drops and weak range make this Wi-Fi 7 model unreliable.
- TP-Link Archer AX5400 Pro ($200) – Inconsistent speeds and slow local file transfers.
- MSi RadiX AXE6600 ($123) – Buggy app and random disconnections despite decent performance.
Whether you need budget-friendly performance, gaming optimization, or enterprise-grade security, there’s a router for every need, but some are clearly better than others.
(Source: Wired)