Navigating the world of home networking can feel like deciphering a secret code, especially when you’re hunting for reliable performance and seamless connectivity. Fortunately, Linksys has long been a trusted name in the router industry, consistently delivering products that balance cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design. Whether you’re a gamer demanding low latency, a streamer seeking buffer-free entertainment, or simply looking to banish Wi-Fi dead zones, understanding which Linksys model will best suit your needs is paramount. This guide is designed to illuminate your path, offering in-depth reviews and essential buying advice to help you identify the absolute best Linksys routers for your specific home and lifestyle.
We understand that choosing a router is an investment, and one that directly impacts your daily digital experience. That’s why we’ve meticulously evaluated a range of Linksys offerings, from their powerful mesh systems designed to blanket large homes in Wi-Fi, to their more budget-friendly yet robust options perfect for apartments and smaller spaces. By delving into factors like Wi-Fi standards, speed capabilities, security features, and ease of setup, we aim to equip you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your internet connection and discover which of the best Linksys routers will become the backbone of your connected home.
Before we get to our review of the best linksys routers, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Linksys Routers: A Legacy of Connectivity
Linksys has established itself as a prominent player in the home networking market, consistently delivering reliable and innovative router solutions. With a history stretching back decades, the company has evolved alongside the ever-increasing demand for faster, more stable internet connections. Their commitment to user-friendly design and robust performance has made them a go-to brand for consumers seeking to upgrade their home Wi-Fi experience.
The Linksys product line encompasses a wide range of routers designed to cater to various needs and budgets. From entry-level models perfect for basic internet browsing and streaming to high-performance routers equipped with advanced features for gamers and power users, Linksys offers something for everyone. They are particularly known for their emphasis on ease of setup and management, often featuring intuitive mobile apps that allow users to control their network from anywhere.
Linksys routers are recognized for their ability to provide strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home, minimizing dead zones and ensuring seamless connectivity. They frequently incorporate the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, to deliver faster speeds and improved capacity, especially in environments with numerous connected devices. This forward-thinking approach ensures that users can enjoy the full potential of their high-speed internet plans.
When considering the best linksys routers, it’s important to recognize their consistent delivery of quality and innovation. Whether you’re looking for a simple solution for everyday tasks or a powerful system to handle demanding applications, Linksys routers are a reliable choice that continues to shape the landscape of home networking.
Best Linksys Routers – Reviewed
Linksys WRT3200ACM
The Linksys WRT3200ACM is a powerful and versatile router that truly shines for advanced users and gamers. Its open-source firmware compatibility, including OpenWrt, DD-WRT, and Tomato, provides unparalleled customization options, allowing you to fine-tune every aspect of your network. The tri-stream 802.11ac technology delivers exceptional speed and reliability across multiple devices, making it ideal for households with heavy internet usage, streaming, and gaming.
Beyond its impressive performance, the WRT3200ACM boasts a robust design with a quad-core processor that handles demanding tasks with ease. The MU-MIMO technology ensures efficient data distribution to multiple devices simultaneously, minimizing lag and buffering. While its advanced features might be overkill for casual users, for those who crave control and top-tier performance, this Linksys router is an outstanding choice that offers incredible value.
Linksys MR9600
The Linksys MR9600 represents a significant step forward in home networking, offering a powerful mesh Wi-Fi system designed to blanket even the largest homes with seamless connectivity. Its tri-band AX6600 Wi-Fi 6 technology provides blazing-fast speeds and robust performance, capable of supporting numerous devices and demanding applications like 4K streaming and online gaming without breaking a sweat. The intelligent mesh technology ensures that your Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable throughout your entire property.
Setting up and managing the MR9600 is incredibly straightforward thanks to the intuitive Linksys app. You can easily add more Velop nodes to expand coverage, control guest networks, prioritize devices, and monitor your network’s security with just a few taps. This router is an excellent investment for those seeking a hassle-free, high-performance Wi-Fi solution that can effortlessly handle the connectivity needs of a modern smart home.
Linksys E7350
The Linksys E7350 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers who still demand solid Wi-Fi 6 performance. This dual-band AX1800 router delivers significantly faster speeds and improved capacity compared to older Wi-Fi standards, making it perfect for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming HD content, and supporting a moderate number of connected devices. Its compact and user-friendly design makes it accessible even for those who aren’t networking experts.
The setup process for the E7350 is remarkably simple, guided by the Linksys app, which allows for easy network management, parental controls, and guest access. While it might not offer the advanced customization or the extreme speeds of higher-end models, it provides a reliable and consistent Wi-Fi experience for average households. If you’re looking to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6 without breaking the bank, the E7350 is a highly commendable option.
Linksys EA9500
The Linksys EA9500 is a flagship router that embodies premium performance and extensive capabilities for the most demanding users. This AC5400 tri-band router is engineered with a powerful quad-core processor and MU-MIMO technology, delivering exceptional speeds and the ability to connect a vast number of devices simultaneously without compromising performance. It’s built to handle everything from intense gaming sessions to multiple 4K video streams.
Beyond its raw speed, the EA9500 offers a wealth of advanced features, including robust security options, comprehensive parental controls, and extensive customization through its web interface. The eight high-performance antennas ensure wide coverage, effectively reaching all corners of even large homes. For users who demand the utmost in network speed, reliability, and control, the EA9500 stands as a top-tier solution that justifies its premium price point.
Linksys MX5300
The Linksys MX5300 is a high-performance Wi-Fi 6 mesh system designed to deliver exceptional connectivity and coverage for large, modern homes. As the flagship Velop system, it offers a blazing-fast AX5300 triband connection, ensuring that every corner of your property receives a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal. Its intelligent mesh technology seamlessly hands off devices between nodes, providing a truly uninterrupted online experience for all your connected gadgets.
Setting up and managing the MX5300 is remarkably user-friendly, thanks to the intuitive Linksys app. This allows for easy network configuration, guest network management, parental controls, and device prioritization. With its robust performance, extensive coverage, and simple management, the Linksys MX5300 is an ideal solution for households looking to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones and enjoy a premium, reliable internet experience across their entire home.
Why People Need Linksys Routers
Linksys routers have carved out a significant niche in the home networking market, becoming a go-to choice for many individuals and families seeking reliable and robust internet connectivity. Their reputation is built on a foundation of ease of use, advanced features, and consistent performance. For users who want to ensure smooth streaming, lag-free online gaming, and effortless connection for all their smart home devices, Linksys offers a compelling solution that simplifies the often complex world of home Wi-Fi.
One of the primary reasons for Linksys’s enduring popularity is their user-friendly setup and management interface. Many competitors can be overly technical, requiring a steep learning curve. Linksys, however, consistently prioritizes an intuitive experience. From unboxing to getting your network up and running, the process is generally straightforward, often guided by clear instructions and readily available support. This accessibility makes them an excellent choice for those who aren’t network engineers but still demand high-quality Wi-Fi throughout their homes.
Beyond ease of use, Linksys routers are known for their feature-rich offerings that cater to a wide range of user needs. Whether it’s advanced parental controls to manage internet access for children, robust security features to protect against online threats, or the ability to create guest networks for visitors, Linksys provides the tools necessary for a secure and customizable home network. Furthermore, for those looking for the best performance, exploring models that offer the latest Wi-Fi standards and mesh capabilities ensures coverage even in larger or more challenging home layouts.
Ultimately, people need Linksys routers because they offer a blend of reliability, advanced functionality, and user-friendliness that consistently delivers on the promise of a connected home. They are a brand that has earned trust through years of delivering solid networking solutions, making them a sensible investment for anyone looking to upgrade their home internet experience and ensure seamless connectivity for all their digital needs.
Understanding Linksys Router Technologies
Linksys routers are built upon a foundation of evolving wireless technologies designed to deliver robust and reliable internet connectivity. At the core of their offerings are Wi-Fi standards, with current models prominently featuring Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 6E. Wi-Fi 6 represents a significant leap forward, offering increased speeds, lower latency, and improved capacity to handle more devices simultaneously. This is crucial in today’s homes, where an ever-growing number of smart devices compete for bandwidth.
Beyond the core Wi-Fi standard, Linksys incorporates various technologies to enhance performance and user experience. MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology allows the router to communicate with multiple devices at once, rather than sequentially. This significantly boosts efficiency and reduces congestion, especially in busy households. Beamforming technology further refines this by directing Wi-Fi signals directly towards connected devices, strengthening the connection and extending its range.
Linksys also embraces Mesh Wi-Fi technology with its Velop line, offering a seamless and unified network experience across a larger home. Mesh systems consist of a primary router and satellite nodes that work together to eliminate dead zones and provide consistent coverage. This modular approach is ideal for larger or multi-story homes where a single router might struggle to provide adequate signal strength in all areas.
Key Features to Consider in a Linksys Router
When selecting a Linksys router, several key features warrant careful consideration to ensure it meets your specific needs. Firstly, the Wi-Fi standard is paramount. While older routers might operate on Wi-Fi 5, investing in Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E will future-proof your network and provide a tangible performance boost for compatible devices. Consider the number of bands offered – dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) is standard, but tri-band routers add an additional 5GHz or 6GHz band, ideal for separating high-bandwidth devices and reducing interference.
The processing power and RAM of a router significantly impact its ability to handle demanding tasks and a large number of connected devices. Look for routers with powerful processors and ample RAM, which will contribute to smoother streaming, faster downloads, and a more responsive network. Similarly, the number and type of Ethernet ports are important for wired connections. Gigabit Ethernet ports are essential for fast and stable connections to gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers.
Security features are non-negotiable. Linksys routers typically offer WPA2/WPA3 encryption, a robust firewall, and the ability to create guest networks to isolate visitors from your primary network. Some models also include advanced security features like built-in antivirus protection or parental controls, which can be invaluable for families. Lastly, consider the router’s ease of setup and management. Linksys often provides intuitive mobile apps for straightforward installation and ongoing network control, making it accessible even for less tech-savvy users.
Linksys Router Security and Parental Controls
Ensuring the security of your home network is paramount, and Linksys routers provide a comprehensive suite of features to achieve this. At its core, Linksys routers employ advanced encryption protocols like WPA2 and the more secure WPA3 to protect your Wi-Fi signal from unauthorized access. This encryption scrambles the data transmitted between your devices and the router, making it unintelligible to anyone without the correct key.
Beyond encryption, Linksys routers typically include a built-in firewall that acts as a barrier against malicious traffic from the internet. This firewall can be configured to block specific ports or IP addresses, adding an extra layer of defense. Furthermore, the ability to create separate guest networks is a valuable security feature. This allows you to provide internet access to visitors without granting them access to your private network, safeguarding your personal files and devices.
Parental controls are another critical aspect of modern home networking, and Linksys routers often offer robust solutions. These features allow you to manage internet access for individual devices or user profiles, enabling you to set specific browsing times, block access to certain websites or categories of content, and even pause internet access altogether. This granular control empowers parents to create a safer online environment for their children.
Optimizing Your Linksys Router for Peak Performance
Once you’ve chosen and set up your Linksys router, optimizing its performance can significantly enhance your online experience. A crucial step is proper router placement. Ideally, your router should be placed in a central, open location in your home, away from physical obstructions like thick walls, metal objects, or appliances that can interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Elevating the router slightly can also help propagate the signal more effectively.
Regularly updating your router’s firmware is essential for maintaining optimal performance and security. Linksys consistently releases firmware updates that can address bugs, improve stability, and introduce new features or performance enhancements. Most Linksys routers can be configured to check for and install these updates automatically, but it’s a good practice to manually check through the router’s web interface or mobile app periodically.
For users experiencing slower speeds or connectivity issues, adjusting the Wi-Fi channel can be highly beneficial. Wireless interference from neighboring networks can degrade performance. Linksys routers often provide tools within their interface to scan for the least congested channels and allow you to manually select them. For more advanced users, understanding Quality of Service (QoS) settings can help prioritize bandwidth for specific applications or devices, ensuring a smooth experience for critical activities like online gaming or video conferencing.
Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Linksys Routers
Navigating the world of home networking can feel complex, but when it comes to reliable and feature-rich Wi-Fi, Linksys has long been a trusted name. Whether you’re a casual internet user, a gamer, a streamer, or someone managing a smart home filled with connected devices, choosing the right Linksys router is crucial for a smooth and uninterrupted online experience. This buying guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, helping you pinpoint the perfect Linksys router to meet your specific needs and budget.
Speed and Wi-Fi Standards
The most fundamental aspect of any router is its speed, and Linksys offers a range of devices supporting various Wi-Fi standards. The current industry standard is Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offers significantly faster speeds, improved capacity for multiple devices, and better performance in crowded wireless environments compared to older Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) standards. When looking for the best Linksys routers, prioritize those that support Wi-Fi 6 or even the latest Wi-Fi 6E, which adds the 6 GHz band for even less interference and higher speeds, especially if you have compatible devices.
Consider your internet service plan when evaluating router speeds. If you have a gigabit internet connection, you’ll want a router that can effectively utilize that bandwidth. Look at the router’s advertised speeds, often represented as a combination of numbers like AX1800, AX3000, or AX5400. These numbers indicate the theoretical combined speeds across the router’s various bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and 6 GHz for Wi-Fi 6E). Ensure the router’s capabilities align with your ISP’s offering to avoid a bottleneck.
Coverage Area and Mesh Capabilities
A router’s ability to provide strong Wi-Fi signal throughout your home is paramount. The coverage area a router can effectively reach depends on factors like its antenna design, power output, and the layout and materials of your home. For smaller apartments or single-story homes, a single, powerful router might suffice. However, for larger homes, multi-story residences, or those with thick walls or dead zones, a mesh Wi-Fi system is often the superior solution.
Linksys offers excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that consist of a primary router and one or more satellite nodes. These nodes work together seamlessly to create a single, unified Wi-Fi network that blankets your entire home with strong and consistent signal. This eliminates dead spots and allows you to move freely between rooms without experiencing dropped connections or slow speeds. If you’re struggling with Wi-Fi coverage, a Linksys mesh system is a highly recommended option to explore.
Number of Devices Supported
In today’s connected world, it’s not uncommon to have a multitude of devices vying for Wi-Fi bandwidth simultaneously. Smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, smart home assistants, security cameras, and smart appliances all contribute to the demand on your network. Routers have a finite capacity for handling multiple simultaneous connections. If your current router struggles when several devices are active, it’s a clear sign you need an upgrade.
Linksys routers, especially those supporting Wi-Fi 6 and above, are engineered to handle a higher density of devices more efficiently. Technologies like OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) in Wi-Fi 6 allow the router to communicate with multiple devices at the same time, reducing latency and improving overall network performance when many devices are connected. Consider how many devices you currently have and anticipate adding in the future to make an informed decision.
Ports and Connectivity Options
While Wi-Fi is the primary way most devices connect, the number and type of Ethernet ports on a router are still important for certain applications. Most Linksys routers come equipped with Gigabit Ethernet ports, which are essential for wired connections to devices that require the fastest and most stable internet. This includes desktop computers, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and network-attached storage (NAS) devices. The number of LAN ports (typically 4) should be sufficient for your wired devices, but if you have many, you might consider a router with more ports or plan to use a network switch.
Beyond standard LAN ports, some higher-end Linksys routers may offer additional connectivity options. These can include a WAN port that accepts faster internet speeds (e.g., 2.5 Gbps or 10 Gbps), USB ports for connecting external hard drives or printers to share across your network, or even dedicated ports for specific network segments. Evaluate your specific needs – for instance, if you plan to create a home media server, a USB port on your router can be a convenient feature.
Security Features
Protecting your home network from unauthorized access and online threats is crucial. Linksys routers typically include robust security features to safeguard your data and privacy. Look for routers that support WPA3 encryption, the latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol, which offers enhanced protection against brute-force attacks. Many Linksys routers also come with built-in firewalls, which help block malicious traffic from entering your network.
Furthermore, consider routers that offer advanced security suites or parental controls. Some Linksys models allow you to create guest networks, isolating visitors from your main network and preventing them from accessing your personal files. Others provide customizable parental controls, allowing you to set internet access schedules for specific devices or block access to certain websites. Regularly updating your router’s firmware is also essential for maintaining optimal security, and Linksys generally provides straightforward firmware updates.
Ease of Use and Management
A powerful router is only beneficial if you can easily set it up and manage it. Linksys is known for its user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps, making network management accessible even for those less technically inclined. Most Linksys routers can be set up quickly using a mobile app or a web-based interface, guiding you through the process step-by-step.
The Linksys app, in particular, provides a convenient way to monitor your network, manage connected devices, set up guest networks, and even implement parental controls from your smartphone or tablet. For those who prefer more granular control, a web-based interface often offers advanced settings for network configuration, port forwarding, and QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize bandwidth for certain applications or devices. When considering the best Linksys routers, factor in the reputation and functionality of their management tools.
FAQs
What is the primary benefit of choosing a Linksys router?
Linksys routers are renowned for their user-friendly setup and intuitive interfaces, making them an excellent choice for both tech-savvy individuals and those new to network management. This ease of use extends to their mobile app, which allows for convenient monitoring, control, and troubleshooting of your home network from anywhere.
Beyond usability, Linksys consistently delivers reliable performance and a robust feature set across their product lines. Whether you’re looking for basic internet connectivity, advanced security options, or features to optimize gaming and streaming, Linksys generally offers solutions that meet a wide range of needs and budgets, often with strong customer support.
How do I choose the right Linksys router for my home?
The best Linksys router for your home depends on several factors, primarily your internet speed plan, the size of your home, and the number of devices you connect. For smaller homes or apartments with standard internet speeds, a basic or mid-range Linksys router will likely suffice. If you have a larger home or multiple floors, consider a mesh Wi-Fi system like the Velop series for consistent coverage.
For households with many connected devices, high-speed internet plans, or those who engage in heavy online activities like 4K streaming or online gaming, opt for a more powerful router with higher Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E) and advanced features such as MU-MIMO and beamforming. Always check the router’s specifications against your internet provider’s recommended speeds to ensure optimal performance.
Are Linksys routers suitable for gaming and streaming?
Yes, many Linksys routers are well-suited for gaming and streaming due to their advanced features designed to prioritize network traffic. Models often include Quality of Service (QoS) settings, which allow you to allocate more bandwidth to gaming consoles or streaming devices, reducing lag and buffering.
Furthermore, higher-end Linksys routers support the latest Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 6E, which offer faster speeds, lower latency, and improved capacity to handle multiple high-bandwidth activities simultaneously. Features like MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology ensure that the router can communicate efficiently with multiple devices at once, further enhancing the gaming and streaming experience.
What is a mesh Wi-Fi system, and is a Linksys Velop system a good option?
A mesh Wi-Fi system consists of a main router and one or more satellite “nodes” placed strategically around your home. These nodes work together to create a single, seamless Wi-Fi network, eliminating dead spots and providing consistent coverage throughout your entire living space.
Linksys Velop systems are a popular and highly regarded mesh Wi-Fi solution. They are known for their easy setup, reliable performance, and ability to handle a large number of connected devices. The Velop system is an excellent choice if you experience Wi-Fi dead zones or need robust coverage for a larger home, ensuring all your devices receive a strong and stable signal.
How important is Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) when buying a new Linksys router?
Wi-Fi 6 is the latest generation of Wi-Fi technology and offers significant improvements over previous standards. It provides faster speeds, increased efficiency, and better performance in crowded network environments where many devices are connected simultaneously.
While not strictly essential for all users, adopting a Wi-Fi 6 Linksys router future-proofs your home network and ensures you can take full advantage of the speeds offered by modern internet plans and the capabilities of new devices that support Wi-Fi 6. If you have multiple devices, experience network congestion, or want the best possible wireless performance, a Wi-Fi 6 router is a highly recommended investment.
What security features can I expect from Linksys routers?
Linksys routers come equipped with a range of security features designed to protect your home network from online threats. Standard security protocols like WPA3 encryption are typically included, offering enhanced protection compared to older standards.
Many Linksys models also offer built-in firewalls to block unauthorized access, guest network capabilities that allow you to provide internet access to visitors without compromising your main network’s security, and the ability to set up parental controls to manage internet access for children. The Linksys app often provides simple ways to monitor connected devices and identify any suspicious activity.
What is the difference between a Linksys router and a Linksys modem/router combo?
A standalone Linksys router is a device that creates and manages your Wi-Fi network, distributing the internet connection it receives from your modem. You typically connect this router to a separate modem provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
A Linksys modem/router combo, also known as a gateway, integrates both a modem and a router into a single unit. This device connects directly to your ISP’s service line (e.g., cable, DSL, or fiber) and provides both the internet connection and the Wi-Fi network. Using a combo unit can simplify setup and reduce the number of devices, but it may offer less flexibility in terms of upgrading individual components compared to using separate modem and router units.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Linksys router is an investment in your home’s digital future. With their robust performance, advanced features, and user-friendly interfaces, Linksys consistently delivers reliable connectivity for all your devices. Whether you’re a gamer seeking low latency, a streamer demanding uninterrupted bandwidth, or a family needing seamless Wi-Fi throughout your home, our comprehensive review has identified the best Linksys routers to meet your specific needs. Empower yourself with superior speed, enhanced security, and the peace of mind that comes with a top-tier networking solution.
Ultimately, the best Linksys routers offer a compelling combination of innovation, reliability, and value. By understanding your household’s unique demands and leveraging the insights from this guide, you can confidently select a Linksys model that not only meets but exceeds your expectations for a fast, stable, and secure wireless network. Upgrade your connectivity and experience the difference that a premium Linksys router can make in your daily digital life.