Best Gaming Routers 2024 (Reviews and Buyer’s Guide)

best gaming router

Being a professional gamer, you must use a very stable WiFi network. Professional gamers cannot afford to have issues or lag during the crucial moments of the game. Suppose you are a pro gamer who uses powerful gaming components to play the best online PC games. In that case, you shouldn’t compromise on your router. To have a stable/reliable connection and uninterrupted online gaming. You will need the best gaming routers for pro gamers in 2024.

In fact, these routers have the ability to prioritize the network traffic to your gaming session. Thanks to the little feature called QoS (Quality of Service). These routers are powerful, and even some of them use MU-MIMO technology to further stabilize the network.

Let’s Have a look at the gaming routers for pro gamers.

Best Gaming Router 2024

You may like:
Best Mesh Wi-Fi
Best Gaming Laptop
The Best Gaming Monitor

Editor’s Choice

TP-Link Archer C5400 v2

Acer Nitro 5

Powerful
Best for gamers
Long Range
Runner Up

Netgear Nighthawk Pro

Asus VivoBook 15.6

No signal drops
Lag Free gaming
Efficient

Buyersguide

What is the Best Router for Gaming?

Choosing the best gaming WiFi router isn’t as easy as it looks. There are plenty of factors that you should keep in mind while buying one. If you are a newbie or someone with zero knowledge regarding routers, we are here to guide you. Below are some of the significant characteristics of a Gaming Router discussed to help you choose the ideal one.

Wired or Wireless, Which one is better?

Choosing between a wired and wireless router, wired routers are considered as more traditional ones than wireless. Similarly, Wireless routers are getting enhanced day by day, making it hard for us to decide which one to go with. You should know the working mechanism of both and then determine. In wired routers, LAN (Local Area Network) Ethernet ports are used to connect to a modem to access Internet Service Provider (ISP). A cable connects the computer to the router and router to the Ethernet Port or a DSL (Digital Subscriber Line). In wireless routers, a WiFi connection is utilized to connect between ISP and Router. Then a wireless frequency is used to connect different wireless devices like phones, tablets, laptops, etc.

Performance-wise, wired routers are preferred more for stable and better performance. Wired routers offer about 10/100/1000 Mbps whereas wireless router provides comparatively low speeds. The wired router offers the best sound and consistent performance when they are plugged in. Speaking about wireless connections, they are distance sensitive which means their performance gets affected whenever you move away. Gigabit Ethernet port is one of the latest and most widely used ports for better gaming performance in wired routers. Gigabit Ethernet Port supports a transmission speed of 1000 Mbps and works in full-duplex and half-duplex modes.

Wi-Fi 6

WiFi 6 actually follows 802.11ax standards and is more efficient and speedy than you think. WiFi 6 comparatively consumes less battery life on mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc., than 802.11ac or simply WiFi 5. WiFi 6E is an enhanced one with an extended 6 gigahertz band. For Gaming, WiFi 6E is ideal because of its lightning-fast speed and low latency.

Dual & Tri-band Support

Dual-band routers mean that a router communicates with wirelessly connected devices through two different frequencies. More precisely, a dual-band router grants users two wireless networks running through the home. Whereas gamers and streamers demand high bandwidth. Tri-band routers give users with additional 5 gigahertz channels for better performance by splitting connected wireless devices across 3 frequency bands. Which noticeably minimizes interference, buffering pauses, and reduces dropped connections.

MU-MIMO

MU-MIMO stands for Multiple-User, Multi-In Multi-Out that is also termed as next-generation AC or AC Wave 2. MU-MIMO technology was introduced in antennas for premium performance. This technology handles multiple users at a time accessing a single wireless network. In these wireless routers, the total bandwidth is subdivided into separate individual streams to allow hurdle-free access to bandwidth in the case of many wireless connected devices to the network.

CPU, RAM & Internet Speed

CPU and RAM performance is another crucial factor to take into consideration while buying a top-rated gaming router. A powerful processor you have will benefit from the speedy handling of connections by your router and ultimately transferring data to devices swiftly. Secondly, the speed of the internet is a simple concept that shows the speed of arriving data from your ISP (Internet service provider) to your router.

Product Reviews

Best Gaming Router 2024

1. TP-Link Archer C5400 v2

TP-Link Archer C5400 v2

TP-Link Archer C5400 v2 is a newer version to their C5400, which is more powerful, more appealing, and offered at a lower price. This is a kind of router that will really boost your WiFi signal and stabilize your whole network. It’s just about games. This router would appeal to all kinds of users like gamers, small businesses, and even individual users.

This router has all the features that you need, packed very nicely in a good-looking device. If you are a gamer and have enough budget to spend on, this can be the perfect opportunity for you. TP-Link Archer C5400 v2 can adjust to almost any situation, whether you are playing FPS games or you have a guest that wants to connect to your network.

Setting up C5400 v2 is extremely simple. They also offer a smartphone app called TP-Link Tether that lets you configure and control your network direly from your phone. Furthermore, the performance of the TP-Link Archer C5400 v2 is awe-inspiring. We believe that this best gaming router from TP-Link will completely solve your network problems and let you enjoy the lag-free gaming experience.

2. Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Now this one is for hardcore gamers. If you live in a place where your network is used by many of your colleagues to watch movies or download files. Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 can really solve your problem and deliver a ridiculous fast 2.6Gbps speed. You should definitely buy this gaming router for pro gamers if you have a reasonable budget because it’s totally worth every penny you spend.

Let’s talk about the features that XR500 offers. MU-MIMO technology provided by this router offers unique gaming features that will completely change your gaming experience. Features like location-based connection filtering and QoS can make your gaming connection wholly reliable and provide you with a lag-free experience all night.

Nighthawk Pro Gaming is specially designed to provide you with the ultimate gaming experience. It’s straightforward to set up at home and supports a dual WiFi band to double the bandwidth and boost your network speed. XR500 supports a blazing 2.6Gbps speed and lets you completely immerse in the gaming world. The price tag may feel a little higher, but that’s completely worth it looking at the features and power that it offers.

Also read:
The Best Gaming PC
Best Graphics Card

3. Asus RT-AC5300

 Asus RT-AC5300

Asus RT-AC5300 is specially designed for pro gamers. In the online world, whether you are a professional gamer playing high-end FPS games or streaming. Lag and buffering are entirely out of the equation. Asus RT-AC5300 can be an excellent opportunity to solve all those problems with its latest NitroQAM™ (1024-QAM) technology. This technology delivers a combined speed of 5.3Gbps which ensures a smooth gaming experience.

For a router with such a high price tag, you should expect a lot of features. In that regard, Asus doesn’t disappoint you. It broadcast three wireless bands, where most of the routers stick to two. Furthermore, Asus RT-AC5300 offers WPA-Enterprise encryption, MU-MIMO technology, and QoS features. We believe that will be enough for a stable internet connection and a lag-free environment.

This router is an expensive one. So, you should be careful before buying it and see if you really need what it offers. Moreover, setting up this router is extremely simple and will need just a few minutes, then you are good to go. Last but not least, there are very few routers that offer such unique technology and speed. Asus RT-AC5300 is one of the best Gaming routers for pro gamers and worth its price tag.

4. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is a gamer’s dream come true. They are beautifully designed with a gaming look having 8 antennas to cover the whole house and provide the strongest possible signals to the users. One of the first WIFI class 6 routers set new limits for the gaming WiFi routers. Signals are the strongest at close range and get stronger at a distance, thus providing a great internet experience with no lags and problems.

Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is a class that is expensive compared to the other standard routers, but there is no match for it when it comes to speed. They are specially designed for gamers and ones with big homes. They are designed fabulously, featuring rubber feet to avoid scratching on the table or a window shelf. Also, they can be mounted on the wall.

Furthermore, Asus Rog house has the best features available and is one the best router available. It houses the Broadcom BCM43684 WiFi Chip, which creates a tri-band network. This network is known as WiFi 6. Moreover, it features a 1.8 GHz processor, 1GB RAM, and 256GB Memory for firmware storage. What more could you want.

5. NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400

NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400

NETGEAR is one of the wells that know the brand when it comes to quality and efficiency. They manufacture the most satisfactory product with zero compromises on quality. The same is the case with NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400 featuring WiFi class 6 with high-speed ethernet. It is one of the most advanced WiFi routers available on the market, with a 10.8Gbps WiFi speed that can flawlessly stream movies, video calls, gaming, and download files.

Suppose you are looking for something that provides stable internet with a large coverage area. In that case, nothing can beat NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400. They are compatible with all the internet service providers, whether it’s a DSL, cable, satellite, or fiber. Also, setting them up is extremely easy. They connect to their nighthawk app in minutes, and you are ready to go.

Further, AX5400 is loaded with the most advanced technology like MU-MIMO, Dynamic QoS, 1024-QAM, Smart Connect for one WiFi name, Beamforming technologies, and connect to Google and Amazon Alexa easily. For connecting laptops, they also feature Ethernet ports and more. Overall, it is one of the best gaming routers you can find on the market, with extreme efficiency and powerful features.

6. TP-Link AC3150

TP-Link AC3150

TP-Link AC3150 is another best gaming router with all the powerful internals to support your needs. Archer comes with a powerful 2.4GHz dual-core processor that fully unlocks the potential of NitroQAM and 4-Stream technologies. Installing this router at home make things like lag, dropped connection, and dead zones talk of the past. If you live in a large house, this router can undoubtedly be helpful because of its extensive coverage area and stable internet.

Furthermore, it supports MU-MIMO Technology that creates 4 different data streams that run simultaneously to provide 4x faster internet service than the standard routers. Archer AC3150 can help you in achieving optimal performance. It’s a great gift for gamers who are tired of the lags and connections drop. AC3150 can stream games, movies, and more without any lag. So buying this router will be one of the best decisions you can make.

Furthermore, it has a large coverage area. In case you have a large home with many rooms or floors. AC3150 can be very helpful in filling the dead zones with the internet. Also, setting up this device is extremely easy. You just need to simply plug it and enjoy the fast internet. Overall, this may not be as strong as 6 streams routers, but when looking at the price and performance, it surely deserves to be on the list of best gaming routers.

7. Linksys WRT32X AC3200

Linksys WRT32X AC3200

Linksys WRT32X AC3200 is specially designed for gamers with a killer prioritization network that gives you an edge over other gamers. In gaming vicinity games, even milliseconds can result in winning or losing the games in FPS games. So, you will need a router that assures you that you won’t miss even a millisecond. Linksys AC3200 does that with high-speed and stable internet. It achieves that with the help of a killer prioritization engine that reduces peak pings by 77% that can actually make a huge difference.

Furthermore, It comes with a dual-core processor that ensures a combined speed of 3.2GHz throughout the house. This may not seem a big deal, but it is a big deal. Dead zones, slower internet, lag have been a problem of every household for ages. AC3200 can let you enjoy games, streaming movies, video calls, and more with zero lag and connection drops. What more can one need?

Moreover, it comes with a custom-built interface that lets you control that router quite easily. Controlling speed, changing the password, and doing more is at your fingertips. Also, setting the router is extremely easy. It’s plug-and-play. Overall, it’s one of the best gaming routers because of the features installed mainly for gamers and its efficiency.

8. D-Link AC2600 WiFi Router

D-Link WiFi Router

D-Link is a well-known router around the world. They ensure excellent quality, faster internet, and stability. D-Link AC2600 is a powerful router that can be used by gamers as well as everyday users. It is a dual-band WiFi router that ensures lag-free gaming and lower pings. The 4x data stream technology lets multiple users at home enjoy the internet with no slowdowns and connection drops. D-Link AC2600 is an extremely powerful router with flawless streaming and gaming capability.

Furthermore, the D-Link AC2600 features MU-MIMO technology that helps in simultaneous streaming at home. It creates data streams that help provide stable internet to every user connected to the routers. Routers with MU-MIMO technology are way faster and stable as compared to the standard routers. Also, it provides a large coverage area. Suppose you have a big home and want the internet signal available in every room, garage, and even washroom. In that case, D-Link AC2600 will be the perfect router for you.

Moreover, D-Link AC2600 comes with all the necessary accessories, USB ports, and Ethernet ports to connect devices through the wire. So overall, it’s a great router that packs enough power, has a reasonable price, and provides a stable ethernet that we all need. So, buying it will be a great decision, and we ensure that you won’t regret your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would you need a gaming router?

A gaming router is specifically built for prioritizing traffic to your gaming pc or gaming console. If you have a gaming router it will greatly decrease the lag in your multiplayer gaming session. This does apply even if there are other devices connected to the internet and people streaming plus downloading. Gaming routers are greedy and try their best to direct most of the internet to the gaming device connected to it. If you are a gamer who has a regular router at home. It might be the best time to change your router to a gaming one and enjoy the flawless smooth gameplay.

Wired or Wireless gaming router – What’s the best?

We all know the hiccups and problems with the Wi-Fi connections that’s why we will always recommend having a wired connection for your gaming. However, that doesn’t mean that you cannot play games over wireless internet. These days Wi-Fi 6 technology has made it possible to play wireless VR streaming on the wireless connection.

Can I use any gaming router with my internet provider?

That’s not always true. So, we suggest that before buying the router, you need to inquire about the current ISP and check if it’s compatible with your router.

You may be interested in:
The Best Headphones
Best Hair dryer
Best Tablets

Bottom Line

Getting the right gaming router won’t be an easy job. It’s hard to get what you need. You should probably look at all the features and aspects and try to get one that perfectly suits you. We have listed the best routers available on the market and hope to solve your network problem. If you have any confusion or want to ask something, you can comment below or email us directly.

Noor Shahid

Noor Shahid Khan is a Software Engineer and SEO Expert. He has been producing content in technology and lifestyle niches which besides a good read also have an impact on Google search rankings surge. His content focus on balancing information with SEO but neither at the expense of entertaining read. Apart from his writing career, he is also Senior Editor at Mist Interactive.

Add comment

Jump to

When someone purchases through links on our site. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases.