The Best Wireless Routers for Gaming

Don't put up with dropped games.

Buying the right wireless router is a real task, sometimes. With the new 802.11ac standard floating around in the wings, and a seeming endless line of variations in routers, which one is best for you? Here's a list of wireless routers that should keep your multiplayer gaming sessions going late into the night, free of those nagging dropped connections. As a note, all of the routers below include 802.11ac draft, so they should last you for some time.

Asus RT-AC66U

While some of the features of the Asus RT-AC66U will require a a bit of technical proficiency, this is an outstanding router with excellent range. Offering Dual-Band signals (2.5GHz and 5GHz), the RT-AC66U includes four wired (Gigabit) access ports and three external antennas. As far as security, you'll find WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA2-Enterprise protecting your network with everything backed up by a Broadcom chipset. Set-up of the RT-AC66U is a bit wonky, thanks to the Asus interface, but overall this is an impressive router.
See it at: Amazon for $167.99

Netgear Nighthawk AC1900

Honestly, the first--best?--thing about Netgear's latest wireless router is its super cool name. But beyond the Batman-sounding title and its slick, black form factor, the Nighthawk is just a great router. While the 2.4GHz channel leaves a bit to be desired in terms of connectivity speeds, the Nighthawk is blazing fast where online gamers need it: the 5GHz frequency. Moreover, thanks to improved Quality-of-Service (QoS), the option for full VPN control, and four Gigabit wired ports, the Nighthawk is an excellent--if a bit pricey--option for serious gamers.
See it At: Amazon for $199.99

Buffalo AirStation Extreme AC 1750

With each successive wireless router, Buffalo keeps releasing better and better devices. The Gigabit Dual Band AirStation Extreme AC 1750 continues that push, offering extremely great range and speeds. The AC 1750 is very easy to set up, thanks to an intuitive interface, but keep in mind this particular router is the only one on the list to lack IPv6 compatibility--probably not a make-or-break for most gamers, but an issue nonetheless. Last but certainly not least, the AC 1750 is affordably priced.
See it At: Amazon for $144.31

Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station

The latest AirPort Extreme from Apple adds in 802.11ac draft support, and increases its range and performance with a new form factor. Frankly, even given the price, the AirPort Extreme doesn't include all the bells and whistles of some of its comparatively priced counterparts, but it is hands-down the easiest to setup and work with. The interface is all handled wirelessly--and works incredibly well--but you'll only find three Gigabit wired ports on the back of the device. Of course, if you're an Apple fan otherwise, the design should blend right in with your existing equipment.
See it At: Amazon for $199.00

Trendnet AC1750

If you're really looking to get the best bang for your buck on the 802.11ac front, Trendnet's AC1750 is hard to beat. The speed and range shown by this router are pretty incredible, whether you're utilizing the 2GHz or 5GHz bands simultaneously. Setting up the device is extremely simple, even if the overall interface packed in by Trendnet leaves something to be desired. The form factor of the AC1750 has a nice, polished black steel appearance, and you'll find everything you need in regards to IPv6 compatibility and four Gigabit wired ports.
See it At: Amazon for $134.99