The best routers for home automation are essential for ensuring your smart light bulbs stay in sync and your video doorbell alerts you as it should.
A low-performing router can lead to frustrating connectivity issues, making it crucial to find one that meets the demands of your smart home. As smart devices continue to integrate into our daily lives, having a reliable and efficient router is key to managing multiple devices seamlessly.
The world of home automation has skyrocketed in recent years. As smart devices, from security cameras to smart thermostats, become more integrated into everyday life, a reliable and efficient router is essential for managing multiple devices without lag or connectivity issues.
10 best routers for home automation.
- TP-Link Deco X20
- Netgear Orbi RBK852
- Google Nest Wi-Fi Pro
- Asus RT-AX86U
- TP-Link Archer AX6000
- Eero Pro 6E
- Linksys Velop MX10
- Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500
- Amazon Eero
- Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien
1. Netgear Orbi RBK852
This is known for managing over 60 devices simultaneously, making it one of the best Wi-Fi routers for home automation in large households.
Features
- Mesh network system with multiple nodes
- Tri-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz, 5GHz x 2) is a feature of the best wireless routers.
- Coverage of up to 5,000 sq. ft.
- Handles over 60 devices simultaneously
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support
Benefits
- Provides seamless and consistent Wi-Fi coverage throughout large homes
- Excellent for households with many devices and heavy data usage
- Fast, reliable internet for streaming, gaming, and smart home devices
- No more dead zones thanks to its extensive coverage
- Great for busy, connected homes where multiple users are online at the same time
- No dead zones, even in large houses
- Can handle numerous devices without lag
Disadvantages
- Expensive compared to other routers
- The bulky design takes up space
2. Google Nest Wi-Fi Pro
This router offers seamless integration with Google Home, allowing you to control your network using voice commands.
Plus, it has excellent coverage throughout your home, reducing dead zones in even the largest homes. If you’re struggling with weak signals in certain parts of your home, a mesh router could be your best bet.
Features
- Mesh network system with modular design
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Seamless integration with Google Home
- Voice control for network management
- elf-healing network for improved reliability
Benefits
- Easy setup and management, especially for Google ecosystem users
- Excellent for eliminating Wi-Fi dead spots in large or multi-story homes
- Voice control simplifies network adjustments and troubleshooting
- Reliable, self-healing connections keep all devices online, even if a node disconnects
- Simple and intuitive setup, even for beginners
- Reduces dead zones effectively
Disadvantages
- Limited Ethernet ports, which may restrict wired connections
- Higher price for users not in the Google ecosystem
3. Asus RT-AX86U
Let’s face it: speed is crucial, but how much speed is too much when you have gigabit Ethernet capabilities? Some might think that a 1 Gbps internet plan is overkill for a smart home, but remember: your smart home devices are always communicating.
The Asus RT-AX86U is one of the fastest routers on this list, supporting Wi-Fi 6 and capable of speeds up to 5700 Mbps. It’s the perfect match for households that rely on heavy internet usage, whether for home automation, gaming, or work-from-home setups.
Features
- Wi-Fi 6 support (up to 5700 Mbps)
- Dual-band with MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology
- Dedicated gaming features with QoS (Quality of Service)
- 2.5G LAN port for faster wired connections
- Ai Protection Pro security powered by Trend Micro
Benefits
- Deal for gamers or users with high bandwidth needs (HD streaming, video conferencing)
- Advanced gaming features minimize lag, making it great for competitive online gaming
- Prioritizes devices to ensure your most important connections (like gaming or streaming) get the fastest speeds
- Enhanced security for safe internet browsing and device protection
- Optimized for low-latency gaming and streaming
- Provides extensive security for devices and data
Disadvantages
- Mid-range coverage, less ideal for large homes
- No mesh capabilities, limiting scalability
4. TP-Link Archer AX6000
The TP-Link Archer AX6000, for example, boasts robust security features such as WPA3 encryption and built-in antivirus protection.
It’s a top contender for anyone serious about protecting their home automation setup with robust network security. With this router, you’ll sleep easier knowing your devices are less vulnerable to cyber threats.
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Features
- 8-stream Wi-Fi 6 (up to 6,000 Mbps)
- Built-in security features: WPA3 encryption, antivirus protection
- With 8 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 WAN port, this dual-band router supports multiple devices.
- MU-MIMO and OFDMA for improved efficiency
- Supports up to 60 device
Benefits
- Great for heavy internet users who want robust security measures in place when they create a separate network for guests.
- Easy to connect multiple wired devices via its 8 LAN ports
- Ideal for large families or households with many connected smart devices
- Protects sensitive information from cyber threats and hacking attempts
- Robust security features to safeguard against cyber threats
- Fast speeds and wide range
Disadvantages:
- Bulky design
- No mesh functionality, limiting range in very large homes
5. Eero Pro 6E
This Wi-Fi 6 router provides up to 1.3 Gbps on its 6 GHz band and is ideal for homes packed with devices requiring high bandwidth, making it a great addition to any home network. If you’re thinking of future-proofing your network, look no further than Wi-Fi 6E.
Features
- Wi-Fi 6E support with tri-band technology
- 1.3 Gbps speeds on the 6 GHz band
- Mesh network system for broader coverage
- Easy-to-use mobile app for network management is a key feature of the latest wireless routers.
- Backwards-compatible with previous Eero models
Benefits
- Perfect for future-proofing your home with the latest Wi-Fi technology (Wi-Fi 6E)
- Exceptional speed and coverage, especially for homes with multiple high-bandwidth devices
- User-friendly mobile app makes setup and network monitoring easy, even for non-tech-savvy users
- Works with smart homes full of IoT devices needing reliable, fast connectivity
- Simple, user-friendly app for managing network settings
- Provides strong, fast coverage in homes with multiple devices
Disadvantages
- Expensive compared to non-Wi-Fi 6E models
- Limited features on lower bands
6. Linksys Velop MX10
For larger homes, the Linksys Velop MX10 mesh system shines. It covers up to 6,000 square feet, ensuring every nook and cranny of your home gets a strong, stable Wi-Fi connection.
This is especially useful if you have outdoor devices like smart sprinklers or security cameras that require a strong Wi-Fi signal.
Features
- Mesh network with Wi-Fi 6 support
- Tri-band setup (2.4GHz, 5GHz x 2)
- Coverage up to 6,000 sq. ft.
- Supports over 50 devices simultaneously
- MU-MIMO and beamforming for stronger connections
Benefits
- Ideal for large homes or multi-level buildings that need consistent, high-speed internet throughout
- Supports multiple users and devices without slowing down, perfect for big households or businesses
- Handles smart home devices, HD streaming, and online gaming without interruptions
- Great for eliminating dead zones and ensuring all corners of your home have a strong signal
- Exceptional range and coverage for large spaces
- High-speed internet for all devices without lag
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Setup can be complicated for beginners
7. Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500
The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is one of the most future-proof routers on the market. Supporting Wi-Fi 6E, this router can handle everything from VR gaming to 8K streaming, ensuring you won’t need an upgrade anytime soon.
Plus, with its tri-band configuration, you’ll have dedicated bandwidth for all your smart devices.
Features
- Wi-Fi 6E support with tri-band (up to 10.8 Gbps)
- 6 GHz band for future-proofed speeds and bandwidth
- 12-stream simultaneous communication
- Designed for VR, 8K streaming, and heavy gaming
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections
Benefits
- Future-proof technology ensures your network is ready for the next wave of smart home devices and high-bandwidth activities (VR, 8K, etc.)
- Excellent for ultra-fast streaming and low-latency gaming experiences
- Handles heavy workloads, ideal for users with advanced needs or tech-heavy homes
- High speed on the 6 GHz band prevents bottlenecks when multiple users are online
- Handles intense workloads with ease
- Advanced technology that won’t need upgrading soon
Disadvantages
- High price point
- Large size may not be ideal for smaller spaces
8. Amazon Eero
The Amazon eero stands out in this regard. Its app is easy to navigate, even for beginners setting up their first wireless router.
You can easily set up your smart home, monitor your network, and control which devices get the most bandwidth all from your phone.
- Dual-band mesh network with Wi-Fi 6
- Easy-to-use mobile app for managing settings and monitoring devices
- Automatic software updates and security patches
- Backward compatible with previous Eero models
Benefits
- An affordable and simple solution for smaller homes or beginner smart home setups
- Great for users who want a plug-and-play system without needing tech expertise
- The app provides easy control, allowing users to monitor network activity and adjust settings from their phones
- Works well in medium-sized homes, providing reliable connectivity for smart devices, and streaming.
- Great value for money
- Simple, hassle-free setup for those less tech-savvy
Disadvantages
- Lower speeds compared to more expensive models
- Fewer Ethernet ports limit wired connections
9. Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien
The Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien router minimizes latency thanks to its advanced processor and QoS settings. With this Wi-Fi 6 router, your smart devices will respond instantly, ensuring seamless automation.
Features
- Wi-Fi 6, advanced processor with QoS and low-latency features
- Mesh system with touchscreen display
- The 5 GHz band on this dual-band router ensures fast, interference-free performance.
- Multiple Gigabit LAN ports
- Smart home integration with customizable settings can be enhanced by a new router that supports Wi-Fi 6.
Benefits
- Low-latency performance ideal for smart home automation and online gaming
- Intuitive touchscreen interface makes it easy to monitor network status in real-time
- Mesh system ensures seamless coverage even in larger homes
- Offers advanced customization for users who want to fine-tune their network for specific tasks or devices
- Reduces latency, perfect for seamless smart home automation
- Strong performance in homes with lots of devices
Disadvantages
- High cost can be a factor when choosing a router with advanced features.
- Can be difficult to set up for beginners
10. TP-Link Deco X20
While premium routers like the Netgear Orbi RBK852 offer top-tier performance, there are budget options like the TP-Link Deco X20 that provide great value for the price, especially for smaller homes or those with fewer smart devices.
Features
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 mesh network
- Covers up to 4,000 sq. ft.
- MU-MIMO and beamforming technology
- Easy setup and management via mobile app
- WPA3 encryption for security
Benefits
- Affordable option for smaller homes or apartments with fewer connected devices
- Provides reliable and stable coverage for smart home gadgets, streaming, and basic browsing
- Easy-to-use app makes network setup quick and hassle-free
- Security features protect your home network without complicated configuration steps
- Great value for its price
- Easy to set up and manage through the app
Disadvantages
- Slower speeds compared to higher-end models
- Limited range for very large homes
Conclusion
Choosing the best router for home automation in 2024 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From speed and range to security and future-proofing, there’s a perfect router out there for every type of home and budget.
So, what are you waiting for? Upgrade your router today to a Wi-Fi 6 router and experience the full potential of your smart home. You won’t just improve your Wi-Fi connection you’ll enhance the way you live.
Ready to find the best routers for your smart home? Explore the top options here and take your home automation setup to the next level.
