Why a Good Gaming Router Makes All the Difference
Top-End WiFi 7 routers are a huge leap forward compared to a standard setup with a dual-band ISP router and basic range extenders. New NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 routers & Orbi Mesh Systems are gaming favorites with features that include 320MHz channels, 4K-QAM, Preamble Puncturing & even 2.5gb and 10gb Ethernet Ports. The result is faster speeds, seamless connections, and unbeatable performance capacity. WiFi 7 is a smoother, less congested, and more reliable data superhighway.
WiFi 7 Advantages for gamers include:
- Eliminates Lag: A high-quality gaming router like the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S ensures minimal latency, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced multiplayer games. The RS700S prioritizes network traffic for gaming devices and smart home applications.
- Handles High Bandwidth Demand: Modern game files are large. Once downloaded, there needs to be consistent connectivity for multiplayer online matches. NETGEAR WiFi 7 routers deliver ultra-fast speeds even when streaming 4K content and downloading simultaneously.
- Better for Game Streaming Services: Services like PlayStation Cloud Streaming or Xbox Cloud Gaming require exceptional download speeds and low latency. Modern WiFi 7 routers with strong connections give you the edge.
- Multi-Gig Ethernet Ports: 2.5 Gb and 10 Gb Multi-Gig WAN and LAN ports can support the bandwidth required for connecting multi-gig devices like gaming consoles and powerful PCs. Nighthawk routers can also include USB 3.0 ports.
- Or… Ditch the Ethernet Cable: NETGEAR’s advanced WiFi 7 routers are so powerful that you may no longer need to rely on wired connections for a lag-free gaming experience. Features like 4KQAM and Multi-Link Operation (MLO available on Orbi Mesh systems) ensure stable and fast connections by utilizing the 2.4GHZ band, 5GHz band, and 6GHz band simultaneously. This allows you to game from anywhere in your home without worrying about running cables or losing performance.
- Supports Multi-Device Environments: Gaming isn’t the only high-demand activity in a household WiFi system. With support for hundreds of connected devices and amazing smart home functionality, NETGEAR routers ensure that even in busy homes, gaming traffic remains smooth and uninterrupted.
- Security Matters: NETGEAR Armor, Parental Controls, VPN, and automatic firmware updates provide real-time wireless router protection against DDoS attacks, phishing attempts, and malware, keeping your gaming sessions secure while protecting all connected devices. With NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 routers, your internet connection is safer than ever.
Best Gaming Routers for 2025
The Nighthawk & Orbi range has expanded, from WiFi 5 & 6 dual-band routers to cutting-edge tri-band WiFi 7 in 2025 that hits the sweet spot. There is now a new NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router for every home network performance level and budget. And, as an alternative for larger homes and expansive properties, NETGEAR Orbi Mesh Networks are a number one choice for gamers.
Best WiFi 7 Routers for Gaming PCs and Consoles
NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S
Why It’s Ideal for Gaming:
- WiFi 7 internet speeds up to 19 Gbps for ultra-smooth game accelerator gameplay.
- Supports 16 Channel MU-MIMO for consistent connectivity in crowded WiFi environments
- The best WiFi router for gaming with 10 Gbps WAN and LAN gaming ports
- Handles up to 200 devices, perfect for households with multiple gamers.
NETGEAR Orbi 970 Series Mesh System
Why It’s Ideal for Larger Spaces:
- Covers up to 10,000 sq. ft. with WiFi 7 speeds of 27 Gbps.
- Quad-Band with Enhanced Dedicated Backhaul, or optionally. use a 2.5Gb wired backhaul between Mesh Router and Satellites.
- Reduces lag even when streaming 4K/8K content or using multiple gaming consoles simultaneously.
- A perfect WiFi 7 gaming router with 10 Gb WAN and LAN ports
- Built-in NETGEAR Armor for network-wide security.
Best Cable Modem for Gaming
A great WiFi experience starts with a powerful modem that can squeeze out more throughput performance from your cable ISP. Best Cable Modem from NETGEAR is CM3000 Mid/High-Split Cable Modem. Features include:
- Faster Upload and Download Speeds.
- 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Port or connect the two 1 Gigabit ports to a router with link aggregation for up to 2Gbps.
- Pairs great with the top Orbi and Nighthawk routers.
Best Router Settings for Gaming
WiFi 7 routers give gamers a winning advantage, and there are still more ways to fine-tune high-end gaming performance. It’s all too easy to blame the game for your losses, but you could try these handy tips:
- Enable QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize gaming devices for smoother performance.
- Use Wired Connections: Consider utilizing multi-gigabit Ethernet ports on Nighthawk routers ensure lag-free connections to key devices such as game-consoles and gaming PCs.
- Enable 6Ghz WiFi 7: PS5 Pro and Gaming Laptops support the highest performance 6Ghz WiFi connections.
- Utilize Tri-Band & Quad-Band Networks: Keep gaming devices and other high-bandwidth devices separate from general smart home devices to minimize interference.
WiFi 7 Gaming Devices to Pair with These Routers
Gaming PCs:
- Alienware Aurora R16: Optimized for 4K gaming.
- Asus ROG NUC 970: Compact powerhouse for high-performance gaming.
Gaming Consoles:
- PlayStation 5 Pro: Enhanced multiplayer and streaming capabilities.
- Xbox Series X: Powerful 4K gaming with advanced networking features.
FAQs
What makes a router suitable for gaming?
Gaming routers with WiFi 7 for low latency include features like QoS, multiple antennas, multi-gigabit Ethernet ports and high-speed CPU performance to minimize lag.
Is WiFi 7 necessary for gaming?
WiFi 7 routers are backwards compatible with WiFi 5 and WiFi 6 devices. It is highly recommended to upgrade to WiFi 7 as it can enhance gaming with lower latency, faster downloads and better connectivity for high-demand games.
Do I need a mesh system for gaming?
If you have a large home or multiple gamers, a mesh system like the Orbi can ensure consistent coverage without the need for unreliable / laggy WiFi extenders or expensive Ethernet runs.
Can I use a gaming router for streaming?
Yes, the best routers for online gaming like the Nighthawk RS700S & Orbi 970 Series can handle 4K/8K streaming and gaming simultaneously.
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Elevate Your Gaming with the Best Router
For the win… pair your gaming setup with low latency and high speeds for seamless multi-device connectivity. NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Routers and NETGEAR Orbi Whole-Home WiFi 7 Mesh Systems can enhance the streaming and gaming experience for everyone under one roof. The best gaming routers are designed to sync with gaming consoles that use state-of-the-art virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI. We invite you to take gaming performance to the next level with NETGEAR!
