Top 5 Routers for AT&T

• Top Choice: TP-Link Archer AX11000

• Affordable Option: Reyee RG-E5

• Ideal for Gaming: ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

• Great for 2 Gbps: TP-Link Archer AX6000

• Best Mesh Option: Amazon Eero Pro 6

Compare Router Speeds and Prices:

What Is the Best Router for AT&T?

AT&T prefers that customers use its equipment rather than third-party routers. Third-party devices can complicate technical support and troubleshooting.

Using AT&T’s equipment allows them to manage and resolve issues more efficiently.

However, a third-party router like the TP-Link Archer AX11000 could be a good choice if you want greater control over your home network setup. 

This router is designed for high-speed connections, supporting up to 2 Gbps, and is ideal for demanding internet users.

It also includes features, such as enhanced parental controls and advanced security options, at no additional cost—features that other brands might require you to pay for.

Choosing your router allows you to customize your network settings and improve performance.

While AT&T’s equipment works well for most, opting for a high-performance router like the Archer AX11000 can better meet your specific needs.

Our Process for Testing Routers

We evaluate routers by comparing their speed and range with other models in the market. We also analyze how easy or difficult the setup process is for users.

Usability is another critical factor, so we carefully review web and mobile applications to understand their usability.

Our testing focuses on real-world performance, ensuring routers meet everyday streaming, gaming, and browsing needs. 

We check signal strength in different settings and test how routers manage multiple devices. The process identifies models that perform best and offer good value.

Ease of use plays a significant role in our assessment. We check whether the setup instructions are straightforward and whether apps simplify network management.

If you’re curious about our process and the tools we use, head to our methodology section for more insights. It explains our approach step by step.

What to Consider in a Router for AT&T?

You can use your router instead of AT&T’s equipment if it better suits your needs. For internet plans under 5Gbps, select a router with a multi-gig internet port.

This choice is ideal for those with a 500Mbps plan or slower, ensuring compatibility for future upgrades.

For better performance, consider a Wi-Fi 6 router. It provides faster speeds and handles multiple devices more efficiently than Wi-Fi 5.

If your devices support the latest technology, use a Wi-Fi 6E router. This model utilizes the 6 GHz band, offering improved speed and reduced network congestion.

Investing in a high-quality router ensures smoother connectivity and future-proofs your network. A router with advanced features can handle increased bandwidth demands as technology evolves.

Whether streaming, gaming, or working from home, selecting the correct router makes a significant difference. Choose carefully to enjoy stable and fast internet for years to come.

TP-Link Archer AX11000: Top Pick for Performance

The Archer AX11000 is a powerful router offering great value. It supports multi-gig internet, provides multiple wired connection options, and delivers fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds.

The Archer AX11000 is a solid choice for homes needing fast speeds and reliable connections. Its features are ideal for those with high-speed internet plans and multiple devices.

Reyee RG-E5: Budget-Friendly Router

Key Details:

• Performance: Offers gigabit wired speeds for reliable connections.

• Antennas: Fixed but can rotate 90 degrees for better coverage.

• Setup: Includes a WPS button for quick device pairing.

• Usage: Suitable for homes and offices with good long-range performance.

The Reyee RG-E5 is simple and an excellent choice for budget-conscious users.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

Perfect for Gamers and High-Speed Internet

Pros and Cons

The Rapture GT-AX11000 is a versatile router designed for more than just gaming. Its impressive Wi-Fi and wired speeds cater to users requiring a reliable internet connection. 

With advanced features and robust performance, it ensures seamless streaming, downloading, and browsing.

Gamers will appreciate its low latency and stability, while non-gamers can enjoy its ability to handle multiple devices without slowing down. 

This router adapts well to home and office environments, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their network setup. Its speed and efficiency make it suitable for demanding internet activities.

TP-Link Archer AX6000: Ideal for 2Gbps Internet

Pros

• High-speed Wi-Fi 6.

• Parental controls and antivirus protection enhance security.

Cons

• You are limited to two bands.

• The web interface needs improvement.

The Archer AX6000 offers comprehensive coverage and fast internet speeds, making it a reliable option for its price range. It is well-suited for devices that require stable Wi-Fi, such as tablets and smartphones. 

While it performs efficiently for everyday needs, it falls short compared to premium models like the AX11000, which includes more advanced features.

Users looking for a balance of performance and cost will find the AX6000 a practical choice. 

However, investing in higher-end options may be more beneficial for those who prioritize cutting-edge functionalities or gaming-focused capabilities. Overall, it serves as a dependable solution for standard home use.

Amazon Eero Pro 6 Review

The Eero Pro 6 provides reliable mesh networking with simple controls, making it a strong choice for modern homes.

However, the steep price and subscription for advanced features might only suit some users.

AT&T Router Specifications and Features

The ARRIS BGW320 is AT&T’s latest gateway. It combines an ONT and a router, supporting fiber and 10 Gbps Ethernet inputs.

A key feature is its 5 Gbps Ethernet output (LAN), allowing connection to another router if you prefer not to use the built-in Wi-Fi. Below are some essential router features:

Multi-Gig Ethernet

A router must have a multi-gig Ethernet port to handle speeds between 1Gbps and 5Gbps. A standard Gigabit Ethernet port usually provides speeds close to 940–980Mbps. A 2.5Gbps or higher Ethernet port allows for faster speeds.

Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E

Opt for Wi-Fi 6E if your devices support it. It functions like Wi-Fi 6 but operates on the 6 GHz band. The 6 GHz band avoids radar interference seen in the 5 GHz band.

Reducing interference allows users to achieve sub-2Gbps speeds on multi-gig internet plans.

Streams

Streams determine how many devices can download data at once and at what speed. Most devices support two transmit and two receive streams (2×2).

If a 5 GHz band has four streams, the simultaneous user can serve up to outrageously: two at full speed or four at half speed. More streams on a band allow the router to handle more devices simultaneously.

Data Streams and Antennas

Routers split a single data stream from the modem into multiple streams, sending them through antennas. The signals bounce to your device, reassembling them into one data stream.

Using multiple streams and antennas provides faster data transfer than a single stream. Most devices support two incoming and two outgoing streams.

For smaller homes, a 2×2 router may suffice. Consider a router with 8×8 streams in homes with many devices for better performance.