10 Best routers 2025 in the United States

The TP-Link Archer AX80 is a solid choice if you want a fast and reliable router for home use. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which means it can deliver high speeds—up to 4804 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 1148 Mbps on 2.4 GHz—making it great for activities like 8K streaming and gaming. With its dual-band setup and eight high-gain antennas using Beamforming technology, it offers good coverage that can reach a large area, reducing dead zones around your home. One standout feature is the 2.5 Gbps multi-gigabit WAN/LAN port, which lets you take advantage of very fast internet plans without bottlenecks.

The router also supports MU-MIMO and OFDMA, which help it handle many devices simultaneously with lower lag, ideal if you have several gadgets connected at once. On security, TP-Link’s HomeShield provides basic protections and parental controls to help keep your network safe and manage access. Plus, it’s compatible with Alexa for simple voice commands and supports the OneMesh system, so you can easily extend your Wi-Fi network with compatible range extenders.

Since it’s a dual-band router rather than tri-band, it might get a bit overwhelmed in very crowded wireless environments with many devices. Also, while the parental controls are useful, they are fairly basic compared to premium options on some other models. In terms of wired connections, it offers ample Ethernet ports but doesn’t mention USB ports for file sharing or printer support, which some users might miss. If you’re looking for a user-friendly, high-speed router that covers a typical home well and supports the newest Wi-Fi tech, the Archer AX80 is a strong contender.

The TP-Link Deco AX3000 WiFi 6 Mesh System (Deco X55) is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home network with robust coverage and advanced technology. It boasts impressive Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, delivering speeds of up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, which is great for streaming, gaming, and connecting multiple devices. With a coverage area of up to 6500 square feet and the ability to connect up to 150 devices, this mesh system effectively eliminates dead zones and buffering, making it ideal for larger homes or those with many smart devices.

One of its standout features is the AI-driven mesh technology, which adapts to your home's unique layout, ensuring a seamless connection throughout. The inclusion of three Gigabit Ethernet ports per unit also allows for wired connections, which can enhance speed and stability, especially for devices like gaming consoles or smart TVs.

Setting up the network is user-friendly, thanks to the Deco app, which guides you through the installation and management process. It also supports voice commands via Alexa, making it convenient to control guest networks and device access.

The Google Nest WiFi Pro is a robust option for those looking to upgrade their home internet setup with the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology. Featuring a tri-band system, it caters to modern connectivity needs by offering three frequency bands, including the new 6 GHz band, which means faster speeds and reduced interference. This makes it particularly suitable for homes with multiple devices or for activities demanding high bandwidth, like gaming or streaming.

A standout feature is its ability to cover up to 6600 square feet with its 3-pack setup, making it ideal for larger homes. Beyond just coverage, it maintains a strong and consistent connection even at the edges of its range, thanks to its smart self-monitoring capabilities that can diagnose and address common network issues autonomously. Security is well-handled with secure booting and regular software updates to protect against unauthorized access.

This model isn't compatible with previous generations of Google and Nest WiFi products, which could be a limitation if you are looking to expand an existing network. Additionally, it facilitates easy management of connected devices and includes a guest network option for added security. Some users might find the setup less intuitive if they are less familiar with mesh network systems. In terms of connectivity, the Nest WiFi Pro includes essential features like guest mode, access point mode, and parental controls. You should weigh these benefits against its relatively higher price point, especially if backward compatibility with older devices is necessary for you.