Top 10 Routers of 2023 Reviewed: Unveiling the Best for Gaming, Streaming, and Smart Homes

Navigating the vast sea of Wi-Fi routers available on the market can be overwhelming, with a dizzying array of features, specifications, and price points. Yet, a high-quality router is the linchpin of a home network, the unsung hero orchestrating the flow of digital data to our myriad devices, ensuring our streaming is seamless, our gaming is glitch-free, and our virtual meetings are without interruption. In 2023, the evolution of routers has taken a significant leap forward, with advancements in Wi-Fi technology promising faster speeds, greater range, and more reliable connections to accommodate the ever-growing smart home ecosystem.

As we delve into the top 10 routers of 2023, we aim to spotlight the crème de la crème that have not only excelled in performance but also stood out in terms of innovation and user satisfaction. Whether you're a hardcore gamer in need of the lowest latency or a large household seeking extensive coverage, there's a router on this list tailored to every need and budget. We'll guide you through the elite selection, helping you decipher the tech jargon and focus on what really matters—finding the router that fits your lifestyle and lets you enjoy the internet to its fullest potential.

1. Netgear Orbi (tri-band, AX6000)

The Netgear Orbi AX6000 stands at the pinnacle of mesh router systems, offering exceptional performance coupled with advanced features. As a tri-band system, it includes a dedicated 5GHz backhaul channel, ensuring that the satellite units communicate with the main router without impeding the bandwidth available to your devices. This is especially beneficial in large homes where maintaining high-speed connectivity across a vast area is crucial.

The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 technology is a significant advantage, allowing more efficient data encoding, resulting in higher throughput — particularly in dense, congested environments. This technology also enhances the battery life of your Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices due to the Target Wake Time feature. The Orbi AX6000 is not just about speed; it also offers robust parental controls and cybersecurity features, safeguarding your network from potential threats. If you're in a large household with heavy internet usage, streaming 4K content, gaming, and relying on smart home devices, the Netgear Orbi AX6000 is an investment in a seamless and future-proofed Wi-Fi experience.

2. Asus RT-AX86U

The Asus RT-AX86U is a gamer's dream router, balancing high performance with a suite of features tailored to gaming. This Wi-Fi 6 router excels with its lower latency and faster speeds, giving gamers the edge they need for competitive play. The RT-AX86U not only facilitates smoother in-game action but also includes options for prioritizing gaming traffic to ensure that data packets related to your gaming sessions are given the VIP treatment.

Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) is another standout feature, letting you prioritize devices and applications. Moreover, the RT-AX86U is equipped with a 2.5G port for high-speed internet connectivity, which is a boon for streaming and gaming alike. With Asus' AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro, the router also includes lifetime security updates to keep your network safe from intruders and malware. For gamers seeking a robust, high-performance router that can handle the rigors of high-stakes gaming while also offering a stable network for other uses, the Asus RT-AX86U is a top contender.

3. TP-Link Deco W7200

The TP-Link Deco W7200 emerges as a formidable player in the mesh router arena, striking an excellent balance between performance, range, and price. With Wi-Fi 6 under the hood, this mesh system is designed to cater to the needs of modern homes brimming with connected devices. The tri-band design includes a dedicated backhaul to ensure communication between units is robust and doesn't compete with devices for bandwidth.

The Deco W7200 is adept at managing a network's demands, providing ample coverage that can comfortably blanket a medium to large home with reliable Wi-Fi. It's particularly appealing for those who want a mesh system that doesn't compromise on speed and reliability but also doesn't break the bank. The setup is straightforward, courtesy of the TP-Link Deco app, which also provides advanced features like parental controls and monthly usage reports. For those looking for a mesh system that combines affordability with the benefits of Wi-Fi 6, the TP-Link Deco W7200 is a compelling option.

4. Linksys Hydra Pro 6 (MR5500)

The Linksys Hydra Pro 6 (MR5500) router presents itself as a formidable midrange option that doesn't skimp on power. With dual-band AX5400 speeds, the Hydra Pro 6 is well-suited to the demands of a contemporary home bustling with online activity. Its Wi-Fi 6 capability ensures that multiple users streaming, gaming, or engaging in high-bandwidth activities can do so with minimal interference and maximized efficiency.

This router's strength lies in its ability to sustain multiple simultaneous connections, thanks to the latest wireless standard, offering families the convenience of uninterrupted connectivity. Beyond its performance, the Hydra Pro 6 offers an intuitive setup process and management via the Linksys app, making it accessible even for those who might not be tech-savvy. For households looking for a router that balances speed, device handling, and price, the Linksys Hydra Pro 6 stands out as a strong candidate.

5. TP-Link Archer AX21

The TP-Link Archer AX21 shines as a budget-friendly router that punches above its weight, providing reliable performance for small to medium-sized homes. It capitalizes on Wi-Fi 6 technology, offering users the benefits of improved speeds and range over previous generations. The Archer AX21 is particularly adept at handling multiple devices, which is a boon for the modern connected family.

Price-wise, it represents a sweet spot for those who want to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6 without a significant financial outlay. Its setup and management are streamlined through the TP-Link Tether app, making network administration a breeze. For those who are cost-conscious but still desire a router that can meet the demands of streaming, remote work, and online schooling, the TP-Link Archer AX21 emerges as the best budget router.

6. Netgear Orbi (dual-band, AC1200)

Netgear's Orbi (dual-band, AC1200) system provides a budget-conscious mesh solution for those seeking to eliminate dead zones without the premium price tag of more advanced systems. Although it lacks Wi-Fi 6 support, it still delivers dependable coverage that can cater to the needs of most modern homes with ease.

This Orbi variant shines in user-friendliness, offering a simple setup process and easy network management, which can be particularly appealing to those new to mesh systems. Its dual-band technology ensures that your home is covered, and while it may not support the latest Wi-Fi standard, it compensates with a stable and robust network experience for everyday tasks. For those who are looking for a cost-effective way to enhance their home network's coverage, the Netgear Orbi AC1200 mesh system stands as a compelling choice.

7. TP-Link Archer AXE75

The TP-Link Archer AXE75 represents the Archer series' commitment to blending high performance with cost-effectiveness, and it presumably comes with Wi-Fi 6 support. This likely means the AXE75 is equipped to handle multiple devices with ease, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming, even in busy network environments. Wi-Fi 6's efficiency not only boosts speed but also reduces network congestion, making this router a smart choice for households with a plethora of connected gadgets.

One can expect the Archer AXE75 to carry the series' hallmark of user-friendly setup and management, possibly through the TP-Link Tether app, which offers network management at your fingertips. Features such as beamforming, which directs signal strength to where it's needed most, and OFDMA for better data flow, are likely to be included, enhancing the router's appeal to those seeking a robust Wi-Fi experience without a hefty price tag.

8. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro

The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Pro is engineered for the most demanding gamers, providing a top-of-the-line gaming experience with triple-level game acceleration to optimize your connection from the device to the game server. With Wi-Fi 6 support, it promises lower latency and faster speeds, which are crucial during high-octane gaming sessions. The router's extensive customization options allow gamers to tweak settings to their exact preferences.

However, the GT-AX11000 Pro comes with a premium price, positioning it as a luxury choice rather than a necessity for the average user. For those who are not into competitive gaming, the price might not justify the performance benefits. But for gamers who demand the very best and are willing to invest in their gaming infrastructure, the GT-AX11000 Pro could be a game-changer.

9. Asus ROG Strix GS-AX5400

The Asus ROG Strix GS-AX5400 is another offering from Asus' gaming arsenal, providing solid gaming performance with a focus on enhancing network speeds and reliability for gaming devices. Similar to the GT-AX11000 Pro, it likely boasts gaming-centric features that prioritize gaming packets and reduce latency, ensuring that players aren't left behind due to network issues.

However, the ROG Strix GS-AX5400 may not offer the same value for users with general networking needs. Its gaming optimizations are specifically tailored to enhance online gameplay, which may not translate to significant benefits for streaming or everyday internet use. For non-gamers, this router may offer more than what is necessary, leading to a cost-benefit mismatch. Nonetheless, for gamers looking for a performance edge with a slightly less intimidating price than the GT-AX11000 Pro, the GS-AX5400 is a worthy contender.

10. TP-Link Archer AX10 (AX1500)

Rounding off the selection is the TP-Link Archer AX10 (AX1500), a router that caters to the essential needs of a modern smart home while remaining accessible price-wise. As an entry-level Wi-Fi 6 router, the Archer AX10 is designed for users who need a reliable internet connection without the bells and whistles of higher-end models. This router is adept at handling everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming HD videos, and attending video calls with efficiency.

The AX10 comes with the advantage of Wi-Fi 6 technology, which means it's better at managing multiple devices than its Wi-Fi 5 predecessors, and it can provide faster speeds to compatible devices. This router is also expected to offer a user-friendly interface for setup and network management, consistent with TP-Link's approach to their devices. For those looking for a straightforward, no-frills Wi-Fi experience, the TP-Link Archer AX10 (AX1500) is an ideal and budget-friendly choice that doesn't skimp on the core benefits of Wi-Fi 6.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right router can elevate your digital lifestyle, ensuring robust connectivity across devices. The models reviewed here cater to varied needs, from the Netgear Orbi AX6000's extensive mesh network coverage to the Asus RT-AX86U's specialized gaming features, and down to the TP-Link Archer AX10's affordability. Users must weigh their specific needs against these offerings to secure a router that not only delivers performance but also aligns with their household's digital demands.

The landscape of home networking teems with options, each promising to keep pace with the advancements in internet technology. Embrace the change, choose wisely, and your selected router will serve as the backbone of your home's connectivity, ready to support the increasing number of smart devices and the growing demand for stable internet. With the right router, seamless streaming, gaming, and uninterrupted connectivity become the norm, not the exception.