Best Wi-Fi 6 Routers: The Outgoing Standard’s Final Collection Of Excellence

You'll find in this post the comprehensive top-five lists of "the best" standalone Wi-Fi 6 routers.

For Wi-Fi 6 mesh, check out this list of the best Wi-Fi 6 systems instead.

The Wi-Fi 6 standard's first router became available in early 2019, and since then, I've reviewed dozens of them, but only those I'd use for myself make it here. And I've been updating this post regularly.

As the standard is on the way out -- Wi-Fi 6E has been available for a few years, and Wi-Fi 7 is on the horizon -- those mentioned here are highly likely the final bests of their category.

Asus RT-AX88U Pro will probably be my last Wi-Fi 6 router review. And even if it's not, it's unlikely that the next one will make it to this list.

Any routers you find here will likely work out well -- it's a matter of degrees depending on your situation.

Find the one that seems to fit your needs the best here and give its in-depth review a good read before making the purchase. Or you can make a quick decision and get one now! Chances are it'll work out just fine.

Before we get to the lists, let's cut to the chase and jump right to why you're here: The very best Wi-Fi 6 routers, all things considered. Yes, routers, as in plural.

This is a comprehensive post -- the following Table of Content will come in handy.

Open the drawer below for the performances and shopping links of all routers mentioned here.

Dong's note: I first published this frequently revised post on November 11, 2019, and last updated it on March 30, 2023.

Best Wi-Fi 6 routers: The shortlisted top-five

It's tough to call one router, or anything, "the best." It's impossible to find a router that gives us everything.

And even those on this short list don't have everything. But selectively, they are the best in their grade. I use the broadband connection as the main criterium, except for the case of the TP-Link Archer AX10, whose main strong point is affordability.

To qualify as (one of) the best, all of them share the following excellent highlights in common:

• Fast speed, extensive Wi-Fi coverage (for the specs and cost), and reliable performance.
• A comprehensive set of networking features.
• Local management via a robust web user interface.
• An optional well-designed, and helpful mobile app.

Again, it's important to note that none of these is the perfect router. But, if you're in a hurry and want a "safe" purchase, you won't go wrong with any of them.

This list is sorted in bandwidth order from low to high.

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Best low-cost Wi-Fi 6 router: TP-Link Archer AX10 (AX1500)

The TP-Link AX1500 doesn't have much to brag about. It's on this list because of its affordability. Keep that in mind -- it's best not to expect the world from it.

This is an entry-level device designed for those with modest needs. However, considering the price tag, it's a safe buy for anyone wanting a genuine Wi-Fi 6 experience.

Living alone or with a low-key roommate in a small apartment? This is the one to get.

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Best Wi-Fi 6 router for sub-Gigabit broadband: Ubiquiti UDR (AX3000)

Ubiquiti's UniFi Dream Router is probably the most exciting home router because it's an advanced enterprise-grade PoE-ready controller in a home-friendly design that can handle multiple hardware segments, with Wi-Fi and networking being one.

Unfortunately, it has no Multi-Gig port -- its four network ports are all Gigabit. Consequently, it's only suitable for homes with sub-Gigabit (800Mbps or slower) broadband.

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Best Wi-Fi 6 router for (up to) Gigabit broadband: Synology RT6600ax

The RT6600ax is the first router from Synology in years and the first that features the 5.9GHz portion of the 5GHz spectrum.

Running Synology Router Manager (SRM) operating system, this new router is the most comprehensive and can work as an excellent mini NAS server.

Unfortunately, it has just one 2.5Gbps port, meaning it won't be able to deliver connection speeds faster than Gig+. But it can deliver Gigabit broadband in full. if you're happy with that, it's easily one of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers to get.

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Best Wi-Fi 6 router for (up to) Multi-Gig broadband: Asus GT-AX11000 Pro

The GT-AX1000 Pro replaces the GT-AX6000 (below) at this spot. It's a much more potent variant of the GT-AX1000 (also below) and one of a few that sports two 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig ports.

Consequently, if you have Gig+ and faster broadband (up to 2.5Gbps), it's among the must-haves.

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Best Wi-Fi 6 router for (up to) 10Gbps broadband: Asus RT-AX89X

The Asus RT-AX89X has the X (and not U) at the end of its name -- I explained that in this post on Asus routers -- for a good reason.

It's the first on the market that features two 10Gbps network ports -- one Multi-Gig and one SPF+. It also has eight Gigabit LAN ports and one Gigabit WAN port.

The SFP+ port is a bit less common and might require a supported switch, such as the XS1930-12HP, before you can have a Multi-Gig experience.

Nonetheless, it's one of a few, if not the only, Wi-Fi 6 router that can give you 10Gbps connections on both the WAN and LAN side -- it's a must, for now, for those with 10Gbps broadband.

For a more viable 10Gbps Multi-Gig router, you'll have to venture into Wi-Fi 6E options.

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Have more time? Check out the following lists. You'll find something that fits your needs and budget even better.

Best Wi-Fi 6 routers: The comprehensive top-five lists

Similarly, these lists are in reviewed order, with the latest on top. Consequently, the number in front of each product's name is numerical and not the ranking.

There are a few lists for different home sizes, including small, medium, and large, determined by the number of users and not necessarily space -- again, you need a mesh for a large home.

Looking to see the routers mentioned here stacked against one another at real-world speeds? Scroll to the bottom for the performance section. Or check out these Wi-Fi 6 matchups to see how they pan out as direct rivals.

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Best budget entry-level (AX1500) and mid-range (AX3000) Wi-Fi 6 routers for a small home

This list includes dual-band 2x2 routers that range from affordable to semi-affordable. They all have a bandwidth cap of 2.4 Gbps or lower when used with 2x2 Wi-Fi 6 clients -- there are currently no faster devices.

These generally are routers for the budget-minded or those living in a small or medium home with modest bandwidth needs.

5. Synology WRX560

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the latest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The Synology WRX560 is an excellent entry-level Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router. It is the only one among its peers that features the UNII-4 portion of the 5GHz band.

Released in late 2022, it's a bit late to the game. Still, it'll be relevant and a safe buy for a long time.

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4. Asus GS-AX3000

The GS-AX3000 is somewhat of a gaming version of the RT-AX3000 below, and as such, it's an excellent option. This new router, part of Asus's ROG STRIX series, has many gaming and non-gaming features for a small household.

In many ways, the GS-AX3000 replaces the Asus RT-AX3000, which used to be on this list.

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3. Netgear WAX204

The Netgear WAX204 sure is different. Netgear calls it an Access Point, but it is a Wi-Fi 6 router. And it's a catch!

Indeed, with a sub-$100 price tag and solid performance, the WAX204 is an excellent buy for a small home with a sub-Gigabit broadband connection.

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2. Asus RT-AX68U

The Asus RT-AX68U is a bit odd. It's the only 3x3 Wi-Fi 6 router I've tested. But it proved an excellent choice as a standalone router or a member of an AiMesh system.

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1. TP-Link Archer AX50

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the oldest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The TP-Link Archer AX50 ( not to be confused with the similarly specced Archer AX3000) is a dual-stream (2x2) mid-range Wi-Fi 6 router.

But since there are only 2x2 clients on the market, this router can still deliver the top Wi-Fi 6 speeds, especially considering it supports the 160 MHz channel width.

On top of that, the affordable pricing, plus an excellent set of features, make it a great deal.

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Best mid-tier (AX5400) Wi-Fi 6 routers

These dual-band routers mix high-end (4x4) 5 GHz bands and a subdued 2x2 2.4 GHz band. They also have no Multi-Gig network port and relatively modest processing power.

However, considering we tend to care more about the 5 GHz bands and most homes only have Internet of 500 Mbps or slower, these are great deals since they deliver where it matters.

5. Asus TUF AX5400

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the latest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The TUF-AX5400 is a different shape from the GS-AX5400 below. It has the same hardware inside but is part of the more affordable TUF product that's more popular in Asia and the EU than in the US.

If you need a budget-friendly yet well-performing (gaming) Wi-Fi machine, you won't go wrong with this router.

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4. Asus GS-AX5400

The GS-AX5400 is a better version of the GS-AX3000 above and an excellent alternative to the RT-AX82U below.

It's another gaming router from Asus, and it proved to be a solid performer for any small or medium home. And like all Aus Wi-Fi 6 routers, it can also work as part of an AiMesh system.

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3. TP-Link Archer AX73 (AX5400)

The TP-Link AX73 has an excellent combo of features, performance, design, and cost. It's one of the most sensible Wi-Fi 6 routers you can find.

2. Asus RT-AX82U (AX5400)

The Asus RT-AX82U is almost identical to the RT-AX86U above in performance and features. "Almost" because it's a lesser option with less processing power and no multi-gig network port.

In return, it's the only router with awesome-looking programmable front lighting -- much cooler than the GS-AX5400 or GS-AX3000 above. On top of that, chances are you'll love the combo of excellent performance and a relatively friendly price tag.

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1. Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 (AX5400)

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the oldest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

I called the RAX50 a just-right router because it can offer the same 5 GHz performance as the higher-end, like the RAX120, yet much more affordable.

Among other things, it does so by giving you lesser specs in the 2.4 GHz band, of which the higher tier generally doesn't necessarily give you faster speeds anyway.

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Best high-end (AX5700 - AX6000) Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 routers

This list includes 4x4 routers with a cap Wi-Fi bandwidth of 4.8 Gbps when used with Wi-Fi 6 clients. These Wi-Fi 6 routers are great for a medium or possibly large home with an average number of devices and a fast Internet connection.

Most of these routers come with a multi-gig network port, and they also tend to have many features and can all work as a viable mini NAS server when coupled with an external portable drive.

That said, these routers apply to a home with a Gigabit-class bandwidth requirement.

5. Asus RT-AX88U Pro (AX6000)

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the latest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The RT-AX88U Pro is a 4-year-in-the-making replacement of Asus's first Wi-Fi 6 router, the RT-AX88U, which used to be on this list.

The new router looks identical to the old variant but completely new inside, supporting two Multi-Gig ports, VLAN, Guest Network Pro, and much more.

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4. Asus GT-AX6000

Like all Asus routers, the GT-AX6000 has robust firmware and valuable features. It's also an official gaming router, supporting all of Asus's high-end game-related features.

Most importantly, it has two 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig and four Gigabit flexible network ports, allowing it to handle up to 2.5Gbps of connection speeds on both the WAN (Internet) and LAN sides.

On top of that, when using multiple units, you'll get yourself an AiMesh system with a Multi-Gig wired backhaul.

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3. Asus RT-AX86U (AX5700)

I considered the RT-AX86U the "best dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router" for over a year.

And the router is still excellent despite being "deposed" by the GT-AX6000 above. In fact, for the cost, it's still an easy recommendation.

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2. TP-Link Archer AX6000

The TP-Link AX6000 is anything but round. However, it offers a lot, from reliable performance to a good feature set. Its main rival is the Asus RT-AX88U below, and the two are comparable in more ways than one.

If you live in a medium home and have a super-fast broadband connection, the TP-Link AX6000 can be an excellent fit.

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1. Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 (AX6000)

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the oldest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 is a Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router uniquely with a 5Gbps Multi-Gig port.

So, apart from fast Wi-Fi speeds, it also delivers top network-attached storage performance when hosting an external drive. And like its cousin below, it, too, has a futuristic design.

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Best high-end Tri-band (AX6100 - AX11000) Wi-Fi 6 routers for a large home

These are currently the non-compromising Wi-Fi 6 routers on the market. They collectively have everything you'd want from a single router.

While they have similar Wi-Fi coverage as the 4x4 dual-band routers above, they feature a double Wi-Fi bandwidth thanks to the additional 5 GHz band. If you have lots of devices or Gigabit Internet, one of these is a must.

5. MSI RadiX6600 (AX6600)

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the latest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The RadiX AX6600 marks the return of MSI to the realm of home networking. This new router has a friendly design and excellent performance. While its support for gaming is a little thin, that's a bonus. And its friendly price tag doesn't hurt.

4. TP-Link Archer GX90 (AX6600)

The TP-Link Archer GX90 replaces the Archer AX11000 on this list. And similar to its predecessor, it is not what TP-Link wants you to believe, which is a genuine gaming router.

But you can play games just fine with it, and most importantly, it delivers in Wi-Fi performance! And the fact it's a cool-looking piece of hardware never hurts.

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3. Asus RT-AX92U (AX6100)

The Asus RT-AX92U didn't make it to this list when I first reviewed it in early 2020. Now, with the latest firmware, it proved to be one of the best on the market. It's a mini version of the much more expensive GT-AX11000 below.

If you live in a small home, it will make an excellent tri-band gaming router. Those in a large property can increase Wi-Fi coverage via AiMesh 2.0 by getting additional units.

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2. Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien (AX7700)

The AmpliFi Alien is a bit weird. It's the first tri-band router with two different 5GHz bands. As a result, its mesh capability is somewhat handicapped due to signal loss. Also, it has no multi-gig port.

But this router has fantastic features, a functional mobile app, and excellent performance.

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1. Asus GT-AX11000

In case you didn't read the intro: This is the oldest member on this list -- the number is only numerical, not the ranking.

The GT-AX11000 is the first Wi-Fi 6 router for gamers -- it's the original variant of the GT-AX11000 Pro above -- and it delivers. Like the case of most Asus routers, this tri-band machine has so many features and settings, and you can spend hours figuring things out and probably have fun doing that.

The final thoughts

While it seems Wi-Fi 6 is no longer the latest and greatest kid on the block, it's the best time to get it. The standard has matured, and the prices have come down significantly.

If you're worrying about missing out on the new standard, check out this list of Wi-Fi 6E upgrade options. In some ways, adding a 6GHz band to a Wi-Fi 6 router is better than getting a new Wi-Fi 6E router, which is still quite expensive. That's not to mention Wi-Fi 7 is around the corner.