KITGURU SHORTLISTS: THE BEST ROUTER OF 2024

The Nighthawk XR700 is simply the best gaming router currently on the market, combining class-leading WiFi performance with the feature-rich DumaOS gaming-focused management software. On top of that, it offers plenty of networking ports, and you can even can combine a pair of Gigabit connections into a really fast single connection. While it doesn't come cheap, this is the ultimate gaming router.

The Sila is a fantastic first router from Razer. It has a commendable range of software management features designed for gamers, and it looks very stylish. Its 802.11ac throughput at ranges of 10m and below is phenomenal, while the FasTrack quality of service controls are particularly well defined for current gaming tastes. Razer has clearly done its homework and brought all of its gaming knowledge and experience to bear on the Sila's software, making it a great gaming router.

The Nighthawk XR500 is another top-class networking option from NETGEAR. It offers solid WiFi performance, but it is the DumaOS software which puts it in a league of its own. This includes features like the adjustable Geo Filter, and offers extensive QoS (quality of service) controls. The hardware may not be quite as impressive as NETGEAR's own XR700, but the software is excellent and at £240, it isn't unreasonably expensive.

The ASUS Blue Cave AC2600 proves that you can have style and substance in one package. Unlike almost all of the other routers on the market, it doesn't look like an alien space ship - instead it is sleek and understated. It doesn't seem to have taken a hit in performance or features as a result of this design, though, as the Blue Cave is up there with the best for WiFi speeds whether over 802.11ac or 802.11n. If you want a top performing router with more palatable design language, this is a great option.

The Synology RT2600ac is a great all-rounder. It may not be groundbreaking, but it's packed with software features and it performs really well for the price. On top of this you get a four-port Gigabit Ethernet switch, USB 3.0 and SDXC options for attaching storage to the network, and a comprehensive setup process. For the £230 asking price, you do get a lot for your money.