Today, the digital world offers a wide range of routers. However, all of them are not the same. For those looking for maximum connection speed and stability, 5GHz routers are the perfect choice. But why exactly are they?
Why is a 5 GHz Router Better?
5GHz routers operate at a higher frequency than their 2.4GHz counterparts. This means that they are able to transfer data faster. What’s more, 5 GHz has less crosstalk, making the signal more stable.
This is especially true in urban environments where many devices can operate on the same frequency and cause interference. With a 5GHz router, your gaming sessions, watching streams in high quality or working with cloud services will be much more comfortable and faster.
Now that we understand the benefits of 5GHz routers, let’s take a look at the top 10 models of 2024.
1. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000.
A powerful router designed specifically for gamers. It supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, providing data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, allowing gamers to enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience. It is also equipped with VPN Fusion feature that allows users to use VPN and regular internet connection at the same time, which greatly enhances the gaming experience. The router has 8 antennas for better coverage and a quad-core processor to ensure maximum performance.
| Pros | Cons |
| VPN Fusion support | High cost |
| Optimised for gaming | Large size |
| Powerful processor |
2. TP-Link Archer AX6000
The Archer AX6000 from TP-Link is a versatile router that supports the Wi-Fi 6 standard and is capable of offering data transfer speeds of up to 6 Gbps. It also features an eight-core processor and USB 3.0 ports for fast data sharing. One of the benefits of this model is the HomeCare security feature, which includes antivirus, parental controls and quality of service (QoS) to optimise network performance.
| Pros | Cons |
| High level of security | Relatively large size |
| 8 cores | Not the easiest interface |
| Fast data exchange |
3. Netgear Nighthawk AX12
This is an impressive router with Wi-Fi 6 support. It offers data speeds of up to 6Gbps and features eight Wi-Fi streams to connect more devices. The AX12 has retractable antennas for improved coverage and proprietary Beamforming+ technology for a more stable signal. It also supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
| Pros | Cons |
| Voice command support | High price |
| Retractable antennas for better coverage | No USB 3.0 |
| Supports up to 8 Wi-Fi streams |
4. Google Nest Wi-Fi
A unique Wi-Fi system that offers not only high data transfer speeds but also the functionality of the Google Assistant voice assistant. The main advantages of this router are its ease of setup and use, as well as the ability to create a mesh network with additional access points to cover a larger area.
| Pros | Cons |
| Voice assistant | No Ethernet ports on access points |
| Easy to set up and use | Limited settings in parental control |
| Mesh networking capability |
5. Linksys Velop MX10.
A premium Wi-Fi system that supports the Wi-Fi 6 standard and offers data speeds up to 5.3 Gbps. The system consists of two nodes and can cover an area of up to 6,000 square feet, making it ideal for larger homes. It also supports MU-MIMO technology and features automatic security updates.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ideal for larger homes | Expensive |
| MU-MIMO support | Can be difficult to set up |
| Automatyczna aktualizacja |
6. D-Link DIR-X5460
The D-Link DIR-X5460 is a relatively new router on the market, but it has already gained a reputation for reliability and performance. With Wi-Fi 6 support, it offers data transfer speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps and has six Wi-Fi streams for a more stable connection. It also features six external antennas and a powerful quad-core processor.
| Pros | Cons |
| New and reliable | Limited software customisation |
| Powerful processor | Average performance at 2.4GHz |
7. Synology RT2600ac
One of the best routers for those who value security. It has a powerful dual-core processor and supports MU-MIMO and Beamforming for fast and stable communication. A special feature of this router is its firewall function, which allows you to detect and block potential threats.
| Pros | Cons |
| High level of security | No Wi-Fi 6 |
| Firewall function | No multi-user mode |
8. Xiaomi Mi AIoT Router AX3600
A powerful router with Wi-Fi 6 support. It offers data speeds up to 2.976 Gbps and has seven independent antennas for improved coverage. The router also supports MU-MIMO and Beamforming technology, and has a built-in network accelerator to enhance your gaming experience.
| Pros | Cons |
| Availability | Limited English language support |
| 7 independent antennas | Configuration interface could be better |
9. Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien
A powerful router that offers high data speeds and a wide range of coverage. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and has a built-in touchscreen display for easy operation. The AmpliFi Alien also features Beamforming and MU-MIMO technology and supports mesh networking.
| Pros | Cons |
| Stylish design | No web interface for customisation |
| Simple operation | High price |
10. ASUS RT-AC5300
This is a tri-band router that offers data transfer speeds of up to 5.334 Gbps. It has eight antennas for wide coverage and supports MU-MIMO technology to serve multiple devices simultaneously. The router also features AiProtection for network security and supports management via a mobile app.
| Pros | Cons |
| Eight antennas for wide coverage | Relatively large size |
| Remote control | Average performance at 2.4GHz |
| MU-MIMO support |
Choosing a 5GHz router in 2024 depends a lot on the specific needs of the user. When considering absolute performance and power, models like the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 and TP-Link Archer AX6000 may be ideal choices. However, these routers can be too powerful and expensive for the average consumer.
For those looking for something more economical, the Xiaomi Mi AIoT Router AX3600 offers decent performance at a lower price. Meanwhile, if you need a router for a large home with multiple devices, the Linksys Velop MX10 and Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien are great solutions thanks to their support for mesh networking technology.
On the other hand, models like the Google Nest Wi-Fi and ASUS RT-AC5300 offer additional features like voice assistant and AiProtection network protection, which can be useful in certain scenarios.
Either way, it’s important to remember that all of these routers offer reliable 5GHz operation, providing a fast and stable connection, making them a great choice for any modern home or office.
