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If you’re looking for the best router for Spectrum, then we have you covered right here. Spectrum offers some very good internet packages with speeds of up to 1 Gbps. However, while their modem is free, they have a rental fee for the router. Plus, their router is good for most general use but not the best if you have a specific use case, like the best gaming performance or the widest coverage.
If you browse through the options available, you will find regular routers, modem router combos, and several other types of routers – so you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for and also be picky. When it comes to features and specs, you can expect to find Spectrum-compatible routers that offer strong WiFi standards, gigabit and multi-gigabit ports, and additional features like parental controls and QoS that can improve your network experience.
With that said, to save you time and effort, we have researched and rounded up what we think are the best routers for Spectrum Internet. Whether you’re looking for the best router for Spectrum 1 gig plan or a budget-friendly option, you’ll find everything in our guide.
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BEST ROUTER FOR SPECTRUMNETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency band: N/A
- Max speed: 6 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
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BEST GAMING ROUTER FOR SPECTRUMASUS RT-AX3000
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
- Max speed: 2.4 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
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BEST MESH ROUTER FOR SPECTRUMTP-Link Deco AX3000
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency band: 2.4 GHz, 5 Ghz
- Max speed: 2402 Mbps
- LAN ports: 1 x 1 Gbps
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BEST BUDGET ROUTER FOR SPECTRUMTP-Link AX1800
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 Ghz
- Max Speed: 1.8 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
How we selected the best router for Spectrum
For this guide, we looked at several routers from different brands, compared them, and then selected the ones that we thought were the best. The routers for Spectrum have been selected based on speeds, wireless standards, coverage, security, and other factors. Further, we are always looking for more WiFi routers compatible with Spectrum for our list, so make sure to check back here soon.
Best router for Spectrum
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency band: N/A
- Max speed: 6 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
- High-speed 6 Gbps router
- Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem
- Support for up to 30 devices
- Multi-gig port is overkill for low-speed plans
If you are looking for the best router for Spectrum, then you should check out the NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80. Much like some of the best modem router combos, this one also packs a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and a Wi-Fi 6 router into one device. Plus, the Wi-Fi 6 router with dual-band connectivity supports speeds of up to 6 Gbps, so you don’t have to worry about any performance throttles from the router. While the router does not have external antennas, it can still cover up to 2,500 sq. ft. of space while staying connected to around 30 devices.
As for wired connectivity, you get four Gigabit LAN ports and a 2.5 multi-gig LAN (or internet) port that supports port aggregation. These should provide a seamless wired connection. However, it is important to note that until and unless you have a high-speed internet plan, you won’t really benefit from the multi-gig port. On top of that, there’s also a USB 3.0 port, so you can connect your external storage device directly to the router and share data over the network.
The basic parental controls are already included, but you can also crank the security up a notch with NETGEAR Armor (subscription required). Overall, the NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 is definitely the best modem router combo for Spectrum, as it ticks all the boxes of a high-performance device.
What users say
According to customer reviews on Amazon, the router is praised for its simple setup process. Users can easily log in to the web interface and manage settings directly from their phones. Additionally, many reviewers highlight the router’s impressive speed, providing a very fast internet connection. However, in a more negative review, some customers find the value to be lacking, and opinions are divided on aspects like performance, connectivity, signal strength, and compatibility.
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
- Max speed: 2.4 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
- Speeds of up to 3,000 Mbps
- Covers up to 3,000 sq. ft.
- Good security features
- No multi-gig port
If you’re an avid gamer and want a reliable connection for your competitive matches, then you should check out the ASUS RT-AX3000, which is one of the best routers for gaming. It is a Wi-Fi 6 dual-band router that offers up to 2,402 Mbps of speed on the 5GHz band, and the 2.4GHz can handle a solid 574 Mbps – bringing the total to 3,000 Mbps. With these speeds, you should be able to game online smoothly.
Along with high-speed connectivity, the four antennas can also maintain a solid range of up to 3,000 sq. ft. and stay connected to around 30 devices without any hiccups. As far as wired connections are concerned, 4x Gigabit LAN and 1x Gigabit WAN ports. If you have a high-speed plan, the Gigabit ports should provide a lag-free online gaming experience with minimal latency and faster data transfer rates. And in case you want to share data over the network, the router comes with a USB 3.2 Gen1 port so you can easily connect your external storage devices with the router. The only disappointing part of the RT-AX3000 is the lack of a multi-gig port. However, considering Spectrum does not offer beyond anything 1Gbs with its internet plans, you’ll be fine without one.
For optimal gaming performance at all times, the router has adaptive and traditional QoS, so you can have the best connectivity for your PC or console by prioritizing the bandwidth to them. The router is also Alexa-compatible, and there are a ton of security features all over the place. From parental controls and firewalls to VPN and ASUS Ai Protection, you don’t have to worry about any security compromises. Overall, the ASUS RT-AX3000 is the best gaming router for Spectrum, and you can expect it to help you enjoy lag-free online gaming.
What users say
Customers on Amazon were impressed by the network interface controller adapter’s features, mentioning its extensive options and customization possibilities. They also highlight its value, saying it offers a lot for the price. Furthermore, reviewers are happy with the speed, reporting no lag or buffering. With that being said, opinions are divided on signal strength, connectivity, performance, and build quality.
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency band: 2.4 GHz, 5 Ghz
- Max speed: 2402 Mbps
- LAN ports: 1 x 1 Gbps
- Coverage of around 6,500 sq. ft.
- Speeds up to 3000 Mbps
- Multi-gig port
- No support for VPN
- Extenders are expensive
If you have a Spectrum connection for your business or a large house that needs a mesh Wi-Fi system, you should check out the TP-Link Deco X50-PoE. To begin with, it is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router that can handle 2402 Mbps (on 5GHz) and 574 Mbps (on 2.4GHz). With this, you should get sufficient speeds for online gaming, streaming, and general use.
The main router, combined with its two extenders, can cover up to 6,500 sq. ft. of space, which makes it ideal for medium businesses or over 4 to 6-bedroom houses. On top of that, like some of the best routers for multiple devices, it can connect with up to 150 devices simultaneously. Each Deco unit has a 1x 2.5 Gbps port and 1x Gigabit port that supports WAN/LAN auto-sensing. However, since Spectrum’s internet plans don’t go above 1 Gbps, you won’t really benefit from the multi-gig port.
While there are no VPN tools, you get good parental controls, WPA/WPA22/WPA3 security, and a solid firewall for security. Of course, you can also get HomeShield (subscription-based) and enjoy a bunch of more advanced features. Overall, the TP-Link Deco X50 is the best mesh router for Spectrum that can eliminate the deadzones in your house or office using extenders.
What users say
Users on Amazon are impressed by this networking router, praising its user-friendliness, attractive design, affordability, reliability, and extensive coverage. Reviewers highlight it as a great purchase, boasting an impressive signal range and a user-friendly app for managing the network. For example, one user stated “the results are super impressive. The internet speeds in the house went from an avg of 200mbp/s to over 500mbp/s with this network.”
- Standard: WiFi 6
- Frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 Ghz
- Max Speed: 1.8 Gbps
- LAN ports: 4 x 1 Gbps
- Speed of up to 1.8 Gbps
- Wi-Fi 6 dual-band router
- Easy settings with Tether app
- No USB port
The TP-Link Archer AX21 (AX1800) is a budget-friendly router that skips out on extra bells and whistles to get your job done well. If you’re looking for the best Wi-Fi router for Spectrum that delivers great performance without crossing the $100 mark, then this router is the way to go. For starters, the Archer 21 comes with the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard and can handle speeds up to 1.8 Gbps. This is all thanks to its dual-band connectivity, which comes in the form of a 2.4 Ghz and a 5 Ghz channel.
The 4x antennas also make it good to go for most 3-bedroom houses, and for wired connectivity, there are 4x Gigabit LAN ports along with a Gigabit WAN port. While we didn’t expect a multi-gig port at this price point, which isn’t useful with Spectrum’s internet plans anyway, a USB option would have been a nice addition. It would have made data transfer over the network easy, but we can’t expect much from a budget option.
There are several key security features, such as WPA3, VPN, and firewall. Plus, you also get access to parental controls, which can help you monitor your kids’ internet activity and restrict certain websites on the network. QoS is also available with the router, which can help you prioritize bandwidth for devices. Setting up the router is pretty simple thanks to the Tether app, and all of this makes the TP-Link Archer AX21 the best budget router for Spectrum. In case you want to explore more budget options, check our top picks for the best budget routers.
Considerations for the best router for Spectrum
Selecting a router for Spectrum isn’t just about picking one of the best wireless routers. Instead, there are a lot of boxes you need to tick first.
To start with, you need to double-check whether a router is compatible with Spectrum or not. Once you confirm that, here are a few essential points that can help you pick the best router for Spectrum Internet.
Wireless standards
As you will be using your router for quite a few years, you should get a router that has the latest wireless technology. At the moment, you can go for a WiFi 6 or WiFi 6E router, which are both new wireless standards.
Now, WiFi 6 is more commonly used, so most of the devices that you own will be able to take advantage of the high speed. However, if you have new devices that are compatible with WiFi 6E, you can consider getting WiFi 6E routers. If you’re looking for options with the latest WiFi standards, check out some of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers and the best Wi-Fi 6E routers.
Coverage
The goal is to get a Spectrum router capable of covering the entire area and eliminating any deadzones. Most of the routers’ product descriptions mention the approximate area covered by the router, so you should get an idea.
For instance, some of the best routers for large homes can cover 6,000 sq. ft. area or more. On the other hand, a router covering 2500 to 3000 sq. ft. is more suitable for a small home. You may also be interested in checking out some of the best mesh routers, as these are also great when it comes to range.
Number of devices supported
If you’re planning to use the router in your office where several people will be connecting to the same network, you’d want to go with a router that can handle multiple devices. Some routers can only support up to 10 devices at the same time. However, you can also find routers that can connect with up to 50 or more devices simultaneously. Just make sure the router has a good processor and enough RAM so it can perform well under load.
Wired connectivity
If you have the 1 Gbps plan from Spectrum, then you’ll need to opt for a router that comes with at least one Gigabit port. However, if you have multiple devices that require an Ethernet connection, then you’ll need to pick the one with at least 4 Gigabit ports. You can also find multi-gig ports on some routers, but they are an overkill for Spectrum.
Security
Most routers offer basic network security, parental controls, guest network setups, and other security features for free. However, some advanced features might be “premium,” and you can get those at an additional cost. Such features are mostly found in the best secure routers.
Verdict
If you want to save space and have a hassle-free setup, then we think that the Netgear Nighthawk modem-router combo will be a good investment. The device can give you up to 6 Gbps speed, so you can go for high-speed plans. The router gives you a coverage of up to 2,500 sq. ft. and keeps 30 devices connected, which sounds good for small to medium-sized houses.
FAQs
What is the fastest Internet speed on Spectrum?
The fastest internet plan from Spectrum offers speeds of up to 1 Gbps. This is one of the reasons why you don’t need a router with a multi-gig port for Spectrum.
Is it better to use your own router with Spectrum?
As you have to pay an additional monthly fee for the official Spectrum router, and considering it is not that good, you’re better off using your own router with Spectrum. There are different brands in the market, such as Asus, Netgear, and TP-Link, that make some of the best Spectrum-compatible routers.
