6 Best Routers for Mac in 2023

Well, this might be news to a lot of you, but not all routers deliver the same results on all the platforms available. A top-notch performing router on Windows can sometimes be the worst router to get for your Mac.

It's mostly due to the WIFI configurations not being optimized for the OS it's being used on. Not many of us want to take the pain-staking process of optimizing those settings so that it works best for the device.

Keeping that in mind, down below are the best routers for mac you can buy and get the best performance straightaway.

Top Routers for Mac in 2023 by Editors

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  Preview
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• Bestseller No. 1
  
  D-Link EXO WiFi 6 Router AX1500 MU-MIMO Voice Control Dual Band Gigabit Gaming Internet...
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• Bestseller No. 2
  
  NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (RAX70) 8-Stream Gigabit Router, AX6600 Tri-Band Wireless...
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• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Linksys Mesh Wifi 5 Router, Tri-Band, 2,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Supports Guest WiFi, Parent...
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• Bestseller No. 4
  
  TP-Link Archer C6 IEEE 802.11AC Ethernet Wireless Router/Archer C6
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• Bestseller No. 5
  
  NETGEAR 4-Stream AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (RAX20-100NAS)
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6 Best Routers for Mac

For your convenience, we have assembled a list of 6 routers for a Macintosh computer. Hopefully, our list will help you to choose a router that is a perfect fit for your household.

1. LinkSys EA9500 Tri-Band Router

One of the biggest things to consider about a router is its range. Since it provides Internet wirelessly, you should look into how far the WiFi signals reach. The larger the radius of the router, the farther you can access the WiFi.

For this reason, the router by LinkSys is among the best in the WiFi signal range. It has a staggering range of 3000 sq. feet, which helps you access the Internet from an entire building's distance almost effortlessly. As it is an all-purpose router, you don't have to worry about it not connecting to your apple devices.

This router has an 802.11a/b/g/n/ac WiFi standard, meaning you can connect any device you want without worrying about any lack of support. Modern-day band technology has made it successful in connecting with just about any device that supports WiFI over long ranges.

Why this router is particularly special from most other routers lies in its Tri-Band technology. The three bands have varying degrees of speed, suited for your gaming, browsing, and networking needs, respectively. With the tri-band technology, its combined speed rate adds up to an astounding 5.3 Gbps.

With the router's 8 WiFi antennas, it provides powerful streams of data to your devices, ensuring far-reaching WiFi coverage. Meaning, you can perform tasks that require high-speed data transfer rates without worrying about getting disconnected.

One of the best features of this router is simultaneously delivering four streams on each of the three WiFi bands. This feature ensures that you can enjoy an uninterrupted stream of data transfer that will not fail you in any way whatsoever.

Pros

• 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standard WiFi connection
• Over 3000 square feet of WiFi coverage
• Bandwidth rate of 5.3 Gbps
• Contains 8 WiFi antennas
• Four simultaneous streams of data

Cons

• Heavier than most other routers
• Contains minor bugs in software

2. TP-Link AC1900 Smart Router

The internet router has existed ever since DARPA first revealed the Internet, and the push for better Wireless Fidelity has ensued ever since. Routers keep getting better with every single change to their functionality.

Smart routers are getting more and more prevalent now, and TP-Link makes some of the best of them. Their router boasts the most sought out feature in a router, colloquially known as VPN or virtual private network. This router aptly works with your mac to provide smooth internet access.

VPNs aren't new, but their integration in a router is undoubtedly a recent innovation. TP-Link's router can host a VPN server that is both secure and fast. You can use the server to browse the web and access restricted content safely.

The router also has dual-band technology. While it is not the most sophisticated WiFi technology, it can reach a 1300 Mbps data transfer rate on the 5 GHz band, ensuring high-speed internet access on multiple devices.

Having a smartphone app for a router is convenient because you can control it from virtually anywhere you want. Conveniently, TP-Link includes an app called Tether, which helps you manage any router aspect without needing to plug it in.

Security is a big concern for routers, which is why the router comes with TP-Link's Archer A9 network security. With this level of protection, the router protects your devices from malicious software and ensures that no hacker can attempt to steal your data.

Last but not least, this router comes with a handy feature called Smart Connect. It can direct your devices to less congested bands so that you can access the Internet without having to wait.

Pros

• Dual-banded technology
• Capable of hosting VPN server
• 1300 Mbps data transfer rates
• Includes Smartphone app
• Archer A9 superior network security

Cons

• Contains flaws in software
• Clunky user interface

3. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Router

Now and then, there comes a piece of technology that, while unknown to the common denominator, is so powerful that it dominates everything. It could be a piece of hardware or software, but it is a router in this case.

The team at ASUS makes a router that is so feature-laden, you won't need to buy anything for a long time. Dubbed ROG Rapture, this router has many more features than an average router. It works with no issues at all for mac due to its powerful software.

First of all, let's talk about the WiFi standard. This router boasts the latest 802.11ax, which uses Bluetooth functionalities to broadcast signals at alarming rates. This standard also means you can connect up to 40 devices simultaneously without any lag at all.

While the standard is good and all, the real MVP is the 1.8 GHz Quad-Core CPU that provides ultra-fast transfer rates and software management. It also has a 2.5 GHz dedicated gaming port for the highest tier of performance while playing games.

The router also features a built-in VPN server that you can use to host your games or safely browse the Internet. You can access the VPN from the included ROG gaming center software, which is very polished and well equipped with features.

After the release of this router and a couple of others, ASUS made a technology called AiMesh. You can use this innovative technology to link up multiple routers in your home to create an interpersonal home network that is both secure and convenient.

Pros

• 802.11ax standard with Bluetooth functionalities
• Quad-Core processor for optimal software management
• 2.5 GHz dedicated gaming port
• Built-in VPN server
• AiMesh Home Network creation technology

Cons

• Bulky in size
• Overpriced compared to most routers

4. Google Nest WiFi Router

In the beginning, there was the concept of connecting computers through a network. It was a reasonably simple concept until it mutated into what we know today as the Internet of Things. It resides in every electronic device we use today.

A smart home is a way to connect everyday appliances we use in our homes on a network for better convenience. Google paved the way for it with its smart home router, built for connecting your devices to the Internet effortlessly.

The router itself has a short-form factor, meaning you don't need much space to set it up. Its cylindrical design helps it in providing much-needed portability in contrast to standard full-sized routers. You can use it on the go without any worries.

These routers can easily handle up to 150 devices simultaneously without lagging at all. With its dual-band technology, you can easily stream multiple 4K videos without worrying about the Internet slowing down. That's how fast these routers are.

If you're concerned about the range, don't worry at all. This router comes in a dual-pack, so the signal range adds up to a total of 4400 square feet. This signal range is more than enough to cover most buildings and intermediate-level workplaces.

Google also provides an included app for controlling the router remotely called Nest WiFi. You can determine the priority for any device you want, resulting in faster speeds for that particular device.

One of the most useful features of this router is the onboard parental controls. You can use this feature to block off harmful content and malicious malware on the Internet, resulting in a safe environment for kids to use.

Pros

• Smart home features
• Small in size
• 150 devices can use the Internet
• 4400 square feet dual range
• Smartphone app integration

Cons

• Slow update process
• Cannot be configured without an app

5. Motorola MG7700 Gigabit Router

A cable router is a type of router that uses a cable connection instead of Ethernet to provide Internet. Usually, cable providers such as Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, and such include internet services in their cable package.

Motorola's router can operate using a cable connection, meaning you can stream television content using your router without needing a separate link. Its 24×8 cable port can handle any cable connection without frequent lags and disruptions.

Its twin band technology provides adequate speeds for most uses. You can rest assured knowing that Motorola offers avid support to a wide range of apple computers.

The router also has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting to the Internet from 4 different services at the same time. Coupled with the support for any cable provider, you can expect to buy any cable package from any provider, and it will work trouble-free.

When we talk WiFi, we typically talk about how fast a router can transfer data. This concern resulted in Motorola implementing its Beamforming technology to its routers. Using this feature, you can get ultra-fast data transfer rates on any device you want.

For security, Motorola integrated a Broadcom chipset so that it can instantly repel any Distributed Denial of Service attacks and keep your router safe. It also provides wireless power boosting, which is useful if you want better performance.

Another facet of security is a built-in firewall. Meaning, you can block off certain websites and malware phishing emails using the firewall's settings. Pretty convenient when you want to protect yourself from unwanted viruses and ransomware.

Pros

• Cable connection providing television services
• 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Beamforming implantation to provide high performance
• Broadcom chipset to protect from DDoS attacks
• Built-in firewall safeguarding devices from malware

Cons

• User cannot update firmware on their own
• It doesn't support telephone ports

6. NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 WiFi 6 Router

The best that the WiFi technology has to offer today is called WiFi 6. It is the next-generation standard in this technology, which is also known as 802.11ax by many people. The technology promises to reduce interruptions and eliminate latency.

Luckily, NETGEAR has you covered with their WiFi 6 router that is efficient in its data transfer and secure in its service. Its 12-stream data lane ensures all-around high-speed transmission for all of your devices. Netgear is famously known for their compatibility with mac computers.

The router comes with a 1.8 GHz Quad-Core processor that uses MU-MIMO connectivity to connect to the Internet at any given point effortlessly. It also has 1024 QAM and dynamic QoS to eliminate disruptions and yield unbelievable speeds.

Arguably, one of the more recent innovations for a router is smartphone app integration. This aspect is why this router comes with a smartphone app called Nighthawk, built to control the router from anywhere you want.

Now, we all know what cloud storage is. It can help us access our data from anywhere we want. With this intention in mind, the router comes with a feature where it can use a USB hard drive as a personal cloud storage device for you to use. Very helpful for when you need a place to store your valuable data.

Surprising as it may be, NETGEAR also provides a built-in internet security solution with the router. With the help of this solution, you and your loved ones can safely surf the Internet without worrying about getting infected by viruses.

Pros

• 802.11ax WiFi standard
• WiFi 6 technology to ensure the best performance
• 1.8 GHz Quad-Core processor with 1024 QAM
• Beamforming technology equipped with VPN and Firewall
• On-board internet security

Cons

• Relatively small WiFi signal range
• Lack of customization in the app user interface

What to Look for Before You Buy?

Most people are not acquainted with the various aspects of a router and how they should buy it. So, we've put together a guide on what to look for in your next router purchase.

WiFi Standards

When buying a router, always check for the WiFi standard of the router. Buying a router that has a standard that your device doesn't support is an unsatisfactory purchase. Make sure it is of the latest standard.

Your best bet should be to get an 802.11ax standard, which incorporates WiFi 6 technology to provide maximum performance. If you can't find it, then 802.11a/b/g works too. It is good enough to suffice your needs.

WiFi Bandwidth

This category describes the maximum data transfer rate of a network or internet connection in a set amount of time. It measures how much data users can transfer over a specific connection in a given measure of time.

For example, a gigabit connection has a bandwidth of 1000 Mbps. It would help if you bought a router with the most amount of bandwidth to ensure more capability. Generally speaking, a Gigabit bandwidth is the best place to start.

Security Measures

Security is another concern when it comes to internet connections. We want to be safe and secure when it comes to using the Internet. That is why we desire active security measures.

When you are looking for a router, you should check if the manufacturer provides any special security software. Cybersecurity software can help you eliminate the risk of viruses and malware, making the Internet a safer place.

Range

Antennas are a staple of any wireless signal emitting device. It helped pave the way for modern data distribution and transfer. They are indicative of a device's signal range too.

The more antennas you have, the better the range of the device is. So, you should look for more than four antennas in a router to help you get better signal coverage. If you're looking to use it in your home, then three antennas work too.

Ports

A port is where you can connect your devices through a wire to get low latency. It is essential to have at least one port dedicated to Ethernet. Having more ports will always be a plus point for you.

Look for a router that has at least one Ethernet port and two device ports. If you have these ports, they will help you connect wired devices and act as a bridge between the Internet and non-wireless devices.

How to Set Up a New WiFi Router on a Mac?

Setting a router on a Mac is very easy. Follow these easy steps, and you can easily set up a new WiFi router without fail -

1. Make sure that the Mac is not currently connected to the Internet via the Ethernet line.
2. Plug the cable modem into the power socket and allow it to initialize.
3. Connect the Ethernet cable into the modem to get internet access.
4. Open your browser. Locate the address bar and type in the unique address that was provided by the router.
5. Input the SSID and password.
6. Right-click on the network icon to connect to your router's SSID.
7. 
   

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a router do?

Your router handles network traffic. It has a unique IP address to receive data packages from servers worldwide. Transferring your data gives you access to the Internet wirelessly. Every router also carries an individual MAC address that helps identify devices.

2. What is the difference between modems and routers?

A modem turns the proprietary network signal of your ISP into a standard one. On the other hand, routers work on the same principle, except they provide Internet access through wireless means using wireless signals.

3. How to access a router?

You need to create a wired connection between your computer and router first. Doing that, you should enter the IP address of your router in a browser. That way, you can access its settings page.

4. What is the IP address of my router?

To find the IP address of your router from the comfort of your computer, open a command prompt and type ipconfig, then press Enter. Now, find the entry that says Default Gateway, which is your router's IP.

5. How to restart a router?

Turn off the router and unplug it from the power socket. Wait for at least 10 seconds before plugging it back in and clicking the ON button.

Final Words

The Internet is the gateway to information and knowledge for many people. So, it should make sense that you get the best for your price. Hopefully, you can follow our guide of best routers for mac and get a router that is worthy of your household.

Buy them at Etsy, Walmart, eBay (limited quantity)

D-Link EXO WiFi 6 Router AX1500 MU-MIMO Voice Control Dual Band Gigabit Gaming Internet - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (RAX70) 8-Stream Gigabit Router, AX6600 Tri-Band Wireless - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Linksys Mesh Wifi 5 Router, Tri-Band, 2,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Supports Guest WiFi, Parent - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

TP-Link Archer C6 IEEE 802.11AC Ethernet Wireless Router/Archer C6 - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

NETGEAR 4-Stream AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (RAX20-100NAS) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay