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 Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS600) boasts impressive features, making it a strong contender for anyone in need of high-performance internet connectivity. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard, delivering speeds up to 18Gbps, which is significantly faster than Wi-Fi 6. This makes it ideal for activities requiring high bandwidth, such as real-time gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and advanced AR/VR entertainment. The router covers up to 3,300 sq. ft. and can handle up to 150 devices, ensuring robust performance across large homes or small businesses.

The tri-band functionality helps manage network traffic efficiently, offering a 6 GHz frequency band alongside the standard 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, which provides better performance and reduced interference for connected devices. Security is a top priority with the RS600, featuring NETGEAR Armor for real-time protection against hackers and additional privacy through VPN. It also includes automatic firmware updates and advanced router protection.

Port-wise, it comes with a 10 Gig internet port and three 1 Gig LAN ports for ultra-fast wired connections, making it versatile for various setups. Setup and management are simplified with the Nighthawk app. However, its high-end features come at a premium price, which might be overkill for users with basic internet needs. Additionally, while it is designed to work with any internet service provider, it is optimized for use in the U.S., potentially limiting its effectiveness elsewhere. The RS600’s advanced features and specifications cater well to gamers, tech enthusiasts, and users with demanding internet needs.