If you're tired of lag spikes ruining your gaming sessions, your router might be the culprit. While a solid gaming router isn't strictly necessary, a good one can seriously boost your connection, prioritizing game traffic to keep things smooth. Plus, they often come with slick designs and customizable lighting for that gamer aesthetic.
You don't absolutely need a dedicated gaming router; a great standard router can do the job, and a wired Ethernet connection is always the most reliable. However, some gaming routers offer specific features like traffic prioritization and advanced customization that can make a difference. Asus stands out as a top recommendation, with its Republic of Gamers (ROG) sub-brand consistently delivering powerful and configurable options.
The Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro is a beast, boasting Wi-Fi 7 speeds that make it the fastest router tested to date. Its quad-band capability offers massive bandwidth, perfect for multiple gaming streams or a mesh setup using Asus's AiMesh. It packs an impressive array of ports, including multiple 10-Gbps options, and comes bundled with robust security and parental controls from Trend Micro. While its sheer size and price are considerable, its performance is undeniable. If you don't need quite that level of power, the Asus ROG Strix GS-BE12000 offers Wi-Fi 7 and plenty of ports at a lower price, with the added benefit of official Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) support for extended 6-GHz range in North America.
For those on a tighter budget, the Asus TUF Gaming BE9400 is a surprisingly capable Wi-Fi 7 router that punches above its weight in performance, even if it lacks some of the ROG flair. If a mesh system is more your speed, the Asus ROG Rapture GT6 (2-Pack) offers solid Wi-Fi 6 gaming performance with easy setup and free lifetime security and parental controls.
TP-Link also offers gaming options, though they might not always hit the mark on value compared to their standard routers. The TP-Link Archer GE800 is a striking Wi-Fi 7 router with impressive speeds, but it can get hot and noisy, and some advanced features require subscriptions. For smaller spaces, the TP-Link Archer GE400 is a decent Wi-Fi 7 performer, but consider its sibling, the Archer BE600, for a more complete Wi-Fi 7 experience.
While routers like the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE300 offer solid Wi-Fi 6E performance and a sleek design, their premium features often come with hefty subscription fees. Steer clear of models like the Acer Predator Connect T7 and MSI RadiX AXE6600, which have shown inconsistent performance and buggy software in testing. Ultimately, while a gaming router can enhance your setup, a good standard router or a wired connection will also get you far.
