Which Is the Best Router for Streaming in 2025?

best router for streaming

The top Wi-Fi routers provide a quick and safe wireless internet connection and are simple to install.

RouterCategoryPrice
Linksys Hydra Pro 6Best Midrange Router$160
TP-Link Archer AX21Best Budget Router$72
TP-Link Deco W7200Best Mesh Router$150
Asus RT-AX86UBest Gaming Router$329
Netgear Orbi AC1200Best Affordable Mesh$110
Netgear Orbi AX6000Best High-Performance Mesh$386

Due to security concerns, the US government is investigating TP-Link routers. Reports suggest these routers may face a ban in the US this year. Previously, we recommended the TP-Link Archer AX21 as our top choice. 

While the hardware remains reliable, we have paused our recommendation as a precaution for our readers. For more details, refer to CNET’s reporting.

What Is the Best Wi-Fi Router?

What Is the Best Wi-Fi Router

The Top Overall Pick

The Linksys Hydra Pro 6 (MR5500) is the best Wi-Fi router. During our tests, it delivered outstanding results in speed, range, and latency. Priced at $160, it isn’t the cheapest option, but it outperformed more expensive models.

Choosing the Right Router for Your Needs
The best router for you depends on several factors, including:

  • The size and layout of your home

  • The type of content you stream

We tested many models to give suggestions for different requirements. The list is updated often after testing new devices.

Routers that perform well are added here with links to recent test results so you get the latest choices for your network.

Top Wi-Fi Routers

Linksys Hydra Pro 6 (MR5500)

Great Midrange Option

The Linksys Hydra Pro 6 provides an excellent upgrade from basic routers. It offers dual-band AX5400 speeds, supports Wi-Fi 6, and includes 160MHz channels for efficient data transfer.

Speed tests showed impressive results, outperforming models like the Asus RT-AX86U.

  • Price: $160

  • Key Features: Reliable performance with gigabit speeds and no unnecessary features.

TP-Link Archer AX21

Best Affordable Choice

The TP-Link Archer AX21 offers a budget-friendly, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 solution priced at around $70. It supports speeds of up to 1,201Mbps on the 5GHz band.

Tests confirmed flawless performance in small- to medium-sized homes. The Tether app simplifies setup.

  • Highlights:
    • It manages band steering, controls guest networks, and prioritizes traffic.
  • Limitations:
    • It lacks the power to utilize gigabit speeds fully.
    • Reaches stable speeds of 700Mbps when used at close range.

The Archer AX21 provides an affordable and straightforward upgrade for home networks.

FeatureDetails
Wi-Fi VersionWi-Fi 6
SpeedAX1800
CoverageUp to 2,500 sq. ft.
SecurityWPA3
Frequency BandsDual-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz)

TP-Link Deco W7200

Top Mesh Router

For the best performance from a mesh router, choose one with Wi-Fi 6 support and a tri-band design. This setup includes 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and an additional 5GHz band for dedicated communication between the router and satellites.

While most mesh routers with these features cost $300 or more, the TP-Link Deco W7200 offers them for just $140 in a two-pack.

The tri-band Wi-Fi 6 mesh router offers great value and strong performance. Only the Netgear Orbi AX6000 performed better in home speed tests, but it costs more than double.

TP-Link simplifies setup with satellite extenders that automatically connect when plugged in.

FeatureDetails
Wi-Fi TypeWi-Fi 6
Maximum SpeedAX3600
Coverage AreaUp to 5,500 sq. ft. (2 devices)
SecurityWPA2, WPA3
Frequency BandsTri-Band (2.4GHz, two 5GHz)

Asus RT-AX86U

Top gaming router

The Asus RT-AX86U dual-band router comes at a price of under $300. While not inexpensive, it offers excellent value compared to gaming routers priced at $400.

It stands out with impressive gaming performance and delivers outstanding results.

The router excels in latency management. It achieved the lowest average latency in all tests, outperforming gaming and non-gaming routers.

This feature is crucial for online gamers. The router also includes app-based controls like a mobile boost mode, prioritizing gaming traffic to your phone with a single button press.

Beyond gaming, the RT-AX86U supports Wi-Fi 6, delivering reliable speeds and a solid range. If you need more coverage, pair it with Asus “AIMesh” devices to create a mesh network.

It fulfills essential criteria for a good gaming router and is affordable. Even for those who don’t game, it’s one of the top Wi-Fi 6 routers on the market.

Netgear Orbi (Dual-Band, AC1200)

Affordable Mesh Router Option

The Netgear Orbi AC1200 mesh router provides excellent value for its price. While it lacks some features found in higher-end models and doesn’t support Wi-Fi 6, it remains a reliable choice.

The system is priced around $100 and includes a router and two extenders, making it an economical option. 

In speed tests, it matched the performance of Nest Wifi and the Wi-Fi 5 version of Amazon Eero, handling internet speeds up to 300Mbps effectively.

Among similar systems, the Netgear Orbi delivered the fastest close-range speeds and showed muscular signal strength during tests.

Its design is also notable, featuring top vents that help with heat management. This affordable option is worth considering if expensive mesh routers have deterred you.

Netgear Orbi (Tri-Band, AX6000)

Top Mesh Router Performance

The AX6000 version of the Netgear Orbi is approximately $400 for the two-piece setup. While it is more expensive than the dual-band model mentioned earlier, it delivers significantly more power. 

It features a dedicated 5GHz band for backhaul transmissions between the router and satellites and offers full support for Wi-Fi 6.

This system is rated as the best-tested mesh router, earning top scores in lab speed and home coverage tests.

During testing at my home with a 300Mbps fiber internet connection, the Orbi AX6000 achieved average speeds of 289Mbps on Wi-Fi 5 devices and 367Mbps on Wi-Fi 6 devices.

Even at the farthest point from the router, speeds were 95% as fast as those recorded up close. These results are nearly flawless and unmatched by any other mesh system I have tested.

Many may find better value in less expensive alternatives when considering whether the $400 price tag is worth it. There are plenty of reliable options available at a lower cost.

However, this system is an excellent choice if you want top-tier mesh performance and are not concerned about the price.

FeatureDetails
Wi-Fi TypeWi-Fi 6
SpeedAX6000
CoverageUp to 5,000 sq. ft.
SecurityWPA, WPA2
Frequency Bands2.4GHz, Two 5GHz (Tri-Band)

Why Upgrade Your Wi-Fi Router?

Wi-Fi routers have improved significantly in recent years. Many current models offer faster speeds and advanced features.

Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, has become common, providing quicker and more efficient home network performance. Additionally, mesh routers are more affordable and offer better coverage than older systems.

You can also find Wi-Fi 6E routers that use new 6GHz bandwidth, providing better performance. Wi-Fi 7 routers are now available, but they are expensive.

If you’re considering an upgrade, you have many options to suit your needs, whether for gaming, mesh systems, or affordable routers with reliable performance.

Choosing a Wi-Fi Router

Choosing a Wi-Fi Router

Wi-Fi 6 is now the standard for the latest devices. While Wi-Fi 5 routers are still functional, Wi-Fi 6 offers the latest features and speeds. Wi-Fi 7 routers are entering the market but are still costly for most users.

For smaller spaces or slower internet speeds, entry-level Wi-Fi 6 routers like the TP-Link Archer AX21 are reliable and budget-friendly.

Homes with gigabit-level speeds or multiple users may benefit from mid-range options like the Linksys Hydra Pro 6 or Asus RT-AX86U.

Larger homes or multi-story buildings can consider mesh systems for better coverage. Affordable options like the TP-Link Deco W7200 perform well, while the Eero Pro 6E is a top choice for gigabit connections.

Wi-Fi 6E models provide access to the 6GHz band, which is ideal for future-ready setups, although most homes may not need it yet.

If you’re planning for the future, waiting for the full release of Wi-Fi 7 may be wise. Some manufacturers have already released early Wi-Fi 7 routers, but the technology is not yet standardized.

How Wi-Fi Routers Are Tested?

We test each router in a controlled setting. We perform speed tests from five different spots, starting in the same room as the router and moving farther.

We repeat tests at other times of the day to check performance under various conditions.  

We test routers with Wi-Fi 6E support using devices that work on the 6GHz band. We test each band separately to measure performance. We also examine factors like latency, features, security, and ease of use.

Top Wi-Fi Router Recommendations

Top Wi-Fi Router Recommendations

The Linksys Hydra Pro 6 is a top choice for most users. It offers excellent performance with Wi-Fi 6 support and an easy-to-use app.

For a budget-friendly option, the TP-Link Archer AX21 provides excellent speeds at a lower price. For gaming, the Asus RT-AX86U stands out with the lowest latency in tests, ensuring smooth gameplay.

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