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The best gaming routers: Say goodbye to Wi-Fi lag
You’ve already got a killer gaming laptop, top-of-the-line peripherals, and even a comfortable gaming chair. Now all you need to compete online (apart from some skill, but you’re on your own there) is a killer gaming router. Not only will this virtually eliminate lag when playing on Wi-Fi, but they also offer other special benefits like gigabit ethernet ports and software solutions to prioritize bandwidth for your game.
If you’re looking to take your wireless gaming to the next level, here are the best gaming routers on the market in 2021.
Also read: The bests overall Wi-Fi routers
The best gaming routers:
Editor’s note: We’ll be updating this list of the best gaming routers regularly as new ones launch.
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000
As far as gaming routers go, you won’t find a more fitting example than the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000. Not only does its sci-fi spider look fit the gamer aesthetic, but it’s also one of the fastest and most powerful routers on the market.
With full support for Wi-Fi 6E, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 can handle speeds of up to 11,000Mbps. It also supports the new 6GHz frequency, made for higher performance. There’s a 2.5G LAN port that is prioritized for improved gaming. You’ll also enjoy great features like VPN support, integrated security, game acceleration, and more. It’s truly among the best gaming routers, but you’ll have to pay a pretty penny for it.
ASUS RT-AX82U
If ASUS’ premier gaming router is too expensive, the RT-AX82U is a great alternative. Next-gen Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 5,400Mbps are supported. It also looks the part, mimicking a spaceship aesthetic gamers will love. There’s even RGB lighting, which we know you’re all crazy about!
While it’s much more affordable, this gaming router can still give you the winning edge. One of the ports is prioritized, and you can customize the experience using the dedicated app. Users will also enjoy security features, as well as AiMesh support.
NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500
This little spaceship is arguably the coolest-looking gaming router of the bunch, but the NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 isn’t all about aesthetics. It’s a powerful (and expensive) option for demanding users. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and has access to a 6GHz dedicated band.
You can also take advantage of blazing 10.8Gbps speeds and a coverage of up to 3,500Sqft. Don’t worry about having a congested network either. This little spaceship can connect with up to 60 devices at a time. It’s one mighty gaming router!
TP-Link Archer AX11000
The TP-Link Archer AX11000 takes that spider look aesthetic to the next level, actually featuring eight external antennas. You’ll get excellent speeds of over 10Gbps, powered by a couple of 5GHz bands and a 2.4GHz band for less intensive devices.
Read also: The best gaming PC desktops
It also comes with other gaming-specific features, such as automatic gaming optimizations, statistics, LAN connectivity, and a dedicated gaming band. It’s also a bit of a smart device, as you can control it using Alexa.
Amplifi Alien
Amplifi is a lesser-known brand, but they make one of the best gaming routers out there. The Amplifi Alien is quite the looker, but it’s also a powerful device that can give you that winning edge you’re looking for.
Related: The best mesh routers
You get all the bells and whistles, including Wi-Fi 6, gigabit mesh performance, up to 7,685Mbps speeds, VPN support, and up to 3,000Sqft of coverage per unit. You get options for controlling it. The app is great, but it might be easier to reach out and get stats using the integrated touchscreen. Now that’s something you don’t often see in a router!
Linksys Hydra Pro 6E
The last entry on our list of the best gaming routers may not look the part, but it will indeed perform like one of the more gamey-looking options. It packs Wi-Fi 6E technology, capable of 6.6Gbps speeds. Then there’s a 5 gigabit WAN for super-fast internet connections.
One unit can also cover areas of up to 2,700Sqft. If that’s not enough, you can also use mesh technology and connect it with other compatible routers. You can use it with over 55 devices at once, so no gadget will be left behind.
Are you looking for more gaming gear? Check out the links below and see if you can get yourself any more gear.
More gaming recommendations: