Seamless connectivity and security are two basic expectations when buying a Wi-Fi router. You don’t want poor signals/speeds or hackers accessing your network, right? However, our needs from a Wi-Fi router vary, so I cannot recommend specific devices. The better option is to check out the best Wi-Fi router brands you can rely on.
This guide lists the top 5 Wi-Fi router brands for overall security and connectivity.
How We Chose
I kept the following things in mind while choosing the best Wi-Fi router brands for overall security as well as connectivity.
- Reputation: Brand reputation is an essential factor, as I want the product to be reliable. I wanted to ensure that the after-purchase services are also excellent. Also, choosing an ill-reputed company for your Wi-Fi router needs isn’t a good idea.
- Connectivity Standards: I have included Wi-Fi router brands that upgrade their devices to the latest available connectivity standards. In particular, I have given credit for on-time firmware updates and built-in security features.
- Advanced Features: These days, basic Wi-Fi connectivity does not cut it. So, I have checked whether the selected Wi-Fi router brands equip their devices with extra features. In particular, I was looking for things like Guest Network, VPN support, and mesh networking.
- Variety of Options: As I said in the introduction, people expect different things from Wi-Fi routers. This means that a great Wi-Fi router brand should offer a variety of devices. Most brands that we have picked offer conventional and mesh Wi-Fi routers.
- Compatibility: Another factor I considered while picking a router brand was the compatibility with ISPs. Keeping this point in mind, I have picked brands that are widely used by customers in the United States.
Because I have followed these criteria, you can rely on each brand on the list.
Top 5 Best Router Brands to Consider
Without further ado, we shall check out the top 15 best router brands to consider when you want the best overall security and connectivity. Fortunately, most of these manufacturers have different lineups for many subsectors, such as gaming and performance.
#1 NETGEAR
NETGEAR is a United States-based electronics manufacturer known for its reliable Wi-Fi routers and network equipment. The Wi-Fi routers from NETGEAR are widely compatible with internet service providers around the globe, making them a great choice for everyone. NETGEAR has, over time, rolled out a number of Wi-Fi router lineups:
- Nighthawk: for Gaming and Performance
- Orbi Series: for Mesh Wi-Fi Networking
- RAX Series: Wi-Fi 6 Routers
- RAXE Series: Wi-Fi 6E Routers
- RS Series: Wi-Fi 7 Routers
Top 3 Routers from NETGEAR
#1 NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S WiFi 7 (BE19000)
This Wi-Fi 7 router from NETGEAR belongs to the Nighthawk lineup. It packs so much power to offer you a top speed of 19 Gbps and a variety of wired ports. The triple-band design offers the best speed and latency if you are into gaming. Overall, this Nighthawk router is a great way to future-proof your home network.
#2 NETGEAR RAX50 Nighthawk AX6
The NETGEAR RAX50 Nighthawk AX6 is a Wi-Fi 6 router that you can rely on for seamless connectivity. Since it doesn’t cost a lot, it can be a great option for many families. In addition to a total throughput of 5.4 Gbps, this NETGEAR router offers NETGEAR Armor security as well.
#3 NETGEAR Orbi 870
This mesh Wi-Fi router from the Orbi lineup is a great option when you need a zero-compromise and whole-house network. It can offer coverage for up to 9000 sq. ft, making it a great option for larger homes. A three-pack variant of the Orbi 870 can handle up to 21 Gbps of data and 150 devices.
Why Is It Best?
All modern routers from NETGEAR ship with standard security options and performance boosts. The maker also launches dedicated management apps, such as the Nighthawk app for Android and iOS. Routers from NETGEAR are also great for the speeds they offer when used with US-based ISPs. Premium models also pack advanced QoS features, letting you customize your Internet experience.
#2 ASUS
ASUS, the Taiwanese electronics manufacturer, has been making some impressive Wi-Fi routers for quite a few years now. The company comes up with a variety of Wi-Fi routers for different needs, like performance, gaming, and security. ASUS is also known for introducing additional security and convenience-based features into the router packages. Some router lineups from ASUS are:
- ROG Rapture Series: for Gaming
- RT-AX Series: Wi-Fi 6 Routers
- RT-BE Series: Wi-Fi 7 Routers
- ZenWiFi Series: For Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
- TUF Gaming Series: Affordable gaming routers
Top 3 Routers from ASUS
#1 ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro
With a maximum throughput of 30 Gbps, ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro is one of the most powerful gaming Wi-Fi routers you can get from ASUS. In addition to standard security features, ASUS has optimized this router for gaming, offering a seamless experience.
#2 ASUS RT-BE92U
If you are looking for a future-proof Wi-Fi 7 router, you should check out the ASUS RT-BE92U. It can handle a total of 9.7 Gbps of data, and it uses Multi-Link Operation for the best results. You can easily set up a mesh network using compatible routers/extenders from ASUS.
#3 ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD5
With a maximum supported throughput of 3 Gbps, ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD5 is an awesome pick for whole-home coverage. This Wi-Fi 6 router offers incredible power while keeping the setup minimal. You can use it to power small and large networks.
Why Is It Best?
ASUS routers are not only stable, but they also pack a number of features for security and productivity. For instance, AiMesh lets you set up a mesh network using existing hardware. The built-in security features are also a great value for most users, especially if you need the best performance and speed. We also love the router management UI.
#3 TP-Link
TP-Link is another Wi-Fi router brand that you can trust when you prioritize overall connectivity and security. This Wi-Fi router vendor from China has kept a global presence for decades. It also offers a wider variety of router options, including conventional and mesh networking ones. The major Wi-Fi router lineups from TP-Link are:
- Archer BE: Wi-Fi 7 routers
- Archer GE: Gaming Wi-Fi routers
- Deco series: Mesh Wi-Fi routers
- TL-WR Series: Entry-level Wi-Fi 7 routers
Top 3 Routers from TP-Link
#1 TP-Link Archer GX90 (AX6600)
You should consider the TP-Link Archer GX90 (AX6600) if you need the best gaming performance from your Wi-Fi connection. This Wi-Fi 6 router packs a lot of energy, offering a combined throughput of 10 Gbps and 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports. You also get a number of features to accelerate the gaming experience.
#2 TP-Link Archer AX21 (AX1800)
The TP-Link Archer AX21 (AX1800) is a better option if you want to keep things under budget. It is a Wi-Fi 6 router that can handle up to 1.8 Gbps of throughput. You also get security features like parental control and VPN support. You can also use compatible devices to create a mesh network.
#3 TP-Link Deco XE75 Pro
You may want to think about the TP-Link Deco XE75 Pro if you like to create a mesh network with minimal to zero compromise in performance. The tri-band router offers a total bandwidth of 5.4 Gbps and can easily handle up to 300 devices.
Why Is It Best?
Wi-Fi routers from TP-Link are powerful, budget-friendly, and easy to use for the most part. You won’t have trouble setting things up and creating a secure Wi-Fi network within minutes. You can count on the value-added features from the TP-Link package as well. Also, you get a variety of products to choose from, starting with conventional routers and travel-friendly portable options.
#4 Synology
Synology may not be as popular as the other brands I have talked about. However, this US-based company is known for making some of the most secure Wi-Fi routers on the market. Synology’s expertise in creating network-attached storage devices has been instrumental in popularizing its routers. The software features you get from Synology routers are also state-of-the-art.
Unlike other brands, Synology does not have multiple lineups. Instead, its current lineup offers four routers that users can choose from based on their requirements. While the collection is not massive, home users who need the best security for their network will be satisfied with what Synology offers.
Top 3 Routers from Synology
#1 Synology RT6600ax
Synology RT6600ax is one of the best options you can get today, as this Wi-Fi 6 router packs top-notch speed and performance options. It offers a combined speed of up to 6.6 Gbps and can easily cover areas as large as 3,500 sq. ft. The router also packs various ports, making it an easier option for home use.
#2 Synology WRX560
I’d recommend checking out the Synology WRX560 if you thought the first option was overkill. Although this router offers the benefits of Wi-Fi 6, the combined speed is only 3 Gbps. The quad-core processor built into the router can offer a decent gaming experience as well.
#3 Synology RT2600ac
If you want to cut down the costs further, you should consider getting the Synology RT2600ac. This dual-band Wi-Fi 5 router can fulfill your networking requirements without costing a lot. For what it’s worth, you’d get four Ethernet ports and a total speed of 2.6 Gbps.
Why Is It Best?
Unlike the brands we have talked about, Synology focuses on network performance and security. As I said, it debuted by offering network-attached storage options. The most important reason to get a Synology router is the Synology Router Manager software. It offers many enterprise-grade features, including traffic control, VPN support, and remote network management.
#5 Linksys
Linksys is a California-based company that has been making some popular Wi-Fi routers since 1998. The Wi-Fi routers from Linksys have become a household name in the United States. Users love these routers for the best-in-class performance and additional features. Many models from the company offer support for third-party router firmware as well. The current lineups from Linksys are:
- E Series: Budget-friendly Wi-Fi Routers
- MR Series: Smart Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
- Velop Series: Enhanced Mesh Routers
- WRT Series: Offers third-party firmware support
- Hydra Pro Series: Wi-Fi 6E Routers
Top 3 Routers from Linksys
#1 Linksys Hydra Pro 6E
Linksys Hydra Pro 6E is one of the most powerful Wi-Fi routers you can get from the company. This tri-band Wi-Fi 6 router has been optimized for gaming and performance, and it can cover up to 2,700 sq. ft. It also works with the mesh-ready system that many Linksys routers support.
#2 Linksys MR7350
If you are looking for value without breaking your bank, you should check out the Linksys MR7350. You get a total speed of 1.8 Gbps, and there are many hardware ports to rely on. Linksys has also added support for mesh networks, allowing you to use the router with existing Velop hardware.
#3 Linksys Atlas MX2000
If you have a large home with a lot of devices, you may want to check out the Linksys Atlas MX2000. This mesh Wi-Fi router can handle up to 3 Gbps speed, and you can expand the coverage using additional nodes or any compatible router from Linksys. The dual-band system offers incredible value for most people.
Why Is It Best?
Linksys brings an impressive balance of features and reliability. For instance, you get a great suite of quality control and security options, including QoS and parental controls. I also feel like Linksys gets to focus on its product lineups because there aren’t thousands of Wi-Fi router models. Overall, you get great value for the money you pay as well.
Additional Mentions
I have listed five brands that you can rely on when you prioritize seamless connectivity and security. But you should also consider some other brands, which don’t offer as many Wi-Fi routers as others. They are:
- Google Nest: You get an impressive line of mesh Wi-Fi routers from Google. These offer impressive connectivity and security while keeping the setup process as minimal as possible.
- Amazon Eero: You should also consider the Wi-Fi router lineup from Amazon Eero. You get to choose from multiple options based on coverage.
Wrapping Up
I hope this guide helped you narrow down the number of Wi-Fi routers you can shortlist. By choosing a great brand in the first place, you cut down the process by a long shot. Now that you have done that, you get to focus on specifics, including the minute details.
