Planning to buy a wireless router to cover your large household, outdoor workshop/annex separated by a big yard? Looking for a reliable WiFi router without backhauls to cover your multi-storeyed office? It doesn’t matter what your networking needs are, you’ll be able to find the best one after reading this.
Finding a suitable long-range router that solves your requirements of ethernet ports and minimizes the loss of bandwidth owing to the additional hops in a WiFi system can be challenging? And the worst part is, if you end up with the wrong device, there’ll be coverage issues, dead spots, connectivity issues, etc. That’s where this article steps in.
I’ve handpicked routers that feature a dedicated backhaul, supports seamless roaming, automatic band steering, and come with robust network security. Most importantly, some of the models were tested for long-distance thereby reducing your overhead of undertaking comprehensive research.
Note: You might find solutions for your dilemma in choosing between long-range stand-alone routers or a mesh system. Don’t worry, because I’ve included both types of devices in my list.
Table of Contents
- 8 Best Long Range Routers in 2023
- 1. Best for Large Hotels: Netgear Orbi Pro
- 2. Best for 1000 Feet: Linksys MX12600
- 3. Best Standalone Router: ASUS RT-AC88U
- 4. Best Value for Money: TP-Link Deco X60
- 5. Best for Multi Story Houses: Netgear Orbi RBK43S
- 6. Best for Ease of Use: Google WiFi System
- 7. Best with Alexa Compatibility: Tenda Nova MW3
- 8. Cheapest Long Range Router: ASUS RT-ACRH12
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Verdict
8 Best Long Range Routers in 2023
After a comparative analysis of over 23 routers and mesh systems in the market, I have narrowed it down to the 8 best-rated wireless routers that fit into specific scenarios. The scenarios are determined by the requirement in terms of the number of devices, size of the facility, and budget.
The list starts with the premium mesh systems with extended coverage. The article moves onto a mix of mid-range value for money models and alternative standalone routers. The article ends with the best budget stand-alone router and a mesh WiFi system.
1. Best for Large Hotels: Netgear Orbi Pro
The commercial-grade security standards, ultra-fast internet, the capacity to support plenty of devices keeps this Netgear Orbi Pro SXK80B3 at the top of the list. Netgear retained the best features from its predecessor, improved on its coverage, added the latest wireless standards to make it ideal for bed & breakfast, conference halls, etc.
Why is it suited for long-distance?
A dedicated Ethernet backhaul and fronthaul guarantee the minimal loss of bandwidth between the primary router and satellite. The 8 internal antennas amplified with beamforming act as stable carriers of signals. The company says that its coverage range is around 9,000 Sq Ft, but I was able to use it over 10,000 Sq Ft of an area without any dead spots.
The Netgear Orbi Pro boasts of the latest 802.11ax wireless standards capable of delivering ultra-fast internet.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The Orbi Pro will bring the best out of commercial multi-gigabit internet plans and crank up to 1200 Mbps in 2.4GHz and 2400 Mbps on dual 5GHz bands in large households and long spread office spaces.
Design & Build Quality
The hexagonal towers from Netgear weigh 2.06 pounds. The towers sport a black base and white body with a groovy top. It measures 6.8 x 3.3 x 9.7 inches in dimensions.
App Support & Security Features
Netgear Orbi comes with a dedicated Insight application that brings both local and remote management of the entire network. The web-based interface gives the freedom of configuring your network according to business.
The Orbi Pro is equipped with commercial-grade security. The 4 separate wireless networks the Guest network offers a different level of customized security with the latest WPA3 encryption standards.
Hardware & Port Management
The Netgear operates on the strength of a powerful processor complemented by 1GB RAM, and 512MB storage to support multiple automated gadgets, Smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Each unit comes with has one 2.5 Gig WAN port, four 1 Gig LAN ports that offer plenty of support for wired connectivity.
Other Features
The Netgear Orbi Pro has beamforming antennas equipped with OFDMA technology and multi-gigabit ports. Its flexible VLAN configuration for multiple WiFi Networks and commercial-grade internet security keep the model at the top of the list as a great mesh system to cover extensive areas and multi-story buildings.
- Wi-Fi 6
- Business-grade security
- OFDMA
- Ethernet Backhaul
- Wall mountable
- Expensive
2. Best for 1000 Feet: Linksys MX12600
The latest Wireless standards, WPA3 encryption, a plethora of wired connectivity, powerful internal antennas powered by an efficient management system push the Linksys MX12600 close to the top of the list. It was chosen ahead of its previous more powerful model, owing to its range and balance between features, utility, and price.
Why is it suited for long-distance?
Multiplex homes, B&B business, farmhouse with huge front yard/backyard separating the annex will find the Tri-band dynamic backhaul helpful to minimize the loss of throughput.
The three-pack system can cover up to 8100 sq ft. With 9 powerful internal antennas in every unit, the system can support up to 120 devices, making it ideal for commercial spaces.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The Linksys mesh system operates in three bands. At the behest of a multi-gigabit internet connection, it can achieve a maximum speed of 600 Mbps on 2.4GHz, 1200, and 2400 Mbps on its dual 5GHz frequency. So high-speed plans from Google Fiber, Verizon FiOS, Frontier FiOS, etc should suffice your internet needs.
Design & Build Quality
Weighing over 2.08 pounds, the square-shaped towers measuring 4.5-inches stand 9.6-inches tall, leaving a discernable impact on the aesthetics of your household. The tower boasts a simplistic design with a perforated top facilitating ventilation.
App Support & Security Features
The Linksys application offers an easy initial setup and remote management capability. Guest network access, WPA3 encryption offers security from unauthorized access and infected devices.
Hardware & Port Management
A powerful synergy of quad-core processor clocking at 1.4GHz, 512MB RAM, and storage of 512MB, ensure uninterrupted gaming, 4K streaming, and virtual meetings. With one WAN port, three LAN ports, and one USB 3.0 port per unit, the WiFi 6 mesh system can support multiple high-wired connections, access points, and shared printers/network drives.
Other Features
Don’t let the lack of inbuilt antivirus protection distract you from the wealth of features like OFMDA, parental controls, and device prioritization. Linksys MX12600 would have made it to the top of the list for the wealth of wired connectivity and USB Ports on offer, if not for the lack of security features similar to Orbi Pro.
- Quad-core processor
- Dynamic backhaul
- OFDMA
- WPA3 encryption
- Lack of inbuilt antivirus
3. Best Standalone Router: ASUS RT-AC88U
The ASUS RT-AC88U brings the advantage of additional four ethernet ports over its predecessor. The gaming acceleration boost and WTFast support make this ideal for gamers.
Why is it suited for long distance?
The 4 powerful antennas can cover large homes, offices, workstations, working spaces, as big as 5000 sq ft.
Gaming aficionados/enthusiasts requiring support to GPN and multiple ethernet ports for wired stable internet will find their fit in Asus RT-AC88. It delivers stable signals to multiple devices with bulky antennas reinforced with beamforming and MU-MIMO.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The Asus RT-AC88U can utilize the ultra-fast multigigabit Fiber optic internet connection and reach high speeds up to 1000 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 2167 Mbps on the 5GHz frequency.
Design & Build Quality
The sleek-looking matte-black router sports a wedgy design with multiple cuts across its chassis weighing close to 2.1 pounds. The red and black antennas leave an impression of a heavy router measuring 11.8 x 7.4 x 2.3 inches in dimensions.
App Support & Security Features
The combination of the Asus mobile application and the web interface ensures comfort and extensive customization. The intrusion detection system, blocking malicious content, and a plethora of features that comes under AiProtection Pro keeps the network safe from cyber attacks.
Hardware & Port Management
A powerful unit put together by Asus has a 1.4GHz dual-core processor, complemented by 512MB RAM and 128MB storage that can handle the load of online gaming and media streaming. The 8 Ethernet LAN Ports, 1 WAN port and 2 USB ports ensure adequate slots for wired connectivity and shared peripherals.
Other Features
The support to Gamer private network, and gaming accelerator is the standout feature that makes it an ideal router for gaming on Xbox One, PlayStation 4/5, or Nintendo. Its combination of adaptive and traditional QoS, extensive network monitoring ability with real-time traffic monitor, and parental controls make this router stand out in terms of utility.
- AiProtection Network security
- Beamforming
- Gamers private network
- Alexa compatible
- Wired Connectivity
- Awkward USB placement
4. Best Value for Money: TP-Link Deco X60
Looking for a Wi-Fi 6 enabled mesh system that provides minimal dead spots and wall penetration at a reasonable price? The Deco X60 is the one for you.
The TP-Link Deco X60 was chosen over the company’s Deco X20 owing to the extended speeds and coverage. The two-pack system brings a user-friendly eco-system, adequate security making a strong case as a value-for-money mesh system for modern homes.
Why is it suited for long distance?
The mesh system features four internal antennas for each node that extends its coverage up to 5800 sq ft. The antennas equipped with MU-MIMO and beamforming act as stable carriers of signal to up to 150 devices simultaneously.
The Deco application and three-pack system offer the luxury of an auto connection test to find the right place for every node. Seamless roaming ensures automatic switching between nodes.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
With high-speed internet plans ranging between 500 Mbps Mbps to 1 Gig being ideal for X60, the router can reach 574 Mbps on 2.4GHz frequency while 2402 Mbps on 5GHz in with even faster internet.
Design & Build Quality
The two-pack Deco mesh system weighs about 2 pounds. The cylindrical tower stands 4.4-inches tall. The elegant design incorporates the logo into black grooves throughout its diameter that measures 4.3-inches.
App Support & Security Features
The X60 offers local and remote management via the Deco application. At the behest of a guest network, device blacklist, multi managing accounts, firewalls, robust parental controls, and WPA3 encryption, the routers offer a secure environment.
Hardware & Port Management
The 1GHz quad-core processor powers the Deco X60 units. With 512MB RAM and 128MB flash memory, the router warrants optimal usage of data-intensive operations. Limited by one LAN and WAN ports each, users should diligently prioritize devices for wired connectivity.
Other Features
The Deco X60 offers WiFi 6 support, robust parental controls, seamless roaming with QoS by devices at a sub $200 price. This makes the router stand out in terms of utility and a perfect fit for large houses with kids looking for a mesh system.
- WiFi 6 support
- Massive wireless coverage
- Supports over 150 devices
- Robust parental controls
- QoS by devices
- Alexa compatible
- No USB connectivity
5. Best for Multi Story Houses: Netgear Orbi RBK43S
The NETGEAR Orbi RBK43S is a miniature version of RBK23. It finds its place here owing to the balance between price, features, and utility it has retained from its forerunner. Its minimal wired connectivity, dedicated backhaul, and Tri-band operation remain ideal for congestion-free wireless networks for large households.
Why is it suited for long distance?
With every unit equipped with 4 internal antennas, the system can cover up to 6000 sq ft. Three pack system packs the ideal package of flexible coverage with comprehensive parental controls. The 4 beamforming internal antennas are vital to its stable signal strength at the breadth of your home.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The Orbi can utilize high-speed connections ranging from 500 to 1000 Mbps and delivers top speeds of 400 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 866 Mbps on dual 5GHz frequency.
Design & Build Quality
Each elliptical unit weighs close to 1.05 pounds. The sleek white body sports a groove at the top, with blue light through its circumference. Every unit measures 5.6 x 6.6 x 2.4-inches in dimensions.
App Support & Security Features
The Netgear Orbi application comes in handy for setting up and managing the network. The subscription of Netgear Armor powered by Bitdefender protects the network from cyber threats. With a dedicated guest network, you can reduce the hassle of sharing passwords and prevent the network from infected devices.
Hardware & Port Management
The 710MHz quad-core processor with 512MB RAM and 256MB storage can breeze through the demands of multiple devices. With 1 Ethernet and 1 WAN port for every unit, Netgear leaves limited slots for wired connections.
Other Features
The superior processor with the Fastlane technology brings a dedicated WiFi backhaul to this model that makes this router stand out at this price level. Seamless roaming, MU-MIMO, and support to Alexa and Google assistant, make the Orbi RBK43S suitable for large homes that rely on wireless connectivity.
- Quad-core processor
- Seamless roaming
- Parental controls
- Easy to setup and manage
- Netgear Armor 1-year subscription
- Fastlane dedicated backhaul
- No USB ports
6. Best for Ease of Use: Google WiFi System
The Google WiFi system is chosen over its successor model for its huge price advantage despite a matching hardware unit that comes with a simple network management solution The flexibility of the arrangement in the units with support to both star & daisy chain setup makes this ideal fit for automated homes.
Why is it suited for long distance?
The three-pack system comes with 2 internal antennas per unit that can cover 1500 sq ft each. Hence, the three-pack mesh system can cover 4500 sq ft, making it one of the highly suited routers for 2 story houses.
It’s further equipped with transit beamforming, a self-healing network optimizer, and band steering, which makes them a worthy value addition for large homes with huge front/back yards.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The Google WiFi system will get the best out of a 1Gigabit connection from Google Fiber, Cox, Spectrum, or Xfinity. It can reach top speeds of 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867 Mbps on 5GHz frequencies.
Design & Build Quality
The simple, elegant-looking white cylindrical tower weighs close to 0.750 pounds each. A LED light runs around its circumference of 4.17 inches at its center, adding style to its design. The router stands 2.7-inches tall and will fit seamlessly into every household.
App Support & Security Features
The google home application brings an uncomplicated management solution. The router offers the latest WPA3 encryption standards to protect the network from unauthorized access. With guest network access, a secure TPM hardware powered by automatic security updates, the network remains safe.
Hardware & Port Management
The router houses a Quad-core processor, ample storage of 4GB, and adequate RAM of 512MB, that can handle over 100 devices in an automated home setup. The hardware supports data-intensive gaming and Twitch streaming. Each unit comes with one LAN and WAN port.
Other Features
Google offers SafeSearch to limit your kids from inappropriate exposure. The elegant design, uncomplicated setup, and the latest encryption standards make it more attractive. The user-friendly application with the ability to manage over 100 devices makes this a value for money purchase a great fit for your automated home.
- MU-MIMO
- Very easy to setup & manage
- Transit Beamforming
- Supports over 100 devices
- WPA3 security standard
- TPM Hardware
- Lack of USB connectivity
- Limited customizability
7. Best with Alexa Compatibility: Tenda Nova MW3
The Tenda Nova MW3 takes a reductionist approach over its hardware over its previous version to accommodate the current price levels. The WiFi mesh system puts together essential features like beamforming, parental controls, guest WiFi, and an easy management app into a package to cover large homes.
Why is it suited for long-distance?
Multi-story automated homes with a non-scalable number of devices can enjoy the flexibility of this three-pack mesh system to cover every corner of your house. At the helm of beamforming antennas and seamless roaming, the devices get stable signals. With 2 internal antennas per unit, the three-pack system can cover crowded apartments of up to 3500 sq ft.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
The entry-level internet plans ranging up to 150 Mbps will be ideal, contingent on its hardware capacity. With a high-speed internet connection, the router can achieve up to 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 866 Mbps on 5GHz.
Design & Build Quality
The MW3 from Tenda units weigh close to 1.1 pounds. The cube-shaped white towers are short, compact, wall-mountable, and fit into any household. They measure 3.5 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches in dimensions.
App Support & Security Features
The nova application keeps the initial setup and the network management simple. With WPA2 encryption, guest access, and parental controls the application keeps the network safe from unwarranted access and infections.
Hardware & Port Management
With a single-core Realtek processor clocking at 600MHz and 64MB RAM and 8MB storage, the router supports limited devices with file downloads, media streaming, WiFi calling, and Surfing. Each unit comes with two Ethernet ports, which keeps the wired connectivity to its bare minimum.
Other Features
Its support of voice commands, smart QoS, VPN, firewall for a price less than $100 makes this system stand out from its competitors. It slots right into the requirements of a multi-storeyed home.
- Seamless Roaming
- Works with Alexa
- Guest Network
- Beamforming
- No USB port
8. Cheapest Long Range Router: ASUS RT-ACRH12
The ASUS RT-ACRH12 was chosen ahead of other budget routers for its longer coverage, standard port setup, and consistent performance. The router gets the luxury of a customizable web interface, and an intuitive user-friendly mobile application.
Why is it suited for long-distance?
Large single-floor houses would enjoy the range of 4 powerful external antennas geared with MU-MIMO and beamforming that act as a reliable carrier of signals across your 3000 sq ft house.
Ideal placement at the central location will make this an effective budget alternative without further addition of range extenders or repeaters for over 20 devices across 3000 sq ft.
Frequency Bands & Speeds
With an aggregated speed of 1200 Mbps, the router can reach top speeds of 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz, and 867 Mbps on 5GHz frequency. Internet packages ranging from 150 Mbps to 300 Mbps will be ideal for large houses offering bandwidth for online gaming, HD streaming on Firestick, and other activities in the family.
Design & Build Quality
Weighing 0.80 pounds, the lightweight router sports a chequered black and grey chassis with front-top placed LED indicators. You can lay the router flat on tablets or mount them on walls using the slots beneath the router. Despite measuring 4.92 x 7.56 x 1.18 inches in dimensions, the antennas do makes their presence discernible.
App Support & Security Features
The Asus app brings an easy, intuitive interface for the users to manage the home network. With guest network access, WPA-2 encryption, support to VPN, configurable firewalls, and access filters the router offers ample security features to protect your network from unauthorized access and infected devices.
Hardware & Port Management
The Asus router runs on the power of a 775MHz MIPS processor, 128MB of operating memory, and 16MB of flash storage, which leaves sufficient power for data-intensive activities. The presence of 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 Gig WAN port, and a USB 2.0 port offers adequate wired connectivity.
Other Features
The router offers parenting controls that allow up to 16 devices, a traditional QoS system, and a real-time traffic monitor. A superior processor and advanced features make this router punch above its class, making it a great pick at a budget-friendly price.
- Beamforming
- MU-MIMO
- QoS by device
- Affordable price
- Good port selection
- Alexa compatible
- Not meant for very heavy usage
Frequently Asked Questions
The Netgear Orbi Pro brings excellent value to your money in terms of maximum speed, coverage, features, and the requisite hardware to avoid congestion and handle multiple data-intensive activities at your large home.
There are two ways to extend the range of your router. You can improve the range of your router by avoiding physical interference in any form. Stay away from walls and closets. Adding a WiFi range extender or bridge is the other way to extend the range of your router.
The reach of the router depends on the frequency, transmission power, type/position of the antenna, and the environment. Most 802.11ac routers placed outdoors will perform well up to 100 feet, and when you move indoors the performance starts to wane beyond 50 feet, depending on the interference.
Yes, 5GHz penetrates the wall, but irrespective of the type of wall, the 5GHz WiFi doesn’t go through the walls as well as a 2.4GHz signal. Higher the frequency, lower the range, and depending on the type of material used, there will be a loss of signal quality.
Indirectly, Yes. While the range of the router is a property of its antennas, WiFi 6 routers bring upgraded hardware and the latest technology that improves the overall internet performance at a range.
Verdict
It is the clarity in understanding of the requirement that sets the precedent for choosing the right router for your large household. While the Netgear Orbi’s cater to households with a unique set of coverage and connectivity requirements, the Pro models target commercial spaces.
I have mentioned the best routers/mesh system for various scenarios below:
- The Netgear Orbi Pro and Linksys MX12600 are ideal for businesses looking to blanket the multi-storeyed building with high-speed internet. The security features of SXK80B3 tip the scales in its favor.
- If you are looking for a standalone router that boasts substantial coverage and gaming-friendly features, ASUS RT-AC88U will be your go-to device.
- The TP-Link Deco X60 and Tenda Nova MW3 can be your budget solution to blanket multi-storeyed automated homes with stable internet.
