10 Best Netgear Routers 2026 in the United States

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS500) is a top-tier router designed for high performance and extensive coverage. It offers WiFi 7 technology, which delivers blazing-fast speeds of up to 12Gbps, making it ideal for real-time gaming, 4K/8K streaming, UHD video conferencing, and AR/VR entertainment. This router is particularly suitable for households with multiple devices, as it can handle up to 120 devices simultaneously and cover an area of up to 3,000 square feet with its high-performance antennas.

The tri-band frequency ensures efficient management of device traffic across different frequencies for optimal performance. Additionally, it features a 2.5 Gig internet port and multiple Ethernet ports (1 x 2.5 Gig and 3 x 1 Gig) for fast-wired connections, supporting the latest cable or fiber internet service plans. Security is a strong point with built-in Advanced Router Protection, automatic firmware updates, and NETGEAR Armor providing real-time protection against hackers and added privacy with a VPN. The Nighthawk app simplifies setup and management of the WiFi network.

However, it's important to note that this router is made for use in the U.S. only. Another potential drawback is the premium price point that comes with such high-end features, which might not be necessary for users with simpler internet needs or smaller spaces. This router is best suited for tech-savvy users or households that require robust internet connectivity and advanced security features.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router (BE17000) stands out with its impressive Wi-Fi 7 speeds, offering up to 17 Gbps, ideal for real-time gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities. Its tri-band capability ensures a smooth experience across multiple devices, supporting up to 150 devices over a large area of 3,300 sq. ft.

This router is well-suited for home, gaming, and business use, providing robust coverage and performance. The inclusion of a 10 Gig internet port and additional 1 Gig LAN ports allow for high-speed wired connections, appealing to users needing ultra-fast internet, now and in the future. Security is a strong point, with NETGEAR Armor offering protection against hackers, malware, and identity theft, though full features are available as a trial, requiring a subscription thereafter.

The router’s sleek design and the easy setup via the Nighthawk app add to user convenience. However, it's important to note that this device is designed for use in the U.S. and may not be compatible with international internet providers. Weighing 4.7 pounds, it’s relatively heavy compared to some alternatives. Additionally, the advanced features and high performance come at a premium price, which might not be justified for users with less demanding needs.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS90 is a modern dual-band router utilizing the latest WiFi 7 standard, offering wireless speeds of up to 3.6 Gbps. This makes it ideal for gaming, streaming, video calls, and managing multiple devices simultaneously—up to 50. Compared to WiFi 6, it delivers approximately 20% faster performance, helping future-proof your home network. The router’s coverage area reaches up to 2,000 square feet, suitable for most medium-sized homes or apartments.

Equipped with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, the RS90 allows you to take full advantage of high-speed internet plans if your modem supports these speeds, though it does not function as a modem itself, so a separate device is required. Security features include NETGEAR Armor, which provides real-time protection against hackers and malware, with regular updates to maintain network safety. The device is user-friendly to set up and manage via the Nighthawk app, making it accessible even for those less tech-savvy.

Operating on two frequency bands—5 GHz and 6 GHz—the dual-band setup helps balance speed and range effectively. While the coverage is solid for medium-sized spaces, it may not fully cover very large homes. Additionally, the router is designed specifically for the U.S. market, which might limit its suitability elsewhere. For users seeking a high-performance router with the latest technology, strong security, and relatively straightforward setup, the NETGEAR RS90 is a strong option. However, those needing modem capabilities or broader coverage should consider additional equipment.