For a reliable, fast, and secure internet connection, fiber optic routers are typically the best choice for homes or business settings. With the potential to deliver high-speed bandwidth of up to 10Gbps in many areas, fiber optics provide individuals with access to lightning-fast download speeds over traditional copper wires.
When looking for the perfect router that will meet all of your unique needs, it’s important to consider factors such as speed and range so you can be sure that you’re getting an effective product.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the top choices available today regarding finding the best fiber optic router for your home or office Internet!
What is a Fiber Optic Router?
A fiber optic router is a networking device that uses fiber-optic cables as its primary medium of communication. These cables are made up of extremely thin glass fibers, which allow them to carry much larger amounts of data far more quickly than traditional copper wires. Fiber optics routers can send and receive data at lightning speeds, making them ideal for large-scale data transfers such as streaming HD videos.
What are the benefits of a Fiber Optic Router?
Here are some of the top benefits that you can expect from a fiber optic router:
- Increased speed and range: Compared to traditional routers, fiber optics offer incredibly fast speeds with much wider coverage.
- Improved security: Fiber optic cables are less susceptible to interference than copper wires, making them more secure for data transmissions.
- Reduced expenses: The initial set-up costs of fiber optics can be a bit higher, but you’ll save in the long run due to their lower maintenance and energy requirements.
- Advanced features: Many newer models of fiber optic routers are equipped with advanced features that allow for even more customization. This includes things like Quality of Service (QoS), which helps prioritize certain types of traffic, and Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide extremely fast data transmission speeds.
Now let’s look at the best fiber optic routers available on the market today.
8 Best Fiber Optic Routers For Home or Office Internet
Here are some of the best fiber optic routers available today:
1. NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router
Core Specification
| Brand | NETGEAR |
| Series | R6700AX-1AZNAS |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ax |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, Gaming Console, Smartphone |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, Online Videos & Movies |
| Included Components | 4-Stream AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (R6700AX), Ethernet cable, Quick start guide, Power adapter |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 0.01 Ounces |
| Price |  |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | Up to 1.75Gbps |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 1,500 sq. ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | 20 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port , 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 3 Beamforming antennas 2.3/5ghz |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, WPA2, DoS, Double Firewall |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | 1.5GHz Dual-Core processor, 256MB flash, and 512MB RAM memory |
| Router Advanced Technology | Dual Band, Beamforming+, Smart Connect |
| Router Other Features | VPN, Guest WiFi Secure Access, Personal Cloud Storage |
| Router Warranty | 1-year limited hardware warranty |
| Router Setup | The Nighthawk App makes it Easy Setup & Management |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Enjoy uninterrupted movies, gaming, video calls, and more on all your devices, all at the same time | Won’t let users track data usage in the Netgear app |
| Fairly reliable connection. My computer is on the second floor and the router is on the first floor | |
| It’s very easy to update when an update from Netgear is issued | |
| It’s pretty easy to set up, out of the box | |
| It is a fantastic router and really spreads the coverage |
2. ASUS AC1750 WiFi Router
Core Specification
| Brand | ASUS |
| Series | Asus AC1750 |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Home |
| Included Components | RT-ACRH18 WiFi Router, Power Adapter, Warranty Card, Quick Start Guide |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Color | WHITE |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | Up to 1.75Gbps |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 3000 Sq Ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 30 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port , 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 3 Beamforming antennas |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, WPA |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | AiRadar Beamforming Technology |
| Router Advanced Technology | Dual-band AC1750-level Wi-Fi, MU-MIMO |
| Router Other Features | VPN, Guest WiFi Secure Access, Personal Cloud Storage |
| Router Warranty | 1-year limited hardware warranty |
| Router Setup | Easy Network Setup and Control with ASUS Router App |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| The WiFi signal is focused on connected devices to ensure a stable connection | Currently does not support ASUS AI Mesh networking |
| Cool and adjustable LED lighting | |
| Easy setup for the beginner | |
| Consistent data processing and movement in the network |
3. TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router
Core Specification
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Series | Archer AX21 |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, Home |
| Included Components | Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Antenna Type | Fixed |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | Good |
| Router WiFi Coverage | Good |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 40 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port , 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, Advanced WPA3 Security |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | Good |
| Router Advanced Technology | Dual-band AC1750-level Wi-Fi 6, OFDMA technology |
| Router Other Features | Archer AX21 Supports both VPN Server and VPN Client (Open/PPTP/L2TP over Ipsec) |
| Router Warranty | 1-year limited hardware warranty |
| Router Setup | Smart home made easy for non-experts. Setup with Alexa is simple |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| The TP-Link Tether app was an easy install but it initially had issues until I figured out how to finally configure the AX21 | It doesn’t play well with 3rd party Wi-Fi extenders |
| The APP works great on my phone to access | |
| APP works great on my phone to access | |
| Good ethernet speed (1000mbps) |
4. ASUS AX5400 WiFi 6 Gaming Router
Core Specification
| Brand | ASUS |
| Model Name | RT-AX82U |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 160 MHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, Home |
| Included Components | RT-AX82U |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Item Weight | 1.57 Pounds |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | Ultrafast speeds up to 5400 Mbps |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 3000 Sq Ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 30 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port, 1 x 1G Wan Port ( One Gaming Port) |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 4x greater network capacity with WiFi range increased by 80% |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, WPA3, and ASUS AiProtection Pro add a level of security |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and 160MHz channels, Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) |
| Router Advanced Technology | RT-AX82U supports ASUS AiMesh, a unique mesh networking technology |
| Router Other Features | Lower latency, Faster speeds, Energy efficiency, Longer range |
| Router Warranty | Yes |
| Router Setup | Easy Management Via Mobile App |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Minimize lag and latency for mobile gaming with just a tap on the ASUS Router app | There is a community version of the firmware coming eventually |
| ASUS AiMesh Technology allows you to create a flexible, seamless whole-home mesh network | Only one USB port |
| You can prioritize applications such as streaming video or web surfing | |
| RTAX82U includes lifetime free AiProtection Pro, including the latest WPA3 security protocol | |
| All the modern stuff. Mu-Mimo, OFDMA, etc | |
| RGB lights are cool |
5. TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router
Core Specification
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Model Name | TP-link AC1900 |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
| Compatible Devices | Gaming Console, Personal Computer, Smart Television |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming |
| Included Components | Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Color | Black |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | 1.9 Gbps (1900 Mbps), 600 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, and 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz band |
| Router WiFi Coverage | Good |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 20 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port , 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | no |
| Router Antenna | 3 Beamforming antennas |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Parental Controls, Block inappropriate content |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | Good |
| Router Advanced Technology | Dual-band AC1750-level Wi-Fi 6, MU-MIMO Gigabit Router |
| Router Other Features | Supports Guest WiFi |
| Router Warranty | 2-year warranty |
| Router Setup | Easy via the Tether app |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Create fast, stable connections for your wired devices like PCs, smart TVs, gaming consoles | The maximum DHCP lease time setting was only a couple of days, unlike a previous router I had, which allowed you to go up to 30 |
| You can also set up your network using a web browser | |
| Block inappropriate content and set daily limits for how much time your children spend online with Parental Controls | |
| The device seems very stable. Since swapping it in for the internet provider’s router, we have had no dropping connections whatsoever | |
| The good speed at 600Mbps for the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps for the 5GHz band |
6. ASUS AX1800 WiFi 6 Router
Core Specification
| Brand | ASUS |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ax |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, Home |
| Included Components | QSG, Warranty card, RT-AX55(Black) Router, Adapter, RJ45 |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Item Weight | 0.82 Pounds |
| Control Method | App |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | 1800Mbps — 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5GHz band |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 3000 Sq Ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 25 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port, 1 x 1G Wan Port ( One Gaming Port) |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 4x greater network capacity with WiFi range increased by 80% |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, WPA3, and ASUS AiProtection Pro add a level of security, powered by Trend Micro |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and 160MHz channels, Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) |
| Router Advanced Technology | RT-AX82U supports ASUS AiMesh, Supporting not only MU-MIMO but also OFDMA |
| Router Other Features | AiMesh Compatible |
| Router Warranty | Yes |
| Router Setup | Easy Management Via ASUS Router APP |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to configure, one-click to check and update firmware | LEDs are angled down |
| Works incredibly well, without needing a reboot in two weeks so far | |
| I have noticed the new router runs cooler than the old one | |
| RTAX82U includes lifetime free AiProtection Pro, including the latest WPA3 security protocol | |
| All the modern stuff. Mu-Mimo, OFDMA, etc |
7. Motorola AC2600 4×4 WiFi Smart Gigabit Router
Core Specification
| Brand | Motorola |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 801.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | Tablet, Smartphone |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, home |
| Included Components | MR2600 |
| Connectivity Technology | USB, Ethernet |
| Item Weight | 20.8 Ounces |
| Security Protocol | WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | 2.6 Gbps |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 3000 Sq Ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | Up to 64 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port, 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | 1 x 3.0 USB Port |
| Router Antenna | 4x 4 adjustable antennas |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, Smart QoS (Quality of Service) support, user-friendly firewall |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | Dual Core processor |
| Router Advanced Technology | MU-MIMO technology, AC2600 dual band WiFi |
| Router Other Features | Guest network capability |
| Router Warranty | 2-year warranty from Motorola |
| Router Setup | The Motorola MR2600 is designed for a quick simple setup |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| This router does not have a built-in cable modem or other types of modem | Doesn’t have wall-mounted holes |
| Powerful signal. It’s located upstairs in a small cabin. The signal will reach my outbuilding | |
| Expert, friendly support from the USA | |
| Superb value for the features and speed you’re receiving, especially compared to similar models from other brands | |
| Vast improvements in connection quality, bandwidth, and coverage in both the 2.4Ghz (802.11n) and 5Ghz (802.11ac) |
8. Reyee WiFi 6 Router AX3200 Wireless Router
Core Specification
| Brand | Reyee |
| Model Name | E5 |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | All devices |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Home |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Color | black |
| Antenna Type | Retractable |
| Price | |
Router Tech Specification
| Router WiFi Speed | 5G transfer rate of 2400Mbps and a 2.4G transfer rate of 800Mbps |
| Router WiFi Coverage | 3000 Sq Ft |
| Router Wifi Connection | connect up to 128 devices |
| Router Wired Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1G Lan Port, 1 x 1G Wan Port |
| Router USB Ports | No |
| Router Antenna | Eight omnidirectional antennas with 4+4 high-power FEM amplifiers |
| Router Flash Lights | Represent the status of the network |
| Router Security & Parental Controls | Smart Parent Controls, Wi-Fi squatter prevention, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption, IP & MAC Binding |
| Router Fiber/Internet Supported | Up to 1Gbps |
| Router Processor | Dual Core processor |
| Router Advanced Technology | OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Xpress mode, BSS color technologies |
| Router Other Features | Guest network capability |
| Router Warranty | Yes |
| Router Setup | App, web page |
| Price | |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Wi-Fi 6 built-in | Very short power adapter cable (only 4 feet) |
| Wide signal coverage, vastly exceeds my previous device. | |
| Excellent Customer Support | |
| 3 independent wireless networks (Main, Guest, IoT) |
How to choose the best Fiber Optic Router for your needs?
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you’re shopping for the perfect fiber-optic router:
- Consider your budget: Always make sure that you have an appropriate amount of money set aside for your router purchase. The cost of a quality model can vary greatly depending on the features and brand.
- Speed: The speed of your router is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for a model that offers speeds that are higher than what you need, so you won’t have to worry about lagging or buffering.
- Look for advanced features: Many routers come with advanced features such as parental controls, guest networks, and additional security protocols. These can be incredibly useful if you want to maximize the performance of your network.
- Think about range: Make sure that the router you choose has a strong enough signal to cover the entire area where it will be in use.
- Check for warranties: Most quality fiber optic routers come with a manufacturer’s warranty, so make sure to check for this before you make your final purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fiber optic router better than a regular router?
Yes, it is! Fiber-optic routers provide incredibly fast speeds with much wider coverage than traditional routers. They are also more secure and require less maintenance and energy.
What’s the difference between an Ethernet port and a Gigabit Ethernet port?
An Ethernet port is designed for speeds of up to 100 megabits per second, while a Gigabit Ethernet port is capable of speeds of up to 1000 megabits per second.
Do I need a special cable for my fiber optic router?
Yes. You will need a specific type of cable that is compatible with the router in order to connect it correctly. Make sure to check with the manufacturer for more information.
Are there any special requirements for installing a fiber optic router?
Yes. Fiber-optic routers require professional installation and setup in order to get the most out of them. Be sure to consult a qualified technician before attempting to set up your own router.
Can I use a fiber-optic router for gaming?
Yes, you can. Many fiber-optic routers come with advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS) that can help prioritize specific types of traffic and improve your gaming experience.
Are there any downsides to using a fiber optic router?
There are some potential drawbacks to using a fiber-optic router, including the initial cost of setup and installation. Additionally, they are not as widely available as traditional routers, so you may have to look harder to find a model that meets your needs.
What will if I need to upgrade my fiber optic router in the future?
Fortunately, many fiber-optic routers are compatible with newer models and can be upgraded easily. Just make sure to check with the manufacturer for more information.
Do all fiber optic routers come with advanced features?
No, not all fiber-optic routers come with advanced features like parental controls or guest networks. Be sure to check the specs before making your purchase.