8 Best Routers For Multiple Devices in 2023

Are you looking for a wireless router that can handle multiple devices in a crowded apartment or two-story house? Or you need a trustworthy router that offers extensive wired connectivity and brings the capacity to handle plenty of devices. If you are in a dilemma to choose between a standalone router or a mesh system, please read ahead.

Do you want to avoid the hassle of sharing passwords and keeping the network safe from external infections? It doesn’t matter whether you are in search of a router that comes with excellent hardware support and stable connectivity to handle over 50 devices in your automated home/office/business place, you’ll be able to find a reliable router after reading this!

Not just support for multiple devices, but the routers mentioned below also have features like the latest wireless standards, i.e., Wi-Fi 6, hardware capacity, support for 160MHz and DFS channels. The presence of the latest technologies like MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and OFDMA with robust internet security adds more value to the below-listed devices.

8 Best Routers For Multiple Devices in 2023

After a comprehensive analysis of over 37 routers, I have enlisted the top 8 products that can hold their ground in terms of catering to diverse scenarios and requirements.

The list covers routers for a diverse range of requirements, from congested flats/apartments to large ranch-style homes, which include smaller-medium households, business places like restaurants, colleges, and even office spaces. The routers listed here vary from top-end standalone routers to affordable mesh systems.

Note: In case you’re setting this up in a large area, you might be interested in checking out my article that has the 12 most popular home network diagrams.

1. Best Overall: TP-Link Archer AX6000

The TP-Link Archer AX6000, a dual-band version of AX11000, makes the top of the list owing to its impressive display of features, extended coverage, and an extensive collection of ports backed by a powerful processing unit. If you are in a large household looking for wired high-speed connectivity, Archer AX6000 offers the best purchase at this price.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

Archer’s multi-gigabit WAN port makes it compatible to exploit the speeds of a multi-gigabit connection. It can achieve 1148 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 4804 Mbps on 5GHz frequencies, which gives the ability to support up to 25 devices in each band within 2000 sq ft to 3000 sq ft house.

Hardware & Port Management 

Archer AX6000 has a quad-core processor clocking at 1.8GHz working at its core. The combination of 1GB operating memory and 128MB storage brings the power to handle data-intensive activities simultaneously. With a 2.5Gbps WAN port, eight LAN ports, and 2 USB ports, users can connect their priority devices, share printers and storage devices within the home network.

Design & Build

Archer AX6000 is heavyweight at 3.5 pounds and has a black square body with room to fit the pair of antennas at every corner. The 8 antennas encircle the router that measures 10.3 x 10.3 x 2.4 inches. The ventilated chassis sports a beveled cross with an LED light in its center.

App Support, Security & Other Features

Tether application has a simple, yet modern intuitive design to offer. The web interface is equally well crafted for comprehensive customization at ease. The antivirus protection of Homecare, firewalls, guest network access, content filters, parental controls, and WPA2 encryption offers the requisite protection for the home network.

Conclusion

The high-speed capability combined with a multi-gigabit port makes this an ideal router for plenty of devices to support. The DFS Channels, BSS coloring, and Airtime fairness make this router a standout performer in congested network areas.

2. Best Runner Up: Netgear Nighthawk RAX50

The Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 AX5400 finds itself as a balance between its low-end and top-end RAX-series routers. It offers a balance of processing power, the latest technologies, and utility. Its OFDMA, additional DFS channels make it ideal for smart homes using multiple devices in congested environments.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

The RAX50 rakes up a combined speed of 5.4 Gbps supporting gigabit fast internet connections. Its ability to achieve individual speeds of 600 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 4800 Mbps on 5GHz gives it the ability to handle over 25 devices simultaneously. In a smart home, the router can extend its capacity up to 75 devices including TVs and Xbox/gaming consoles across 2500 sq ft.

Hardware & Port Management

Netgear brings a 1.5GHz Tri-core processor, 512MB RAM, and flash storage of 256MB that fuels the engine to handle multiple devices seamlessly. With four Ethernet ports, one WAN port, and a USB 3.0 port, the Netgear router finds room for priority devices like TVs, gaming consoles, Streaming devices, and workstations.

Design & Build 

The glossy black chiseled body has a sleek demeanor and weighs close to 1.25 pounds The router measures 11.6 x 8.11 x 2.25 inches in dimensions. The 4 external antennas attached to its rear deliver stable signals to devices, credit to OFDMA and Beamforming.

App Support, Security & Other Features

Netgear’s Nighthawk mobile application makes the installation and remote network management easier for its users. The internet security of Netgear Armor offers real-time protection against cyber threats, while the latest WPA3 encryption standards offer security from unauthorized access.

The guest network access, QoS for prioritizing bandwidth, the smart parental controls to keep a watch on your kid’s screen time and internet consumption, the Alexa/google assistant voice control makes network management easier.

Conclusion

The RAX50 brings the latest in terms of technology and features with Wi-Fi-6 standards. Support for the 160MHz channels and additional DFS channels combined with the robust internet security makes this router stand out as a value addition for households with plenty of devices in a congested area.

3. Best for Gaming & Streaming: ASUS RT-AX3000

The ASUS RT-AX3000 is a toned-down version of its pricier and powerful predecessor. Asus accommodates the latest Wi-Fi 6, 160MHz channels with a Tri-core processor adequate hardware at a competitive price. If you are looking for a router to support multiple devices at your large home, Asus RT-AX3000 fits your bill perfectly.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

RT-AX3000 from Asus, can use the multi-Gigabit fast internet connection and achieve an aggregated speed of 3Gbps. That translates to individual speeds of 574 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 2402 Mbps on 5GHz giving the router the ability to offer capacity for over 30 devices spread across 3000 sq ft.

Hardware & Port Management

The Tri-core processor clocking at 1.5GHz, an operating memory of 512MB, and flash storage of 256MB can handle data-intensive gaming on Xbox One, Nintendo or PlayStation as well as twitch streaming, and remote workstations. Keep your priority devices wired to the router with four gigabit Ethernet ports and a WAN port.

Design & Build

This Asus router carries semblance to the front side of a sports car. It comes in a matte-black chassis which sports some sharp angles and cuts in a body that weighs less than 1.2 pounds and measures 8.82 x 6.06 x 6.3 inches in dimensions. The 4 adjustable, external antennas are interspersed on the rear with the ports.

App Support, Security & Other Features

The Asus router app and the web interface are known for their easy remote management and extensive customization. The commercial-grade security of AiProtection Pro keeps your home safe from cyber threats.

The comprehensive traffic monitoring system with parental controls offers sufficient insight to manage the bandwidth effectively with the support of dual-mode QoS. The guest network access isolates the infected devices from your home network.

Conclusion

Asus brings the latest feature of Wi-Fi 6 with 160 Mhz channels to avoid network congestion in your homes at a very competitive price. The commercial-grade internet security combined with parental controls and real-time network monitoring at no extra subscription makes this a great router for a large household with kids.

4. Best Mesh Setup: TP-Link Deco X20

The three-pack TP-Link Deco X20 improved its device handling capacity by upgrading its RAM and the storage memory of its front runner. The latest standards, comprehensive network security protocols, and the comfort of deco application make it a top competitor for large ranch-style, multi-story automated homes.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

A gigabit fast internet connection will be the ideal partner for this router. It can reach individual speeds of 574 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1201 Mbps on the 5GHz frequency. The simultaneous dual-band mesh system can easily handle over 150 devices spread across a long-range measuring 5800 sq ft.

Hardware & Port Management

The powerful combination of a 1GHz quad-core processor, 512MB RAM, and 128MB flash memory leaves adequate resources on Wi-Fi 6 mesh unit to handle multiple devices in an automated home. The two Ethernet/WAN ports per unit would leave the user to solve the puzzle of prioritizing devices for wired high-speed connectivity.

Design & Build

The cylindrical towers are short in stature measuring 4.49-inches in height and 4.3-inches in diameter. The simplistic design with 4 internal Omni-directional antennas fits seamlessly into any household. At 2 pounds, the groovy top and grey logo on the white chassis leaves an impression of a class.

App Support, Security & Other Features

The Deco app tailor-made of Deco mesh systems makes the installation and remote management easier. With inbuilt protection against malware, intrusions, and externally infected devices, the home network remains secure. The additional protection of WPA 3 encryption and the firewalls offer protection against unauthorized usage.

Conclusion

While the lack of USB connectivity may be a drawback, the Deco X20 from TP-Link brings the latest wireless standards, a robust security system by Homecare, and the latest features like OFDMA and Beamforming. Its coverage and ethernet backhaul at a very competitive price make this a standout choice among its peers.

5. Best under $100: Motorola MR2600

The Motorola MR2600 AC2600 increased its speed limits, improved its processor, included a USB port and features like beamforming to improve its capacity to handle multiple devices. MR2600 offers stable internet for smaller households, at a budget-friendly price.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

Combine your high-speed gigabit connection with the MR2600 routers and achieve top speed up to 800 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1733 Mbps on the 5GHz band. While Motorola claims the router can support up to 253 devices, the ideal way to get the best out of the router is to limit it to around 20 devices within a surface area of 2000 sq ft.

Hardware & Port Management

The 880 MHz dual-core processor brings the power to handle data-intensive activities. A combination of 128MB of RAM and 16MB storage will be a limiting factor in scaling up the number of devices. The presence of four LAN ports, one WAN port, and one USB 3.0 port gives you the advantage to wire peripherals and important devices.

Design & Build

Motorola MR2600 router keeps the design simple with a chequered black chassis that weighs approximately 1.1 pounds. Its dimension remains similar to its peer, measuring around 9.25 x 6.06 x 2 inches. The 4 external antennas, attached to its side and its rear are essential to its coverage.

App Support & Security & Other Features

Motorola MR2600 doesn’t come with the comfort of the mobile application. The double firewall protection, DoS protection, and WPA2 encryption keep your network protected from cyber threats.

Nonetheless, the web GUI offers the requisite ability to configure your VPN, set priority for devices, create guest access, and customize the basic parental controls to control the internet exposure.

Conclusion

Don’t let the absence of mobile application support overshadow the features MR2600 brings to the table. Its coverage, features like 4×4 MU-MIMO, Beamforming, high-speed capacity, and capacity to support multiple devices at a price below $100 shifts the balance in its favor.

6. Best For Home Use: Netgear R6700AX

The Netgear R6700AX: AX1800 introduced the Wi-Fi 6 version of its predecessor with a string of upgrades to its hardware and the latest technologies. The high-speed capabilities and the Netgear ecosystem offer the ideal solution for a smaller household with kids.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

The Netgear R6700AX can put high-speed internet connections ranging from 500 Mbps to 1Gbps to effective use with its high-speed capabilities of 600 Mbps in 2.4 GHz, and 1200 Mbps in 5GHz. It can support data-intensive activities like HD streaming on firestick and online gaming on up to 20 devices.

Hardware & Port Management

Backed by a strong hardware unit of Quad-core processor clocking at 1.5GHz, an operating memory of 512MB, and 256 MB storage, the router delivers seamless high-speed internet connectivity. With one WAN port and four Ethernet ports, the device accommodates high-speed wired connectivity for important devices at home.

Design & Build

The Netgear routing device weighs approximately 1.10 pounds. A chequered black chassis measures 9.27 x 7.26 x 2.25 inches and finds adequate ventilation on its sides and rear. The 3 external antennas attached to its rear are equipped with Beamforming+ and OFDMA.

App Support, Security & Other Features

The Nighthawk mobile application makes the setup and remote management simple. Subscription-based NETGEAR Armor security powered by BitDefender, the VPN support, and the latest WPA 3 encryption keep the network safe from unauthorized access and external threats.

The Netgear ecosystem offers extensive internet monitoring capacity, parental controls with premium subscriptions. The guest Wi-Fi network avoids the hassle of sharing passwords incessantly and keeps infected devices at bay.

Conclusion

The Netgear R6700AX router brings the latest technology and ultra-fast internet to your home. The sub $100 price tag makes this router stand out from its peers and makes a strong case for an ideal networking solution for smaller homes with kids.

7. Best with 2 USB Ports: Linksys EA8100

In Linksys EA8100: AC2600, it retained the core hardware of its previous version EA7500, improved its speed limits, and added DFS at a much cheaper price. Linksys EA8100 offers you the right package for outmaneuvering congested apartments with its selection of features complemented by the additional DFS channels.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

The Linksys delivers an aggregated speed of 2.6Gbps with a Gigabit speed internet connection. Its top speed of 800 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1733 Mbps on 5GHz can support over 30 devices in each band and up to 50 devices in the guest network, contingent on balanced usage. It can cover smaller-medium homes measuring 1800 sq ft.

Hardware & Port Management

The Linksys router comes with an 880MHz dual-core processor, operating memory of 256MB, and storage of 128MB that gives the ability to handle multiple devices and data-intensive activities like 4K streaming, Wi-Fi calling and online gaming. Keep your peripherals and appliances wired through one WAN port, four LAN ports, and two USB ports.

Design & Build

The rectangular black perforated casing is lightweight and weighs 1.23 pounds. It measures 10.12 x 7.24 x 2.2-inches in dimensions, leaving a discernible presence with 4 huge external antennas to deliver signals.

App Support, Security & Other Features

The Linksys Wi-Fi app makes installation and management easier. The web GUI includes provisions to set up firewalls, access controls, web filters, and customize VPN to secure your home network.

With parental controls, parents can block access to inappropriate content and limit consumption with scheduled access. The QoS allows you to prioritize your internet for devices involved in data-intensive activities.

Conclusion

The Linksys router brings excellent value for money with its balance in the latest features like MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and the price. The DFS certification makes this router stand out in improving its capacity to support more devices without the hassle of congestion.

8. Cheapest Option: D-Link DIR-1260

In D-Link DIR-1260: AC1200, it downgrades the processor from its previous version to fit into the budget. It offers the best combination of utility with features like MU-MIMO, WPA3 encryption to smaller households looking for a budget-friendly router.

Speeds, Supported Devices & Coverage

High-speed internet plans ranging from 100 to 500 Mbps works ideal for the D-Link router. The devices can reach up to 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867 Mbps on 5GHz frequency which makes it a suitable router for 200 Mbps plan from any ISPs. With 4 antennas covering an area of 1500 sq ft, the router can support around 25-30 devices with balanced usage.

Hardware & Port Management

DIR-1260 has a dual-core processor clocking at 880MHz giving the power to handle seamless operations on multiple devices. The 128MB storage and 128MB operating memory are crucial for data-intensive activities. The router brings 4 LAN ports and 1 WAN port, to keep the priority devices wired.

Design & Build

The sleek, matte-black chassis maintains a very simplistic yet elegant-looking design. Weighing 0.72 pounds, the lightweight router measures 9.37 x 6.14 x 1.22 inches. The 4 external antennas are spread across the sides and the rear.

App Support, Security & Other Features

The D-link Wi-Fi app makes your network management easy. A voice-activated guest network access, WPA3 encryption standard, SPI firewall keep your network protected from unauthorized access and security threats.

The support for VPN, website filters, and profile-based parental controls gives more control over the home network. DLink DIR-1260 brings an effective QoS Engine with multiple levels of priority to manage your bandwidth for important gadgets.

Conclusion

In DIR-1260, D-link gives the best possible combination of features with adequate hardware to support multiple devices with ease. The latest encryption standards, multi-core processor, easy mesh compatibility make this a great acquisition at a budget-friendly price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

The data-intensive activities of multiple devices often test the limits of the capability of the router. Finding the right routing device comes with the clarity of understanding the nature of the load the router handles. I have listed the best routers for different scenarios.

• The TP-Link Archer AX6000 is an ideal choice for a household requiring extensive wired connectivity with over 50 devices to handle.
• The TP-Link Deco X20 is an ideal match for an automated home in a multi-story or a large ranch-style setting with over 100 devices. 
• The D-Link DIR-1260 is amongst the best budget routers to handle lots of devices in a household.

Still haven’t found one? Comment below!