Finding the best Netgear router can be a difficult task. But if you are familiar with the brand and want to purchase a router of your own, then the search might not be all that tough. Netgear is known for being one of the best names when it comes to providing excellent WiFi to your home or office.
A router will provide strong, consistent signals (and may work with such accessories like extenders so you can get WiFi throughout the house or office without a single dead spot). While there are plenty of routers available on the market and made from different brands, Netgear has a handful of routers that you can choose from. We’ve hand-picked eight of the best for this review (and an opportunity to choose one of the best on the market).
Before we get to the list, we will talk about whether all Netgear brand routers are the same and how you can choose one for your own personal use.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Netgear Routers
Comparison Chart of the Best Netgear Routers
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Best Budget Option  |
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Are All Netgear Routers The Same?
Short answer: Yes and no. Yes, because they serve a purpose by providing a strong WiFi signal in your home. And yes, they happen to have the same name (yes, a Smart Alec answer we know). But where does the “no” part come in? Some Netgear routers will have various ranges. Some will reach a certain distance and some will not. Also, you may have different speeds like 2.4 GHz and 5GHz on the same router. Some Netgear routers you’ll find probably won’t have that.
How to Choose a Netgear Router
It would not be wise to choose a Netgear router at complete random. You’ll want to consider taking a look at the features and characteristics that will interest you so that it will make the choosing part much easier. What exactly do you need to look for in the best router you can find? Here are some things to look for:
Price
While it’s not a feature or characteristic per se, it’s a deciding factor for those who are on a budget. Indeed you will find a router at an affordable price. But it’s important that you find the best that you can afford in terms of how well it can perform and the overall quality of the signal. Find the best possible reach, speed, and signal strength that you can afford so you have something that performs better than any cheap WiFi router on the market.
Range
If you want something that will cover every square inch of your home, you need to consider the size of your house. A 2.4GHz has an average range of 150 feet each way). With the 5GHz included, the range is almost the same (if not a bit longer indoors, but double the distance outdoors). Consider whether your WiFi access can be expanded to such areas as your back porch.
Speed
Everyone wants a consistently fast WiFi signal that won’t slow them down. If that’s the case, pay attention to the download and upload speeds of the router you are considering. A good router can take your Internet speeds from KBs per second to MBs per second almost instantly. Speed will matter most especially when you need to surf the web, send an email, or even watch your favorite shows online.
The Ability to Handle Multiple Devices
These days, we need WiFi to handle multiple devices. Computers, tablets, smartphones, and even your home security system. If you can find a router that can handle multiple devices, there is a good chance that it will have good bandwidth, a strong signal, and consistently fast speeds. Some routers may not even have that ability, so choose carefully.
Quick Take - Best Netgear Routers
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best Netgear routers:
Review of the Best Netgear Routers
The following is a list of the best Netgear routers that are currently available on the market. As you go through the list, you may want to note the features and characteristics of each so you can find one that will be the best option for you. If you have a good idea of how routers work, you may have a description in mind of what your “dream router” looks like and how it functions. Find the one that’s close enough and you’ll be in business.
Now, let’s take a look at the first router on our list -- the “best overall” Netgear router:
Best Overall:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR700 WiFi Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were quite happy with the router overall. They were quick to notice the router’s ability to handle multiple devices. It could handle smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and so many others. Even the speeds remained consistent and users did not lose their signal once. One user said that it was a great router that allowed him to use multiple devices unlike his old router, which stalled connection on his Roku while he was exploring the web on his phone.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you truly want a WiFi router that will be guaranteed to perform at a higher level, look no further than the ones that gamers will rely on. Think about it, gamers who play online need the fastest speed possible. On top of that, they want a consistently strong WiFi signal that doesn’t quit on them and can have the ability to reach every corner of the house. This router will check off so many boxes. With six Ethernet ports and blazing fast speeds of up to 7GBps, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything quite like this anywhere else on the market.
Who Will Use This Most
While this will obviously be used by gamers, it will be a great router for those who are non-gamers. In other words, it will be excellent for users who need to utilize multiple devices without having to deal with the frustration of one device slowing down while you are using the other. If you want fast, strong WiFI in one awesome router this could be what you are looking for.
Bottom Line
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR700 WiFi Router is without question one of the best on the market. Plus, it gets the “best overall” title for a few good reasons. Fast speeds, consistently strong signals, and simple installation. This is well-deserving of the best overall recognition. If you want a router that is worth every single penny, this could be what you need.
Runner-up:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This router was pretty impressive according to most users. They were able to set this up in a matter of minutes and had the ability to handle multiple devices. The coverage was impressive for the new users as it would go from one end of a single level home to the next. One user said that he didn’t even need to purchase an extender as he had assumed before purchasing the router.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This router has the ability to give you fast, consistently strong WiFi to just about any corner of the house. Of course, you also have Ethernet ports available in case you want freakishly fast internet on some of the devices that may need the fastest speed possible. It can handle a good number of devices both indoors and even some outdoor devices like security systems. Simply put, it can handle the multiple devices you use on an everyday basis. If you want a Netgear router that won’t forsake you or slow you down, why not give this one a chance?
Who Will Use This Most
This will be ideal for those who just want a simple to set up and simple to use Netgear router. It will handle a good number of devices, provide fast speeds and strong, never fail signals most of the time. It’s just about what you expect from a reliable WiFi router. It will be ideal for single level homes to use this to their advantage.
Bottom Line
The Netgear Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router will probably be the go-to option for you if and when you need something for a small house. Yes, it will support your devices while being able to give you the strength and speed you deserve. How can you say no to that? If you just want a WiFi router that is designed to do its job and never quit, this might be right up your alley.
Best for the Money:
NETGEAR WiFi Router (R6080)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This was a great router for many users looking for a budget solution. And sure enough, they were not disappointed in the slightest. For one, the speed was fast right out of the box. Setup took 10 minutes or less and was able to connect to most devices. One user said that he was pretty happy with the signal reach and the ability to go above and beyond the speeds he’d expect from a “budget” router.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Yes, you would be pretty surprised by what a router that is priced affordably can do. It can reach end to end and even upstairs or downstairs. This will give you plenty of coverage while giving you a solid signal, and fast speeds for any device that you use regularly. You’re certainly going to get a lot more than what you pay for with a Netgear router like this.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are looking for what might be a starter router that could wind up being a great long-term solution, then you should consider this one of your no-brainer options. Yes, it’s affordable and will give you the best possible performance that no other cheap or low-priced router can match. Let’s face it, this might be the best possible router that you can afford in terms of quality and performance. Why settle for anything less?
Bottom Line
The NETGEAR WiFi Router (R6080) might just be exactly what you are looking for in terms of affordability and overall performance. No, it’s not cheap or slow. But it will give you so much more than you expect from a “budget” WiFi router. If you want something reasonably affordable and delivers ridiculously fast results, this is the router you’ll want in your room.
Best Netgear Nighthawk Router:
NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This Netgear router was a hit with most users. Especially when it provided a lot of coverage for those living in single-level homes. Once connected, a lot of devices were able to get strong WiFi connections with fast speeds and no interruptions. One user said that he was able to use his laptop while streaming a football game on TV with no interruptions or stoppage to report.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Nighthawk routers are anything but disappointing (as evident to some of the few that we’ve already covered). They are fast, strong, and provide superior security so no unauthorized connections come through. It’s a textbook example of what a WiFi router should be. Of course, you get all the sweet benefits of it within minutes of setting it all up. If you want a great WiFi router that will support many devices and won’t screw you over when it comes to speed and performance (compared to some routers), this should be a no-brainer decision.
Who Will Use This Most
This router is perfect for those who not only want the best speed and performance but want top-flight security so it will prevent any unauthorized connections. This means you’ll block anyone trying to steal your WiFi from whatever range possible. Close by or remote, your bases will be covered. This router is the real deal when it comes to security and performance. And you probably won’t expect anything less.
Bottom Line
The Netgear Nighthawk R7000 is no slouch when it comes to delivering consistently strong signals, blazing-fast speeds, and unrivaled security. There is no denying that will win you over should you choose a Netgear router that will make sure that every room in the house gets a good signal. If you own a single level house and need a WiFi router that will cover each corner, this may be the router you don’t want to overlook.
Best Netgear Router For Gaming:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 WiFi Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, a good number of people were pretty stoked to see an increase in connection speed right out of the box. Upon setup, one user said that his overall speed went from KBs to MBs in a matter of seconds. He said that he no longer had to wait a while for any downloads as it was able to get the job done in a fraction of what it was before installation. Furthermore, he mentioned that buffering issues were non-existent when he was watching his TV shows on Hulu.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Gamers rely on a good number of attributes in a WiFi router. Fast speeds, far-reaching range, and a signal that won’t drop at all. Whether you are a gamer or not, this is a great router that will perform at such a high level you’ll wish you had this router right from the start. Yes, it’s super-fast, super-strong, and just all-around impressive. For all your multiple devices both indoors and out, this might be the router worth investing in if you want nothing but a top-flight performance that won’t drop on you or slow you down.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great router for those who use PCs and consoles for gaming purposes. You’ll have plenty of bandwidth and speed at your disposal so you can play as long as you like without a single episode of interruptions. Even if you don’t play video games, you can take advantage of the excellent overall performance so you have the fastest, highest quality WiFi period.
Bottom Line
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 WiFi Router is no joke. It can deliver excellent speeds, hold a solid WiFi signal, and will keep going and handle as many devices as you need. Whether you have a gaming console or an outdoor security system, this is the kind of router that you’d be dying to have at your house. Besides, it might be quite the upgrade compared to your soon to be old router.
Best Netgear Router For Streaming:
NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 Smart WiFi Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, most of the new users were quite happy with the router in general. The set up was super quick and easy and speeds were considerably boosted once all was said and done. A lot of new users were utilizing this for the purpose of making sure their streaming services were not lagging or buffering in the slightest. So far, no interruptions were reported according to one user. And he was able to use his phone without creating any kind of signal conflict.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It’s a router that will handle many devices and will make sure that your TV shows and movies are streamed from beginning to end without any buffering or lagging. Just because you are using one device for streaming doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to the number of devices you can use at the same time. You can watch a movie and look up information about it on your phone rather than deal with a disrupted connection that is common with weak routers. If you’re looking for a simple router that is fast, has a good deal of reach, and will remain reliable for the long term, this could be what you need.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are using Hulu, Netflix, or even the new Disney + this might be the perfect WiFi router from Netgear that will handle all your devices and make all your streaming devices run smooth and efficient. No interruptions? No problem. This is the go-to option for anyone that wants to watch movies, play games, or simply surf the web using a super fast and really strong WiFi signal that can be accessed anywhere.
Bottom Line
If you want the best NETGEAR router for all your streaming needs, the Nighthawk X6 Smart WiFi Router might be your golden ticket to seeing the best movies and TV shows with quick loading times, fast speeds, and no interruptions. This is as good as it gets when it comes to streaming and handling all your favorite devices at the same time.
Best Netgear Router For Large Homes:
NETGEAR Nighthawk AX8 8-Stream WiFi 6 Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were looking for a WiFi router that would cover homes that were mostly dual-level or have multiple floors (or large in square footage). They certainly weren’t disappointed when they came across this. The setup was quick and easy and it managed to spread the WiFi signal across multiple floors of their homes. One user said that his upstairs office managed to get strong, fast WiFi connectivity as well as the basement where he could watch Netflix. The streaming was flawless and showed no lagging or buffering.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While so many routers (let alone Netgear routers) will be able to cover a large house, this one in particular will. This means you won’t have to rely on WiFi extenders. So if you want some serious bandwidth and coverage in large or multi-level houses then you’re probably going to utilize this router to your advantage. This can handle all kinds of devices from your smartphones to your gaming consoles. You invest in this router and you have one of the most powerful Netgear routers available on the market.
Who Will Use This Most
Of course, this will be best used by those who are living in large square footage homes. It will also be worth the investment if you want a router that will cover every upper or lower floor of your home. Believe us when we say that this bad boy is a beast of a router that can handle so many devices and will cover every nook and cranny of your home.
Bottom Line
The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX 8-Stream WiFi 6 Router is probably the only router that will be able to cover a large home and even multiple level residences. It’s got the speed, the power, and the ability to handle the larger tasks. You don’t need an extender of any kind in order to cover every room of your house with fast, strong WiFi service.
Best Netgear Cable Modem Router:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, this WiFi router was pretty cooperative with Ethernet connections. However, they were also happy with the wireless WiFi connection covering a good amount of real estate. They said that this was able to handle their Internet service without any complications or connectivity issues. Overall, it covered each room and handled a handful of common devices both indoors and outdoors.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Yes, you can get even faster Internet with the help of an Ethernet connection. But the wireless connection will be just the same. What’s even better is that this router can cooperate with just about any WiFi service available. So this might be the closest you can get to a universal Netgear router. Of course, no router is complete without the ability to cover every room in the house and eliminating any dead spot in its way.
Who Will Use This Most
This Netgear router will be one of the closest ones you can find for those who just want something that is easy to set up, regardless of the WiFi service they have. Yes, some routers won’t work with some service providers. But if you don’t want to deal with any of the guessing games of whether or not a router will support your service provider’s WiFi, this might be the best fallback option you can find.
Bottom Line
If you want a great router for all your cable connection needs, NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem will be a great choice for those who prefer a cable connection. Yes, you’ll still get WiFi out of the whole shebang, but sometimes cable might just fare better in terms of speed. But no matter what, you get excellent coverage and dead zones won’t be found anywhere inside your home.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
If you must make a decision on a Netgear router, then it might as well be a well-informed one. So you should consider the idea of mulling over some additional aspects that will factor into your final buying decision. Here are some things that you’ll want to think over:
Which Router Will Provide The Right Coverage?
The size of your home will determine which router will best suit you. If you have a home that is a single level home, you may settle with a simple router that will be easy to set up and provide a good deal of range. If you have a larger sized home, then you may want to consider an option that might be at a higher price point. Specifically, a dual-band router might be your best option for larger homes.
Which Router Can Handle My Service Provider?
Granted, there are a handful of routers that won’t discriminate while providing excellent WiFi coverage that is fast. But for some strange reason, it may or may not support any kind of service provider. Pay close attention to the additional customer reviews and make a decision as to whether or not it would be a great router for your WiFi connection.
What Devices Do I Plan on Using?
This is a big one to consider. There are some routers that will handle small wireless devices but won’t handle larger devices like gaming consoles. However, some will. Consider the devices you plan on using on a regular basis and find a router that will handle them.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
Yes, there are some cautious considerations that you should not ignore. It’s important to be aware of these while making the right decision on a router that will work best for you. Here are some things that you must know before you purchase or even set up a router:
Don’t Get a Router That Will be Too Much
It’s simple: don’t get a router that will be designed for a large home and use it if you have a single level house. This may cause overload and may cause instability in your connection or speed. Sometimes, too much can be a bad thing and it can cost you in terms of how much you pay for WiFi every month.
Some Routers Are Not Made For The Outdoors
You may need a WiFi connection for some devices like a security system (i.e.--Ring, SimpliSafe, etc.). If you must, invest in an outdoor WiFi extender so the signal can be able to reach the outdoor area of your home. Most of these extenders are outdoor safe and can resist all kinds of environmental elements.
Conclusion
Netgear has all kinds of routers available at your disposal. But these eight listed above are considered the best of the best. Consider some of the aspects like your home size, ability to handle multiple devices, and the coverage you need in order to find the right one just for you. It’s never been easy to get rid of all the dead spots in your home so your WiFi is accessible just about anywhere.
People Also Ask
Below is a list of the frequently asked questions that you can use for a guide while searching for your own Netgear router. It’s important that you know the answer so you can make a more well-informed decision and know what to expect from a router. Here are the questions:
How Do I Access My Netgear Router?
Once your Netgear router is set up, you should access a web browser of your choice. From there, go to routerlogin.net or routerlogin.com. Keep in mind that your browser will remind you that your connection is unsecure. Please verify the address that you entered and proceed as normal. At this point, you should log in using the username “admin” and the password is “password”. You can change these immediately into a username and password of your choosing.
How Do I Know if My Netgear Router is Working?
You can check to see if your router is working by taking a look at the LED display lights. They should be lit in solid green to ensure that a connection is present and currently available. This will also depend on the router’s label that represents an Internet connection.
What Happens If I Factory Reset My Netgear Router?
If you factory reset your router, it will completely reset your entire device. This means you’ll be wiping out your SSID, username, password, and security settings. Only do this if you have forgotten your password.
What Do The Lights Mean on My Netgear Router?
These lights represent the status of your Internet connections. These include but are not limited to your Ethernet connection and your WiFi. They all should be lit in a solid color in order to indicate a good signal.
