When it comes to online gaming, a reliable and fast wireless router can make all the difference between victory and defeat. But with so many options available, choosing the right one for your gaming needs can be overwhelming. In this buyer's guide, we'll help you navigate the world of gaming routers and find the perfect one for your needs.

First up is the Asus RT-AX86U, our top pick for gaming routers. Released in 2020, this router offers all the same features as its predecessor, with the added bonus of support for Wi-Fi 6 technology. With a list price of around $300, it's an affordable option that delivers fast and steady speeds.

One of the key features that sets the Asus RT-AX86U apart from other gaming routers is its impressive lineup of gamer-centric features. These include advanced QoS (Quality of Service) settings, which allow you to prioritize traffic for specific devices or applications, as well as customizable settings for latency and packet prioritization.

But what really sets this router apart is its performance in our latency tests. In these tests, we simulated a gaming scenario by transmitting data packets across the network at regular intervals. The Asus RT-AX86U performed impressively, with an average latency of just 2.5 milliseconds. This means that if you're playing a fast-paced online multiplayer game, you'll experience minimal lag and stuttering.

So why is Wi-Fi 6 technology so important for gaming? In short, it's because it offers faster speeds and lower latency than its predecessor, Wi-Fi 5 (also known as 802.11ac). With Wi-Fi 6, you can expect speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps, compared to the 1.3 Gbps offered by Wi-Fi 5.

But is a wireless gaming router with Wi-Fi 6 support worth the splurge? The answer depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're a serious gamer who wants the fastest possible speeds and lowest latency, then a Wi-Fi 6-enabled router like the Asus RT-AX86U may be worth the investment.

On the other hand, if you're not planning to upgrade your router in the near future, or if you're on a budget, there are still plenty of great gaming routers available that don't support Wi-Fi 6. For example, the TP-Link Archer C9 is a budget-friendly option that offers fast speeds and low latency at an affordable price.

Ultimately, the best solution for gamers is to hardwire their devices via Ethernet cables, which eliminates the risk of interference and lag entirely. However, if you don't want to be tethered to a cord, upgrading your wireless router may be the best option.

In conclusion, choosing the right gaming router can make all the difference in your online gaming experience. By understanding the key features and technologies that affect performance, you can find the perfect router for your needs and take your gaming to the next level.

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