So many individuals are still working from home due to COVID-19. Your Wi-Fi network is doing a lot more than just letting you stream movies and play games. Millions of consumers rely on home Wi-Fi routers to stay connected while also connecting an ever-increasing number of smart home devices. That means deciding on the best router for streaming is more difficult than ever, especially now that more Wi-Fi 6 devices are becoming accessible.
Today's online life necessitates superb Wi-Fi coverage and performance for everything from work and school to streaming and gaming. The best router for streaming employs Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 to connect all of your laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs to an easy-to-manage wireless network. The best wireless routers keep you connected. They also give features such as built-in security, app-based settings, and simple parental controls.
What is the Best Router for Streaming?
When looking for a new wireless router, start by thinking about the size of your coverage area, the number of clients you'll be supporting, and the types of devices you'll be connecting. Not everyone requires the level of performance provided by the most recent models, and there's no reason to pay for capabilities you'll probably never use.
Nowadays, any decent wireless router will have at least two radio bands, a 2.4GHz, and a 5GHz band. It is better at penetrating walls and other barriers because it is more proficient at penetrating them. The 2.4GHz band operates at a lower frequency than the 5GHz band and gives a superior range. However, it lacks the fat pipe and high-speed access that the 5GHz frequency provides.
A new Wi-Fi router with current management features can make a world of difference. Purchasing a router can save you money while also delivering better performance and functionality than the equipment provided by your service provider.
It can help keep the peace if numerous family members fight for the bandwidth for activities like streaming Netflix videos and playing PC games online. The majority of current Wi-Fi routers support video streaming. To keep you connected, here is a list of the best router for streaming at home.
Best Router for Streaming
1. TP-Link AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router (Archer A7)
- JD Power Award ---Highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers 2017 and 2019
- Router for wireless internet, works with Alexa, compatible with all Wi-Fi devices, 802.11ac and older
- Dual band router upgrades to 1750 Mbps high speed internet(450mbps for 2.4GHz, 1300Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K streaming
- 3 external antennas for long range Wi-Fi. System Requirements-Internet Explorer 11, Firefox 12.0, Chrome 20.0, Safari 4.0, or other JavaScript-enabled browser. Cable or DSL Modem (if needed)
- Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, fast access to multiple connected wired devices, Ideal as a gaming router
To keep up with the new number of electronic devices in today's homes, you'll need a reliable Wi-Fi router. At an inexpensive price, AC1750 routers provide the speed and range that most households want. The Archer A7 gives you the most bang for your buck, with the ideal combination of performance and features for most homes.
Exceptional Wi-Fi Coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. Three high-gain antennas and powerful amplifiers connect every device, from the living room to the backyard, to provide superb Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Connect up to 50+ devices with a stable Wi-Fi connection. It has a strong CPU for high-speed processing.
Sturdy hardware backed by innovative technologies and bandwidth priority. The Archer A7 efficiently manages the needs of every device in your home (QoS). Seamless gaming and 4K streaming experience are ensured thanks to the 3x faster AC1750 Wi-Fi. In addition, Dual-band Wi-Fi allows you to connect multiple devices with fewer interruptions.
With strong WPA/WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption, parental controls, and guest access, you can keep your family safe and your gadgets protected. Alexa is used to turning on and off the guest Wi-Fi. You can set up the best wireless router in minutes, manage your Wi-Fi at home, and check-in remotely using the Tether app's easy and intuitive interface.
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router, R6700 - AC1750
- Recommended for up to 25 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices
- Wired Ethernet ports: Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired devices with 4 x 1 gigabit Ethernet ports
- Loaded with advanced technology: Designed with a 1GHz dual core processor, 3 amplified antennas, Beamforming plus, Dynamic QoS, Smart Connect, and more
- USB connections: Share a storage drive or printer with any connected device or create a personal cloud storage to access from anywhere, using the 1 x 3.0 USB port
- Safe & secure: Supports WPA2 wireless security protocols. Includes Guest Wi-Fi access, DOS, Firewall, VPN, and more.
Wi-Fi coverage of up to 1,500 square feet. With the Nighthawk R6700, you can easily improve your Wi-Fi experience and coverage. Range-boosting Fast, dependable Wi-Fi is delivered to every area of your home thanks to Beamforming+ antennas and Dual-Band streaming.
For demanding activities like HD streaming and online gaming, up to 1750Mbps wireless connection is available. Up to 25 devices can connect to the internet at the same time. Selects between two bands intelligently to reduce interference and increase speed for your various smart wireless devices.
BitDefender-powered NETGEAR Armor. With a 30-day free trial, the world's premier cybersecurity software protects all of your home devices from viruses, malware, and data theft. In addition, you can effortlessly manage online content access and device screen time with the Circle App.
Use the app to set usage time limits, device scheduling, filter websites, and more for any connected devices in your house. Setting up your router is a breeze using the Nighthawk App. Connect your internet Ethernet wire to the router and follow the app's simple setup instructions.
You're done once you've connected your multiple devices to the network. A total of four high-speed 1G wired connections are available. Gigabit LAN ports allow you to connect your computer, game console, and other devices through a cable connection. You may share a storage drive or printer across your network with just one USB port.
3. Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo C7000 from NETGEAR
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. Currently certified with Spectrum and Cox (up to 1Gbps) and Xfinity (up to 800Mbps). Future speeds with these service providers may change over time. Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- Save monthly rental fees: Model C7800 replaces your cable modem and Wi-Fi router saving you up to Dollar 168/year in equipment rental fees
- Get up to 3000 square feet wireless coverage and 45 devices connected with AC3200 speed (up to 3200 Mbps)
- Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 hi-speed USB 3.0 ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices
- Modem technology: Engineered with 32x8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1
A Wi-Fi Modem ables you to save money on monthly rental fees, which build up over time. Modems with Wi-Fi give Wi-Fi coverage and additional functions. It is compatible with Comcast's Xfinity, Spectrum, and COX. Unfortunately, any bundled voice services are not compatible. It supports cable internet plans with rates up to 400Mbps.
It delivers fast and consistent internet access for HD streaming and more. Wi-Fi coverage up to 1800 sq. ft. thanks to boosted antennae and range-extending Beamforming+ technology. Up to 30 devices can connect to the internet at the same time.
Wireless speeds of up to 1900Mbps (AC1900) are ideal for demanding HD streaming and gaming. Setup takes around 5 minutes. Super-fast wired connectivity to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices are provided by four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two USB 3.0 connectors.
4. ASUS AC1900 Wi-Fi Gaming Router (RT-AC68U)
The ASUS RT-AC68U router offers enough speed, range, and security for most families. It provides the finest value for money and the optimal balance of performance and features for every home. Up to 3,000 sq. ft. of Wi-Fi coverage
The RT-AC68U is equipped to meet the demands of several devices running at the same time at home. The quality hardware is backed by cutting-edge technologies and bandwidth prioritization (QoS). It ensures seamless gaming and a 4K streaming experience. In addition, dual-band Wi-Fi allows you to connect more devices with fewer interruptions.
Alexa voice control can help you manage your Wi-Fi settings. You can set up your router in minutes, manage your Wi-Fi access at home, and check-in remotely with the ASUS Router APP. In addition, with strong WPA/WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption, parental controls, and guest access, you can keep your family and gadgets safe.
5. ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Cable Modem with DOCSIS 3.0 and AC1600
The SURFboard SBG10 combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and an 802.11ac Wi-Fi router with two one-gigabit Ethernet connections into one device. It includes 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels and AC1600 Wi-Fi, making it ideal for families with fewer devices.
The all-in-one modem and Wi-Fi router combination eliminate the need to manage several devices. It is ideal for cable Internet speeds up to 400 Mbps. It also helps you save money on monthly modem rental expenses and fits into any home office.
It is compatible with major cable internet providers in the United States, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. If you're not sure your device is compatible, check your internet service provider or ARRIS's websites. You can have a lightning-fast home network up and running with just a few short cable connections and a visit to your internet service provider's activation website.
The SBG10 contains two 1-gigabit Ethernet connectors for ultra-fast wired networking. This cable works well with smart TVs, game consoles, and other devices.
What to Look for in the Best Router for Streaming?
1. Quality of Service (QoS)
Many high-end wireless routers come with quality of service (QoS) features. They let you prioritize devices and network traffic, and the most critical data streams get more bandwidth. In addition, it ensures that video playback is uninterrupted by downloads, games, or other household activities taking place simultaneously as the streaming. Look for QoS capabilities in a router if your home has a lot of simultaneous internet usage.
2. Processors
Dual processors are common in the latest Wi-Fi routers, allowing them to handle data and instructions faster. The end effect is a smoother connection with fewer stops and delays for you.
3. Single-band, Dual-band, or Tri-band
Routers use one of two bands to communicate 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. Only one of the bands is supported by a basic single-band router. Newer routers frequently include dual-band capability, which means they can connect with devices on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. In addition, Tri-band functionality is available on the most modern routers.
These routers generally use two 5 GHz channels and one 2.4 GHz band. Using three bands improves download and upload speeds while also lowering the risk of signal interference. When streaming in 4K, a dual-band router is a must. It provides the necessary power for your ultra-HD stream at the most affordable price.
4. Standards for Wireless Networks
802.11n, 802.11ac, and Wi-Fi 6 are the most prevalent wireless standard. Wi-Fi 6 is the most recent standard accessible in high-end routers. Go for a router that supports 802.11ac or Wi-Fi 6. These standards provide the necessary speeds to stream a 4K video and play a few games on your Xbox or PS5. It's typically obvious which wireless standard a router supports by looking at the name.
5. Beamforming and MU-MIMO
Multi-user, multiple input, multiple outputs are referred to as MU-MIMO. Many of the newest standalone Wi-Fi routers feature technologies like MU-MIMO, which divvies up bandwidth to keep internet speeds consistent while multiple users use the network. It can make a considerable difference, so seek it if your household frequently has numerous gadgets operating simultaneously.
MU-MIMO is frequently accompanied by beamforming. To boost wireless throughput and range, it employs MU-MIMO compatible transmitters and receivers. The router (transmitter) beams the Wi-Fi signal to the internal antennae of your devices, producing a home network capable of high-end streaming.
6. Antennas
The number and wattage of antennas on your router can affect your Wi-Fi signal's range, dependability, and performance. That isn't to say that the router with the most antennae is necessarily the best. However, if you're 4K streaming via Wi-Fi, you'll want the highest signal and speed available, which means using numerous antennae.
7. Ports
A router with Ethernet and USB connections is more functional. You could certainly go wireless for everything, but there are occasions when hardwiring a gadget is necessary. You'll also need a router with a few free Ethernet ports if you plan to deploy Wi-Fi extenders.
When mounting the router on your entertainment center and plugging your streaming box or smart TV directly into it, LAN ports on routers come in handy. It ensures a strong signal for your primary device while leaving the Wi-Fi signal open for tablets and other devices.
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