10 Best routers 2026 in the United States

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS700S) stands out with its incredibly high speeds, capable of up to 19Gbps, making it ideal for intense online activities like real-time gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and AR/VR entertainment. Utilizing WiFi 7 technology, it offers significantly faster performance compared to previous standards.

The router boasts a robust coverage area of up to 3,500 sq. ft., which can comfortably support up to 200 devices, making it suitable for busy households or small businesses. Its tri-band capability ensures efficient handling of multiple devices without compromising speed or performance. The inclusion of a 10 Gig internet port alongside four 1 Gig LAN ports allows for ultra-fast wired connections.

In terms of security, the RS700S is equipped with NETGEAR Armor, offering real-time protection against cyber threats, further enhanced by automatic firmware updates. The 1-year Armor trial is a valuable addition for ensuring peace of mind. However, it's worth noting that this router is on the heavier side, weighing 5.17 pounds, and its relatively large dimensions may require adequate space for setup. Additionally, the advanced features and high performance come at a premium price, which might be on the higher end for some users. Despite these downsides, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S is a top-tier choice for those needing a powerful, secure, and future-proof router, particularly in environments with high internet usage demands.

The TP-Link Archer AX80 is a solid choice if you want a fast and reliable router for home use. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which means it can deliver high speeds—up to 4804 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 1148 Mbps on 2.4 GHz—making it great for activities like 8K streaming and gaming. With its dual-band setup and eight high-gain antennas using Beamforming technology, it offers good coverage that can reach a large area, reducing dead zones around your home. One standout feature is the 2.5 Gbps multi-gigabit WAN/LAN port, which lets you take advantage of very fast internet plans without bottlenecks.

The router also supports MU-MIMO and OFDMA, which help it handle many devices simultaneously with lower lag, ideal if you have several gadgets connected at once. On security, TP-Link’s HomeShield provides basic protections and parental controls to help keep your network safe and manage access. Plus, it’s compatible with Alexa for simple voice commands and supports the OneMesh system, so you can easily extend your Wi-Fi network with compatible range extenders.

Since it’s a dual-band router rather than tri-band, it might get a bit overwhelmed in very crowded wireless environments with many devices. Also, while the parental controls are useful, they are fairly basic compared to premium options on some other models. In terms of wired connections, it offers ample Ethernet ports but doesn’t mention USB ports for file sharing or printer support, which some users might miss. If you’re looking for a user-friendly, high-speed router that covers a typical home well and supports the newest Wi-Fi tech, the Archer AX80 is a strong contender.

The Amazon eero Max 7 mesh Wi-Fi router stands out as a robust option for users seeking high-speed internet and extensive coverage. Its support for Wi-Fi 7 technology means it delivers impressive speeds—up to 4.3 Gbps wirelessly and 9.4 Gbps over wired connections—making it suitable for activities that demand fast, stable internet, such as gaming or streaming in high-definition. With coverage extending up to 2,500 sq. ft. and the capacity to connect over 200 devices, this router is a great fit for larger households or smart homes with multiple devices connected simultaneously.

One of its major strengths is the advanced TrueMesh technology, which optimizes data paths to enhance reliability and reduce interference. This is particularly beneficial for setups with several devices, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted service. Additionally, the eero Max 7 includes advanced security features, with an optional eero Plus subscription that adds protection against online threats, an important consideration for families concerned about data safety.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the eero Max 7 is designed for high performance, it comes at a higher price point compared to some other routers on the market, which might not be ideal for budget-conscious consumers. Those who do not require the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology may find that earlier models, like Wi-Fi 6 routers, still meet their needs at a lower cost. Furthermore, to take full advantage of its features, users need a compatible modem and must be comfortable with smartphone app setups, which may not appeal to everyone.