Introduction
There are numerous gadgets and devices in our homes these days that connect to Wi-Fi. An increasing number of people are installing Wi-Fi routers in their homes because technology makes life easier and more convenient. These devices enable the sharing of photographs, videos, and other data. You can watch internet content on your smartphone, laptop, PC, or even your television. When they have free time, people enjoy watching movies online, surfing the web, and communicating with friends. In order to enjoy this time, they require a strong Wi-Fi router that transmits a strong and reliable signal. W have compiled a list of the best router for 4k streaming.
Modern 4K TVs are capable of connecting to the internet. This means that UHD content can be streamed directly from applications, eliminating the need for devices such as Blu-ray players. Streaming in 4K, on the other hand, is not the same as streaming in HD.
A high-performance router is required to ensure a smooth experience. Technically, the bandwidth provided by your ISP determines how fast your internet will be.
Given that 4K streaming requires at least 25Mbps, purchasing the best routers is one way to ensure faster rates.
Your Wi-Fi router is critical for ensuring a fast and dependable internet connection for 4K streaming. Today’s routers support a wide range of standards, which improve their functionality.
Some devices, for example, support the 802.11ac wireless standard, which improves Wi-Fi performance and expands connectivity. Simply put, if you do not have the best router for 4K streaming, you will be unable to watch content on your UHD TV.
Continue reading our shopping guide for the best router for 4K streaming to learn more. If you’ve just decided it’s time to replace your old router, start with our best router shopping guide.
Best Router For 4k Streaming 2023
Netgear Nighthawk R7350 AC2400 Router
TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router
D-Link WiFi Router AC2600
ASUS ROG Rapture WiFi Gaming Router
TP-Link AX6000 WiFi 6 Router
ASUS WiFi Gaming Router (RT-AC5300)
TRENDnet AC2600 MU-MIMO Wireless Gigabit Router
Linksys Mesh Wifi 5 Router
TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router
The Netgear Nighthawk R7350 is a capable WiFi 6 router with a reasonable data transfer rate of up to 2400mbps, making it ideal for 4K streaming. It has a range of up to 2500 square feet and is powered by a dual-core processor. The router has four Ethernet and two USB 3.0 ports for wired connections and operates on a dual-band frequency class.
It can connect up to 25 devices simultaneously and includes Beamforming technology, which locks in on a connected device for a stronger, more reliable connection. However, some users were dissatisfied with the fact that they would be required to create a Netgear account during installation.
Owners who download the Nighthawk app will have no trouble configuring the router and will be able to monitor network traffic for all connected devices. The app also allows users to set parental controls, which is useful if the household includes children.
The router also includes MU-MIMO technology to ensure that all devices connected at the same time have a fast connection regardless of data traffic.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ac |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
The TP-Link AC1750 is widely regarded as the best router for 4K streaming due to its three times the faster speed when compared to other models. Because it supports dual-band Wi-Fi, this model ensures a stable connection for multiple devices at the same time.
Furthermore, the router includes strong WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption for secure web browsing. It also offers parental control and visitor access options. A user-friendly Tether app can also be used for a trouble-free installation. This program is ideal for configuring your Wi-Fi remotely or at home.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
The D-Link DIR-882-US AC2600 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi Wireless router is a powerful device that ensures top performance, which is adequate for completing even the most demanding tasks such as HD streaming, gaming, and so on. It can also connect to a variety of devices.
This router for 4K streaming and gaming has a high-efficiency CPU with two processors, AC Smart Beam Technology, Intelligent Quality of Service, 4 external antennas for maximum wireless range, an updated UI, and other cutting-edge technologies. The DIR-882-US is an excellent device because it is simple to use and has excellent wireless performance.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
The ASUS gaming router uses the innovative AiMesh technology, which is compatible with all ASUS router models. There is no reason to throw out obsolete technology. To expand the functionality or coverage area of the AiMesh system, simply add a new ASUS router from the list of compatible models.
Another notable advantage is the router’s 1.8GHz 64bit quad-core CPU, which can handle demanding tasks. It also includes the exclusive VPN Fusion capability, which allows you to maintain a secure connection.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired, USB |
| Security Protocol | WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
| Number of Ports | 8 |
The Archer AX6000, which has a 2.5Gbps WAN port, provides a consistent Internet connection with speeds of up to 1 Gbps and excellent total bandwidth. It is the best router for 4K streaming because it has USB Type C, USB 3.0, and 8 GB Ethernet connections.
This router also has a 1.8 GHz 64-bit quad-core CPU with two co-processors and 1 GB of RAM for maximum performance.
Because of these powerful features, the router can support a wide range of demanding applications. The TP-Link AX6000’s eight antennas produce a strong Wi-Fi signal. Furthermore, this model employs BSS Color technology, which reduces interference from connections while accounting for broad coverage.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Number of Ports | 9 |
The ASUS RT-AC5300 is a wireless router for 4K streaming with an easy-to-use app. This program makes it simple to manage network traffic, change settings, and troubleshoot connection issues.
Furthermore, none of these tasks necessitate the use of a computer. The router’s four gigabit LAN ports allow for simultaneous connections of up to four devices. Game consoles, Smart TVs, and media players are examples of devices that do not support Wi-Fi but can be connected via special ports.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Tri-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ac |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
The Trendnet TEW-827DRU wireless gigabit router uses a single band frequency but has a fairly high data transfer rate of up to 1733mbps per second, making it ideal for 4K streaming. It allows users to use up to four data streams per band, and because it includes parental controls, owners will be able to limit the type of content their children access and monitor their website traffic.
For increased connectivity, the router includes four high-gain antennas. Previous users, however, have complained that it consistently drops signals.
The Trendnet wireless gigabit router has four high-speed Gigabit ports and Beamforming technology, which allows signals to be focused in a specific direction. It employs MU-MIMO technology to process multiple data streams concurrently and enables users to set up a separate WiFi network for guest Internet access.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Single-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ac |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
The Linksys Mesh AC2200 tri-band router performs admirably. This model is ideal for all of your entertainment needs, including streaming and gaming. Because of the router, every room in your house has a strong, dependable Internet connection.
Because of this, many customers consider the Linksys Mesh AC2200 to be the best router for 4K streaming, gaming, and video chats. When used as a traditional Wi-Fi router, this device provides fast speeds and a dependable connection.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Tri-Band |
| Wireless Type | 5 GHz Radio Frequency, 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
Connect your gaming consoles, smart TV, and other devices to the router’s Gigabit Ethernet port for a dependable and quick Internet connection. To easily manage and configure the TP-Link AC1200, use the free and convenient Tether app.
The app works with a variety of operating systems, including iOS and Android. You can connect your devices to the wireless network using a special Access Point Mode. The TP-Link AC1200 router provides a stable Wi-Fi connection throughout your home, making it one of the best routers for 4K streaming.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Wireless Type | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11ac |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Security Protocol | WPS, WPA2-PSK |
What are Routers for 4K Streaming?
Simply put, a 4K streaming router is a router with a fast processor that allows multiple connected devices to download or upload large data files at the same time without latency or connectivity issues. Even if they are not necessarily marketed as a “4K streaming router,” these devices typically include improved connectivity capabilities to avoid lag or failed connections. They are unquestionably more powerful than even the best travel routers.
Customers who own 4K televisions or monitors should purchase an Asus router that supports 4K streaming first. 4K content has a higher resolution than standard high-definition (HD) content (sometimes referred to as ultra HD). As a result, larger files will be transmitted across the network.
When attempting to stream 4K content on a network with a slow wi-fi router, you will notice buffering. Even if you officially have a faster internet service, such as one based on fiber, like Verizon FiOS or Google Fiber, which includes the best router for Google Fiber as standard, this is still the case. Throttling will occur if the speed of your router is slower than the advertised internet speeds.
How Routers for 4K Streaming Work
4K compatible routers operate in the same way as slower wi-fi routers, but with improved performance. Routers act as intermediaries, taking an internet signal from your ISP and delivering it to the devices in your home via a wired or wireless local network connection. If you have a fast enough internet service, your router should be able to support wireless rates of at least 25 Mbps.
However, routers for 4K streaming frequently include cutting-edge technologies that improve signal strength and connection stability, especially when multiple devices connect to the internet at the same time. They can accommodate faster internet connections because they frequently have higher processing rates.
Your 4K-capable wifi router should still have ports, most notably an ethernet port. There is no denying that cable connections are always faster and more reliable than wireless counterparts, even though wireless streaming does not suffer from lag or signal loss. If you’re concerned about connectivity for streaming devices like game consoles or 4K televisions, a connected connection between the device and your router can help. You could also use an Xbox One gaming router instead.
Depending on the router you choose, you may also have access to premium features such as MU-MIMO, beamforming, and tri-band. Because of MU-MIMO, multiple devices can connect to the internet and send large data packets without experiencing connectivity issues.
Beamforming is the best option for wireless connections for 4 K-compatible devices. With beamforming, your router’s antenna can direct a restricted signal at specific devices, resulting in a better connection. A tri-band router also allows you to assign different bands to different connected devices, such as placing common Bluetooth-enabled devices on the lower 2.4GHz band and data-intensive devices such as televisions and gaming consoles on the higher 5GHz and 6GHz bands.
Routers for 4K Streaming vs Other Wireless Routers
The processor is the most significant difference between a 4K streaming-compatible router and other wireless routers. To avoid buffering and connectivity issues when streaming 4K content, routers with download speeds of at least 25 megabits per second (Mbps) are required.
Similarly, 4K compatible routers will provide better Quality of Service (QoS). Simply put, QoS means that your router intuitively knows where to prioritize continuous connectivity. In many cases, these premium routers also include tri-band support, as opposed to the standard dual-band support found in most routers.
Dual-band enables a 2.5GHz and a 5GHz band, allowing more standard WiFi devices, such as phones and Bluetooth-enabled accessories, to operate on the 2.5GHz band. Meanwhile, the 5GHz band can be reserved for high-usage devices like 4K televisions and online gaming.
Tri-band routers include an extra 5GHz band, and some models include a relatively new 6GHz band or Wi-Fi 6. Tri-band may be ideal for users who frequently process large data files over WiFi.
Finally, 4K routers frequently include beamforming and MU-MIMO technology. The acronym MU-MIMO stands for multi-user, multiple-input, and multiple-output. This simply means that the router can support multiple device connections and data activity without causing lag for the end-user(s).
Beamforming refers to the antenna strength of your router and its ability to send a narrow, targeted signal directly to your 4K television or devices rather than providing general blanket coverage. The benefits of beamforming include a stronger, more reliable wireless connection for your television or device.
Can you stream 4K over Wi-Fi?
4K content contains a large amount of data. To stream videos, you must have continuous network access. Even minor interference will degrade your viewing experience.
Wi-Fi streaming necessitates high-quality hardware as well as a strong signal in the area where your TV will receive it.
You can only do this if the connection is 5 GHz 802.11 ac and the router has 44 antennas. Make sure your Wi-Fi is accessible from the TV to help your TV establish a strong connection.
If you have a good router and your wireless network isn’t working, you’ll need to use Ethernet to watch 4K videos.
Single-band Router vs. Dual-band Router
Wireless communication is enabled by bands, which are essentially data routes. Older router models, such as 802.11g, only used the 2.4GHz band; newer devices, such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax, use the 5GHz band.
Single-band routers only support the 2.4GHz radio band, whereas dual-band routers support both bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz). The higher-frequency band explains the faster speed.
However, the 5GHz frequency has significant disadvantages. The signal’s power is reduced due to obstructions such as walls and furniture. Dual-band routers, on the other hand, are preferable for online streaming and gaming.
Is a Router for 4K Streaming Worth Buying?
- You Routinely Work with Large Files: If you work as a graphic designer, videographer, or producer and have large files to send to clients or vendors, a router that supports 4K streaming can ensure that you don’t spend all day waiting for files to transfer.
- You Have a Fiber Internet Connection: If you have access to a lightning-fast internet plan, the last thing you want is a router that throttles you, just like consumers who work in data-heavy fields.
- You Need to Support Multiple Devices: If you have a large number of connected devices in your home, you may require the premium QoS that a 4K compatible router can provide to reduce the risk of lag or connectivity loss.
Why a Router for 4K Streaming May Not Be for You
- You Don’t Stream Entertainment Content: If you still use traditional cable or only watch movies in theatres, a 4K compatible router may seem like an unnecessary purchase.
- You Have a Slow Internet Connection: Your internet plan speed and router compatibility are two factors that influence 4K streaming. For download speeds, you’ll need an internet plan with at least 25 Mbps. If you have a slower plan and do not intend to upgrade, a 4K streaming router is not a good investment.
- You Don’t Have a Traditional Internet Plan: Many people nowadays prefer to use their mobile data plan for basic internet browsing around the house by turning their phones into hot spots. While this is not a long-term solution for streaming entertainment content, if this describes your situation, you do not require a 4K compatible router. Instead, you might be looking for the best TP link router.
Buying Guide
When looking for a router that can support 4K connectivity, make sure the CPU can handle at least 25 Mbps. Other important considerations should include MU-MIMO, beamforming, and tri-band. Remember that the maximum speed you can receive is determined by the router you use and your internet package.
Routers for 4K Streaming Key Factors to Consider
What speeds are supported?
One of the many important factors to consider when looking for a 4K compatible router is processor speed. 4K requires a minimum download and upload rate of 25 Mbps. If your router cannot operate at this speed, it is too slow. But there is a catch. That 25 Mbps guideline is made per device or user. If your family of four is streaming content concurrently, you need a router that can deliver at least 100 Mbps to ensure that no one experiences lag or buffering.
However, keep in mind the maximum speeds that your internet package can provide. If your current plan provides a faster internet connection, get a router that can operate at the same or higher speed. If or when your ISP increases your current speed, your router will not limit you from using this method (which is a frequent practice among many providers). Choosing a router rated for much higher speeds than those provided by your current plan is a great way to future-proof your purchase.
Is it compatible with your ISP?
Before making any purchases, ensure that your router is supported by your specific internet plan and compatible with the ISP to which you are currently subscribed. The majority of ISPs allow you to use a third-party router, but not all of them do. Typically, you can check your ISP’s network’s technical requirements on their website to ensure that the router you want will work with their network.
Is MU-MIMO important to you?
MU-MIMO stands for multi-user, multiple-input, and multiple-output technology. It essentially means that multiple devices can connect to the internet at the same time and conduct large data transfers without experiencing buffering, latency, or connectivity issues.
Do you need beamforming?
Beamforming simply refers to your wireless network’s ability to direct signals to specific devices such as televisions and gaming consoles. Direct signaling allows for a more reliable and faster connection. Beamforming could be a great option, especially if you plan to stream large amounts of entertainment content.
How is the QoS?
Quality of service, or QoS, simply refers to the fact that your network is set up to prioritize certain internet services over others. If there are four internet users in the house, your router will know to prioritize the device streaming a movie for a lossless connection if one of them is streaming video while the others are idly surfing.
Do you need a dual or tri-band router?
If you’re looking for a router that supports 4K streaming, chances are you have a number of internet-connected devices in your home. Dual-band routers with a 2.4GHz and a 5GHz band are fairly common. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for low-power wireless devices such as Bluetooth speakers and even the majority of casual browsing.
The 5 GHz band is less crowded than the 2.4 GHz band and is better suited for high-consumption gadgets such as connected televisions, gaming consoles, streaming sticks, and other digital entertainment device portals. A tri-band router typically includes one 2.4GHz band and two 5GHz bands. Despite the fact that this technology is still in development and is not a widely supported by-product on the market, some tri-band routers now include a 6GHz band.
What ports are supported?
Whether or not a router supports 4K, you will almost always need one with ports. This is usually because your ISP will require a single wired connection to set up a local network connection in your home. However, it’s a good idea to look for routers that have both USB and Ethernet ports.
You can easily establish a wired connection with an ethernet connector if you prefer it for data-intensive uses, such as with your 4K television or gaming console. Furthermore, USB 3.0 ports are ideal for directly downloading files from a flash drive or other storage device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What speed router do I need for 4K streaming?
You’ll need a router that can handle at least 25 Mbps. However, you should consider how you use the internet and whether other people will be streaming at the same time. If this is the case, your router should be able to handle at least 25 Mbps per user.
How can I improve my 4K streaming?
First, consider your internet plan. 4K performs best with a minimum speed of 25 Mbps. If your plan is less efficient than this, you should consider upgrading. Then consider your router. To avoid throttling, you’ll want a router that at least matches the speed of your internet plan, but ideally, one that supports speeds greater than those offered by your current plan.
For best results, look for routers with larger coverage areas and beamforming capabilities, or invest in a mesh network extender. Because ethernet connections are faster and more reliable than wireless connections, you can consider converting streaming devices such as televisions and gaming consoles to them.
Does streaming depend on a router?
Sure thing, I say. A powerful router has stronger signal strength and greater coverage. An upgraded router may also include a 5 GHz band for improved connectivity and performance.
Conclusion
Because 4K videos require a lot of bandwidth, 4K streaming requires the best router. To avoid stuttering and ensure clear viewing, your router should have the fastest available speeds.
Purchase a dual-band device that supports the 802.11 ac wifi standard. Choosing a device with Quality of Service is also advantageous because it prioritizes applications to ensure that only 4K videos receive the maximum bandwidth.
