The best long-range routers eliminate unstable connectivity in spaces like large homes, offices, and outdoors. Today, the best Wi-Fi router for long range is equipped with technology like high-power antennas, beamforming technology, and Wi-Fi 7 to achieve cutting-edge performance. Purchasing the right long-range Wi-Fi router means you get reliable, high-speed internet coverage without dead zones.
The Cybernews research team and I investigated the best long-range Wi-Fi routers on the market. More specifically, I analyzed impressive router models from brands like NETGEAR, TP-Link, and GL.iNet.
We’ve also examined features like beamforming, MU-MIMO (Multiple-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output), and dual-band vs. tri-band connectivity to find routers with the best range for gaming, streaming, and supporting multiple devices.
In this guide, I’ve revealed my top seven long-range Wi-Fi routers. I’ll compare the key features of these top models and explain what to look for when choosing the best router for distance.
Best Wi-Fi router for long range – shortlist
- Netgear Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – best long-range Wi-Fi 6 router for speed and stability
- TP-Link AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router (Archer AX80) – best long-range router for large homes
- TP-Link AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (Archer AXE75) – best tri-band router for busy networks
- Netgear Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS300) – best Wi-Fi 7 router for high-speed connectivity
- TP-Link Tri-Band BE9300 WiFi 7 Router Archer BE550 6-Stream – best future-proof router with wide coverage
- TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router V4 (Archer AX21) – best budget Wi-Fi 6 router with solid range
- GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) WiFi 6 Router with Wide Coverage – best high-performance VPN router
The best Wi-Fi routers for long range compared
Before I dive into the individual router reviews, I’ve compiled my top seven long-range Wi-Fi routers into an easy-to-scan comparison table.
This table compares side-by-side key features, speeds, Wi-Fi standards, pricing categories, and best-use cases. This table is very helpful for when you need a simple overview of each long-range Wi-Fi router:
| Model | Pricing | Best for | Speed and Wi-Fi standard | Key features |
| Netgear Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) | Affordable | Streaming, multi-device homes | Wi-Fi 6, 5.4Gbps | Beamforming+, OFDMA, WPA3 Security |
| TP-Link AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router (Archer AX80) | Mid-range | Large homes, wired connections | Wi-Fi 6, 6Gbps | 8 antennas, 2.5G WAN, Beamforming |
| TP-Link AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (Archer AXE75) | Affordable | Tri-band, congestion-free networks | Wi-Fi 6E, 5.4Gbps | 6GHz band, MU-MIMO, HomeShield Security |
| Netgear Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS300) | Premium | Future-proofing, high-speed use | Wi-Fi 7, 9.3Gbps | 320MHz channels, MU-MIMO, 100+ devices |
| TP-Link Tri-Band BE9300 WiFi 7 Router Archer BE550 6-Stream | Mid-range | Future-proofing, mesh setups | Wi-Fi 7, 9.3Gbps | Multi-Link Operation, EasyMesh, WPA3 |
| TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router V4 (Archer AX21) | Budget | Entry-level, basic long-range use | Wi-Fi 6, 1.8Gbps | OneMesh, Beamforming, QoS Controls |
| GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) WiFi 6 Router with Wide Coverage | Mid-range | VPN security, multiple wired devices | Wi-Fi 6, 5.9Gbps | WireGuard VPN, 2.5G ports, OpenWrt |
7 best Wi-Fi routers for long range – our detailed list
This guide wouldn’t be complete without an in-depth dive into the router models’ key features and actual use cases. Here’s my detailed exploration of the seven best extended-range Wi-Fi routers to meet your long-range Wi-Fi needs.
1. Netgear Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – best overall Wi-Fi router for most people
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 5.4Gbps |
| Best for: | Streaming, gaming, multi-device households |
According to Cybernews testing criteria, our winner, the Netgear Nighthawk RAX54S, came close to a perfect score. Compared to rivals, the price is reasonable for what you get. You don’t have to pay premium prices to get Wi-Fi 6, full-home coverage, and built-in cybersecurity—all of which this router has.
I found that one of its biggest standouts was 160MHz channel support – a feature missing from a lot of affordable routers. It supports gigabit-tier Wi-Fi speeds, keeping 4K streams smooth and gaming lag-free. Furthermore, its 1.5GHz triple-core processor prevents slowdowns during peak-hours congestion, so it's entirely suitable for households with over 20 connected devices.
Coverage is another area where this router performs wonderfully. Instead of forcing you into a mesh system, the Nighthawk’s four high-gain antennas and intelligent Beamforming+ technology successfully push signals through thick walls and multiple floors.
For a relatively affordable, long-range Wi-Fi 6 router that eliminates dead zones and supports tons of simultaneous devices, it's a very well-rounded choice.
2. TP-Link AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router (Archer AX80) – best for fiber-connected, device-heavy homes
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 6.0Gbps |
| Best for: | High-speed downloads, multi-gig wired connections, smart homes |
TP-Link’s Archer AX80 is less affordable than the Nighthawk RAX54S. However, it adds multi-gigabit ports for 1Gbps+ fiber internet plans, twice the number of antennas, and it handles more simultaneous connections.
Thanks to a high-end 2.0GHz quad-core processor – the second-most powerful among my picks – it can handle simultaneous, high-demand tasks without issue. This processing performance also helps reduce gaming latency and video buffering.
The Archer AX80 has OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) and MU-MIMO so that multiple devices don’t compete for bandwidth. As for coverage, it’s stronger than many dual-band routers with its eight antennas and beamforming technology. On top of that, its high-power FEM (Front-End Module) helps push Wi-Fi through walls.
To extend Wi-Fi coverage, you can add TP-Link extenders with mesh technology. This router’s security is also solid, offering TP-Link Homeshield. This includes network protection, parental controls, and DDoS defense. So, the Archer AX80 is an attractive—although bulky—mid-priced option for tech-savvy households.
3. TP-Link AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (Archer AXE75) – best for congestion-free WiFi 6E
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Tri-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 5.4Gbps |
| Best for: | Future-proofing, Wi-Fi 6E devices, and reducing congestion |
The Archer AXE75 is a tri-band router with Wi-Fi 6E (6GHz). I ranked it below the Archer AX80 and Nighthawk RAX54S because it lacks multi-gig Ethernet and has lower overall performance. However, it’s unique because it trickles down Wi-Fi 6E technology to a mid-price range.
The Archer AXE75’s 1.7GHz quad-core processor easily handles streaming, gaming, and work-from-home setups. Like other TP-Link models, OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies help prevent congestion in connected households. With six antennas and beamforming, this router provides sufficient range for even the largest homes and offices.
The Archer AXE75 specializes in reducing Wi-Fi congestion via the 6GHz band, so it avoids interference from most other routers that connect to older bands. For security, HomeShield offers solid network security, including real-time IoT protection and intrusion prevention, as well as various parental controls. TP-Link’s Mesh technology, via TP-Link extenders, allows you to extend the shorter-range 6GHz band around your household.
This router is an entry into Wi-Fi 6E technology, assuming your devices support it. However, the Nighthawk RAX54S and Archer AX80 are more stable and perform better overall for a similar price.
4. Netgear Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS300) – best for powerful, next-gen internet performance
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11be) |
| Frequency bands: | Tri-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 9.3Gbps |
| Best for: | Next-gen speed, ultra-low latency, several heavy users |
The slender Nighthawk RS300 brings next-gen Wi-Fi 7 within reach compared to other early Wi-Fi 7 routers. Its 9.3 Gbps max speed will satisfy the criteria of the heaviest gamers and streamers while providing ultra-fast speeds for everyone in a large household or a business space.
It has tri-band operation with a 320MHz channel on 6GHz, doubling bandwidth for supported devices. This means faster downloads, reduced congestion, and low latency for hardcore gamers and 8K streamers. Also, a 2.5Gbps port provides multi-gig speeds, and an additional 1Gbps Ethernet ports provide solid wired performance.
I like that NETGEAR Armor security and Smart Parental Controls come standard, plus automatic firmware updates. What’s even more impressive are its patented 360-degree antennas, which spread Wi-Fi across 2,500 sq. ft. Additionally, up to 100 devices can connect to it.
If you’re an early adopter or a small tech company and need Wi-Fi 7 future-proofing, the Nighthawk RS300 is a reasonable choice. But for most households, one of our Wi-Fi 6 picks is the smarter buy.
5. TP-Link Tri-Band BE9300 WiFi 7 Router Archer BE550 6-Stream – best for Wi-Fi 7 on a budget
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11be) |
| Frequency bands: | Tri-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 9.2Gbps |
| Best for: | Multi-gig fiber users, EasyMesh expansion, future-proofing |
If you’re looking for a Wi-Fi 7 router with powerful wired speeds and compatibility with Wi-Fi extenders, the Archer BE9300 (BE550) is one of the most affordable entries into next-gen networking. It’s extremely fast – at 9.2Gbps max speed – and has two 2.5Gbps ports for multi-gig internet connections. It also has 320MHz ultra-wide channels 4K-QAM so that newer devices can reach their full potential speeds.
The BE9300’s Multi-Link Operation (MLO) technology combines bands for lower latency, faster speeds, and more stable connections. This speeds up gaming, large file transfers, and high-definition streaming.
The coverage is excellent, too, with six internal antennas and beamforming. However, some users said coverage isn’t as strong as expected, although you can pair it with TP-Link extenders for expanded coverage thanks to the TP-Link EasyMesh technology.
Like my other TP-Link picks, this offers TP-Link HomeShield with real-time network scanning, WPA3 encryption, and parental controls. It supports VPN (Virtual Private Network) client and server functionality. Setup and management are straightforward via the Tether app, where you can monitor devices.
6. TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router V4 (Archer AX21) – best for reliable dual-band performance on a budget
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 1.8Gbps |
| Best for: | Affordability, basic home networking, small-to-medium homes |
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a budget-friendly dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router. Although its max speed of 1.8Gbps doesn’t match the outright speed of my other picks, it is fast enough to take on medium-to-heavy streaming, gaming, and remote work setups, plus dozens of simultaneous connections.
Technology-wise, it’s got four high-gain antennas, beamforming, and a high-power FEM to push signals through walls and across small to medium-sized spaces. But for larger homes, I recommend adding OneMesh-compatible extenders for a healthier connection.
The AX21 supports WPA3 encryption for better security and includes a basic VPN server (OpenVPN & PPTP) for remote access.
However, it lacks premium security features like TP-Link HomeShield. Nevertheless, you get standard firewall protections, parental controls (URL filtering, time controls), and a guest network.
The AX21 is a good value for the price, but it isn’t future-proof without tri-band operation, Wi-Fi 7, multi-gigabit ports, and advanced MU-MIMO for multi-device households. Then again, it’s a solid upgrade from an older Wi-Fi 5 router.
7. GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) WiFi 6 Router with Wide Coverage – best for privacy-focused users with built-in advanced VPN features
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 5.9Gbps |
| Best for: | Privacy-conscious users, VPN-heavy setups, secure browsing |
The GL.iNet Flint 2 (GL-MT6000) is a customizable router with outstanding VPN performance. Unlike most plug-and-play routers, it has pre-installed OpenWrt firmware (an open-source operating system) for complete control over custom security settings, firewalls, and advanced networking features.
With it, you can have multiple backup internet connections or multi-redundancy to simultaneously run fiber, Wi-Fi, and mobile tethering connections to keep you always online. You can also remotely access your home network from abroad.
Its biggest strength is VPN performance. Its WireGuard speeds of up to 900Mbps and OpenVPN speeds of up to 190Mbps are some of the fastest encrypted connections available. This makes it perfect for those who use VPNs for work, privacy, or bypassing geographical restrictions.
However, unlike plug-and-play routers, this one requires manual setup. Also, you’re limited to dual-band Wi-Fi and don’t get mesh support for extended coverage.
It's a fantastic pick if you need OpenWrt and VPN support. However, if you need an easy-to-use router for general home use, choose one of my other options.
How did we select the best Wi-Fi routers for long range?
At Cybernews, our expert team and I aim to deliver honest and realistic reviews. I spent weeks researching the range, performance, security, and user feedback about various routers on the market to find the best long-range Wi-Fi routers. To make my evaluations more accurate, I chose a diverse range of models that apply to a variety of real-world scenarios:
- Key features and speed (35%). I analyzed speed tests across various residential layouts and distances on Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7-enabled devices. My research included various loads to measure speed, latency, and consistency. Routers with strong features like MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and multi-gig speeds scored higher in my review.
- Coverage and stability (25%). I noted how well each router maintained stable connections in small and larger spaces. I focused on signal penetration through walls and floors and interference in multi-device environments. Routers with beamforming, high-gain antennas, and strong front-end modules (FEM) scored extra points.
- Security features (20%). I assessed built-in security options like WPA3 encryption, parental controls, firewall settings, and VPN options. Routers with advanced security – like Netgear Armor and TP-Link HomeShield – scored higher
- Ease of use and setup (15%). I evaluated the ease of the setup process, including the mobile app's functionality and user-friendly interfaces. Beginner-friendly routers with a smooth setup scored more favorably.
- Value for money (5%). I compared price-to-performance ratios to make sure each router provided genuine value. As such, routers with cutting-edge features at reasonable prices ranked highest.
What are the key features of long-range Wi-Fi routers?
Long-range Wi-Fi routers have several key features to look for. Make sure your new Wi-Fi router includes some of these features to optimize your purchase:
- Tri-band and dual-band. Dual-band routers run 2.4GHz for legacy support and the older 5GHz high-speed band. Newer tri-band routers add an extra 5GHz or later 6GHz band, avoiding congestion and increasing speed for multi-device households. As for Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 routers, the next-gen 6GHz band provides ultra-fast speeds and low-latency speeds.
- Beamforming. This technology beams Wi-Fi signals toward connected devices. It boosts signal strength and reduces interference. Routers with intelligent beamforming, like Netgear’s Beamforming+, can also adapt dynamically to device movement for better signal consistency. These features are typically found in higher-end routers.
- Mesh networking. Routers with EasyMesh or OneMesh mesh networking technologies let you add multiple access points with Wi-Fi extenders to reduce Wi-Fi dead zones.
- MU-MIMO and QoS. With MU-MIMO, multiple devices receive data simultaneously instead of waiting in line – lowering latency and improving speeds in congested networks. Meanwhile, QoS (Quality of Service) prioritizes bandwidth for high-demand tasks like gaming and 4K streaming. Higher-end routers let you manually set device priority in the network
- Antennas and coverage area. External antennas – up to eight in some models – provide better directional coverage, while internal antennas offer even distribution. Routers that combine high-powered front-end modules (FEM), multiple high-gain antennas, and strong processors provide strong signal strength over distance and through walls.
How to choose the right Wi-Fi router for long range
Making sure you pick the right long range Wi-Fi router results in extracting the best value for your money. My top picks already include several of these features and capabilities:
- Coverage area. The router’s coverage should match your space. For large homes, look for routers rated at over 3,000 sq. ft.
- Internet speed. The router should support speeds equal to, or above, those of your internet plan, i.e., over 1Gbps if you have a 1Gbps plan. Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E is ideal in 2025, while Wi-Fi 7 models provide future-proof, next-gen connectivity.
- Device compatibility. A router should handle several devices connected at once without slowing down. MU-MIMO and OFDMA capabilities facilitate efficient bandwidth use.
- Band support. Dual-band routers use the older 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Tri-band models add the newer 6GHz band to reduce congestion. For extra value, pick a tri-band model.
- Security features. Good network protection is key to stopping cyber threats and bandwidth theft. Look for WPA3 encryption, built-in firewalls, and security suites like Netgear Armor.
- Ease of setup. Some routers have apps for setup, while more niche and complex models like VPN or OpenWrt-enabled routers will require manual configuration.
- Antenna design and beamforming. High-gain external antennas, usually an array of at least four, will improve coverage. Netgear Beamforming+ also points the Wi-Fi signals at your devices for a stronger signal.
- QoS and traffic prioritization. Routers with customizable QoS settings optimize gaming, streaming, and work tasks.
- Connectivity. Look for 2.5Gbps WAN ports, two or more Gigabit LAN ports, and USB 3.0 for enhanced connectivity and storage options.
How to maximize your Wi-Fi router’s range
I want to share a few tips and tricks that can improve your Wi-Fi range. For one, start by placing your router in an obstacle-free location. If you place it in a corner, behind furniture, or inside a cabinet, you won’t get a healthy signal, no matter how good your antennas are. Place it in an elevated and open area if possible.
Then again, some people still have Wi-Fi dead zones even after achieving perfect placement. If the router’s range isn’t good enough, this can happen. To help with that, Wi-Fi extenders are available. Extenders rebroadcast the signal but may also slightly reduce speed.
Another issue is electrical and radio interference, which can jam your signal even if you’ve satisfied all the criteria above. Microwaves, baby monitors, and Bluetooth devices operate on similar frequencies and can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. Keep your router away from these devices and avoid metal surfaces to ensure added stability.
Finally, keeping firmware updated is important. Many models get automatic updates for security and efficiency. If your router doesn’t update automatically, periodically check for updates often to get the latest security patches and performance improvements.
Final word on best Wi-Fi router for long range
Ultimately, I picked the Netgear Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) as the overall winner. It includes everything a solid, modern router should have: intelligent beamforming, high-gain antennas, high speed, a triple-core processor, and built-in security – all at an attainable price.
However, there are lots of other high-quality routers that you shouldn’t dismiss outright. I reviewed the TP-Link AX6000 (Archer AX80), which is a long-range specialist, and the TP-Link AXE5400 (Archer AXE75), which focuses on reducing internet congestion. For future-proofing, I reviewed the Netgear Nighthawk RS300 – an impressive Wi-Fi 7 powerhouse.
You’ve got many options on the market. Should you get stuck, you can refer back to this guide for advice on the best Wi-Fi routers for long range.
FAQ
How far can a long-range Wi-Fi router reach?
The longest-range Wi-Fi routers can cover as much as 3,000 to 5,000 sq. ft. However, you can expand your coverage even further with a mesh system. For instance, the Netgear Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router (RAX54S) covers up to 2,500 sq. ft. without extra hardware.
Can a long-range router work with a high-speed internet plan?
Yes, most modern routers can support very high-speed internet connections. Most will support speeds above 1Gbps, which is extreme high-speed cable or fiber optic territory.
Is it easy to set up a long-range Wi-Fi router?
Yes, mostly. Most modern routers offer app-based setups. Some models require manual configuration, like the GL.iNet router in this review.
What’s the difference between a mesh system and a long-range router?
A mesh system uses multiple mesh nodes to create a seamless coverage area. A long-range router attempts to cover a large area from one point.
How do I extend the range of my Wi-Fi router?
You can extend the range of your Wi-Fi router by placing it in a central, unobstructed space. You can also use Wi-Fi extenders, reduce electronic interference in your home, and avoid placing metal objects or mirrors near the router.
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