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 Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS300) is a high-performance router designed for users needing fast and reliable internet coverage. With WiFi 7 speeds up to 9.3Gbps, it caters well to gaming, streaming, video conferencing, and general home or business use, making it ideal for environments with many devices. The router's coverage extends up to 2,500 sq. ft., which should be sufficient for larger homes or offices, and it supports up to 100 devices efficiently thanks to its tri-band technology.

The 2.5 Gig internet port and multiple Ethernet LAN ports also ensure high wired connection speeds, complementing its wireless capabilities. Security is robust with advanced features such as WPA3, VPN, and NETGEAR Armor, providing real-time protection against threats. The router is straightforward to set up and manage via the Nighthawk app, making it user-friendly even for those not tech-savvy. However, the device's advanced features and high speeds may be overkill for smaller households or those with fewer devices. Additionally, since it's designed for use in the U.S., potential users outside this region might face compatibility issues. The initial cost is also something to consider, as it might be on the higher side compared to other routers.

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.