A fast and reliable WiFi router is essential for any modern home. With more devices connecting to home networks than ever before, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs, gaming consoles and smart home gadgets, having a powerful router that can provide strong WiFi coverage across your entire home is a must.
The traditional single router setup may not be enough anymore. Mesh WiFi systems are becoming popular, using multiple access points to create a mesh network that blankets every room with strong WiFi. Let's look at some of the best WiFi routers and mesh networks for home use in 2023.
Single Router vs Mesh Network
A single WiFi router placed in a central location in your home can provide decent coverage, but there will likely be weak spots or dead zones, especially if you have a larger home or thick walls. This leads to frustrated users moving to get better signal strength.
A mesh WiFi system uses multiple access points called nodes that work together to form one unified network. This creates a true mesh network with no dead zones. Mesh nodes strategically placed around your home provide blanket WiFi coverage.
Key Router Features
When choosing a single router or mesh nodes, pay attention to these key features:
Dual-band or tri-band - Look for dual-band or tri-band routers that support both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz bands. 5Ghz provides faster speed but less range, while 2.4Ghz has better range through walls. Tri-band adds a dedicated 5Ghz backhaul band for node communication.
WiFi protocols - Make sure your router supports the latest WiFi protocols - WiFi 5 (802.11ac) or the newest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) for the fastest speeds.
Range - More expensive routers and mesh nodes have powerful antennas and amplifiers to extend WiFi range.
Wired backhaul - Mesh nodes that connect to each other with ethernet cables have faster and more reliable backhaul data transfer.
Processor - A faster CPU means the router can handle more devices and higher throughput speeds.
Top Routers for Home
Here are some of the top standalone wifi routers for home use that provide great WiFi performance:
Netgear Nighthawk AX8 - A WiFi 6 router with excellent range and speeds up to 6Gbps. Advanced features like OFDMA make it ideal for many connected devices.
Asus RT-AX86U - A gaming-centric AX5700 dual-band router with WiFi 6, mesh support and robust QoS for lag-free gaming.
TP-Link Archer AX73 - An affordable tri-band WiFi 6 router with good range and AX speeds up to 5.4Gbps. Great for 4K streaming and VR gaming.
Best Mesh WiFi Systems
These whole home mesh WiFi systems provide seamless coverage:
Google Nest Wifi Pro - A triband mesh router with superfast speeds up to 5.4Gbps. Easy setup and optimization features.
Amazon eero Pro 6 - A tri-band mesh network with WiFi 6 and over 2,000 sq. ft. of coverage. Works with Alexa.
Netgear Orbi RBK853 - A premium WiFi 6 tri-band mesh system with dedicated backhaul up to 6 Gbps speeds. Covers up to 7,500 sq. ft.
Conclusion
There are many great options available for upgrading your home WiFi in 2023. Look for the latest WiFi 6 routers and mesh systems with powerful signal strength to eliminate dead zones and provide blazing fast wireless throughout your entire home. With proper setup of a good router or mesh network, you'll enjoy seamless roaming and lag-free connections on all your devices.