Gaming routers are important for serious online gamers. These routers reduce lag and increase speeds. The best gaming routers in 2024 have Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 technology, high-speed ports, and tools to manage network traffic. It’s important to choose the right gaming router for a smooth and lag-free online gaming experience. This guide lists the top 10 gaming routers of 2024, considering factors like speed, features, and price.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive esports enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect router to improve your gameplay and keep you connected. The top picks for 2024 include the Asus GT-AXE11000 and TP-Link Archer GE800. These routers have fast processors and multiple antennas to cover large homes. They also have special settings to ensure games run smoothly. Choosing the right gaming router can make a big difference in how well online games perform, reducing lag spikes and disconnects. This leads to a better gaming experience, especially for fast-paced games.
Top 10 Gaming Routers of 2024
1. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000: The Ultimate Beast
If you crave top-tier performance and the latest tech, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 is the undisputed champion. This Wi-Fi 6E powerhouse boasts blazing-fast speeds, exceptional range, and a plethora of gaming-centric features. It’s a pricey investment, but for the ultimate gaming experience, it’s worth every penny.
2. TP-Link Archer GE800: The Affordable Wi-Fi 7 Contender
Wi-Fi 7 is the future, and the TP-Link Archer GE800 brings it to your doorstep at a surprisingly reasonable price. This tri-band router delivers impressive speeds and low latency, making it an excellent choice for gamers on a budget who want to stay ahead of the curve.
3. Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500: Wi-Fi 6E with Killer Performance
The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is a Wi-Fi 6E beast that excels in both speed and range. Its dedicated 6GHz band ensures smooth gameplay even in crowded networks, while its powerful processor handles multiple devices with ease.
4. ASUS RT-AX86U: Reliable and Feature-Packed
The ASUS RT-AX86U is a solid choice for gamers seeking a reliable and feature-packed router. It offers excellent Wi-Fi 6 performance, robust parental controls, and a user-friendly interface. It’s a versatile option that caters to both gaming and everyday use.
5. TP-Link Archer AX6000: Budget-Friendly Powerhouse
The TP-Link Archer AX6000 delivers impressive Wi-Fi 6 performance at a more affordable price point. It boasts a dedicated gaming band, adaptive QoS, and a sleek design. It’s a great option for gamers who want a solid upgrade without breaking the bank.
6. Netgear Nighthawk XR1000: Gaming-Focused Features
The Netgear Nighthawk XR1000 is a dedicated gaming router with a focus on features tailored for gamers. It offers a customizable gaming dashboard, geo-filtering, and network prioritization. Its DumaOS 3.0 software provides a user-friendly interface and advanced control over your network.
7. ASUS TUF Gaming AX5400: Durability Meets Performance
The ASUS TUF Gaming AX5400 combines durability with solid Wi-Fi 6 performance. Its military-grade components and rugged design ensure it can handle the rigors of intense gaming sessions. It also offers a dedicated gaming port and adaptive QoS for optimal performance.
8. Linksys Hydra Pro 6E: Wi-Fi 6E for the Masses
The Linksys Hydra Pro 6E is a more affordable Wi-Fi 6E router that delivers good performance and range. Its compact design and easy setup make it a user-friendly option for gamers and families alike.
9. TP-Link Archer C80: Solid Performance for the Price
The TP-Link Archer C80 is a budget-friendly router that offers solid Wi-Fi 5 performance for the price. It’s a good choice for casual gamers or those on a tight budget who still want a reliable connection.
10. Netgear Orbi RBK852: Mesh Wi-Fi for Larger Homes
If you have a large home with multiple floors or thick walls, the Netgear Orbi RBK852 mesh Wi-Fi system is an excellent option. It provides seamless coverage and eliminates dead zones, ensuring a strong and stable connection throughout your house.
Gaming Router Comparison Table
| Router | Wi-Fi Standard | Max Speed | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 | Wi-Fi 6E | 16,000 Mbps | Quad-core CPU, 2.5G port, 10G port, RGB lighting | $$$$ |
| TP-Link Archer GE800 | Wi-Fi 7 | 19,000 Mbps | Tri-band, EasyMesh compatible, HomeShield security | $$$ |
| Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 | Wi-Fi 6E | 10,800 Mbps | Quad-core processor, 2.5G port, Armor security | $$$ |
| ASUS RT-AX86U | Wi-Fi 6 | 5,700 Mbps | Dual-core processor, Adaptive QoS, AiProtection Pro | $$ |
| TP-Link Archer AX6000 | Wi-Fi 6 | 6,000 Mbps | Dedicated gaming band, HomeCare security | $$ |
| Netgear Nighthawk XR1000 | Wi-Fi 6 | 5,400 Mbps | DumaOS 3.0, geo-filtering, network prioritization | $$ |
| ASUS TUF Gaming AX5400 | Wi-Fi 6 | 5,400 Mbps | Military-grade components, dedicated gaming port | $$ |
| Linksys Hydra Pro 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | 5,400 Mbps | Tri-band, Intelligent Mesh technology | $$ |
| TP-Link Archer C80 | Wi-Fi 5 | 1,900 Mbps | MU-MIMO, Beamforming, parental controls | $ |
| Netgear Orbi RBK852 | Wi-Fi 6 | 6,000 Mbps | Tri-band mesh system, seamless coverage | $$$$ |
Key Takeaways
- Gaming routers use new Wi-Fi tech and special features to improve online play
- Top models offer fast speeds and tools to reduce lag
- The right router can make games run more smoothly and prevent disconnects
Evaluating Top Gaming Routers of 2024
Gaming routers in 2024 offer faster speeds and better features than ever before. They help reduce lag and improve online gaming. Let’s look at the top options for different budgets and needs.
High-End Market: Features and Performance
The best high-end gaming routers pack powerful features. The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 stands out with its Wi-Fi 6E support. It has a fast 5Gb WAN port and eight antennas for wide coverage. This router can handle many devices at once without slowing down.
Another top choice is the TP-Link Archer AX11000. It has three bands for less network traffic. The 1.8 GHz quad-core CPU helps it process data quickly. It also has eight Gigabit LAN ports for wired connections.
These routers use QoS (Quality of Service) to give gaming traffic priority. This means less lag during online play. They also have strong security features to keep networks safe.
Mid-Range and Budget-Friendly Choices
Not everyone needs the most expensive router. The Asus RT-AX82U is a good mid-range pick. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and has gaming-focused features. The mobile app makes it easy to set up and control.
For tight budgets, the Netgear Nighthawk XR1000 is worth looking at. It uses DumaOS 3.0 for better gaming performance. It has four antennas and can cover homes up to 2,500 square feet.
These routers still offer good speed and low latency. They may have fewer antennas or ports than high-end models. But they work well for most gamers who don’t need extra features.
Advancements in Networking Technology
New tech is making gaming routers better. Wi-Fi 6E adds a 6 GHz band for less crowded connections. Some routers now support Wi-Fi 7, which is even faster.
OFDMA lets routers talk to many devices at once. This cuts down on waiting time for data. Beamforming sends Wi-Fi signals right to devices instead of spreading them out.
More powerful CPUs and extra RAM help routers handle more tasks. Multi-gig ports support speeds over 1 Gbps for the fastest internet plans. These features mean smoother gaming and fewer problems, even with lots of devices online.
Optimizing Your Gaming Setup
A great gaming router needs the right settings to work its best. Tweaking a few key areas can make your online games run smoother.
Network Management and Gaming Prioritization
Gaming routers have special features to make games run better. Quality of Service (QoS) controls let you put gaming traffic first. This means your game data gets sent before other internet traffic. Many routers have a gaming mode or Game Boost button. These turn on settings that help games.
Some routers have apps to control settings. You can use these to change QoS rules easily. Look for options to give games the most bandwidth. You may also be able to set up a gaming port. This is a special LAN port just for your gaming device.
Compatibility and Connectivity Options
Wired connections are best for gaming. They give the fastest and most stable link. Most gaming routers have several LAN ports for wired hookups. Some even have special high-speed ports.
For wireless, look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards. Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E offer better speed and less lag. Mesh Wi-Fi systems can help if you need coverage in a large home.
Link aggregation is a useful feature. It lets you combine two Ethernet ports for faster speeds. This can help if you have a very fast internet plan.
Ensuring Robust Security and Reliability
Security is key for any network, including gaming setups. Look for routers with strong encryption like WPA3. Many gaming routers have built-in malware protection. This helps keep your devices safe from online threats.
Regular firmware updates are important. They fix bugs and add new features. Set your router to update automatically if you can. This keeps your network secure and running well.
Parental controls are handy for families. They let you set time limits and block certain sites. This helps keep kids safe online while still letting them play games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gaming routers can boost your online gaming experience. Here are some common questions about gaming routers in 2024.
Which routers provide the best performance for gaming on Xbox Series X in 2024?
The Asus GT-AXE11000 is a top pick for Xbox Series X gaming. It has Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G WAN port. These features help reduce lag and speed up downloads.
What are the top gaming routers for optimal performance on PS5 as of 2024?
The Netgear Nighthawk series works well with PS5 consoles. These routers have strong Wi-Fi signals and fast speeds. They also have special settings for gaming.
What are the best budget-friendly gaming routers available in 2024?
The TP-Link AC1750 is a good cheap option. It offers solid speeds and range for its price. This router works for casual gamers who don’t need the fanciest features.
How does one select a router for gaming and streaming purposes?
Look for routers with fast Wi-Fi speeds and good range. Check for gaming-specific features like QoS. Make sure the router can handle multiple devices at once.
What routers are favored by professional gamers in 2024?
Pro gamers often use high-end routers like the ASUS ROG Rapture series. These routers have very fast speeds and lots of gaming features. They can handle intense online gaming sessions.
What features to consider when choosing a router for high-speed gaming?
Check for Wi-Fi 6 or 6E support. Look for multiple antennas and strong processors. Gaming modes and traffic prioritization are also useful. Ethernet ports are key for wired connections.
