The best router depends on your specific needs such as speed, coverage, budget, and whether you want the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology or a solid Wi-Fi 6 option. Top Wi-Fi 7 Routers (Latest Technology, Highest Performance):
- Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro : Considered the fastest Wi-Fi 7 gaming router tested, with quad-band support including two 6 GHz bands, multiple 10 Gbps and multi-gig ports, and gamer-friendly features. It is physically large and expensive but offers top-tier speed and coverage, ideal for gaming enthusiasts and power users
- Asus RT-BE96U : Another top Wi-Fi 7 router with excellent speed, range, and a robust set of ports including 10 Gbps WAN/LAN. It performs exceptionally well even at distance and through walls, making it a great choice for future-proofing your network
- TP-Link Archer BE800 and Archer BE550 : Also strong Wi-Fi 7 contenders, with the BE550 praised for its tri-band Wi-Fi 7 support and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports. It supports mesh networking for better coverage in larger homes
Best Wi-Fi 6 Routers (More Affordable, Still High Performance):
- TP-Link Archer AXE75 : Recommended as a top overall Wi-Fi 6 router for most buyers, offering solid throughput, wide coverage, and good value around $200
- Asus RT-AX86U Pro : A good mid-range router with fast speeds, stable coverage, and gamer-optimized features. It includes multiple ports and customization options
- Synology WRX560 : A budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router that is easy to install and manage, suitable for those not wanting to spend a lot but still wanting modern features
Best Overall Router for 2025:
- The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX6000 is highlighted as the best overall Wi-Fi router in 2025 by CNET, offering a great balance of speed, coverage (up to 5,000 sq ft), multiple Ethernet ports, and useful features like parental controls and device prioritization
Summary Table:
Router Model| Wi-Fi Standard| Max Speed (Mbps)| Coverage (sq ft)| Ports &
Features| Price Range| Best For
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro| Wi-Fi 7| Very High| Large| Multiple 10Gbps &
multi-gig ports, gamer features, RGB lighting| Premium (~$700+)| Gaming, top
performance
Asus RT-BE96U| Wi-Fi 7| Very High| Large| 10Gbps WAN/LAN, USB 3.0,
AiProtection| Premium (~$700)| Future-proof, high speed
TP-Link Archer BE550| Wi-Fi 7| High| Moderate| 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, mesh
compatible| Mid-High| Wi-Fi 7 with mesh support
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX6000| Wi-Fi 6| 6000| 5000| 6 Ethernet ports, parental
controls| Mid ($220)| Overall best Wi-Fi 6 router
TP-Link Archer AXE75| Wi-Fi 6| Solid| Wide| Good throughput, affordable|
Budget-Mid (~$200)| Most buyers, value
Asus RT-AX86U Pro| Wi-Fi 6| High| Large| Gamer optimizations, multiple ports|
Mid| Gaming and general use
If you want the absolute fastest and are ready to invest in Wi-Fi 7, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro or RT-BE96U are the best choices. For most users looking for a balance of price, performance, and ease of use, the TP-Link Archer AXE75 or Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX6000 are excellent picks
