Whether you use enough data to run your very own cryptocurrency mining operation or have a large family interested in gaming and streaming, you need a device that can provide the bandwidth necessary to avoid slowdowns and dropped connections.
The experts in the PC Labs run routers through a gamut of tests, including data throughput rates, ease of setup, available features, signal strength, and more. Mesh Wi-Fi systems are tested similarly but with a few variations, ensuring that our ratings reflect a variety of factors when you, the consumer, go to find the right setup to fit your individual needs.
The more smart objects you have in your home, the more simultaneous connections your router needs to be able to support. And get this: the larger your home is, the more difficult it is for your connection to get where it needs to go. With all those factors working against you, you should definitely check out our list of Wi-Fi routers and mesh systems that will give your signal a boost and make the most of the dollars you spend on your monthly internet service bill. Good news: one of these on-sale routers or Wi-Fi mesh systems could be the solution to any connectivity issues you might be having.
The best router and networking deals
When was the last time you updated your Wi-Fi router? If it wasn’t within the last few years, chances are your existing setup is not Wi-Fi 6 compliant. This standard brings faster throughput speeds, better battery life, and less bandwidth congestion than Wi-Fi 5; here’s how to see if you need to upgrade.
We have a full rundown on what to look for when buying a router, but you’ll want one with at least two radio bands, a 2.4GHz and a 5GHz band. If your household is gobbling up bandwidth regularly, a tri-band router uses three radios—one at 2.4GHz and two at 5GHz.
Though Wi-Fi 6 is the modern standard for wireless signal, Wi-Fi 5 is still effective in a pinch (Wi-Fi 6E is on the way). If you’re adding a mesh system, make sure your preferred system’s coverage area will extend everywhere you need it to be and that you’ve got places in mind for the multiple devices you’ll need to spread the signal wide enough.
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
The Eero 6 Dual-Band mesh system covers up to 4,500 square feet with Wi-Fi and supports speeds up to 550Mbps. Compatible devices are automatically synced to your network via Alexa, which removes the need to purchase a separate smart home hub. The Eero app will walk you through the simple setup and also allows you to manage your network any time, anywhere.
Readers’ Choice Brand Mesh System
The TP-Link Deco X55 AX3000 2-pack offers up to 4,500 square feet of coverage and is suitable for a 1-3 bedroom home. Like other Wi-Fi mesh systems, this one will replace your router and any extender(s). Once set up, the system supports up to 150 connected devices and speeds up to 2,402Mbps on the 5GHz band and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. AI-driven mesh technology learns your needs to optimize your connection accordingly, and you can further manage your settings via the companion Deco app. TP-Link was named our Readers’ Choice brand for routers, modems, and NAS devices in 2024, so you can purchase with confidence.
The Asus ROG Rapture GT6 is a two-piece, tri-band mesh system made with gamers in mind, offering speedy throughput performance and game-friendly features like bandwidth prioritization. Our expert gave the Asus ROG Rapture GT6 an “Outstanding” rating as well as the Editors’ Choice award, citing its sleek design, a dedicated game port, and a variety of gamer-centric settings. “Throw in a cool-looking design with Aura RGB lighting effects, and you’ve got our new Editors’ Choice winner among Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems,” says our expert. There was really only one con: The price. And this deal certainly helps with that issue.
Recommended by Our Editors
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*Deals are selected by our commerce team
Wi-Fi Routers
The TP-Link Archer AX21 AX1800 is an Amazon best-seller in computer routers thanks to its ease of setup, affordability, and signal strength. This dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands and speeds up to 1,800Mbps. Its four high-gain antennas with beamforming technology focus signal strength to provide a reliable connection.
Best for High-Bandwidth Households
The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is a tri-band 6GHz Wi-Fi 6E router with coverage of up to 3,500 square feet. Supporting speeds of up to 5.4Gbps on up to 60 concurrent devices, you’ll be able to game, stream, and surf the web without a drop in connectivity. And if you’re looking for the most stable connection possible, the four 1G Ethernet ports and one 2.5G Ethernet port enable you to plug in your devices. This router is suitable for those who use a lot of data in high-bandwidth activities like Twitch streaming and playing multiplayer games online.
Online gamers should check out the Asus RT-AX82U AX5400. It operates on the dual-band frequency, meaning it will reduce signal interference and provide stronger connectivity, which results in fewer slowdowns and dropped signals. With speeds up to 5,400Mbps, you’ll be able to connect multiple devices and perform tasks like streaming and gaming without worrying about bandwidth. As an added bonus, this device makes your online browsing safer with AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro.
More Router Deals
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
And if you’re ever wondering how we test Wi-Fi routers, take a look at a rundown of our entire process.
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What Is the Best Router at the Best Price?
Among the routers tested by our PCMag experts, the TP-Link Archer AXE75 was named the “best router for most people” thanks to a reasonable price point ($199.99) and solid throughput performance in testing.
How Much Should I Pay for a Good Router?
Like with most electronics purchases, router pricing is based on performance and features. For example: An entry-level AX1750 802.11ax router will cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but a quad-band gaming router with enough bandwidth to support a battle royale LAN party could cost upwards of $700.
What is the Best Router Under $100?
Our expert called the TP-Link Archer AX10 (AX1500) Wi-Fi 6 Router “as inexpensive as Wi-Fi 6 routers get,” PCMag has a curated list of routers best suited for a variety of use cases and price points, so give that a look if you’d like more options.
What’s the Best Overall Budget Mesh WiFi System?
Those in search of a budget wi-fi mesh system should take a look at the Vilo Mesh, which sacrifices some speed for affordability. In testing, our expert found it to be sufficient for basic home networking duties, but does not recommend this device for users who download large chunks of data or regularly streak 4K video.
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