Best Gaming Routers of 2024

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Last Updated: Jan 5, 2024
The backside of a router with cables plugged in
A router is key for minimizing lag when playing online games. (Image: Shutterstock)

If you play online games on your Wi-Fi network, you understand the importance of an uninterrupted internet connection. For a smooth gaming experience, it’s time you upgrade to a specially designed router for gaming. Gaming routers go beyond providing high speeds; they also minimize network lag and allow for advanced customization. We’ve compiled a list of the best gaming routers based on several factors, including speed, reliability, advanced features, security, ease of setup, price, and design.

TP-Link Archer AX11000

The TP-Link Archer AX11000 takes a spot on most top gaming routers lists as one of the best high-end routers. Although it’s expensive, you get all the features you expect from a gaming router: fast throughput; game diagnostics; a variety of game-enhancing settings, including a bandwidth priority; and more.

You also get TP-Link Game Accelerator features that reduce latency and a specially designed Game Protector dashboard to protect your network from malicious content, phishing attacks, and other online security risks.

This router features two USB ports, eight 1 Gbps LAN ports, and one 2.5 Gbps port. The maximum speed is rated as 4.8 Gbps. Link aggregation and lifetime malware protection are other standard features of the Archer AX11000 gaming router.

ASUS GT-AXE11000

The ASUS GT-AXE11000 is a powerhouse that delivers advanced customization and incredible throughput for gaming. It also features built-in security and a gaming accelerator. With cybercrimes booming, it’s best to get a router with solid security features. This router comes with lifetime malware protection.

The technical specs of the GT-AXE11000 are what you expect from a high-end gaming router. The max speed is rated at 4.8 Gbps, while it offers tri-band frequency and 160 MHz data channels. The only drawback is the throughput falls off quickly with distance. The price point is also high, but with its outstanding performance, you get an exceptional return on investment.

D-Link DIR-867

A generic white router on a black wooden table
A router’s advanced settings allow you to configure it according to your needs. (Image: Shutterstock)

The D-Link DIR-867 is one of the best budget gaming routers. It supports speeds of up to 1.3 Gbps on the 5 GHz band. That’s enough speed to handle most online games. In addition, you get robust parental controls, easy setup, and anti-malware protection.

With the DIR-867, you get QoS (Quality of Service) settings to maximize bandwidth for gaming. The management settings allow you to enable firewall settings and configure port forwarding. You can further optimize your internet connection for the best gaming experience.

The design is simple and classy. It has four Gbps LAN ports and one Gbps WAN port; however, the router is missing USB ports. The antennas aren’t removable, so they can’t be replaced with more powerful aftermarket antennas. Overall, the D-Link DIR-867 deserves a spot on the list of top gaming routers.

Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500

The Nighthawk RAXE500 is the flagship gaming router of Netgear, a highly reputed brand in the industry. This router features five 1 Gbps ports and one 2.5 Gbps port with link aggregation. This allows for excellent speeds, enough for the most graphics-intensive online gaming. The futuristic design, with its wing-shaped antennas, adds to the router’s appeal. You also get excellent signal range and high-speed throughput.

The only drawbacks of this router are that you don’t get QoS settings and parental controls are limited. However, you get outstanding performance and reliability that justify the high price tag. If you want the best features and are ready to splurge a bit, the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is a top choice for a gaming router.

TP-Link Archer A20

A man holding a laptop while standing
A router’s built-in security features help prevent cyberattacks on your network. (Image: Shutterstock)

For the best gaming router with solid security features, the TP-Link Archer A20 is an excellent choice. It’s inexpensive, offers strong throughput numbers, and can deliver speeds up to 1.6 Gbps when used with link aggregation.

The setup is a breeze through a web console or mobile app. There are advanced settings available for those looking to configure QoS, port forwarding, system tools, and more. The connectivity options include a WAN port, four LAN ports, and two USB ports.

The TP-Link HomeCare network security will protect your home network from viruses, malware, and other malicious content. You also get excellent parental control. The security features won’t slow down the router, making it ideal for network security with online gaming.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 is one of the more expensive gaming routers on the market, but it offers advanced features. You get a quad-core CPU, a 10 Gbps WAN port, four 1 Gbps LAN ports, and a 2.5 Gbps WAN port. The router is rated for a maximum speed of 4.8 Gbps on the 6 GHz band. It also offers link aggregation, providing a combined speed of up to 16 Gbps.

This router is ideal for high-end performance through fast throughput speeds and high-bandwidth ports. You get gamer-friendly settings, parental controls, and network security features. If you can afford to invest in the Rapture GT-AXE16000, you might not need to upgrade for the next few years.