According to the WiFi Alliance, WiFi 6 goes above and beyond in every category of network performance, security, and other key metrics.
WiFi 6 has been long-awaited by the enterprise and consumer tech crowds, and while adoption may take several years to reach 100%, we already see the benefits of WiFi 6 mesh systems in real-time as hardware leaps to the new standard.
Undoubtedly, upgrading your WiFi router is the best way to harness the power of WiFi 6 in your home, specifically with mesh network technology. Whether your current router is dual-band or tri-band, upgrading to WiFi 6 is the next logical step. Take tri-band wi-fi to another level for your family.
What are the best WiFi 6 mesh routers on the market right now, and how do you choose the right one for your mesh wi-fi systems needs?
We’re covering our top picks and breaking down the pros and cons of each along the way, plus all the pricing and purchase info you need. Let’s get started.
Kicking off our list at No. 1 is the Gryphon AX, a powerful new WiFi 6 mesh router from the network and security pioneers at Gryphon Connect.
At first glance, the AX's sleek and minimal white design is eye-catching without being distracting – an issue we had with other mesh routers on our list.
Of course, what’s under the hood matters most when talking about mesh routers, so let’s explore the technologies and features that earn the Gryphon AX our top spot right out of the gate.
Gryphon got into the WiFi router market during the last generation of WiFi 5. But its new Gryphon AX mesh router is specifically built to take full advantage of WiFi 6 – the manufacturers put this key feature front and center.
With a data transfer rate of 4,300 Mbps and tri-band frequencies for smart device management, this mesh router is a powerhouse when it comes to performance, not to mention a 3,000-square-foot coverage range for just a single tower.
High-end performance is only the beginning for the Gryphon AX, which comes loaded with internet security and parental controls features.
Instead of buying and installing firewalls, anti-virus software, and parental controls suites from your internet service provider, the Gryphon AX comes standard with all this technology right out of the box. Simply install the router itself and launch the custom app that lives on your phone and desktop. It comes with two SSIDs allowing for guest networking.
From there, you have access to a full range of security and controls features, including access scheduling, content filtering, browsing history insights, and the ability to suspend internet connections entirely at certain times of the day.
The Gryphon brand designs its routers for families on the cutting edge of smart technology, perfect for a growing Internet of Things ecosystem in the home.
With 4X4 MU-MIMO and beamforming technology, this is truly a next-generation router by all accounts and will stay ahead of the curve for years to come. The Gryphon AX is future-proofed across every category, from security and parental controls to full WiFi 6 capabilities.
The AX checks all the boxes if you’ve been waiting for the next big leap in mesh WiFi technology and need extra security and visibility for your network.
A standalone Gryphon AX router can be found on the Gryphon Connect website for $279, while a two-pack of towers is also available for $479. No need for an extender anymore, even for a large home with multiple connected devices.
Gryphon also offers a monthly security package for $7.99 a month, featuring proprietary Gryphon Homebound technology with an easy setup that takes your network security on the go with your favorite devices.
We made sure to include a gaming router on our list – the powerful RT-AX86 series from ASUS.
This router is a gamer’s dream come true and has an aggressive, futuristic design to match. Let’s check out what the RT-AX86 has to offer beyond its unique appearance.
Pure performance is the priority for this recent ASUS model, emphasizing high-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, and other demanding applications.
The crowning achievement of the RT-AX86 is the 5,700 Mbps wireless signal speed and the ability to hard-wire gigabit ethernet through the main port in the back of the unit.
Speaking of ports, this ASUS has them all, including multiple access points for LANs and USB ports for added flexibility.
This model is also compatible with other ASUS routers through its AiMesh system, but this requires a significant upfront investment in another entire router – not quite the satellite node setup we’d like to see.
Security and parental controls features do come standard with the ASUS, which is a plus.
Gamers will love the pure speed and fun design of this flagship ASUS router with WiFi 6 technology.
However, this router doesn’t have the same flexibility and practicality as a straightforward mesh router system.
It takes more money and technical know-how to set up a true mesh implementation, which may be prohibitive for some everyday users.
The ASUS RT-AX86 series is available at the ASUS website or Amazon for around $340.
The Orbi from Netgear appears innocent on the surface but packs quite a punch in terms of performance and useful features.
Here’s what we like about the Orbi and a few ways it falls short.
The best thing we can say about the Orbi is that it’s a full-suite mesh WiFi system out of the box.
The standard package includes the main router and a satellite unit for quick implementation and 5,000 square feet of coverage – no complex setup necessary and no configuration issues.
The Orbi has exceptional performance, allowing gigabit speeds throughout the network and several gigabit Ethernet ports for wired access point flexibility.
In terms of security and parental controls, Netgear’s Orbi app is rich with features, though you’ll have to pay monthly for the security service after the first month trial period ends.
Don’t let the basic design of the Orbi fool you – this is a high-octane mesh router system that does the job for any growing ecosystem of wireless devices.
The Orbi is certainly more accessible for beginners, and the Orbi app offers convenient access to many features, including parental controls and a helpful network map.
Our main problem with the Orbi is the sticker shock – a router with one additional satellite is about $700, while a two-satellite setup is closer to $1,000.
If you’re willing to shell out the money for this top-of-the-line router, it can be found on Amazon in various configurations or direct from the Netgear website.
It was only a matter of time before Amazon released its own mesh WiFi 6 router system, and here we are – the Eero Pro 6 lives up to the brand name for quality and price.
The Eero Pro 6 is an entry-level WiFi 6 option but has several features worth noting.
The standard Eero Pro 6 package comes with three units, covering a total of 6,000 square feet with near-gigabit speeds.
There are also two Ethernet ports on each Eero unit, allowing for direct plug-ins for desktop computers or game consoles.
Most impressively, the Eero Pro 6 is fully integrated into the Amazon ecosystem, including Alexa and other smart home devices that you may already have.
Unfortunately, the Eero Pro 6 is somewhat limited in its security and controls features and does not allow for as much configuration as you might expect from a router system of its caliber.
The Eero appears to be the most intuitive choice for anyone already heavily invested in Amazon home products. The design is slim, the setup is quick, and it’s relatively easy to update and manage.
However, the Eero Pro may not be full-featured on security and parental controls. Parents should keep this in mind.
A three-pack of Eero 6 Pro units can be purchased on Amazon for $449.
As a price performer, the TP-Link Deco X20 is not a bad option for those who want to experience WiFi 6 on a budget.
While the Deco X20 has an unimpressive soda-can aesthetic, it does the job in terms of speeds and coverage with strong WiFi 6-enabled device management.
This system is perfect for gigabit connections and can cover more than 5,500 square feet with a strong signal in a matter of minutes.
The Deco also comes with some basic parental controls and security features, although they are not so advanced or comprehensive as we’d prefer.
If you’re short on cash but need to upgrade to WiFi 6 ASAP, the Deco X20 is a viable option that should fill the gaps in the meantime.
Amazon or other third-party sellers offer the TP-Link Deco X20 for around $249.99.
WiFi 6 only recently debuted, but the market is already flooded with plenty of great mesh WiFi technology options.
Upgrading to mesh and WiFi 6 will deliver significant performance and connectivity improvements to your home network, so consider making the leap and leaving the old ways of WiFi behind.
Sources:
WiFi 6: Better, Faster Routers are Here | CNET
The Best WiFi 6 Routers of 2021 | Tom’s Guide
WiFi Mesh Network Systems | PC Mag
WiFi 6 has been long-awaited by the enterprise and consumer tech crowds, and while adoption may take several years to reach 100%, we already see the benefits of WiFi 6 mesh systems in real-time as hardware leaps to the new standard.
Undoubtedly, upgrading your WiFi router is the best way to harness the power of WiFi 6 in your home, specifically with mesh network technology. Whether your current router is dual-band or tri-band, upgrading to WiFi 6 is the next logical step. Take tri-band wi-fi to another level for your family.
What are the best WiFi 6 mesh routers on the market right now, and how do you choose the right one for your mesh wi-fi systems needs?
We’re covering our top picks and breaking down the pros and cons of each along the way, plus all the pricing and purchase info you need. Let’s get started.
1. Gryphon AX
Kicking off our list at No. 1 is the Gryphon AX, a powerful new WiFi 6 mesh router from the network and security pioneers at Gryphon Connect.
At first glance, the AX's sleek and minimal white design is eye-catching without being distracting – an issue we had with other mesh routers on our list.
Of course, what’s under the hood matters most when talking about mesh routers, so let’s explore the technologies and features that earn the Gryphon AX our top spot right out of the gate.
Features
Gryphon got into the WiFi router market during the last generation of WiFi 5. But its new Gryphon AX mesh router is specifically built to take full advantage of WiFi 6 – the manufacturers put this key feature front and center.
With a data transfer rate of 4,300 Mbps and tri-band frequencies for smart device management, this mesh router is a powerhouse when it comes to performance, not to mention a 3,000-square-foot coverage range for just a single tower.
High-end performance is only the beginning for the Gryphon AX, which comes loaded with internet security and parental controls features.
Instead of buying and installing firewalls, anti-virus software, and parental controls suites from your internet service provider, the Gryphon AX comes standard with all this technology right out of the box. Simply install the router itself and launch the custom app that lives on your phone and desktop. It comes with two SSIDs allowing for guest networking.
From there, you have access to a full range of security and controls features, including access scheduling, content filtering, browsing history insights, and the ability to suspend internet connections entirely at certain times of the day.
Who Is It For?
The Gryphon brand designs its routers for families on the cutting edge of smart technology, perfect for a growing Internet of Things ecosystem in the home.
With 4X4 MU-MIMO and beamforming technology, this is truly a next-generation router by all accounts and will stay ahead of the curve for years to come. The Gryphon AX is future-proofed across every category, from security and parental controls to full WiFi 6 capabilities.
The AX checks all the boxes if you’ve been waiting for the next big leap in mesh WiFi technology and need extra security and visibility for your network.
Ways To Buy
A standalone Gryphon AX router can be found on the Gryphon Connect website for $279, while a two-pack of towers is also available for $479. No need for an extender anymore, even for a large home with multiple connected devices.
Gryphon also offers a monthly security package for $7.99 a month, featuring proprietary Gryphon Homebound technology with an easy setup that takes your network security on the go with your favorite devices.
2. ASUS RT-AX86 Series
We made sure to include a gaming router on our list – the powerful RT-AX86 series from ASUS.
This router is a gamer’s dream come true and has an aggressive, futuristic design to match. Let’s check out what the RT-AX86 has to offer beyond its unique appearance.
Features
Pure performance is the priority for this recent ASUS model, emphasizing high-bandwidth activities like streaming, gaming, and other demanding applications.
The crowning achievement of the RT-AX86 is the 5,700 Mbps wireless signal speed and the ability to hard-wire gigabit ethernet through the main port in the back of the unit.
Speaking of ports, this ASUS has them all, including multiple access points for LANs and USB ports for added flexibility.
This model is also compatible with other ASUS routers through its AiMesh system, but this requires a significant upfront investment in another entire router – not quite the satellite node setup we’d like to see.
Security and parental controls features do come standard with the ASUS, which is a plus.
Who Is It For?
Gamers will love the pure speed and fun design of this flagship ASUS router with WiFi 6 technology.
However, this router doesn’t have the same flexibility and practicality as a straightforward mesh router system.
It takes more money and technical know-how to set up a true mesh implementation, which may be prohibitive for some everyday users.
Ways To Buy
The ASUS RT-AX86 series is available at the ASUS website or Amazon for around $340.
3. Netgear Orbi RBK852
The Orbi from Netgear appears innocent on the surface but packs quite a punch in terms of performance and useful features.
Here’s what we like about the Orbi and a few ways it falls short.
Features
The best thing we can say about the Orbi is that it’s a full-suite mesh WiFi system out of the box.
The standard package includes the main router and a satellite unit for quick implementation and 5,000 square feet of coverage – no complex setup necessary and no configuration issues.
The Orbi has exceptional performance, allowing gigabit speeds throughout the network and several gigabit Ethernet ports for wired access point flexibility.
In terms of security and parental controls, Netgear’s Orbi app is rich with features, though you’ll have to pay monthly for the security service after the first month trial period ends.
Who Is It For?
Don’t let the basic design of the Orbi fool you – this is a high-octane mesh router system that does the job for any growing ecosystem of wireless devices.
The Orbi is certainly more accessible for beginners, and the Orbi app offers convenient access to many features, including parental controls and a helpful network map.
Our main problem with the Orbi is the sticker shock – a router with one additional satellite is about $700, while a two-satellite setup is closer to $1,000.
Ways To Buy
If you’re willing to shell out the money for this top-of-the-line router, it can be found on Amazon in various configurations or direct from the Netgear website.
4. Eero Pro 6
It was only a matter of time before Amazon released its own mesh WiFi 6 router system, and here we are – the Eero Pro 6 lives up to the brand name for quality and price.
The Eero Pro 6 is an entry-level WiFi 6 option but has several features worth noting.
Features
The standard Eero Pro 6 package comes with three units, covering a total of 6,000 square feet with near-gigabit speeds.
There are also two Ethernet ports on each Eero unit, allowing for direct plug-ins for desktop computers or game consoles.
Most impressively, the Eero Pro 6 is fully integrated into the Amazon ecosystem, including Alexa and other smart home devices that you may already have.
Unfortunately, the Eero Pro 6 is somewhat limited in its security and controls features and does not allow for as much configuration as you might expect from a router system of its caliber.
Who Is It For?
The Eero appears to be the most intuitive choice for anyone already heavily invested in Amazon home products. The design is slim, the setup is quick, and it’s relatively easy to update and manage.
However, the Eero Pro may not be full-featured on security and parental controls. Parents should keep this in mind.
Ways To Buy
A three-pack of Eero 6 Pro units can be purchased on Amazon for $449.
5. TP-Link Deco X20
As a price performer, the TP-Link Deco X20 is not a bad option for those who want to experience WiFi 6 on a budget.
Features
While the Deco X20 has an unimpressive soda-can aesthetic, it does the job in terms of speeds and coverage with strong WiFi 6-enabled device management.
This system is perfect for gigabit connections and can cover more than 5,500 square feet with a strong signal in a matter of minutes.
The Deco also comes with some basic parental controls and security features, although they are not so advanced or comprehensive as we’d prefer.
Who Is It For?
If you’re short on cash but need to upgrade to WiFi 6 ASAP, the Deco X20 is a viable option that should fill the gaps in the meantime.
Ways To Buy
Amazon or other third-party sellers offer the TP-Link Deco X20 for around $249.99.
The Era of WiFi 6 Has Arrived
WiFi 6 only recently debuted, but the market is already flooded with plenty of great mesh WiFi technology options.
Upgrading to mesh and WiFi 6 will deliver significant performance and connectivity improvements to your home network, so consider making the leap and leaving the old ways of WiFi behind.
Sources:
WiFi 6: Better, Faster Routers are Here | CNET
The Best WiFi 6 Routers of 2021 | Tom’s Guide
WiFi Mesh Network Systems | PC Mag
Gryphon PR
