The Best Gaming Router Under 200 in 2024: Reviews & Rankings

Several routers under $300 were well-regarded for gaming due to their performance, features, and reliability. However, the router market is dynamic, and new models may have been released since then. When selecting a gaming router, it's essential to consider factors such as speed, prioritization features, and overall network performance. Here are a few routers under $300 that were known for their gaming capabilities:
ASUS RT-AX86U:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Dual-band, MU-MIMO, OFDMA technology, and Adaptive QoS for gaming prioritization.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports and a 2.5 GbE port.
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Dual-band, MU-MIMO, Quality of Service (QoS) for gaming, and DumaOS gaming dashboard.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports and a dedicated gaming LAN port.
TP-Link Archer C4000:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Tri-band, MU-MIMO, RangeBoost for extended coverage, and Beamforming technology.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports.
ASUS RT-AX88U:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Dual-band, MU-MIMO, OFDMA technology, and Adaptive QoS for gaming prioritization.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports and a 2.5 GbE port.
Linksys MR9000 Max-Stream AC3000:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Tri-band, MU-MIMO, and seamless roaming for better performance with multiple devices.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports.
ASUS GT-AX11000 ROG Rapture:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Tri-band, MU-MIMO, OFDMA technology, and gaming-centric features like Game Boost and VPN Fusion.
Ports: Multiple Gigabit LAN ports and a 2.5 GbE port.
When choosing a gaming router, consider your specific gaming needs, the number of connected devices, and the size of your gaming area. Additionally, check for the latest reviews and user feedback to ensure that the router meets your expectations for gaming performance and reliability. Keep in mind that new router models may have been released since my last update, so it's a good idea to check the latest options in the market.

What router do pro gamers use?

The choice of routers among professional gamers can vary based on individual preferences, gaming needs, and specific requirements. Pro gamers often prioritize routers that offer low latency, high-speed performance, and features that enhance the gaming experience. Here are some routers that were commonly recognized for their gaming capabilities, and they might still be popular among pro gamers:
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Tri-band, 10 Gigabit LAN ports, OFDMA technology, and gaming-specific features like Game Boost and VPN Fusion.
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Dual-band, Quality of Service (QoS) for gaming, DumaOS gaming dashboard, and multiple Gigabit LAN ports.
ASUS RT-AX86U:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Dual-band, MU-MIMO, Adaptive QoS for gaming prioritization, and a 2.5 GbE port.
Linksys WRT32X:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Dual-band, Killer Prioritization Engine for reducing lag in gaming, and custom firmware for gaming optimization.
ASUS RT-AX88U:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
Features: Dual-band, MU-MIMO, OFDMA technology, and Adaptive QoS for gaming prioritization.
TP-Link Archer C5400X:
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Features: Tri-band, MU-MIMO, RangeBoost for extended coverage, and multiple Gigabit LAN ports.
It's important to note that the gaming industry evolves, and new router models may have been released since my last update. Additionally, individual preferences can vary, and some professional gamers might prioritize wired connections over Wi-Fi for the lowest possible latency.
When choosing a router for gaming, consider factors such as low latency, Quality of Service (QoS) features, and the specific requirements of the games you play. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from fellow gamers can also provide valuable insights into the performance of different routers in real-world gaming scenarios.

What router mode is best for gaming?

When setting up a router for gaming, certain features and settings can help optimize the gaming experience by reducing latency, improving stability, and prioritizing gaming traffic. Here are some router modes and features that are beneficial for gaming:
Gaming Mode or Gaming QoS (Quality of Service):
Many gaming routers come with a dedicated gaming mode or QoS settings that allow you to prioritize gaming traffic. This ensures that data related to gaming is given priority over other types of traffic on the network, reducing latency for a smoother gaming experience.
MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output):
MU-MIMO technology allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. This can be beneficial for gaming households with multiple devices connected, as it helps maintain performance for all connected devices.
Dual-Band or Tri-Band Operation:
Dual-band routers operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, while tri-band routers add an additional 5 GHz band. Using the less congested 5 GHz band for gaming devices can result in better performance and reduced interference.
Beamforming:
Beamforming technology focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly at connected devices, improving signal strength and stability. This can be particularly useful for maintaining a strong and stable connection to gaming devices.
Fast Processor and Ample RAM:
A router with a fast processor and sufficient RAM can handle the demands of gaming traffic more effectively. Look for routers designed with gaming in mind and equipped with powerful hardware.
Low Latency Features:
Some routers are designed to minimize latency specifically for gaming. Look for routers that advertise low latency features or modes to prioritize responsiveness.
Port Forwarding and Port Triggering:
For specific online games or applications, manually configuring port forwarding or port triggering can help ensure that the necessary ports are open and traffic is directed appropriately, reducing connectivity issues.
Wired Connection for Gaming Devices:
Whenever possible, using a wired Ethernet connection for gaming devices can provide a more stable and lower-latency connection compared to Wi-Fi.
Firmware Updates:
Regularly update the router's firmware to ensure that you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches. Some routers may receive firmware updates that improve gaming performance.
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) Support:
If your gaming devices support Wi-Fi 6, consider using a router that also supports this latest Wi-Fi standard for improved performance and efficiency.
When setting up your router for gaming, it's essential to check the user manual and settings interface for the specific features and modes available. Experimenting with different settings and observing the impact on gaming performance can help you find the optimal configuration for your setup.

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