The Best Gaming Routers of 2021
The gaming requirements for 2021 are no longer just based on PC performance, as the need for gaming, routers have rapidly increased for the best gaming experience. It doesn’t matter that you are a diehard gaming fan or you are obsessed with Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG) because gaming routers have become crucial for better gameplay.
More and more people are searching for used network equipment to boost their gaming experience and overall internet performance. You now need to maintain a steady and speedy internet connection almost all the time. However, when you are playing any game online the need is quite more than just mere connectivity.
Gaming routers ensure that you don’t face any interruptions during the game or any lag when someone else in the house is trying to Netflix or streaming by the bandwidth. Gaming routers do so much more than provide a steady and speedy internet connection, as they also provide customization at a much higher level as compared to standard routers.
Gaming routers are known for providing added security by restricting malicious hackers and unwanted malware because they can interfere with your gaming experience. Gaming routers cost generally more than standard routers, which is why most gamers and network enthusiasts prefer to buy used network equipment.
Nevertheless, the most common issue faced by gamers is deciding on which is the best router. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best gaming routers for 2021. Although there are many gaming routers this list contains only a handful of the very best.
- ASUS RT-AX86U:
Whenever we talk about the best overall performing gaming router, ASUS has a reputation for standing out of the crowd. With their latest model the ASUS RT-86U, ASUS might have just made an impressionable mark.
The device contains a WiFi-6/ dual-band, with a set of three removable antennas and a peak throughput of 929.7 Mbps. It also features security software with lifetime updates, a multi-gig input, and port aggregation along with customization options. The device is generally best for gaming and high-performance internet use.
The device comes with a two-year warranty and lifetime security protection software which makes it an adequate choice for gaming. When we talk about the best, it’s only fair to pick performance over price.
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6/Dual-band.
- Peak Throughput: 929.7Mbps
- Ports: 1 WAN,1 Multi-Gig WAN, 4 LAN Gbps and 2 USB 3.0
- Number of Antennas/Removable: 3/Yes.
- Size: 9.0 x 6.7 x 3.1 inches.
- TP-Link Archer C5400X:
This particular device is known for boosting your entire gaming experience, as it comes with eight antennas with a peak throughput of 859.5Mbps. It ensures that you never get a poor connection or lag during the game.
The device can be termed as excellent in terms of performance along with a triband design and a customization potential for you to adjust according to your requirements. It also features security software that restricts malware and unwanted users to disturb your gaming experience.
Besides the immense performance, customization option, and added security, its 0entenna design, and the red-on-black color theme is sure to turn heads. The TP-Link C5400X is sure to satisfy any gaming router user. It is the perfect blend of an impressive design and an excellent performance.
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi Spec: 802.11ac/Tri-Band.
- Peak Throughput: 859.5 Mbps.
- Ports: 1 WAN, 8 LAN (1-Gbps) and 1 USB 2.0.
- Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/No.
- Size: 11.2” x 11.2” x 7.6”
- Netgear Nighthawk XR1000:
It is one of the greatest Wi-Fi gaming routers that won’t leave you dissatisfied once you opt to buy. It comes with a Wi-Fi 6/dual band and removable antennas. Plus, has an impressive speed of 860.7 Mbps.
The device also features an excellent mid-range Wi-Fi 6 performance with great configuration options. It has a top gamer interface and includes malware protection. The only flaws with the device would be that you have to pay an extra charge for security updates after using it for 90 days, as per the support policy, and the fact that it does not include multi-gig input or port aggregation.
You get the benefit of utilizing an entire dashboard of customization tools to optimize your router's performance. You can also use set devices or apps that require more speed as compared to others.
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6/Dual-band.
- Peak Throughput: 860.7Mbps.
- Ports: 1 WAN, 4 LAN Gbps and USB 3.0.
- Number of Antennas/Removable: 4/Yes.
- Size: 11.6” x 7.9” x 2.5”
- Netgear Orbi WiFi-6 RBK852:
This is a unique device, as it doesn’t feature the same gaming router design as others. It is one of the best mesh routers for gamers. It contains eight antennas that are fixed and a peak throughput of 883.6Mbps, which is quite an impressive one.
It features a top Wi-Fi mesh performance, tri-band operation, excellent wall and ceiling penetration, and malware protection. Its large bulky design may be a reason for not buying for most people but the real flaw would be its 90-day support policy.
If you have a big room to place this router and require excellent mesh performance, opting for this device would be the best course of action. It also uses several modes to create a single seamless network, which would prove to be beneficial for a good gaming experience.
Specification:
- Wi-Fi Spec: AX6000/Tri-Band.
- Peak Throughput: 883.6Mbps.
- Ports: 1 WAN, 4 LAN and 4 LAN.
- Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/No.
- Size: 10.0” x 7.5” x 2.8”
Conclusion:
Gaming routers are crucial for an excellent gaming experience, as they offer gamers to enjoy gaming without any internet delays. The year 2020 has been the year when gaming emerged to a whole new level. Gaming routers have led gamers to be on the search for used routers.
Nevertheless, most gamers face a frequent problem of which gaming router they should buy whenever they are looking to upgrade their gaming routers. Deciding on the best router depends on the use and preference, but up until now the best gaming router according to the stats is the ASUS RT-AX86U. As it features a powerful Wi-Fi 6 and is considered to be the best in terms of overall performance.