When you purchase Google Internet services, Google does not charge you for equipment rental compared to other service providers, but the free router is only enough for basic use and has limited features.
That is why finding the best router for Google Fiber is essential to ensure that you get reliable and secure internet.
You do not need a cable modem because the connection is fiber-optic based, meaning you just need to plug your router into the ONT (Fiber jack), use the proper credentials to set it up and start connecting your devices.
Ensure that the router you purchase is compatible with the Google Fiber plan that you are subscribed to, has decent security features and enhanced control options to ensure you maximize internet speed on your devices.
Our top choice for the best router for Google Fiber is the Archer AXE75. It features WiFi 6E technology which delivers ultra-fast speeds of up to 5400 Mbps which ensures that you can achieve simultaneous streaming, browsing, gaming, and downloading. Additionally, it has more RAM and processing as it is equipped with a 1.7 GHz quad-core CPU and 512 MB memory.
If you are subscribed to Google Fiber 2 Gig and want to ensure that you have fast and smooth internet, the Nighthawk RAXE500 is a great choice as it comes with the WiFi 6 technology which allows all your devices to have an internet connection without any delays. The WiFi 6 technology enables this router to have faster speeds, better security, battery, and data management as it has about a 50% boost in performance than the WiFi 5 technology.
For a budget-friendly option, the ASUS RT-AX3000 is a clear winner. It not only saves you money, but it features the 802.11ax standard which offers greater coverage, higher network efficiency, future-proof technologies, faster WiFi speeds, and improved battery life for the devices that are connected to the network.
Based on the results that our team of network engineers got when we tested 14 routers that are compatible with Google Fiber, we have compiled six routers that performed the best.
Best Router For Google Fiber (2024)
- Best Overall: TP-Link Archer AXE75
- Best For Google Fiber 2 Gig: Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500
- Budget Friendly: ASUS RT-AX3000
- Mesh WiFi: Netgear Orbi RBK752
- For Gaming: ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000
- Advanced Security: ASUS RT-AXE7800
Top 6 Google Fiber Compatible Routers
When purchasing a router to connect with Google Fiber, you should ensure that it is compatible, otherwise, you will be wasting your money and experience limited performance capability.
Additionally, the router should provide you with the speed and coverage for a stable connection. It should come with the latest WiFi technology for faster speeds.
Below are the 6 best routers for Google Fiber. Each review comes with an explanation of the design and performance of the router as well as its advantages and disadvantages.
1. TP-Link Archer AXE75 (Editor’s Choice)
Design
The Archer AXE75 is a tri-band router that features WiFi 6E technology which delivers ultra-fast speeds of up to 5400 Mbps which ensures that you can achieve simultaneous streaming, browsing, gaming, and downloading.
The speed is distributed to the three bands as 574 Mbps for 2.4 GHz, 2402 Mbps for 5 GHz, and 2402 Mbps for 6 GHz.
The Archer AXE75 measures 12.91*10.43*4.72 inches and comes in black. Additionally, it has more RAM and processing as it is equipped with a 1.7 GHz quad-core CPU and 512 MB memory.
Performance
The WiFi 6E technology in the Archer AXE75 comes with the brand new 6 GHz band which does not overlap or interfere with other bands and older devices.
This makes the 6 GHz band free from congestion to offer more bandwidth, faster speeds, and lower latency.
The True tri-band and OFDMA technology enhances the capacity of your network up to four times to allow for simultaneous transmission of data to several devices.
You can connect this router to a TP-Link OneMesh extender if you want to achieve seamless whole-home coverage.
The 6 high-gain antennas in the Archer AXE75 come with Beamforming technology for stronger and more reliable coverage.
To ensure that potential security threats and issues are detected early, this router features a real-time network scanner.
If you want specific devices in your network to have faster connections and top performance, the QoS feature can assign more bandwidth to them.
Parental controls keep your family and children safe on the internet as it allows you to manage online time and block inappropriate content.
Additionally, you can understand your network better by getting the full statistics and insights from the Report feature, which allows you to monitor router performance and usage patterns.
For extra privacy, you can configure the VPN on the Archer AXE75 if you want to keep your network private.
We also found the router setup using the Tether app particularly easy, which gives extra peace of mind for those with limited technical knowledge.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link AXE75 is for those looking for a WiFi 6E router that can deliver higher speeds to more devices for simultaneous gaming, downloading, and streaming.
Specs
- Speed: 5400 Mbps
- Range: Extensive coverage
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 5
Pros
- You can connect more devices at once.
- Offers reliable coverage.
- It is a powerful tri-band WiFi.
- The WiFi 6E technology offers faster speeds.
Cons
- Some problems with the ethernet ports.
2. Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 (Best For Google Fiber 2 Gig)
Design
To ensure that you have fast and smooth internet, the Nighthawk RAXE500 comes with WiFi 6 technology which allows all your devices to have an internet connection without any delays.
WiFi 6 technology enables this router to have faster speeds, better security, battery, and data management as it has about a 50% boost in performance than the WiFi 5 technology.
The RAXE500 comes with a speed of up to 10.8 Gbps, can connect around 60 devices, and covers a range of up to 3500 sq. ft.
Performance
The five ethernet ports in the Nighthawk RAXE500 enable you to connect your devices using the ethernet cable to your router so that you can have a wired connection.
This router features Netgear Armor which provides network security for your devices, protecting against malware attacks while browsing.
To ensure that your children are not watching or downloading harmful content from the internet, the RAXE500 comes with Smart parental controls that prevent access to such content.
The Nighthawk app enables you to set up this router easily by following the simple steps outlined once you download it.
Additionally, the app helps you to test the internet speed and monitor the network settings as well as the data usage by you and your family.
The MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies work together to enhance the internet speed and minimize the time the device connects to your devices.
The Beamforming technology extends the range and speed of the RAXE500 while the QoS directs the signal to certain devices on the network if they require more bandwidth.
You can safely share the network with your guests using the Guest WiFi Access feature. This router can be controlled using Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Who It’s For
The NETGEAR RAXE500 is recommended for individuals staying in large homes and needing a smooth internet connection for connecting over 60 devices at the same time. If you are subscribed to Google Fiber 2g plan, this is the router for you.
Specs
- Speed: 8 Gbps
- Range: 3500 sq. ft. and up to 60 devices
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocols: 11ax
- Ports: 2 USB ports and 5 Ethernet ports
Pros
- Reliable internet connection.
- Minimum congestion.
- Maximized and reliable coverage and range.
- Faster internet speeds.
- You get more bandwidth for your devices.
Cons
- There are random reboots.
3. ASUS RT-AX3000 (Budget Friendly)
Design
The ASUS RT-AX3000 comes with WiFi 6 technology which is the next-generation WiFi standard that is 2.7 times faster compared to the previous generation. It features the MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology.
The RT-AX3000 boasts a total network speed of 3000 Mbps, 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 575 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. It also supports 1024-QAM and 160MHz bandwidth.
Performance
The ASUS RT-AX3000 features the 802.11ax standard which offers greater coverage, higher network efficiency, future-proof technologies, faster WiFi speeds, and improved battery life for the devices that are connected to the network.
You can use the AiMesh tool to extend the range of this router seamlessly which works by adding Mesh satellites that connect to the same network and you place these satellites in different parts of your home.
This creates a stronger mesh WiFi system for stable whole-home coverage.
The Dual-band WiFi ensures a smooth 4K streaming and gaming experience as well as supports more devices with fewer disruptions.
Another great feature that the AX3000 comes with is the AiProtection Pro which is a bundle of parental controls and antivirus that ensures your network is safe for you and the kids that use it as it allows you to prevent access to harmful content and protects you from internet threats.
The Adaptive QoS enables you to assign profiles to specific devices such as gaming to ensure that they perform better when doing the activities assigned to them.
We tested this feature with 5 internet devices connected at the same time, and it worked remarkably well, allowing the gaming device to perform without any lag.
The ASUS Router App which can be used for both Android and iOS devices allows you to customize and control each feature at your fingertips. You can also manage the settings of your WiFi using the Alexa voice control.
Who It’s For
The ASUS RT-AX3000 is the perfect router for you if you are looking for a router that has the best value for money and comes at a reasonable price but still offers a perfect mix of great performance and features such as better range, speed, and security.
Specs
- Speed: 3000 Mbps
- Range 3000 sq. ft.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11b, 802.11ax, 802.11a, 802.11ac
- Ports: 5 Ethernet and 1 USB.
Pros
- Super-fast internet speed.
- Great features.
- Stable WiFi performance.
- Great coverage.
Cons
- Does not have multi-gig ports.
4. Netgear Orbi RBK752 (Mesh WiFi)
Design
The Netgear Orbi RBK752 features the WiFi 6 technology which provides you with uninterrupted web conferencing, HD video gaming, and streaming.
The RBK752 allows you to connect 40 devices to the network and has a coverage of up to 5000 sq. ft. You can buy an additional satellite if you want to extend the coverage to 2500 sq. ft.
Performance
The Netgear Orbi RBK752 has two ports on the satellite and three ports on the router which makes connecting your computers, game consoles, streaming players, and more devices easier.
The Orbi App enables you to set up, monitor, and protect your devices and network from internet threats.
You just need to download the app and follow the instructions on the screen, connect your router to the power and modem, and finally put the Orbi satellite in another location in your home.
The satellite plus the router creates a mesh network to ensure that your home has full WiFi coverage and from our experience, there were no dead spots.
We tested this system in a 2,500 sq ft property and the results were very impressive, as multiple devices could perform high-consumption activities without any issues.
The NETGEAR Armor provides all-in-one internet security for your network and devices while the Smart Parental Controls ensures that your kids have a safe online experience which helps them develop healthy internet habits.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a WiFi 6 router that comes with a Tri-band mesh system to help you eliminate dead zones and provide full-home coverage, the Orbi RBK752 is the best choice for you.
Specs
- Speed: 2 Gbps
- Range: Up to 5000 sq. ft and 40 devices
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax, 802.11ac
- Ports: 6
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- Removes dead spots.
- Provides whole-home coverage.
- Provides security for your devices.
- High internet speed.
Cons
- Issues with the app.
5. ASUS ROG GT-AXE 16000 (For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS ROG GT-AXE16000 comes with WiFi 6E technology which provides you with seven extra 160 MHz channels to ensure that you have high and multi-gig speeds with consistent and stable connections.
The 6 GHz band reduces bandwidth congestion and enhances the network capacity which delivers high performance for the router.
This device has an ultimate style as it is designed with an infinity mirror on top of the case which adds a unique touch to the several RGB lighting effects.
Performance
The four frequency bands in the ASUS GT-AXE16000 allow you to assign each band to different devices for smoother and faster WiFi connections.
Additionally, you get more options for connecting ASUS routers that are compatible with AiMesh as mesh nodes to create a full-home mesh system.
By default, one of the 5 GHz bands is dedicated to backhaul connection to the main router, so your devices still have access to the 6 GHz band, the second 5 GHz band, and the 2.4 GHz band.
To ensure that you get an optimized mesh experience, you can configure the 6 GHz backhaul connection for interference-free and fast transmission between the nodes.
From our tests, we achieved an unstoppable internet connection when we connected two routers from different service providers using the ethernet ports available.
The dual 10 Gbps ports are perfect if you have 10GBase-Tenabled NAS devices, servers, and PCs as they help increase the available bandwidth to prevent data bottlenecks for the whole network.
The RangeBoost Plus improves the WiFi performance and coverage by 38% compared to other models that do not have this technology.
This router is powered by a 2.0 GHz quad-core processor and WiFi chipsets which enables it to handle very demanding gaming networks.
Also, the maximum throughput increases by 18% for accelerated data transfers, lightning-fast responsiveness, and optimized gaming experience.
Who It’s For
The ASUS GT-AXE16000 is recommended for gamers who are looking for an ultrafast WiFi 6E router that has high internet speeds and supports high-intensive tasks.
Specs
- Speed: 16000 Mbps
- Range: Extended coverage
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 5 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11ax, 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency
- Ports: 7 Ethernet and 3 USB
Pros
- Provides whole-home coverage.
- Ultrafast speeds.
- Allows you to connect to two internet service providers.
- Reduced bandwidth congestion.
- Optimized gaming experience.
Cons
- Latency issues.
6. ASUS RT-AXE7800 (Advanced Security)
Design
The ASUS RT-AXE7800 features WiFi 6E technology which comes with the new 6 GHz band that delivers higher WiFi performance, increases your network capacity, reduces congestion, offers more stable connectivity, and achieves speeds of up to 7800 Mbps.
The RT-AXE7800 comes with ASUS Safe Browsing, Instant Guard Sharable Secure VPN, and AiProtection Pro for enhanced security, Link Aggregation, a 2.5G port, and Free Parental Controls.
Performance
The ASUS safe browsing on the RT-AXE7800 helps to block inappropriate content in one tap without needing an additional app.
To ensure that the router’s performance is not affected, this feature has a lightweight DNS-based filtering that filters explicit content from the results of the search engine which protects your children online.
Apart from the latest WPA3 security protocol, this device also has the AiProtection Pro that protects your data and devices from internet threats.
The robust parental controls allow you to customize settings for different age groups and gain insights into what your children are doing online.
You can grant additional online time for your kids or flexibly schedule internet access with just one click.
Enjoy quick and secure VPN access for gaming, streaming, and other activities. Both the web interface and the ASUS Router app enable you to set up and manage VPN connections easily, including WireGuard and OpenVPN to meet more of your VPN scenarios.
The 2.5 Gbps ports allow for link aggregation which offers more options for when you are assembling your network.
This flexibility allows you to take advantage of high-speed internet connections and provide massive bandwidth to your wired devices.
The ASUS Router App provides you with a simple setup and management of your router. It also comes with upgraded features such as visualized connection diagnostics, new parental control time scheduling, complete VPN settings, and more.
You can create a whole-home WiFi network using the AiMesh technology that allows you to combine several ASUS routers. Also, you can use one SSID for your entire office or home network, with no more dead zones but seamless coverage.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a router that provides you with advanced security features that can protect your home network and devices, the ASUS RT-AXE7800 is the device for you as it features the AiProtection Pro and a secure VPN.
Specs
- Speed: 7800 Mbps
- Range: 5700 sq. ft.
- Bands: Tri-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 5 Ethernet and 1 USB
Pros
- Great security features.
- Faster internet connections.
- Protects your kids from harmful internet content.
- Whole-home coverage using the AiMesh technology.
Cons
- Issues with the LAN ports.
Factors To Consider When Looking For A Google Fiber Compatible Router
Wireless Standard
Most customers of Google Fiber will likely prefer to have a WiFi 6 or WiFi 6e router.
These two WiFi technologies provide the best chance of achieving the maximum speed offered by your Google Fiber plan. WiFi 5, being an older technology, is unlikely to reach the 1 Gig threshold.
Nevertheless, opting for WiFi 6 can lead to significant cost savings. WiFi 5 routers are older and therefore cheaper, making them a viable choice if you’re on a budget and not overly concerned about reaching the maximum speed of your plan.
This option can still be worth considering if you’re looking to save money.
However, it is important to exercise caution with WiFi 6e. Currently, only a limited number of devices can support this new technology.
Additionally, WiFi 6e routers can be quite expensive at this time. For most people, WiFi 6 should suffice for gaming, but if you’re looking for a next-level experience or gaming with multiple people, WiFi 6e may be necessary.
Here are the benefits of each WiFi version:
- WiFi 5: More affordable with numerous options available.
- WiFi 6: Offers impressive speed and notable features.
- WiFi 6e: Provides lightning-fast speeds and is inherently tri-band.
Wireless Coverage & Range
You should ensure that the wireless coverage of the router you choose is adequate for your space, or even better, exceeds your area’s requirements. When selecting a router, consider the size and layout of your environment.
However, keep in mind that the placement of the router may be constrained by phone sockets or other factors.
For optimal WiFi coverage, it is recommended to position the router centrally in your home, enabling 360-degree coverage, particularly in larger residences.
Standard routers typically offer coverage within a range of approximately 150 feet. Nevertheless, specific router models are designed to provide extended coverage, catering to larger spaces.
To remove dead spots and expand the WiFi signal in larger spaces, consider using WiFi extenders. These compact devices can be strategically placed to boost the signal and enhance coverage.
Investing in a router with a generous WiFi range is highly recommended to minimize unexpected connectivity issues.
Although such routers may initially have a higher price tag, they offer long-term benefits by eliminating the need for additional spending on extenders.
By selecting a robust router from the outset, you can effectively address and prevent numerous potential connectivity problems, ultimately saving money that would otherwise be spent on extenders over time.
Number Of Bands
If you’re seeking to power a large Mesh system or have numerous connected devices (around 30+), we recommend considering a tri-band router.
Tri-band routers offer an additional 5 GHz band in addition to the standard 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This extra band provides supplementary bandwidth, typically utilized to ensure faster speeds for a greater number of devices.
Additionally, it can serve as a “backhaul” band to enhance the connections between Mesh satellites. Regarding WiFi 6e, the second 5 GHz band transitions into a 6 GHz band.
This results in even faster speeds, although the compatibility of devices with this band will be limited.
Dual-band routers, on the other hand, provide benefits such as affordability and maximum compatibility.
Tri-band routers offer faster performance for handling more devices and are especially advantageous for improving Mesh satellite connections.
Mesh WiFi Systems vs Routers
For spaces measuring 3000 sq ft or larger, we highly recommend considering a Mesh system. This size range allows the Mesh technology to have its optimal effect.
Mesh technology expands the coverage of your home network by incorporating additional Mesh satellites instead of conventional WiFi extenders.
These satellites connect to the same network name as your main router, eliminating the need to switch to a different network as you move around your home.
With Mesh, you can enjoy the benefits of seamless roaming. Even when you venture beyond the range of the original router, your connection should remain uninterrupted without any downtime.
Mesh offers advantages like seamless roaming and maintaining a consistent network name, while standard routers are known for being user-friendly and more cost-effective.
App Support
Nearly all recently released routers offer the convenience of network management through dedicated apps.
These router control apps have revolutionized the setup and administration of internet connections, making them incredibly user-friendly. The majority of these apps boast intuitive user interfaces, further enhancing their ease of use.
With router apps, you gain remote control over your network connections, allowing you to manage connected devices, determine when they are connected, and even control the content accessible through your network.
You can effortlessly set and share the WiFi password, exercise control over online devices, and prioritize specific devices as desired.
Additionally, these apps empower you with the ability to pause the WiFi on individual devices, making them valuable tools for implementing parental controls.
Google Fiber Technology Explained
Google Fiber is an ultra-fast broadband internet service that uses fiber optic cables to provide incredibly high speeds to businesses and homes.
By transmitting data through light signals, fiber optic cables enable significantly faster speeds compared to traditional cable, DSL, or dial-up connections.
Alongside fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) connections, where there is a direct connection of the fiber optic cables to the customers’ premises, Google Fiber also offers a wireless option called Webpass.
This last-mile wireless technology delivers gigabit speeds wirelessly to multi-tenant buildings.
The primary appeal of Google Fiber lies in its exceptional speed. While the FCC sets the benchmark for broadband internet speed at 25 Mbps for downloads and 3 Mbps for uploads, Google Fiber offers a top speed of 8,000 Mbps (or 8 Gbps) at its highest service tier.
Similar to other broadband internet services, Google Fiber operates on a shared network. This means that during peak usage periods when many users are online simultaneously, there may be a possibility of slowdowns.
However, due to Google Fiber’s capacity to support 8,000 Mbps, it is highly unlikely that an individual customer’s bandwidth would be significantly affected by their neighbors’ activities.
Google Fiber Routers FAQs
Can I Use My Own Third-Party Router With Google Fiber?
As a Google Fiber subscriber, you have the option to connect your own fiber-ready router to enjoy high-speed connections.
However, it’s important to ensure that your third-party router is capable of handling the speeds offered by Google’s 1 Gig and 2 Gig plans. To avoid confusion, here are the key factors to consider:
- The device should have at least WiFi 6 dual-band support.
- Look for technologies like OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and others.
- Ensure the router has excellent throughput capacity. You can either select your own compatible router or choose from the options provided by Google.
How Do I Install My New Router?
To install your own router for your Google Fiber connection, follow these steps:
- Sign in to your Google Fiber account.
- Select the option “I will provide my own router” by checking the corresponding box. Mentioning the router model is optional.
- Click “Ok” at the bottom of the page. By following these steps, you can indicate your intention to use your own router with your Google Fiber service.
Does Google Fiber Need A Modem?
Fiber plans do not require a modem since they utilize different technology. Modems are specifically used for cable plans, DSL plans, and similar connections.
Instead, a separate device called an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is needed for fiber plans, which Google will provide for you.
Final Words
Hopefully, this article has given you the information you need to know to make a decision about purchasing the best router that is compatible with Google Fiber.
The best router should allow you to enjoy smooth, fast, reliable, and stable internet connectivity.
If you’re struggling to choose a WiFi router for Google Fiber, we’ve identified the TP-Link Archer AXE75 as the best router for Google Fiber based on our testing results.
It features WiFi 6E technology which delivers ultra-fast speeds of up to 5400 Mbps which ensures that you can achieve simultaneous streaming, browsing, gaming, and downloading.
Additionally, it has more RAM and processing as it is equipped with a 1.7 GHz quad-core CPU and 512 MB memory.
Ensure that you refer to the buying guide so that you can understand which factors you need to consider when finding a Google Fiber-compatible router.
