It can be difficult to choose the best router for streaming videos. You can find 6,726 wireless routers for streaming on amazon by doing a quick search! In this article, you will find out which router you need and what the differences are between these routers.
With a wireless router, you connect your home to the internet (through a wire) and broadcast an internet signal through the air within a short distance, in the same way, a cell phone would receive its signal. Wireless signals can be read by devices that understand them and allow them access to the internet without a wire connecting directly to it.
Things you can consider before buying the best router for streaming videos.
Streaming over Wi-Fi: Understanding Routers
When streaming content across multiple TVs or devices in your home, a wireless router is crucial. You can set up a wireless router in one room so that all devices within the range of the router can access the internet streaming content instead of running Ethernet wires throughout your home.
On average, wireless routers have a range of around 150 feet, although this may vary based on the router. This range may also be affected by the thickness and material of walls. To ensure that the wireless signal covers the entire home, the wireless router should be installed in the center of the home. In some cases, this is not possible, or the signal may be hard to pass through a lot of material in the wall. Using a wireless repeater is one of the solutions that can be used if your signal is weak.
Repeater Wireless
This device plugs into a power outlet and rebroadcasts your wireless signal as if it were the wireless router. Wireless repeaters are also known as wireless extenders. By doing this, the signal should be stronger and should be able to reach your devices.
Let’s now describe some of the most common features of the wireless router and explain their differences.
Standardization
Standard specifications are standardized specifications so that we won’t have different routers on different signals causing havoc. In order of newest to oldest, there are the following standards: a, b, g, n, ac.
The difference between AC and other standards is the speed and distance to which they can reach. Different standards also run over different frequencies. While the ac standard operates at 5GHz only, the n standard operates at 2.4GHz and 5GHz. There have been some issues with streaming devices trying to run on networks over 5GHz, I am sure as time progresses this will get better, however since the technology is so new I recommend that you stick to the n standard for now.
When buying a wireless router, be sure it has at least the n standard, if you get one with the ac standard that is fine too, then it should last you for quite some time.
Dual-banding vs. single-banding
Wireless routers are capable of broadcasting their signal over two bands, as discussed in the standards section. An 802.11ac router with dual bands can broadcast over both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, while an 802.11b router with only one band can only broadcast over 2.4GHz. Consider getting a Dual Band wireless router if you are going to stream.
What router is good for streaming video?
So if you are in a hurry, here is the list of the 5 best routers for streaming videos.
- TP-LINK Archer AX6000
- Linksys EA7500 Max-Stream AC1900
- Google Wi-Fi system
- NETGEAR Nighthawk 12-Stream AX12
- ASUS AC3100 Dual-Band Router
1- TP-LINK Archer AX6000 – Best Router For Streaming Videos
Recommended!
The Roku 2 that my in-laws have is connected to this wireless router so they can stream Amazon video through it. The couple also connected their smartphones and Amazon kindle to the wifi with no problems. It is possible for everyone to have six smartphones and a Roku connected to this router at the same time when they come over. No one has ever complained about this.
Must check: When the Roku blinks, what does it mean?
When broadcasting on the 5GHz band, I had problems with this router. Even though I also had trouble with my laptop, I don’t think it was the Roku. Since I wasn’t able to spend a lot of time on debugging, I just disabled and now the Roku and smartphones are connecting properly and are not dropping the connection.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Installs quickly and easily.Testing performed well with good throughput.
Performance of file transfers is fast.
Protect your children from malware and parental controls.
There are many I/O ports.
[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive.
The footprint is large.
Mobile apps with limited controls.
WPA3 is not supported.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2- Linksys EA7500 Max-Stream AC1900 Wireless Router
A great balance between price and performance can be found with the Linksys Max-Stream router. You’ll be able to stream 4K videos and do just about anything else online with this wireless router. When your family wants all your bandwidth to be dedicated to watching a marathon of binge-worthy movies, the network management app will prioritize particular devices on your network.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Testing is completed quickly.Multiple-user multi-input, multi-output (MU-MIMO) capability.
A good selection of ports.
There are a lot of management options.
[/i2pros][i2cons]It’s expensive.
In testing, file-transfer performance was mixed.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3- Google Wi-Fi system
By connecting this router to your existing router or modem, you will be able to give your network a steady and consistent signal, which will transform your network. The Google brand is known for being the most technologically advanced brand, so it contains all the latest tech tools. Wi-Fi points cover up to 1500 square feet, so if we install 3 Wi-Fi points around the house, we can achieve 4500 square feet of coverage, which will transform your network in a spectacular way.
Due to its wide range of Wi-Fi points, this is a new type of Wi-Fi system that can eliminate all dead zones inside the house. With a circular design, it is simple and easy to install. The Wi-Fi points are very light, easy to handle, and can be placed according to the requirements of the users.
Must check: Best Router For 2 Story House
Users can choose between wired and wireless technology for their convenience. Several of the latest technologies, including network assistant, are available to ensure that connections are kept as fast as possible. You can install the router with ease using the google app, and it will tell you what all your devices are connected to, prioritize the devices, and let you pause the Wi-Fi on specific devices.
Users can stop Wi-Fi from being used by specific devices using the family controls on this router.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Support for good technologySimple and easy to use
A network security point of entry filter
Dead zones are nonexistent
[/i2pros][i2cons]Durability is lower
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4- NETGEAR Nighthawk 12-Stream AX12 Wi-Fi 6 Router (RAX200)
Manufacturers of wireless routers such as Netgear are one of the most reputable companies. Nighthawk 12 is one of the most praised products in this article. Streaming all the devices at high quality with buffering and network drops is possible because the wireless speed is high. It is designed in the shape of an eagle, with 8 antennas that provide a very stable network connection.
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In addition to all of these features, it uses strict encryption protocols to ensure no internet threats and protect the connection from all viruses and insecurities. Installing the router with the night hawk app takes only a few minutes.
It can connect 12 devices simultaneously with 4X device capacity in a range of 2500 square feet. The router’s speed is 10.5 Gbps, and this allows the users to stream in high quality with a large number of devices connected at the same time. The router has eight antennas that are excellent at providing stable network signals.
Featuring the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, the Night Hawk app comes pre-installed, so users can customize the settings to suit their needs.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Signal strength for Wi-Fi is very stableYou can rely on it
A network security point of entry filter
The router can connect up to 16 devices
[/i2pros][i2cons]The price is too high
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5- ASUS Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Gaming Router (AC3100)
With its latest technology, Asus is among the best manufacturers. The router comes with dual-band gigabit Wi-Fi, which makes it the most stable in its segment.
The beamforming process provides the users with exceptional stability and signal strength. For protection from all internet threats, Trend Micro’s air protection network security is included. Connect 8 devices at once via fast ethernet ports and use the high-speed wireless network with the same reliability. There are smart connect features for establishing connections quickly.
Must check: Best Gaming Router
The device provides users with a data transfer rate of up to 3.3Gbps, which allows them to stream seamlessly without buffering. Four antennas are located on the sides and back of this router to stabilize the wireless network.
With Asus apps, you can customize your networks and set parental controls according to your needs. The router comes with Asus protection, which provides protection against online threats and data viruses.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Stability is goodThe technology of the moment
Apps are available for it
Up to 16 devices can be connected to the router
[/i2pros][i2cons]Reliability is lower
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Routers for Streaming videos [Buying Guide]
Having an overview of the products, now you must understand the different components of a streaming television router. However, certain features are mandatory.
When choosing a router for streaming television, all the features that should be kept in mind are listed in the buying guide. These features are listed below.
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Range
By producing more waves, more frequencies can be transmitted, resulting in better performance and signal strength. Make sure that the wireless router you choose has dual-band capability and can cover a large area. A wireless router with dual-band capabilities will let you stream seamlessly without buffering.
The range should be adapted to the needs of each user since it is different from one user to another. The area coverage should also be in line with the infrastructure. Furthermore, it would be a waste to spend money on a large area coverage router that you aren’t even going to use. Therefore, purchase based on your needs.
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Speed
User needs should be taken into account when determining speed. No matter if the user wants to stream heavy files on devices, play hardcore games, live a regular life, or just have normal usage.
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Various routers offer different speeds based on their bands, 2.4 GHz routers offer speeds up to 450 Mbps, 5 GHz routers offer speeds up to 1700 Mbps. Thus, choose a wireless router carefully based on your needs.
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Beamforming
Choosing the best router for streaming videos requires beamforming technology. In absence of it, network signals are dispersed throughout the coverage area, reducing their strength.
The beamforming technology focuses the signal on the connected devices so that all network signals can maintain stability and be optimized.
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Devices connectivity
While purchasing Wi-Fi routers, it should be a critical aspect to consider. The more devices that can be connected, the better, but the connection should be customized to your needs.
If you have only a few appliances to connect at home, choose a connection with a low number of devices, if you are purchasing it for a workplace, choose one with more connectivity devices.
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Price
When buying anything, the first thing we should look at is the price. Don’t make any hasty decisions. When it comes to choosing a router that will satisfy all of your needs, proper research is essential.
List down all the things your router needs to have. Compare all the features of each model in this price range and you will see which one is the most valuable. Make your final decision only then.
Frequently Asked Questions for Best router for streaming
Why do I need a router for streaming videos?
Networks connect us all, so if you want to connect multiple devices to the internet without paying internet service providers, you need a router. Internet subscriptions aren’t free, however. Streaming videos smoothly without buffering requires Internet subscriptions. The above reviews and buying guide will help you choose the best wireless router for multiple streaming devices.
Must check: Router for multiple devices
What speed router do I need for streaming videos?
Standard definition videos should be streamed at a minimum of 3 Mbps. A minimum of 5 Mbps is recommended for streaming videos in high definition. It is recommended that at least 25 Mbps be used for HDR or 4K video streaming.
Does your router matter for streaming videos?
Apart from boosting speed, adding more spatial streams to a router will allow it to send and receive more data from devices, increasing reliability and speed.
Will a better router help with streaming videos?
Your streaming problems might be solved by investing in better technology. The extra bandwidth provided by a dual-band router is useful for watching movies online since it provides a 5 GHz network. Depending on your router, you may even be able to prioritize certain devices and optimize connections.
Conclusion
These days, since everything we do is online, having the best router for streaming videos is very important. Nowadays we all use smart devices to stay connected. Finding the right router can be a difficult task. Therefore, you should choose a wifi router that is suitable for your needs very carefully.
Hopefully, you found this article helpful in your search for the best wifi router for streaming videos. Before making your final decision, be sure to read our buying guide. At the end of the day, pick what suits you best.
