Best gaming router 2023

The best gaming router is going to help you get better speeds online, something that's crucial when playing video games competitively.

Standard routers tend to offer okay speeds, the best gaming router is designed to create a more stable ping, meaning you'll be playing in a more consistent environment, and then better scores as a result.

The thing is, there are a lot of routers out there, and the best Wi-Fi routers can cost a pretty penny too. Thankfully, through a mix of our own testing processes, the massive archive that is the internet, and things like price and speed, we've gone ahead and figured out what the best options are across several different categories.

It doesn't matter if what you want is a Wi-fi 6 router, one that has incredible speeds, or just one that can deal with loads of devices at once, because we've got all of them listed right here in our best gaming router article.

Best gaming routers

1. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro
2. D-Link DIR-867 AC1750
3. TP-Link Archer GX-90 AX6600
4. NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500
5. TP-Link Archer C5400X

Credit: ASUS

1. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro

Best gaming router overall

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro has been designed with gaming in mind. Everything from its antenna to its ports has been carefully considered to ensure it does one job... give the best online gaming experience possible.

Specifically, the GT-AX11000 Pro is the ideal device for anyone wanting to experience 8K gaming. It utilises Wi-Fi 6 technology to deliver wireless speeds of up to 11 Gbps, plus 12 Wi-Fi Streams and two 160MHz channels for a consistent connection, no matter how many devices are connected.

The router is not only about speed but also about cutting-edge innovations. For example, it prioritises online gameplay above everything else through triple-level game acceleration. With this, the device boasts a stable ping, even when other devices are downloading files on the same Wi-Fi network.

At the heart of its power is a 2GHz quad-core 64-bit processor that packs enough of a punch to meet the needs of even the most intense online demands. With an 18% boost in network bandwidth as well, you can turn up the speeds for lightning-fast data transfer.

On top of all this, the GT-AX11000 Pro comes with some excellent security features. It offers a variety of parental control features for free, plus it comes with ASUS AiProtection Pro, created according to the newest WPA3. This advanced security system is regularly updated as well to ensure that the router remains safe to use for years to come.

Although the router is a touch on the large side, don't let that dissuade! It is an excellent device that can give you a competitive edge when gaming online.

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Credit: D-Link

2. D-Link DIR-867 AC1750

Best budget gaming router

Choosing a Wi-Fi router suitable for gaming can be a challenge, especially if you are on a tight budget. Most are plagued with unstable ping and significant connection issues when multiple devices are trying to use the internet. Fortunately, this D-Link DIR-867 AC1750 looks to be the exception. It's relatively inexpensive, yet still boasts some impressive features.

For example, it's capable of speeds up to 1,750 MB, which is more than capable of running 4K games with ease. Even at a rate of 1GB, you'll find it's effective at its job. 1GB is enough for streaming, so you shouldn't encounter many issues when gaming.

We'd go as far as to say it's an ideal router for those who are looking to try out a more advanced router for the first time. Set-up can be done in as little as 30 minutes, as the instructions provided are easy to follow according to D-Link. Additionally, the accompanying Wi-Fi app allows you to control its settings remotely, making it easy to alter your network as you go. It's even compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.

So, if you're looking to try out a more advanced router for the first time, or you're simply after something inexpensive, then this D-Link device could be your answer.

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Credit: TP-Link

3. TP-Link Archer GX-90 AX6600

Best gaming router for large families

If you come from a large household of gamers, then you will have no doubt experienced some kind of connection issues at some stage. Even the most advanced routers struggle to keep up when several people are playing online, downloading a game, or simply using the internet at the same time, resulting in a substantial decrease in speed.

Fortunately, the TP-Link Archer GX-90 AX6600 has the potential to solve any internet connection problems you may be having when multiple devices are connected. Boasting a top speed of over 4500 Mbps, streaming video games in 4K is a breeze. With eight streams as well, this router offers high simultaneous transmission capability, providing you with fast and dependable internet when you need it most.

What makes this TP-Link device even more suitable for large families is that it comes with a ton of connection ports, including three Gigabit LAN Ports and both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 options.

As a parent, the device also has you covered. It offers parental control and comes with multiple data safety features, allowing you to control the content your child is exposed to as well as manage the amount of time they spend playing video games.

Now, it is a little on the pricier side, however, if you're serious about gaming and come from a large family, then we'd say this router is well worth considering.

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Credit: NETGEAR

4. NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500

Best WI-Fi 6 gaming router

If you're looking for a reliable internet connection with modern technology, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 is your best bet. It only comes in one version - 12 Stream - which does come at a premium. However, it's packed with some amazing features designed to make your online experience as stable as possible.

Its main selling point is it's a Wi-Fi 6E device, which allows you to have up to 10.8 Gbps streaming speed. It is roughly 9 times faster than Wi-Fi 5, making this NETGEAR device one of the fastest gaming routers on the market.

Moreover, it supports up to 60 connected devices, which is plenty for an entire family of gamers. It can even be used when friends come over for a session as dozens of devices can be connected to this one router at once. On top of all this, it has a 3,500 sq. ft. coverage, so it can easily be used in large houses as well.

Another huge advantage of the Netgear Nighthawk is how it looks. It features a sleek design, with eight powerful, hidden antennas rather than outdated external ones. Even if you live in a smaller home, there will still be a place for this router due to its compact size and stylish aesthetic.

In terms of protection, Nighthawk guarantees your security features for the first 30 days. After that, you'll need to pay for a subscription. However, we feel this is a small price to pay for a top-of-the-range Wi-Fi 6 device.

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Credit: TP-Link

5. TP-Link Archer C5400X

Best gaming router for control

The TP-Link Archer C5400X is an updated, gaming-focused version of the C5400 that looks like an excellent option for you to consider. It is on the more expensive side of things, but we feel its vast array of features more than makes up for it.

Firstly, it comes with one 2.4GHz band and two 5GHz bands. This router also utilises MU-MIMO and AirTime Fairness technology to ensure the highest possible throughput and response rate to give as smooth and stable a connection as possible.

Another advantage to the Archer C5400X is its compatibility with Alexa and IFTTT applets. With Alexa, you can easily manage your router, turn on LED lights, or switch to the guest network remotely. IFTTT allows for quick, effortless device and network control with a few clicks. Furthermore, you'll be alerted whenever someone connects to your network as an extra precaution.

However, the main advantage of this device is it comes with a lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare. So, you don’t need to pay for the extra security, antivirus, and parental control upon receiving it.

It is larger than most routers, but that means it can house a wide selection of ports as a result. So, whether you're looking to wire in multiple devices at once, or you're after a quick and stable wireless connection, this TP-Link device has you covered.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

No need to panic at this point. We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions below.

What is better for gaming - Dual-Band or Tri-Band?

Choosing between Dual-Band and Tri-Band is a complex question. Dual-Band routers support 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Tri-Band Wi-Fi routers do the same, but they have an extra 5GHz band, which allows you to connect more devices to the router.

If you live or plan to use it alone, there is no difference between Dual-Band and Tri-Band theoretically. However, if you live with a family, Tri-Band routers guarantee a stable internet connection even if the entire household is connected to the same net.

It's worth noting Tri-Band routers typically cost more. As a result, they do tend to be a slightly more serious investment, but one that could prove essential if you're struggling to obtain a stable connection online.

Why are gaming routers better?

If you’re a serious gamer, investing in a good gaming router is definitely worth it in our opinion.

They typically provide a much more reliable connection than their cheaper counterparts, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. They also offer improved, stable ping, which is essential for avoiding lag and other interruptions.

All in all, a gaming router is an invaluable asset for any player who wants to make the most out of their online gaming sessions.

Does a gaming router lower ping?

Gaming routers often employ special technologies to guarantee a steady ping for gamers. This can help you to avoid any connection issues while playing video games as you won't experience any dips in performance mid-session.

It's worth noting, however, that even high-quality non-gaming routers can guarantee a consistent, low ping. A gaming router's main benefit is that it can often handle more data, faster, making them superior to a standard device for downloading games, and playing while multiple people are connected.