Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router ComboBest for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming RouterBest for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 RouterBest mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 SystemBest cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000Best budget: TP-Link AC1750
How we chose the best routers for Spectrum
We know how important a strong Wi-Fi connection is to effortless, lag-free gaming and streaming high-quality lossless audio. I personally have made the mistake of not doing my research before buying a router—would not recommend spending a few days Wi-Fi-less and with my own thoughts. To prevent you from facing a similar situation, we looked to personal testing, peer recommendations, critical reviews, and user impressions to find the best Spectrum routers.
Best routers for Spectrum: Reviews & Recommendations
The best routers for Spectrum can handle everything, whether it’s a day full of video meetings, nights scrolling TikTok, intense gaming sessions, or streaming lengthy explainer videos on YouTube. These are our top picks.
Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
Why it made the cut: You don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate modem with this trusted combination device. Specs
Data transfer rate: 1,900 MbpsCoverage: 1,800 square feetPlan speed compatibility: Up to 400 MbpsParental controls: YesPorts: Four 1-gigabit Ethernet ports; one USB 2.0 port
Pros
Easy installationIndependent channels for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHzWarrants fast, reliable internet.
Cons
Slow return on investmentNo support for Wi-Fi 6
The Netgear Nighthawk proves that two is better than one: This router also features a built-in modem, meaning you don’t have to shop for a Spectrum-compatible modem. This router covers 1,800 square feet for up to 30 devices and is compatible with Spectrum speed plans up to 400 Mbps. It includes separate networks for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands, meaning you can organize your devices based on band level. You can plug in gaming consoles and computers to Ethernet thanks to four one-gigabit Ethernet ports, and can share storage with a connected device using the USB port. The router supports Wi-Fi 4 and 5 but does not support Wi-Fi 6. It features a WPA2-PSK security protocol, which is secure enough to protect your home without an enterprise authentication server—simply provide an 8- to 62-character-long passphrase to encrypt your network. However, it will take some time to see a return on your investment with the Nighthawk. Multiple reviews note that owners’ internet speed and performance were improved after setup, making the purchase worth it.
Best for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
Why it made the cut: Reduced lag and latency are a tap away thanks to the router’s game mode and support for Wi-Fi 6. Specs
Data transfer rate: 5700 MbpsCoverage: 2,500 square feetPlan speed compatibility: 1 GbpsParental controls: YesPorts: two 3.2 USB ports; one 2.5 G WAN/LAN port; one WAN port; four Ethernet ports
Pros
Fiber internet compatibleEasy installationPlenty of LAN ports for devices if need be
Cons
Upright design can hinder placement
We are no strangers to the ASUS AX5700—we’ve previously named it the best all-purpose gaming router. And it is compatible with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, which can handle up to 1 Gpbs, making it a perfect addition to this list. It’s Wi-Fi 6 compatible and includes MU-MIMO functionality for increased speed and security. Download the ASUS Router app to turn on the mobile game mode, which reduces lag and latency for back-to-back Victory Royales. AiMesh support allows you to bring seamless, interruption-free coverage to your home—and, considering the price of mesh routers, that makes this one a steal. Hackers will be KO’d thanks to free lifetime access to ASUS AiProtection Pro, which includes WPA3 protection—the latest Wi-Fi security protocol—powered by Trend Micro, a cyber security software company. However, you can only set the router vertically, which could pose a problem if you need a horizontal router.
Best for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Why it made the cut: Between the wide coverage range, support for more than 30-plus devices, and splittable price, this router means the only thing your roommates will lag on is doing their dishes. Specs
Data transfer rate: 5.4 GbpsCoverage: 2,800 square feetPlan speed compatibility: 1 GbpsParental controls: YesPorts: 4 Ethernet ports; 1 internet port; 1 USB port
Pros
Easy setupSeparate guest accessEasy device connection thanks to a WPS button
Cons
Reviews note trouble connecting the router to the Linksys app
We’ve all had the problem of the internet slowing because it’s slogged down by everyone’s respective phone, laptop, and gaming system streaming at once. This problem is exacerbated if your roommates like Internet-of-Things smart devices that connect to the network. Expect the slog to stop with this dual-band router, which can connect to more than 30 devices. Additionally, this router is Wi-Fi 6 compatible, meaning it’s fast and futureproof. This router includes four Ethernet ports, one internet port to connect the router to the modem, and one USB port. Also, the router can create a guest access network so your roommates’ siblings or frequent callers don’t cause security problems or snag too much bandwidth when they add their binge-watching to what’s pulling down all the data. A WPS button makes device connection easy, and you can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer browser for quick set-up. The second biggest problem with this router is deciding who will take it at the end of the lease. The largest problem is connecting it to the Linksys app.
Best mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System
Why it made the cut: Up to 5,000 square feet of coverage and an included satellite extender means you can take meetings almost everywhere in your home without lag. Specs
Data transfer rate: 4.2 GbpsCoverage: 5,000 square feetPlan speed compatibility: 1 GbpsParental controls: YesPorts: 1 Ethernet WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports; 2 Ethernet ports on satellite extender
Pros
No dead zonesWide coverage areaTri-band Wi-Fi
Cons
Must pay Netgear to service software issuesExpensiveApp capabilities are only free for 30 days
We’ve all experienced the pain of being laggy and pixelated on a video call, either from weak signals or dead spots in the home. Say goodbye to all that with the Netgear Orbi, which covers 5,000 square feet and includes a satellite extender for more reach. This router, our pick for working from home, can support up to 40 devices and has a crazy-fast data transfer rate of 4.2 Gbps, plus support for Wi-Fi 6 for futureproofing. Unlike other routers, this one supports a tri-band frequency: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band for connecting your devices, and a separate 5 GHz band so the router and included satellite can communicate with each other. Netgear Armor Antivirus and data theft protection powered by Bitdefender means business secrets will stay secret. However, there is a catch: this capability, along with others in the Orbi app like parental controls, are only free for 30 days. Afterward, you’ll need a subscription. And you’ll have to pay Netgear for software troubleshooting—that can be a lot of money to spend after purchasing an already-expensive router.
Best cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000
Why it made the cut: This router does not use a web browser for configuration, making it less likely that a hacker will jack your info. Specs
Data transfer rate: 3 Gbps Coverage: 3,000 square feetPlan speed compatibility: 1 GbpsParental controls: YesPorts: 1 WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports with backhaul capabilities
Pros
Easy installation with Gryphon appFree intrusion detection in the first yearResponsive support team
Cons
No advanced customization options
You won’t need to worry about hackers and internet thieves with the Gryphon AC3000, which offers advanced security thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 functionality, vulnerability scans, and app configuration that prevents hackers from accessing your network via the web. It also secures connected devices and sends alerts when it detects vulnerabilities, weak passwords, or infected devices. The router has fantastic basic security and you also get one year of intrusion detection for free with purchase. Afterward, it’s $89 per year. It covers 3,000 square feet—an average 2-3 bedroom home—at lightning-fast speeds thanks to its 3 Gbps data transfer rate. If you purchase multiple Gryphon routers, you can create a mesh network for even stronger, wider coverage. The Gryphon Connect app includes robust parental controls, including content filtering, screen time, and usage monitoring. Its user interface is incredibly streamlined and simple. However, reviews note that there could be more advanced customization options, like more device categories and fields for categories that should be blocked.
Best budget: TP-Link AC1750
Why it made the cut: The TP-Link AC1750 features high-end capabilities at a fraction of the cost. Specs
Data transfer rate: 1750 MbpsCoverage: 2,500 square feetPlan speed compatibility: 400 MbpsParental controls: YesPorts: 1 USB port; 1 WAN port; 4 Ethernet ports
Pros
VPN ServerAlexa compatibilityBandwidth prioritization (QoS)
Cons
Not compatible with Wi-Fi 6
What to consider when buying the best routers for Spectrum
Routers are not one-size-fits-all. Here is what you need to know when shopping for the best routers for Spectrum:
Modem vs. router
A modem connects you to a wide area network, or WAN—the internet that Spectrum provides. A router connects your devices to a local area network, or LAN—your own little piece of the internet that Spectrum provides. You can’t connect to a router without a modem. Spectrum customers are required to use an authorized modem, and the company provides a preconfigured Wi-Fi router for a monthly fee. However, that adds up, and purchasing your own can save money in the long run. If you buy your own router, you don’t have to give it back if you cancel your service—you can use it with your new internet provider.
Compatibility with Spectrum
Make sure that the router your purchase is compatible with Spectrum. Otherwise, you’ll have to return it. You can find a list of Spectrum-compliant routers on the company’s site. Although buying the correct modem is more important, it never hurts to double-check. Also, the router can only run as fast as your internet plan provides. For example, if you have a router that can only reach speeds of 300 Mbps and have an internet plan for 200 Mbps, you’ll only max out at 200 Mbps.
Wireless protocol
The wireless protocol, or Wi-Fi standard, determines your router’s throughput and range. You can determine the protocol by finding the number 802.11 and a certain letter combination:
11ax (Wi-Fi 6): Wi-Fi 6 is the newest standard and delivers speeds up to 10 Gbps. However, not all devices and internet connections support Wi-Fi 6. You may not need to upgrade just yet, but switching to Wi-Fi 6 will help futureproof your internet connection. This standard is the fastest. 11ac (Wi-Fi 5): This standard appears on most routers, and supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. 11n (Wi-Fi 4): This standard supports speeds up to 600 Mbps and was the first to allow both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This standard, compared to Wi-Fi 5 and 6, is the slowest.
Range and signal strength
Wi-Fi range is determined by the kind of router you’re using, the wireless protocol the router follows, and the space you’re in. Wi-Fi signals have a harder time permeating through concrete, compared to wood, stucco, and other building materials. For example, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi routers can reach up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors and should be used if you’re looking for long-distance Wi-Fi. Routers running on 5 GHz bands can reach around one-third of these distances since it uses narrower wavelengths—because of this, you should choose a 5 GHz router for speed but only if your devices can be located nearer to your internet access point. Newer routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to reach greater distances and achieve maximum throughput for devices in closer proximity.
Budget
The best routers range from $50 up to $500. The best Wi-Fi extenders can help with spotty internet, but Consumer Reports recommends using a mesh router system that relies on multiple systems to spread strong Wi-Fi signals. However, a mesh router system can be pricey. On the flip side, Wi-Fi extenders are cheaper and can be a perfect solution if you’re looking for more reliable coverage in certain areas of your home. However, poor placement of your extender won’t help your Wi-Fi woes and can cause more connectivity problems if your Wi-Fi extender creates a separate network that your device has to switch between.
Extra features
Many newer routers are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, have parental controls, and provide separate networks for guests. Built-in VPNs and routers with multi-user, multiple-input, and multiple-output technology—also known as MU-MIMO—can help with security and network speed, respectively. However, if you would not benefit from the bells and whistles—and the added costs associated with them—then there’s no shame in going for a basic router.
Final thoughts on the best routers for Spectrum
Whether you decide on a router that helps you jumpstart your streaming career, keeps your new battlestation in sync with the rest of the squad, or feeds your OLED TV buttery-smooth 4K video, the best routers for Spectrum will be suited to your lifestyle and internet needs. It doesn’t matter if you go ham-handed on the features or keep it simple—the best routers will get you streaming, web surfing, online gaming, and working with ease.
