10 Best routers 2025 in the United States

The TP-Link AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (Archer AXE75) is designed for users who demand high-speed internet for various activities like gaming, streaming, and browsing. With speeds up to 5400 Mbps across its three bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and the new 6 GHz), it offers impressive performance, especially beneficial for households with multiple devices. The inclusion of OFDMA technology allows for better bandwidth management, meaning more devices can connect simultaneously without a significant drop in performance.

This router's 1.7 GHz Quad-Core CPU and 512 MB of RAM enhance its processing capabilities, making it well-equipped to handle demanding applications and heavy network traffic. Moreover, the OneMesh feature is a plus for users looking to extend their Wi-Fi coverage seamlessly across larger homes by connecting with compatible TP-Link extenders.

Security is another highlight, with TP-Link HomeShield providing essential features like security scanning and parental controls, ensuring a safe online environment. The support for VPNs is also beneficial for users needing secure internet access. The router's higher price point may not be justified for users with simpler internet needs or smaller homes. Additionally, while setup is generally straightforward, those who aren't tech-savvy might face challenges configuring advanced settings. Lastly, it requires a separate modem for most internet service providers, which could add to the total cost if you don’t already have one. The TP-Link AXE5400 is a solid choice for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and larger households needing robust internet connectivity. Its speed, capacity, and security features make it a powerful option, although casual users might find it more than what they require.

The TP-Link Deco AX3000 WiFi 6 Mesh System (Deco X55) is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home network with robust coverage and advanced technology. It boasts impressive Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, delivering speeds of up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, which is great for streaming, gaming, and connecting multiple devices. With a coverage area of up to 6500 square feet and the ability to connect up to 150 devices, this mesh system effectively eliminates dead zones and buffering, making it ideal for larger homes or those with many smart devices.

One of its standout features is the AI-driven mesh technology, which adapts to your home's unique layout, ensuring a seamless connection throughout. The inclusion of three Gigabit Ethernet ports per unit also allows for wired connections, which can enhance speed and stability, especially for devices like gaming consoles or smart TVs.

Setting up the network is user-friendly, thanks to the Deco app, which guides you through the installation and management process. It also supports voice commands via Alexa, making it convenient to control guest networks and device access.

The TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX55) is a solid choice for home users and gamers. With support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, it delivers impressive speeds of up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. This ensures smooth streaming and fast downloads, making it suitable for activities such as gaming, video streaming, and handling multiple devices simultaneously. The router operates on a dual-band frequency, which is ideal for most households as it offers a good balance between speed and coverage without the complexity of tri-band routers. The inclusion of OFDMA technology helps reduce latency and jitter during high-traffic periods, providing a more responsive experience for users.

Security is a highlight with TP-Link HomeShield, offering basic network security, parental controls, and weekly/monthly reports to keep your home network safe. The router also supports VPN capabilities, adding an extra layer of privacy for users working from home or accessing sensitive data. Another strength is its coverage area. With four high-gain external antennas and Beamforming technology, it extends reliable Wi-Fi signals throughout a larger home, reducing dead spots and maintaining stable connections. The Archer AX55 features a simple but efficient cooling design, ensuring it runs smoothly without overheating. Additionally, it is Alexa-compatible for seamless voice control integration.

On the downside, while it's compatible with various internet service providers, it requires a separate modem, which could be an additional cost for some users. Also, although it includes basic security and parental controls for free, accessing advanced features may require a subscription. At 1.66 pounds and measuring 12.99 x 9.45 x 2.87 inches, it's a manageable size for most setups.