8 Best Parental Control Routers in 2023 [High Security]

Are you in search of a wireless router with parental controls? Do you want to filter the websites your kids can visit with time limits and other features? If that’s the case then you shall find this guide to be really helpful.

The wireless routing devices listed here come with world-class parental control functionality. For instance, Not only can you control or filter the websites your kid visits, but can also do the following:

• Limit access with a schedule for bedtime, study time, etc.
• Block age-inappropriate content, URLs, and devices.
• Limit bandwidth to applications like YouTube, Facebook, etc.
• Turn on/off Wi-Fi and monitor internet activity.

Since a router is not just going to be used by the kids at your home, you shouldn’t pick it solely based on the parental control functionalities. Before choosing one, you must make sure that the device is capable of handling speeds according to your service package, meets your coverage and device connectivity requirements, etc.

Nonetheless, the routers listed below are a result of a comparative analysis of features, including parental controls. The list has wireless routing devices that do not only have parental and access control, are also capable of handling high internet speeds, and also come with high-end security features, better connectivity, etc.

8 Best Parental Control Routers in 2023

The ability to monitor children’s internet consumption and maintain control over screen time is a challenge for parents. Achieving an optimal balance between features, utility, and price remains to be the principal motive.

After spending huge time testing, researching, and reviewing over 37 wireless routers with parental control functionalities, here are the 8 best options that you shall consider getting in 2023. (Of course, based on your budget and specific requirements.)

1. Best Overall: Netgear Nighthawk RAX50

The Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 is a high-end Wi-Fi router with the latest wireless standards aka Wi-Fi 6 and solid parental controls followed by Netgear Armor security. When compared to its predecessor Nighthawk RAX45, the router has several upgrades that improve the overall network stability and performance.

Speeds & Coverage

The router comes with MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and dynamic QoS at its behest that can deliver speeds up to 600mbps on the 2.5GHz band, while 4800mbps on the 5GHz band. Furthermore, the 2500 sq ft range makes the router a perfect fit for a medium household operating 25 devices simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

Netgear offers an intuitive way for parents to manage the content and time controls of their kids. The mobile app lets you set time schedules and limits for applications and websites. The access to the internet can be restricted by device or by a username with each family member having separate bedtimes.

The Nighthawk app has an intuitive design that makes the initial setup process and managing simple. Be it creating profiles for family members or content filtering or changing security settings, both the mobile application and web interface come in handy.

Hardware & Performance

The router has a triple-core chipset to handle multiple devices on your home network. With support of 512MB RAM and 256MB flash storage, the device is more than capable of handling gaming consoles like Xbox One, HD streaming on Firestick, and more with relative ease.

Design & Ports

At 1.25 lbs, the RAX50 model has a stylish black-colored design. All the ports and power I/O buttons are placed on the rear along with the USB port, while the LED indicators line up in the front. Two antennas at each side and two at the back delivers signals at multiple streams.

As far as port selection is concerned, 1 WAN port with support of 2.5Gbps, 4 LAN ports with support of 1Gbps, and a USB 3.0 port would be sufficient to handle high-speed wired connections, shared printers, and storage devices.

Final Thoughts!

A routing device with MU-MIMO, Beamforming, adaptive QoS, Netgear Armor, and a comprehensive parental control system makes this a perfect companion to manage your home network.

2. Best Runner Up: ASUS RT-AX3000

The ASUS RT-AX3000 is a powerful dual-band Wi-Fi 6 mesh compatible router loaded with features to breeze through most of the challenges a medium to large household put forth.

Speeds & Coverage

The 4×4 MU-MIMO and Beamforming can handle simultaneous requests from multiple devices and deliver up to 574mbps in 2.5GHz, and 2402mbps in the 5GHz channel. Four external antennas deliver strong signals and cover the entire house measuring 3000 sq ft. Moreover, the router can handle 30+ devices simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

The Asus web interface has an intuitive design to apply parental controls for different devices. It enables content filters and time-controlled internet access to multiple devices. You can also manage it using the ASUS Router app. It is amongst the easiest to navigate. It keeps the installation simple, and the web interface opens up to a multitude of advanced settings to manage the router.

Hardware & Performance

The router stacks in a Tri-Core processor clocked at 1.5GHz frequency, accompanied by 512MB of RAM and 256MB of flash storage which is adequate to take care of your online gaming, 4K media streaming, Wi-Fi Calling, etc. Since the router comes with Ai-Mesh compatibility, you can also use it to extend your home network.

Design & Ports

Weighing less than 1.5 lbs, the RT-AX3000 sports four huge antennas in an angular-styled black base. One can find all the ports on the rear end of the router and LED indicators in the front.

Coming to the ports, 1 WAN port, 4 LAN ports, and 1 USB 3.0 port will ensure high-speed wired connections and network sharing requirements are catered.

Final Thoughts!

The RT-AX3000 is a powerful router with the latest wireless standards aka Wi-Fi 6, AiMesh compatibility, AiProtection, and a user-friendly interface that gives a plethora of options to customize parental and access controls. Considering all the features it has to offer, it readily becomes one of the top picks in its price segment.

3. Best Value for Money: TP-Link Archer AX50

The TP-Link Archer AX50 is a powerful router with high-speed performance owing to its WI-FI 802.11 ax standards. It can handle a plethora of devices that constitute a smart home setup.

Speeds & Coverage

The 4×4 MU-MIMO, Beamforming with prioritized QoS can handle simultaneous requests and achieve higher speeds of up to 574mbps in 2.5GHz, 2402mbps in 5GHz channels. Four external antennas are geared to provide stable signals under the 2500 sq ft. The device offers a smart home solution to operate over 40 devices simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

Parental control gives you control over a family member’s internet consumption. It allows you to create profiles for every family member and set custom time limits for access. It also comes with multiple filter levels to block websites based on age. TP-link allows access to reports to monitor internet consumption and limit users accordingly.

Tether mobile application goes easy on the eye and in operation keeps the initial setup short. The web interface provides a platform to access advanced settings, parental controls, and other security customizations.

Hardware & Performance

The router comes with an AX optimized, 800MHz dual-core processor in Intel Chipset with 256MB RAM and 128MB flash storage, which is adequate for gaming, Twitch streaming, Wi-Fi calling, and managing other smart home devices.

Design & Ports

Weighing approximately 1.2 lbs, the TP-Link router sports a sleek, futuristic design. The antennas align at the rear amongst the ethernet, USB ports, and other buttons.

One WAN port, four LAN ports, and one USB 3.0 port play a key role in taking care of your wired high-speed connections and shared network storage devices.

Final Thoughts!

With access to 160 MHz channels for future proof speeds, backward-compatible Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standards combining OFDMA technology, Beamforming, and network security, this router offers control over the home network with comprehensive parent controls.

4. Best With Time Limit Control: Linksys EA8100

The Linksys EA8100 is a sub $150 wireless router that can be installed in small to medium-size households or apartments. The router brings an excellent feature called DFS (dynamic frequency selection) that can automatically switch the Wi-Fi channels. So, if you’re living in a crowded area, it will automatically switch to a channel that has minimal traffic.

Speeds & Coverage

Linksys brings 4×4 MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and QoS to the table to deliver consistent speeds of up to 800mbps on 2.5GHz, while 1733mbps on the 5GHz band. When it comes to range, the router covers areas of up to 1800 sq ft and handles over 15 devices simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi application comes in very handy during the initial setup process and for further network monitoring. The parental control system enables blocking internet access to particular devices with specific time limits. It can also block access to specific websites for the list of devices accessing the system. The “block-out time” option completely denies internet access to particular devices for a time frame.

Hardware & Performance

For processing power, Linksys opted for a lesser powerful dual-core chipset from MediaTek clocking at 880MHz for the cost-cutting. It is accompanied by 256MB RAM and 128MB flash memory, the router is capable to manage various activities like TV streaming, gaming, and internet surfing, etc.

Design & Ports

At 2.5 lbs, the EA8100 model is bulky with a classic black design and room for ample ventilation. The ethernet ports and power I/O buttons are located at the rear end of the device, while the antennas are distributed across the device.

With 1 WAN port, 4 LAN ports, and dual USB ports at its helm, the router has sufficient venues for high-speed wired connections and choice between shared printers or network storage devices within the home network.

Final Thoughts!

The Linksys router brings tough competition to the routers in the $150 price range as the device comes with DFS, and an efficient parental control system to control and track your family members’ internet usage. It makes the router a decent companion to create profiles, manage devices in a medium household with kids around.

5. Best Wi-Fi Mesh System: TP-Link Deco X20

The TP-Link Deco X20 (Pack of 2) fits better household better than the company’s Deco S4 mesh router on account of its shorter frame. The Deco X20 is one of the few Wi-Fi 6 based mesh routers that offer a kids-friendly ecosystem with ample security features that makes your job as a parent easier.

Speeds & Coverage

Mid-range internet plans from Xfinity, Spectrum works well for the Deco X20. It can reach up to 575mbps on 2.4GHz and up to 1200mbps on the 5GHz band with a faster connection at its disposal. The two-pack mesh system features 4 internal antennas in each unit that will cover your entire home measuring 4000 sq ft.

Filters & Access Controls

The robust parental controls of the deco give you the ability to create individual profiles for each kid separately and manage their exposure. Limit their screen time and consumption with time controls and age-appropriate filters. The guest access, firewalls, and WPA3 encryption protect your network from security threats.

The deco application is solely designed for its trademark deco models. Setup your router with a simple interface, run auto connection tests to get the best coverage out of your deco units. The app offers control over your internet even when you are away from home.

Hardware & Performance

A Qualcomm Networking Pro 400 chipset clocking at 1GHz forms the core of the Deco X20 Mesh system. Storage of 128MB and 512MB RAM should suffice for a household with the support of up to 150 smart devices.

Design & Ports

Deco X20 mesh system put together, weighs approximately 3 pounds. The white cylindrical tower integrates a groovy design resembling the logo of TP-link. The devices measure 4.3-inches in diameter and stand 4.4-inches tall.

Despite the limited 1 LAN and WAN port, the flexibility of the mesh system gives users the freedom to find a way to wire their primary accessories like TVs, gaming consoles, PCs, etc.

Final Thoughts!

The Deco X20 brings plenty of features like advanced QoS, bandwidth management, unhindered connectivity, security, and customized parental controls that make it stand out as a perfect fit for a large house with a diverse age group.

6. Best Parental Controls: Netgear Nighthawk R6700

The Netgear Nighthawk R6700 is a budget-friendly router with slightly less range compared to other routers on this list. However, it is still great in terms of speed, performance, port selection, and of course, Netgear’s Smart Parental Controls powered by the Circle app.

Speeds & Coverage

The router delivers speeds of up to 450mbps in 2.4GHz, while 1300mbps in 5GHz, which is ideal for a small to medium-sized household with standard internet requirements. This device comes with three antennas and Beamforming+ to broadcast strong signals in dual bands. It has a coverage area of 1500 sq ft and can handle up to 25 devices simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

Netgear’s select routers have support for a dedicated app called Circle to manage parental controls, and luckily, Nighthawk R6700 is one of them. The app sports a user-friendly design and makes the configuration simple and effective.

The Circle app allows you to set website Filters, and have control over the internet access with Time Limits. It also lets you set the Off Time schedules for multiple devices. Moreover, at any time of the day, you can pause internet access for a specific device or user. Needless to say, you also get access to users’ history and can even set the bedtime.

Hardware & Performance

Equipped with a 1GHz dual-core processor and 256MB RAM, it can handle small-medium household requirements like media streaming, video conferencing, Wi-Fi calling, printer sharing, and internet browsing on multiple devices. The 128MB NAND flash memory is sufficient for the firmware, device settings, and future updates.

The inbuilt QoS allows you to manage the bandwidth allocation amongst multiple devices. You are also backed by the security features such as DoS attack prevention, Firewall, VPN, and WPA 2 password standard.

Design & Ports

At about 1.6 lbs, the router sports a simple, shiny black design with a USB port in the front and LED indicators on the top.

As for the port selection, Netgear packs in 4 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 WAN port making it efficient for high-speed connections. The device also comes with a USB 3.0 port which can take care of sharing printer/storage devices within your home network.

Final Thoughts!

With its decent internet throughputs, dynamic QoS, dedicated Parental Control app support, and a great amount of security, the router gives you control over home internet usage at a wallet-friendly price. If the 1500 sq ft range is enough for you, this is one of the best sub $100 routers to consider in 2023.

7. Best Budget Friendly: TP-Link Archer A7

The TP-Link Archer A7 is one of the best budget-friendly routers in the market that brings a complete package of fast internet, wired connectivity, parental controls with an extended range.

Speeds & Coverage

The router finds its ideal source of internet in the entry to mid-level service plans ranging from 100Mbps to 500Mbps. With an aggregated speed of 1.7Gbps, the router can achieve top speeds of 450mbps on 2.4GHz and 1300mbps on 5GHz operating on a simultaneous dual-band. It can cover up to 2500 sq ft area with a capacity to connect 50+ devices on the network.

Filters & Access Controls

The Tether mobile app offers the most modern, yet simple and intuitive interface to set up your router in a few minutes and control the home network. With remote management, the app eases the worries of control over the network while you are on the move.

Tether app also allows you to create profiles for your kids, add devices to your profile, and apply a set of rules-based URL/Keyword filters. Set up time limits and manage the screen time with ease. The web interface gives access to reports to monitor internet activity.

Hardware & Performance

The router houses a single-core Qualcomm processor clocking at 750MHz, 128MB RAM, and 16MB storage. The processing unit will be under stress in case of multiple data-intensive activities. Nonetheless, the router can handle HD streaming via Firestick and gaming on PS4.

Design & Ports

The lightweight router weighs close to 0.90 lbs. The sleek glossy black chassis measures 9.6 x 6.4 x 1.3 inches in dimensions can turn into a dust magnet with two grooves over its surface.

The selection of 4 Ethernet LAN ports, 1 WAN port, and a USB 2.0 port will accommodate a shared printer and wired high-speed connections for your PC’s and TV.

Final Thoughts!

Despite the lack of advanced features like MU-MIMO or beamforming, the set of features like guest access, access control, QoS, and firewalls makes Archer A7 one of the best routers your money can buy.

8. Cheapest Option: ASUS RT-ACRH12

The ASUS RT-ACRH12 is the cheapest router on this list that is loaded with features to breeze through most of the challenges a medium or large household puts forth.

Speeds & Coverage

The MU-MIMO, Beamforming can handle simultaneous requests from multiple devices and deliver 1000mbps in 2.5GHz, 2167mbps in 5GHz channels. Four dual-band external antennas can cover a house measuring 3000 sq ft with over 20 devices accessing it simultaneously.

Filters & Access Controls

The Asus Router mobile app keeps the initial setup quick, while the web interface allows you to make more advanced settings.

The parental control lets you maintain a list of devices and assign access time slots for the devices. The advanced settings have provisions to allow restricting internet content with MAC address, URL, and Keyword filters.

Hardware & Performance

The router has a 1GHz dual-core processor in Broadcom chipset aided by 256MB RAM and 128MB flash storage to take care of HD streaming, file transfers, voice calls, etc. The QoS assigns priority amongst devices and allocates bandwidth for different types of internet activity.

Design & Ports

Weighing 1.41 lbs, the router sports four antennas in a glossy chequered black design. All the Ethernet ports are lined up on the rear, while the LED indicators remain in the front.

With 1 WAN port, 4 LAN ports, and a USB 2.0 port, you are highly unlikely to run out of slots for high-speed wired connections, shared printers, and network storage devices.

Final Thoughts!

A powerful processing unit aided by MU-MIMO, Beamforming, smart QoS, AiProtection that comes with parental controls, advanced filtering, and support for VPN is amongst the best when it comes to affordable routers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

The information era holds multiple avenues of distractions for kids. It is essential to limit access to the internet. The parental controls, while not being perfect, gives a hand over your kids’ internet activity. Despite their vulnerabilities, they play a vital role in keeping the home network safe for kids.

• If price is not a constraint, the Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 is my top recommendation. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and high internet speeds allowing you to game and live stream it on high-resolution. It also offers plenty of access controls to manage internet usage of multiple devices at your home.
• If you need a budget-friendly option with excellent parental controls to manage your home network with ease, nothing beats the Netgear Nighthawk R6700. It’s one of the best in its price segment.
• For modern multi story houses, the two-pack TP-Link Deco X20 mesh system offers great speeds and comprehensive network security options with easy to manage interface.
• Lastly, if you need a super affordable router with extended range and bandwidth capacity to handle low-end ISP plans, the ASUS RT-ACRH12 is a reliable device to cater your daily internet needs.

The budget, preferences, and requirements of a user decide the fitness of the aforementioned routers. While the models mentioned here offer a balance of utility and features, the market space is flush with routers in case of any specific requirement not addressed here.

Still haven’t found a reliable option? Read my router buying guide.