If you live in an apartment and have experienced repeated network issues, you may consider investing in a new, high-quality router to alleviate your internet connectivity issues.
The best router for an apartment should operate on the WiFi 6 standard, cover between 1,000 to 2,000 sq.ft, and connect to a minimum of 25 client devices.
For apartments that are larger than 2,000 sq.ft, you may consider investing in a mesh system.
By connecting a main router to multiple nodes (satellites), mesh systems help you establish universal network coverage in every corner of the apartment, without needing to login to different extended networks.
We’ve tested 21 different routers and mesh systems in a range of apartments and decided on the top 7 products to review in this article.
Our Editor’s Choice is the TP-Link Archer AX55, the router offers a great balance of price and performance, reaching up to 2404 Mbps. The Archer AX55 benefits from high-tech WiFi features such as Beamforming technology and ODFMA which improve the coverage and efficiency of the internet.
Our recommendation for the high-performance router is the Netgear Nighthawk RAX50. This router is perfectly suited to high internet usage apartments, due to the ultra-fast internet speed of 5400 Mbps. The router is suited for gamers and streamers, with a reliable connection available on up to 25 devices.
Our choice for the budget-friendly router for an apartment is the TP-Link Archer AX21. This router is available at an affordable price but delivers a high-speed internet connection throughout the apartment. The router is Alexa enabled and is also app controlled for easy management and security.
When finding the perfect router for your apartment’s internet needs, you should consider price, internet speed, band options, range, and port options.
Best Router For Your Apartment (2024)
- Best Overall: TP-Link Archer AX55
- High Performance: Netgear Nighthawk RAX50
- Budget Friendly: TP-Link Archer AX21
- For Small Apartments: Linksys Hydra 6 MR20EC
- For Large Apartments: Amazon Eero 6 Mesh WiFi System
- For Gaming: Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
- Best Modem Router Combo: ARRIS SurfBoard G34
Top 7 WiFi Routers For Apartments (2024)
If you are new to searching for the best router for apartments, you may be unaware of the features to look for.
In our view, the most important criteria include the speed, range, WiFi protocol, bands, and port options, each of which is explored in our product reviews below.
1. TP-Link Archer AX55 (Editor’s Choice)
Our Editor’s Choice for the best router for an apartment is the TP-Lik Archer AX55 WiFi Router.
Design
The TP-Link Archer AX55 router is ideal for households wanting speedy internet covering the entire home. The AX55 works best in apartments of up to three bedrooms, covering up to 2500 square feet.
The product is designed as a flat rectangular unit with two high-gain antenna pairs conveniently located to boost coverage.
The unit includes WAN, LAN, and USB ports, allowing internet connectivity from WiFi, USB, and Ethernet.
The device is designed with beamforming technology, and a powerful front-end module to perfectly adapt WiFi coverage within your home.
The Archer AX55 utilizes OFDMA technology which breaks down a single spectrum into many units, allowing various devices to use one transmission channel. This technology improves efficiency and reduces lag on household devices.
The Archer AX55 is fitted with an enhanced cooling design, preventing the unit from overheating and throttling. This allows the unit to continue providing strong network speeds in different climates.
Performance
In terms of internet speed, the Archer AX55 performs very well on internet speed compared to other more expensive routers, utilizing the best benefits of WiFi 6.
Using 5GHz bandwidth, users can achieve 2402 Mbps and 575 Mbps from 2.4GHz. This speed is 250% faster than a 4-stream WiFi 5 router.
The router also has larger memory of 512 MB RAM and a powerful CPU which ensures the device can handle heavy load transmission with minimal dropout.
Users will notice the difference in the playback speed and website link loading speed on their handheld devices.
The Archer AX55 is equipped with advanced security for your household, including parental controls, and a home network scanner, and is also compatible with HomeShield Pro.
Specs
- Speed: 2402 Mbps
- Range: Up to 2500 sq ft
- Bands: 4GHz and 5GHz
- Wireless Protocol: IEEE 802.11ax/ac/n/a 5 GHz, IEEE 802.11ax/n/b/g 2.4 GHz
- Ports: 1 x WAN, 4 x LAN, 1 x USB 3.0
Who It’s For
Given the price point and internet speeds, the Archer AX55 is targeted at households with above-average internet usage, including multiple gamers and streamers.
The WiFi will have full coverage across a three-bedroom house but struggle for universal coverage in larger homes.
Pros
- Affordable price.
- Reliable, high-speed connection.
- Suitable for medium-sized homes.
- Works well for gamers and streamers.
Cons
- Less reliable in larger homes.
2. Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 (High Performance)
Design
The Netgear Nighthawk Dual-Band Wifi 6 RAX50 router is a premium range router, offering supremely fast internet speeds.
The dual-band router offers reliable streaming connection for up to 2500 square feet and 25 devices.
The spider-like design is shaped to maximize internet coverage, with four antennas distributed across the hexagonal unit.
The product is fitted the WiFi6 OFDMA technology which splits one stream into multiple channels, thereby improving overall capacity and network efficiency.
This allows more devices to get a quality, uninterrupted stream.
The unit is fitted with USB, LAN, and WAN ports to provide a range of internet connectivity options. The purchase package includes an Ethernet cable, power adapter, and quick start guide for maximum ease.
Performance
The Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 router achieves high-performing speeds of up to 5400 Mbps. This exceeds the average speed of most household routers, to offer market-leading speed.
The device uses 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands to give the best network connection based on your location.
This level of speed ensures multiple users can have uninterrupted 4K streaming, video conferencing, and gaming simultaneously.
Compared to WiFi5 models, the WiFi6 RAX50 has four times more capacity, a 40% increase in data throughput, and a 100% increase in backward compatibility.
Parents can also monitor the consumption of their children through app-based parental controls and monitoring.
The model also includes a one-year limited hardware warranty.
Specs
- Speed: 7800 Mbps
- Range: 2500 Sq Ft, 25 devices
- Bands: 4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz
- Wireless Protocol: IEEE 802.11ax
- Ports: 1 x LAN, 1 x 3.0 USB, 4 x Gigabit Ethernet ports
Who It’s For
The Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 router is targeted at high internet usage households. This is likely families with 2-3 kids who are gamers or streamers.
The target market is inferred from the product name, Nighthawk, as its capability is optimized for late-night users.
Pros
- Ultra-fast speed of 5400 Mbps.
- Ideal for high internet consumption households with streamers and gamers.
- Easy to use, smart parental controls.
Cons
- Premium price.
3. TP-Link Archer AX21 Router (Budget Friendly)
Design
The TP-Link Archer AX21 router is an accessibly priced router for households wanting to improve internet speeds without breaking the bank.
The product is ideal for households who want to benefit from uninterrupted streaming.
The unit is rectangular in shape and includes four high-gain antennas spaced out across the unit to improve coverage.
The device is compatible with Ethernet, WiFi, and USB connectivity, with ports located at the back of the unit. Signal strength is improved through the high-quality front-end module and high-gain antenna.
Using the best WiFi6 functionality, the Archer AX21 incorporates OFDMA technology to allow multiple device streaming without dropout.
The router can handle up to 40 low-usage devices connected simultaneously, this includes web surfing, email or audio streaming.
In terms of high-usage, the router can only support four high-usage devices at one time such as those using 4k streams or online gaming. This should be sufficient for most apartment dwellers.
Performance
Despite the low price point, the Archer AX21 delivers quality internet speeds which are well-suited for those living in apartments.
Making the most of WiFi6 technological advances, the Archer AX21 delivers speeds of 1200 Mbps on 5GHz bandwidth and 574 Mbps using 2.4GHz bandwidth.
These internet speeds will be more than sufficient for most average apartments.
The device is fitted with Target Wake Time technology which improves battery performance by reducing individual device power consumption. This technology enhances overall router performance.
Compared to WiFi4 models, the Archer AX21 is 90% faster on the 2.4GHz band and 40% faster on the 5GHz band, delivering significant performance improvements.
Specs
- Speed: 8 Gbps
- Range: Long-range coverage
- Bands: Dual-band of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
- Wireless protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 5
Who It’s For
The Archer AX21 works well for average-usage households who want to improve internet speeds. The router works well with up to four simultaneous streams, so is best targeted at apartments with up to four people.
Larger apartments with more than four people will likely overload the bandwidth capacity especially if there are many 4k streams.
Pros
- Provides full household coverage of up to 4 four high-consumption users.
- Includes a central WiFi security and management system.
- High-speed internet for an affordable price.
- Easy mobile app setup.
- Utilizes WiFi6 tech such as OFDMA.
Cons
- Lower speeds compared to premium routers.
- Limited high-consumption users.
4. Linksys Hydra MR20EC (For Small Apartments)
Design
The Linksys Hydra MR20EC delivers the speed of WiFi 6 at a cheaper price using intelligent mesh technology.
You can have the fastest connection with everything you do including streaming your favorite content, gaming, and working from home without buffering or lag.
The MR20EC is a dual-band WiFi 6 router that is equipped with an advanced Qualcomm chipset that delivers the best WiFi 6 experience for wire-like low latency and stable streaming.
Performance
The Linksys Hydra MR20EC provides coverage of up to 2000 sq. ft and supports 25+ devices.
It receives and sends multiple streams of data at the same time, delivering up to four times the WiFi capacity for it to handle more smart home and gaming devices.
The Linksys app enables you to set up the MR20EC in minutes as well as manage your WiFi network seamlessly.
Additionally, you can use the app to prioritize or view which devices on the network are using the most data to prevent buffering.
The parental controls enable you to block certain websites and create device schedules.
You can use the Guest Access feature to create a separate password-protected WiFi network for your friends and visitors.
The intelligent mesh technology removes dead spots and dynamically increases the speed of your WiFi.
You can easily add nodes to your network and expand the range to keep your connection stronger throughout your home.
Who It’s For
If you live in a small apartment and are looking for a router that delivers coverage to every device and corner of your home as well as a reliable connection, the Linksys Hydra MR20EC is for you.
Specs
- Speed: Up to 3 Gbps
- Range: Up to 2000 sq. ft.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11ac
- Ports: 5 Ethernet, 1 USB 3.0
Pros
- Improved capacity.
- Better range.
- Reduced interference.
- Ideal for WiFi congested environments.
- Device prioritization.
Cons
- Issues after resets.
5. Amazon Eero 6 Mesh WiFi System (Best Router For Large Apartments)
Design
The Amazon Eero 6 Mesh WiFi System provides you with whole-home coverage as it can connect to devices within a range of up to 3,000 sq. ft. using WiFi and can support speeds of up to 500 Mbps.
With Eero’s mesh WiFi technology, you can say goodbye to buffering and dead spots as the internet connection is optimized for your space, meaning you can stream 4k video confidently as well as do video conferencing and gaming across your home with no issues.
Performance
The Amazon Eero 6 Mesh WiFi allows connection to over 75 devices and supports faster WiFi compared to previous standards.
You can easily set up the Eero app in minutes as it gives you easy steps to follow and you can use it to manage your network anywhere at any time.
The Mesh WiFi system also works as a smart home hub as it easily connects to Alexa, which makes connecting to compatible devices on your network easier.
Another bonus is that the system automatically updates to ensure you are benefiting from the latest software updates.
The Amazon Eero 6 Mesh WiFi router has multiple uses. Firstly, it can replace an existing router by connecting to the modem.
Secondly, if you already have a combined router/modem, the device can be set to a modem-only mode. Finally, the Eero 6 can also operate its subnet as part of an existing Mesh network.
Specs
- Speed: 500 Mbps
- Range: 3000 sq ft
- Bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
- Wireless Protocol: IEE 802.11ax
- Ports: 2 x WAN / LAN
Who It’s For
This Mesh WiFi is designed for people who live in large apartments as it covers a wider range and supports more devices.
Pros
- Easy management using the app.
- Compact and tasteful design.
- You can easily direct WiFi coverage to where you need it.
- Can be connected to Alexa.
Cons
- Limited administration options.
- Only two ethernet ports.
6. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 (For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 router is specifically designed to meet your gaming needs. First, it features a game acceleration with three levels to increase the traffic in the game packet, as well as game server prioritization.
Secondly, the cutting-edge hardware provides ultimate performance as it comes with a 2.5 G gaming port and a 1.8 GHz quad-core CPU. The gaming center interface offers easy control for point-and-click over each incredible feature.
Performance
The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 comes with tri-band networking that allows you to direct one 5 GHz band to gaming only so that you can prevent bandwidth competition with other devices on your home network.
Also, it unlocks 15 channels in the 5GHz bands that are least congested using the dynamic frequency selection.
Since port forwarding is important for gamers, GT-AX11000 allows you to easily open NAT by following three simple steps.
This prevents awkward situations such as not being able to create teams with your friends during a game.
ASUS AiMesh creates a whole-home WiFi network by making use of several routers. AiMesh is flexible, powerful and provides you with a central control that saves you time, and seamless roaming capability.
If you are tired of virtual private networks reducing your game performance, ROG Rapture allows you to run an ordinary internet connection and a VPN at the same time.
Specs
- Speed: 11000 Mbps
- Range: Very large homes
- Bands: 5GHz
- Wireless Protocol: 802.11ax, 802.11ac
- Ports: 2.5G Ethernet port, 4 x LAN, 2 x USB 3.1
Who It’s For
The ASUS ROG Rapture is designed for individuals who are into gaming as it supports GameFirst V that optimizes ROG devices which prioritizes your gaming packets and puts them at the top of the queue. Also great for home security.
Pros
- Signal stays full bars throughout your home.
- Increases your gaming performance.
- Great speed.
- Battery saving.
- Allows for simultaneous device connections.
Cons
- High on the price point.
7. ARRIS SurfBoard G34 (Best Modem Router Combo)
Design
The ARRIS SurfBoard G34 is a two-in-one product that delivers low latency and high speeds.
This cable modem will increase your network capability so that you can enjoy ultra-fast downloading and streaming in your entire home.
The G34 is equipped with DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology which is 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0 to provide you with better security, multi-gig networking, and reduced lag during gaming.
Performance
The ARRIS SurfBoard G34 combines the WiFi 6 and DOCSIS 3.1 technologies to deliver speeds of up to 3000 Mbps and improve the efficiency and performance of your network so that high-bandwidth applications such as conference calls, 4K streaming, and gaming can have reduced latency.
DOCSIS 3.1 allows you to enjoy your current and future internet plans of up to 1 Gbps.
The ethernet ports enable you to connect your wired devices such as streaming players, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and PCs, and enjoy faster-wired connections.
The G34 has a secure and simple setup. Plug it into the power outlet, download the SURFboard Central App, and activate the modem using the steps provided on the screen.
Once you have completed setting the G34, use the app to add your devices and customize your WiFi network.
Additionally, the app provides real-time monitoring of the connected devices and provides access to enhanced features such as parental controls for pausing the internet and setting time limits.
You can monitor the health of your network and set guest network WiFi access for visitors using the app.
The G34 reduces your cable bill by removing the monthly fees of renting a cable modem. It is compatible with major internet service providers such as Spectrum, Cox, Xfinity, and others.
Who It’s For
The ARRIS SurfBoard G34 is recommended for users living in an apartment and looking for a modem router combo that delivers higher performance, faster speeds, and lower latency.
Specs
- Speed: Up to 3000 Mbps
- Range: Wider coverage.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax
- Ports: 4
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- Faster and reliable speeds.
- Low latency.
- High-performance.
- Future proof.
- Better security.
Cons
- Does not have a telephone port.
Things To Consider When Choosing The Best WiFi Router For An Apartment
Speed
When searching for the best router for an apartment, the WiFi speed is a key consideration.
Generally, WiFi speed is most impacted by the WiFi protocol that the router uses. The most common standards used today are WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E and WiFi 7. For most small to medium-sized apartments, either a WiFi 5 or WiFi 6 product will suffice.
WiFi 5 (802.11ac) has been available since 2014 and is best used on lower-speed internet plans of 500 Mbps and below. WiFi 5 routers are universally compatible with most client devices, and are affordably priced.
WiFi 6 (802.11ax) routers can handle gigabit internet plans are equipped with advanced features such as Beamforming and QoS that improve signal quality and enable effective device management by assigning bandwidth to high-consumption users.
WiFi 6E (802.11ax) advances on WiFi 6 in terms of speed by adding the 6 GHz frequency band which uses ultra-wide 320 MHz channels, to deliver up to 10 Gbps in WiFi speed.
The issue with WiFi 6E is that it is not backward compatible, meaning you need WiFi 6E client devices to use the network effectively.
WiFi 7 (802.11be) is the latest wireless protocol to be released and delivers up to 40 Gbps internet speed.
Due to their recent release, WiFi 7 units are very expensive and there are not many client devices nor internet plans available to utilize the ultra-fast speed.
WiFi Range & Coverage
The WiFi range and coverage is crucial as you want to access your internet network from every corner of your apartment.
In the US, the average apartment size is 887 sq.ft. For most apartment dwellers, therefore, a router that offers between 1,000 and 2,000 sq.ft should be reasonable.
The router coverage advertised by a manufacturer is theoretical as it does not include specific nuances within an apartment.
Considering this, you should invest in a router that exceeds the square footage of your apartment so that you can access the network throughout the property.
For apartments that are larger than 2,000 sq.ft, we recommend investing in a mesh system as this will enable you to seamlessly extend coverage.
Smaller properties can use either a WiFi Extender or Wireless Access Point to extend coverage.
To boost coverage within your apartment you should ensure that the router is located centrally and has no obstructions in its way.
Also, coverage is greatly impacted by the frequency band with the 2.4 GHz offering much improved coverage compared to the 5 GHz or 6 GHz bands.
Dual Band vs Tri-Band
These days most routers have at least 2 bands, 5GHz, and 2.4GHz. 5GHz is quicker but does not cover a wide area while 2.4GHz has a slower speed but covers a wider range.
On most routers, a 5GHz band covers a medium-sized apartment as you can get quicker speeds in a couple of bedrooms. However, you can always use a WiFi extender to upgrade the distance if you need it.
On the other hand, tri-band routers have a third band of 5GHz. This can be great for apartments because if two 5GHz are available, it frees up congestion, allowing more devices to get better performance.
Tri-band could be worthwhile if you stream regularly, or if you live with many people.
However, tri-band routers are typically more expensive than dual-band, so assess your budget before committing to a tri-band router.
Ports
The availability of ports on a router may influence your purchasing decision.
The ports are typically located at the rear or side of a router. These typically include WAN, LAN for Ethernet, and a USB port.
Nowadays routers with USB ports are used for affordable network storage.
You can plug a flash storage drive or an HDD into your router and share the data with other devices on the network.
You can also use the disk to create your network media hub for streaming music, movies, or local television shows.
Router Features
The following are the features of a router that you should know:
QoS means Quality of Service and enables data prioritization on the network. This happens by pressing the button on the router’s control panel and choosing prioritized activities including gaming, working from home, and streaming.
Beamforming is suitable for larger apartments because it improves the router signal range and quality.
Parental control enables parents to control their children’s activities when using the internet. They can block some topics or URLs, and this protects the kids from accessing inappropriate content.
MU-MIMO improves your ability to simultaneously talk to multiple devices. It needs a home with smart devices that are constantly communicating with the router.
The guest network enables the setup of an extra network with limited access. This improves your security because your guest cannot share the same network as your phone.
Where To Place Your Router for The Best WiFi Signal
Positioning your router in an optimum spot ensures that there is a maximum signal and minimal interference. The following are some basic rules to do it:
- Elevate your router- simply raise your router off the floor, this will avoid large pieces of furniture that block your line of sight and prevent signals from being transmitted straight to the ground. For your apartment, place it near the ceiling near the floor. To avoid blocking the signal, consider your furniture placements.
- Put the router in a central location– This will ensure that all rooms access the signal. Therefore, put it in the most central location in your apartment.
- Minimize router obstructions– WiFi signals can be weakened by stone, metals, or tile, therefore, when choosing your router spot it should be near the most important WiFi zones in the apartment. Walls can also weaken WiFi, therefore, avoid walls if you can.
Electronic devices can interfere with your WiFi signals, especially microwaves, whose radiation is close to that of WiFi signals.
Apartment WiFi Router FAQs
What Kind of Router Do I Need for My Apartment?
For modern apartment living, you need a router that can support multiple high-consumption internet users who want to either stream or video conference at the same time.
This includes routers that have high internet speeds, multiple bands and support large bandwidth internet plans.
You also need a router with a good range that can cover all the key WiFi zones within the apartment. The required range is typically 2,500 sq ft for most apartment dwellers to reliably access the internet.
Does It Make Sense to Buy a Mesh Router for A Large Apartment?
Generally, mesh routers provide strong coverage. Therefore, if the apartment size is more than 2000 sq feet, installing a good mesh router is ideal for your space.
Should I Buy a Modem Router Combo or Separate Units?
This depends on your setup. The modem router combo combines the functionalities of a router and a modem. This does not necessarily translate to faster speeds or wider coverage.
Nevertheless, you can purchase a modem-router combo if you have a two-bedroom apartment with a total area of 2000 to 2500 sq ft.
Do Apartment Walls Interfere with WiFi Signal?
Different building materials can block WiFi signals differently. WiFi signal will be weakened if it passes through thick walls, especially reinforced concrete.
WiFi can get through walls but in doing so the signal typically weakens. The best situation is to have a line of sight between the router and your devices.
For devices that are in other rooms ensure that the router is at a position where the signal passes through the lowest number of walls to get to your device, this will help you maximize the signal strength.
Final Words
Our choice for the best router for an apartment is the TP-Link Archer AX55. This router meets at the intersection of great price and great internet performance.
The device reaches up to a fast 2402 Mbps speed and includes high-tech features such as Beamforming technology which extends the connection coverage and the OFDMA which improves the efficiency of the connection on multiple devices.
When selecting the best apartment WiFi router, you need to understand the usage levels within the apartment first, and then you should look at the speed offered, WiFi range, band, and port options.
Also, seeking advice from the setup manual on how to maximize router performance is recommended, to help you minimize the chance of poor router performance.
