Best Spectrum Router: Reviews & Buying Guide
In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to have a reliable internet connection. Whether you’re working from home, streaming movies, or staying connected with friends and family, a fast and reliable internet connection is a must.
That’s where a Spectrum router comes in. Spectrum is one of the leading providers of high-speed internet, and their routers are some of the most popular on the market. With a Spectrum router, you’ll enjoy speeds up to 300 Mbps, making it perfect for homes with multiple devices and users.
In addition, Spectrum offers 24/7 customer support, so you can always get help if you need it. Whether you’re looking for a new router or simply want to upgrade your current one, Spectrum is a great option.
What is a Spectrum Router?
A Spectrum router is a device that helps you to connect to the internet. It is a physical box that plugs into your modem and allows you to create a wireless network in your home or office.
There are many different types of routers on the market, but the Spectrum router is one of the most popular options. The main reason for this is that it offers a great deal of flexibility and power.
With a Spectrum router, you can easily connect all of your devices to the internet, including your laptop, smartphone, and tablet. You can also use the router to create a guest network, which can be useful if you have visitors who need to use the internet.
Overall, a Spectrum router is an essential piece of equipment for anyone who wants to stay connected to the online world.
Top 10 Best Spectrum Routers To Buy (Recommendations)
1. TP-Link AX6000 WiFi 6 Router
The TP-Link AX6000 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX6000) is a huge router that adds a lot of functionality to your home network, including a great set of parental controls and quality of service (QoS) settings.
By device, parental controls allow uniformity in rules to be disregarded throughout a network. Each device’s QoS settings can be managed independently, and global or per-application controls are also available.
Depending on how you use the internet, you can set these preferences to give priority to streaming or gaming.
The combination of speed and power gives you greater control over your Internet usage and protects your family from harmful content and viruses.
The AX6000 also features eight gigabit LAN ports, allowing you to hook up everything from game consoles to computers. The lack of link aggregation capabilities on the second and third LAN ports mitigates the lack of a multi-Gigabit LAN connection.
In addition to its superior Quality of Service (QOS) and parental controls, the AX6000 also features built-in Antivirus protection and band steering, allowing you to select which devices are allowed on each of its four available bands.
Also, it has MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output) so that multiple devices can share the available bandwidth instead of taking turns.
It’s helpful if multiple users are streaming content or playing games at the same time. TP-Tether Link’s app is useful for making basic configuration changes, but the online interface provides far more options.
| Pros | Cons |
| Robust parental controls | Limited control through the mobile app |
| Malware protection, and QoS | Large footprint |
| Easy setup | |
| Excellent range | |
| Eight Gigabit LAN ports |
2. TP-Link Deco WiFi 6 Mesh WiFi System
The TP-Link Deco WiFi 6 Mesh WiFi System (Deco X20) has respectable throughput, but that’s not what makes it special. (Players might wish to search elsewhere.)
Using TP-HomeCare Link’s Suite, the Deco X20’s setup process is a breeze, and you’ll have access to QoS settings for fine-grained bandwidth management and effective parental controls.
If you want complete command over your home network’s internet connection and defense against any cyberattacks, this mesh WiFi setup is for you. Security and anti-malware protection is provided by the program by default.
The TP-Link mesh system is less expensive than its rivals and features simple installation, advanced parental controls, and free anti-malware software.
Although it can cover 5,800 square feet with just three satellites, this mesh WiFi system is surprisingly cheap. MU-MIMO is included to further improve speeds for households with multiple users.
The Deco X20 isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers solid protections for the money. However, there are a few considerations you should make. The first issue is that each tower/satellite only has two Ethernet ports available.
That could not be sufficient if there are many gadgets you need to link together. In addition, there are no USB ports on the device, which could be inconvenient if you frequently connect to print or conduct other quick tasks.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price | No USB ports |
| Excellent parental controls | |
| Free anti-malware tools | |
| Simple setup |
3. ASUS AX6000 WiFi 6 Gaming Router
The ASUS AX6000 WiFi 6 Gaming Router (RT-AX88U) is the most powerful gaming router due to its eight LAN ports and impressive QoS settings.
Although there is a smartphone app, the web console offers far greater customization. With this web-based control panel, you can monitor the health of your network, USB devices, and security settings in one convenient place.
The powerful QoS settings that can be adjusted to optimize your gaming experience are accessible via this control panel.
The adaptive QoS keeps tabs on incoming and outgoing traffic, sorting it according to your preferences or a set of presets. You can give your gaming console more bandwidth than your streaming device, or vice versa.
In this section of the control panel, you may also enable or disable MU-MIMO, modify the Beacon Intervals (to alter the intervals between beacon signals), and alter the RADIUS settings that govern user access to the network.
Finally, there are eight LAN connections for hooking up a network of PCs or gaming consoles.
If you want to make sure your network can keep up with your gaming, you need fast connections and QoS features that help you fine-tune your internet consumption.
While the included features are great and allow you to fine-tune the router for an optimal gaming experience, the fact remains that its speed is the most important selling point.
You may expect high speeds and little latency if you spend any time at all playing games online. Unfortunately, the AX6000 does not come cheap.
| Pros | Cons |
| Built-in anti-malware software | Expensive |
| Eight LAN ports | |
| Robust QoS controls | |
| Simple installation |
4. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router reduces desktop clutter by integrating a modem and a router into a single device. Some useful functions are lost when a modem and router are combined, as is the case with most bundles of these two devices.
There’s no way to customize the quality of service, for instance. It’s also worth noting that this is a WiFi 5 router. Please don’t let it deter you from trying it out; the vast majority of WiFi-enabled gadgets still use this standard.
The Nighthawk is more efficient than numerous individual routers and helps keep your house less cluttered. This type may not be ideal if you want to ensure the longevity of your smart home, though.
The Nighthawk is a top-tier Netgear router because of its convenient setup and respectable range. Additionally, it features four LAN ports, allowing you to connect a wide variety of devices. The four antennas can be used for beamforming to boost the signal to certain devices.
In the end, though, this is a very quick modem router. Fast WiFi 5 connectivity is guaranteed. The process of signing up for a Spectrum Gigabit package is not without its potential hiccups. Wi-Fi 5 means it can’t use the fastest plans.
| Pros | Cons |
| Beamforming | Doesn’t work with Gigabit plans |
| Good range | |
| Impressive speeds | |
| Simple installation |
5. ARRIS SURFBoard SBG10
The ARRIS SURFBoard SBG10 is the second combination modem/router on our list. If you’re only searching for a router, the fact that it also functions as a modem makes it a great value. To add to that, it’s a fantastic option for houses without a plethora of electronic gadgets.
The ARRIS has two Gigabit LAN connections, which is just enough to get you online and keep things simple. If your home doesn’t have a lot of connected devices, you can get great speeds with this inexpensive modem router combo.
This WiFi 5 Router is compatible with Cox, Infinity, and other cable providers and offers decent speeds for the average internet user for just over $100. The ARRIS app facilitates the setup process and enables limited parental control settings.
This device saves consumers money and space while providing decent speed and range on a budget, but it doesn’t offer top-tier speeds.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy-to-use app for managing settings and usage | Few ports |
| Simple installation | |
| Reduces clutter |
6. MOTOROLA MG7540
The MOTOROLA MG7540 Cable Modem Plus AC1600 is a highly regarded device from a well-known company. The service has been approved by both Spectrum and other major ISPs.
The best value for your money, this modem router combo is designed to work with internet speeds up to 375 Mbps.
This is without a doubt the most dependable gadget in its price category, thanks to its top-tier safety features, lightning-fast internet connection, and flexible connectivity options.
Fear and the potential for privacy violations are ever-present. Your most sensitive financial information is always at risk, and malware may be effortlessly placed on your devices at any time.
The device’s Firewall feature, which offers protection at the network level, is activated to avert this. In addition, the interference caused by other frequencies is reduced to a minimum at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Because of this, wireless internet-connected gadgets can receive concentrated internet signals.
| Pros | Cons |
| AC 1600 speed | Slightly expensive |
| Beamforming technology for focused transmission | Not for more than 375Mbps internet packages |
| Dual-band wifi | |
| Excellent internet speed allows 4K streaming | |
| Reliable connection |
7. NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6220
The NETGEAR Cable Modem Wifi Router Combo C6220 router is one of the greatest options for Spectrum customers because it has several of the most popular and intriguing features.
Accordingly, it has been certified for use by some of the most prominent internet service providers such as Comcast and Cox.
It’s a router/modem in one handy package. There will be no disruptions in the transmission of internet signals, and it will take up less room and be simpler to administer.
Spectrum’s 100 Mbps Internet plan offers speeds of up to 200 Mbps with the company’s AC1200 technology. While it only supports one frequency band, it outperforms the competition in every way. In this frequency range, it can send up to 123 MB/s of data.
Wireless network coverage is really extensive. It guarantees coverage over an area of 1200 square feet, and customers report a seamless performance without the dreaded effects of dead zones. As a bonus, it supports up to 20 connections, so everyone in the house may use the lightning-fast internet at the same time.
In addition, a wide range of devices, of varying types, can be connected to your router thanks to its flexible connectivity choices.
With its two gigabit Ethernet ports and one external USB connector, you can enjoy a speedy and reliable hardwired connection. This gadget is equipped with high-speed 16×4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0 technology for ultra-fast data transfers.
Support for Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wired Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) is critical for keeping your private data safe online. If you need a wireless router and modem that can handle 100 Mbps Spectrum with speed and ease, this one is a good choice.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ac1200 speed | Does not work with DirecTV, CenturyLink, DISH, etc |
| Allows 4K streaming at a small level | Sometimes overheats and shuts down |
| Approved by Comcast and Cox as well | |
| Cost-effective | |
| DOCSIS 3.0 technology | |
| Vast coverage of 1200 square feet | |
| Versatile connectivity |
8. TP-Link AC1750
TP-Link’s AC1750 router is a reliable and affordable option for homes and small businesses. The router offers simultaneous dual-band Wi-Fi, with speeds of up to 450Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band.
In addition, the router includes four gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices, as well as a USB 3.0 port for external storage or printers. It’s cheap (less than a hundred dollars), has a VPN server, prioritized bandwidth, parental controls, Alexa compatibility, and supports up to fifty devices simultaneously.
With a 2,500-square-foot range, you can take video calls outside, and bandwidth priority lets you assign devices to one of the two bands to avoid congestion and sluggish internet rates.
You may use the TP-Link Tether app or integrate it with Amazon Alexa to control the guest’s Wi-Fi with just your voice. One of the best features of the AC1750 is its easy setup process.
The router comes with a quick start guide that walks users through the steps to get online in minutes. Overall, the TP-Link AC1750 is a great option for those looking for a fast and easy-to-use router.
| Pros | Cons |
| Alexa compatibility | Not compatible with Wi-Fi 6 |
| VPN Server | |
| Bandwidth prioritization (QoS) |
9. Gryphon AC3000
The Gryphon AC3000 provides top-notch protection against online criminals with its Wi-Fi 6 capability, vulnerability scans, and app settings that shut down any attempts by hackers to access your network remotely over the internet.
Connected devices are protected, and notifications are sent if any flaws, weak passwords, or infected gadgets are found. The router offers excellent built-in security, and you also get a year’s worth of free intrusion detection with your purchase.
It has a 3 Gbps data transfer rate and can cover an area of up to 3,000 square feet (a typical 2- or 3-bedroom home) at lightning speeds. For even better performance and range, a mesh network can be created with numerous Gryphon routers.
Content filtering, time limits, and usage tracking are just some of the parental controls available in the Gryphon Connect app. It has an exceedingly intuitive and easy-to-use user interface.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free intrusion detection in the first year | No advanced customization options |
| Easy installation with the Gryphon app | |
| Responsive support team |
10. NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh WiFi 6 System
The Netgear Orbi is a unique router that offers several benefits over traditional routers. For one, it uses a mesh network to provide coverage for a larger area. In addition, it offers speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps and can support up to 40 devices at once.
This router is unique in that it can operate on three different frequencies at once: the standard 2.4 GHz band, the faster 5 GHz band, and a third, independent 5 GHz band for use only by the router and its companion satellite.
Confidential company information is safe with Netgear Armor Antivirus and data theft prevention provided by Bitdefender.
However, the biggest advantage of the Orbi is its ability to connect to a variety of devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles.
This makes it an ideal choice for households with multiple devices that need a strong and reliable connection. Overall, the Netgear Orbi is a powerful and versatile router that can provide an excellent internet experience for any home.
| Pros | Cons |
| Wide coverage area | Only free for 30 days app capabilities |
| No dead zones | Expensive |
| Tri-band Wi-Fi |
How to choose the Best Spectrum router?
There are various aspects to consider to have the best spectrum router:
Spectrum Compatibility
Check with Spectrum to ensure router compatibility before making a purchase. If you do not want to return it, then please do so. The routers that are compatible with Spectrum can be found on the company’s website.
Although it is crucial to purchase the right modem, it is never a bad idea to check. Your router’s throughput is also limited by the speed of your internet connection. If your internet subscription is for 200 Mbps but your router can only handle 300 Mbps, your top speed will be 200 Mbps.
Wireless protocol
Your router’s speed and range are dependent on the wireless protocol, or the Wi-Fi standard. Protocols can be identified by looking for the number 802.11 followed by a specific letter combination:
- 11ax (Wi-Fi 6):
The newest Wi-Fi standard, Wi-Fi 6, supports data rates of up to 10 Gbps. However, Wi-Fi 6 is not supported by all gadgets or networks. Switching to Wi-Fi 6 will help future-proof your internet connection, even if you don’t feel the need to upgrade just yet. The quickest time possible is defined by this norm.
- 11ac (Wi-Fi 5):
Most modern routers adhere to this specification, which allows for transfer rates of up to 3.5 Gbps.
- 11n (Wi-Fi 4):
This is the first standard to accept both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, and it supports rates of up to 600 Mbps. When compared to Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6, this is the slowest specification.
Range and signal strength
Your Wifi range is dependent on the type of router you’re using, the wireless protocol it uses, and the environment you’re in. Concrete is not as conducive to wireless signals as wood or stucco, making it more difficult for them to travel through a building.
If you need long-range Wi-Fi, for instance, you should use a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi router, which has a range of up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outside.
Since 5 GHz routers use narrower wavelengths, they can only reach about a third of these distances; therefore, if your devices can be positioned closer to your internet access point, you should select a 5 GHz router for speed.
Modern routers use both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to extend their range and boost their throughput for devices that are physically close to them.
Budget
Prices for the best routers start at $50 and go up to $500. Even while the best Wi-Fi extenders can improve connectivity when there are dead zones, Consumer Reports suggests setting up a mesh router system, which uses numerous routers to broadcast reliable Wi-Fi signals.
A mesh router system, while effective, can be costly. On the other hand, if you need more consistent service in specific rooms, a Wi-Fi extender may be the right, more affordable solution.
However, if your Wi-Fi extender is placed in an inconvenient spot, it won’t be able to solve your connectivity issues and may even make things worse by creating a second network that your device has to constantly switch between.
Speed
Compare both the reported theoretical speed from the manufacturer’s idealized testing to the observed real-world performance. For this reason, there are a variety of routers with different maximum speeds, as not everyone can afford Spectrum’s top-tier service.
Ports
The maximum number of devices that can be connected directly to the router is equal to the sum of its Ethernet and USB ports. In addition to routers with several ports and wireless capabilities, there are models suitable for homes with fewer connected devices.
The Ease of Setup and Operation
The installation procedure can be sped up and simplified with the help of user-friendly apps and web consoles. There are many methods through which you can modify the settings, such as through the app or by signing into a website.
QoS, Security, and Parental Controls
You can modify the router’s performance thanks to these three options. While parents tend to prioritize safety and parental restrictions, gamers tend to prioritize QoS (quality of service) settings.
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Extra features
Guests can have their own networks, parental controls can be set up, and many modern routers are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa.
Multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output (MU-MIMO) technology, used in VPNs and routers, can improve network speed and security.
There is no shame in opting for a bare-bones router if you do not need the extra features that come with a more expensive one.
Conclusion
A good router is essential for anyone who wants to get the most out of their home internet connection. A router allows you to connect to the internet and browse the web, stream movies and TV shows, and play online games.
However, not all routers are created equal. To get the best possible performance, you need a router that is designed for your specific needs.
The NETGEAR Cable Modem Wifi Router Combo C6220 is our first choice because it is one of the few routers that Spectrum has certified as compatible with their service. The best Spectrum Router provides you with fast speeds, reliable connections, and a user-friendly interface.
It also includes features that make it easy to manage your home network and keep your family safe online. Whether you are a casual internet user or a power user who needs the fastest possible speeds, the best Spectrum Router is an essential component of your home network.
