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 WiFi 7 Router (BE9300) is designed to deliver extremely fast and reliable internet performance, making it an excellent option for homes or gamers who want smooth streaming, fast gaming, and the ability to handle many devices simultaneously. Thanks to WiFi 7 technology, it offers speeds up to 9.3 Gbps, which is more than twice as fast as previous WiFi 6 routers, helping to minimize lag and buffering. The tri-band setup ensures efficient distribution of network traffic, which is useful if you have many devices, like smartphones, gaming consoles, or smart TVs.

You can expect solid coverage up to 2,500 square feet, suitable for medium to larger homes. On the security side, it includes NETGEAR Armor, a suite that protects against hackers and malware, plus a built-in VPN for added privacy—features valuable for keeping your connection safe. The router also has multiple Ethernet ports, including a 2.5 Gigabit internet port for faster wired connections with compatible internet plans, plus USB 3.0 for connecting external devices. Its compact design with high-performance antennas means it fits well in most home setups.

This model is made specifically for use in the U.S., which might limit use elsewhere. Although the price might be higher than basic routers, the advanced speed, range, and security features justify this for users wanting a future-proof, high-performance network. For those seeking a router that can handle many devices, offers top-tier speed, and includes strong security, this model represents a reliable choice.