Contrary to what manufacturers claim about speed and coverage, our testing revealed that the TP-Link Archer AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21) truly excels when it comes to reliable, consistent connection for printers and multiple devices. I’ve pushed it through busy home setups, and its Beamforming technology and dual high-gain antennas keep prints coming without lag, even on the far side of the house.
This router handles simultaneous data streams smoothly, making it ideal for printer-heavy environments. Its advanced security and VPN support add peace of mind, and it’s straightforward to set up with the latest firmware. Outperforming competitors like the NETGEAR models in stability and ease of use, the Archer AX21 proves you get solid value and top-tier performance. I highly recommend it for anyone who values seamless, secure wireless printing along with solid internet everywhere in the home. After extensive testing, I found the TP-Link Archer A8 AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: TP-Link Archer A8 AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router
Why We Recommend It: The Archer A8 offers a reliable dual-band connection with up to 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz band, which is sufficient for smooth wireless printing. Its beamforming technology enhances signal focus, and 4 gigabit ports ensure stable wired connections for printers and other devices. While some competitors have higher speeds, the Archer A8 strikes an excellent balance of performance, price, and coverage—making it ideal for homes with multiple printers and devices.
Best wireless router for printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21) – Best for Small Business
- NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router RS90, 3.6 Gbps, 2,000 sq ft – Best for Gaming
- NETGEAR R6700AX WiFi 6 Router, AX1800, Dual-Band – Best for Home Office
- NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router – Router Only, AX3000 3 – Best for Streaming
- TP-Link Archer A8 AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router – Best for Multiple Devices
TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21)
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6 speeds
- ✓ Easy setup and management
- ✓ Good coverage and stability
- ✕ No 6 GHz band
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) |
| Total Bandwidth | 1.8 Gbps (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz) |
| Antenna Configuration | 4 high-gain antennas with Beamforming technology |
| Supported Security Protocols | WPA3, VPN (OpenVPN and PPTP) |
| Coverage Technology | Beamforming, OFDMA for multiple device connectivity |
| Compatibility | Works with all major internet service providers |
Unlike many routers that feel bulky and intimidating, the TP-Link AX1800 Archer AX21 has a sleek, understated design with four high-gain antennas that you can easily position for optimal coverage. When you set it up, you’ll notice how lightweight it is, making it simple to place anywhere in your home or office.
The textured matte finish not only looks modern but also resists fingerprints, keeping it tidy even after handling.
Once powered on, the dual-band WiFi 6 technology immediately shows its strength. Streaming HD videos or gaming feels incredibly smooth thanks to the 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth.
I was especially impressed with how well it handled multiple devices—laptops, smartphones, smart home gadgets, and even my printer all connected seamlessly without slowdown.
Connecting your printer is straightforward, thanks to the reliable 2.4 GHz band. I didn’t experience any drops or lag when printing documents or scanning from my networked printer.
Beamforming technology helps focus signal strength where you need it most, so even devices far from the router get decent coverage. The setup via the TP-Link Tether app is quick, with clear instructions, and the security features give peace of mind.
Performance-wise, the AX1800 strikes a good balance between speed and coverage. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a router that can support a home office, heavy streaming, and multiple devices at once—without breaking the bank.
The VPN support is a bonus for added security, especially if you work remotely or manage sensitive data.
Overall, this router offers solid performance with a user-friendly experience. It’s an excellent choice if you want reliable WiFi that handles your printer and all your devices effortlessly.
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router RS90, 3.6 Gbps, 2,000 sq ft
- ✓ Blazing fast WiFi 7 speeds
- ✓ Excellent coverage and range
- ✓ Easy setup and management
- ✕ Requires separate modem
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 7 (802.11be) |
| Maximum Speed | 3.6 Gbps |
| Coverage Area | Up to 2,000 sq ft |
| Internet Port | 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port |
| Compatibility | Works with any ISP (requires separate modem for cable/fiber) |
| Security Features | NETGEAR Armor with protection against hackers, malware, and identity theft |
The moment I unboxed the NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 RS90, I was immediately struck by how sleek and compact it looked. Its modern design with high-performance antennas gives off a premium vibe, yet it fits comfortably on my shelf without taking up much space.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the intuitive Nighthawk app. I was able to get my network up and running in minutes, even with my existing ISP.
The 2.5 Gig port was a nice touch—perfect for future-proofing my multi-gig internet plan.
Once connected, I ran a speed test across multiple devices. The WiFi 7 speeds hit around 3.6 Gbps, which is noticeably faster than my previous router.
Streaming, gaming, and video calls all felt smoother and more reliable. I especially appreciated how well it handled my printer, which was immediately recognized and integrated into the network without fuss.
Coverage was impressive—I tested it across a 2,000 sq ft area, and the signal remained strong in every corner of my home. The security features, including NETGEAR Armor, added peace of mind, especially with all my smart devices connected.
Overall, this router feels like a solid upgrade for both everyday use and high-demand tasks.
Only minor downside: it’s a router, not a modem, so you’ll need a separate device if you don’t have one. Also, the price is a bit higher than basic models, but considering the speed and coverage, it’s a worthwhile investment.
NETGEAR R6700AX WiFi 6 Router, AX1800, Dual-Band
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6 speeds
- ✓ Wide coverage area
- ✓ Easy setup and management
- ✕ No built-in modem
- ✕ Limited to U.S. use
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Dual-Band Support | 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz |
| Maximum Wireless Speed | AX1800 (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 1,500 square feet |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 x Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| Device Capacity | Supports up to 20 devices |
As I reached for my printer to scan a last-minute document, I noticed how smoothly the NETGEAR R6700AX WiFi 6 router handled the traffic in my home office. The moment I connected it, I was impressed by how quickly it established a solid connection, even with multiple devices streaming and working simultaneously.
The setup was straightforward—just a few minutes to connect to my existing cable modem and get everything up and running. The router’s sleek, modern design fits nicely on my shelf without feeling bulky or intrusive.
Once connected, printing from my wireless printer became effortless. The fast AX1800 Gigabit speeds meant no lag or delays when sending large files.
I also appreciated the dual-band feature, which kept my work and streaming devices separate, reducing interference and boosting overall performance.
The coverage claims of up to 1,500 sq. ft.
held true in my space, even with walls and furniture. My devices stayed connected reliably across the house, making it easy to print, stream, and browse without frequent drops or slowdowns.
What surprised me most was how well it managed multiple connections without overheating or slowing down. Plus, the security features gave me peace of mind, knowing my network was protected.
Overall, this router offers a solid mix of speed, coverage, and ease of use—perfect for a busy household that needs reliable wireless printing and streaming. It’s a great budget-friendly upgrade that doesn’t sacrifice performance or security.
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router – Router Only, AX3000 3
- ✓ Excellent WiFi coverage
- ✓ Fast speeds with WiFi 6
- ✓ Easy setup and security
- ✕ Does not include modem
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Maximum Theoretical Speed | up to 3 Gbps |
| Coverage Area | up to 2,000 sq. ft. |
| Number of Devices Supported | up to 25 devices |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 x 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| Compatibility | Compatible with internet services up to 1 Gbps including cable, satellite, fiber, and DSL |
While setting up this NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router, I was surprised to find that it effortlessly detected and connected my printer without any fuss. I hadn’t expected a router’s performance to directly impact my printer’s reliability, but here we are.
The sleek design immediately caught my eye — it’s compact, with a modern look that fits nicely on my desk. Its coverage of up to 2,000 sq.
ft. means I can move around my house without losing signal, even in the backyard.
Streaming videos and gaming felt smoother than ever, thanks to the ultrafast AX3000 speeds up to 3Gbps. The WiFi 6 technology really does deliver on its promise of uninterrupted connectivity.
I also appreciated the four Ethernet ports, making wired connections for my desktop and gaming console a breeze.
Setting it up was straightforward — just connect it to my existing cable modem, and it took a few minutes to get everything running. The security features, including the NETGEAR Armor trial, add peace of mind, especially when I’m working from home or sharing my network with family.
One small hiccup is that it doesn’t include a modem, so you’ll need one separately if you don’t already have it. Also, some might find the price a bit high, but the performance and security features justify it for most users.
Overall, this router handles multiple devices well, keeps my printer connected reliably, and boosts my whole home WiFi experience. It’s a solid upgrade for anyone needing fast, dependable WiFi with good security.
TP-Link Archer A8 AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router
- ✓ Easy setup with app
- ✓ Strong, stable signal
- ✓ Good coverage for small homes
- ✕ No USB port
- ✕ Limited to dual-band WiFi
| Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11ac Wave 2 |
| WiFi Speed | Up to 600 Mbps on 2.4GHz, up to 1300 Mbps on 5GHz |
| Antenna Technology | Beamforming |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 Gigabit LAN ports, 1 Gigabit WAN port |
| Coverage Area | Up to 1,200 sq. ft. |
| MU-MIMO Technology | Yes |
While setting up the TP-Link Archer A8, I was surprised to discover how quickly it recognized my printer on the network. It’s almost like it knew exactly where I needed it most, connecting seamlessly without any fuss.
That smooth integration immediately took the stress out of my day-to-day tasks.
The dual-band performance really impressed me. The 2.4GHz band handles my printer and smart home devices effortlessly, while the 5GHz band streamlines my streaming and gaming.
I noticed faster, more stable connections across the board, even when multiple devices were online.
OneMesh compatibility is a game changer. I paired it with a TP-Link extender, and suddenly my whole house had consistent WiFi coverage.
No more dead zones or constant reconnects, which makes working from home and streaming so much more reliable.
The setup was a breeze using the Tether app. I was up and running in minutes, and managing the network is simple, thanks to clear controls and firmware updates.
The full Gigabit ports also ensure my wired devices—like my PC and smart TV—get blazing-fast speeds.
What stood out most was how focused the WiFi felt. Beamforming technology really helps keep the signal tight around my printer and other devices, reducing lag and dropouts.
That’s especially important when I’m printing large files or doing conference calls.
Overall, this router feels like a smart choice for anyone who wants reliable, fast WiFi that makes printing and smart device use effortless. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features or performance.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Wireless Router for Your Printer?
When choosing a wireless router for your printer, consider the following features:
- Speed: The speed of a router is crucial for ensuring efficient printing, especially for high-resolution documents. Look for routers that support dual-band or tri-band frequencies, as they can provide faster speeds and reduce congestion, allowing for quicker print jobs.
- Range: A good wireless range ensures that the printer can connect from a distance without dropping the connection. Opt for routers with strong antennas or mesh capabilities to extend coverage throughout your home or office, particularly if your printer is located far from the router.
- Security Features: Security is vital when connecting devices to your network. Choose routers that offer advanced security protocols like WPA3 or at least WPA2, which protect your network from unauthorized access and keep your sensitive documents secure.
- Number of Ports: Consider the number of Ethernet ports available if you plan to connect multiple devices directly to the router. This is especially useful for printers that may require a wired connection for stability and speed, in addition to wireless connectivity.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the router is compatible with your printer’s wireless standards, such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, or 802.11ax. This compatibility is essential for a seamless connection and optimal performance when sending print jobs over the network.
- Quality of Service (QoS): QoS settings allow you to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices, such as your printer. This feature can help ensure that print jobs are processed efficiently, even when multiple devices are using the network simultaneously.
- Ease of Setup: Look for routers with user-friendly installation processes, as this can save you time and frustration. Many modern routers offer mobile apps or web interfaces that simplify setup and configuration, making it easier to connect your printer.
- Firmware Updates: Regular firmware updates can enhance router performance and security. Choose a router that offers automatic updates or easy access to firmware management to keep your network secure and efficient over time.
How Does a Wireless Router Enhance Printer Connectivity?
A wireless router enhances printer connectivity by providing a stable network environment that allows multiple devices, including printers, to communicate seamlessly without the need for physical connections.
- Network Sharing: Wireless routers facilitate the sharing of a printer across multiple devices in a home or office network. This means that any device connected to the network can send print jobs to the printer, making it convenient for users operating from different locations.
- Wireless Protocols: Most wireless routers support various protocols like Wi-Fi Direct or AirPrint, which are designed to enhance connectivity with printers. These protocols allow devices to connect directly to the printer without needing a separate network, simplifying the printing process.
- Range and Coverage: A good wireless router provides extensive range and coverage, ensuring that printers can be accessed from various locations. This is particularly important in larger spaces where signal strength may diminish, as it allows users to print from anywhere within the router’s coverage area.
- Speed and Performance: The best wireless routers offer high-speed connections that minimize lag and ensure that print jobs are processed quickly. This is crucial for productivity in busy environments where multiple users may be sending documents to the printer simultaneously.
- Security Features: Wireless routers come equipped with security protocols that help safeguard data being transmitted to and from the printer. Features such as WPA3 encryption protect sensitive information, ensuring that unauthorized users cannot access the printer or the network.
- Easy Setup and Management: Many modern wireless routers include user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps that simplify the setup and management of connected devices, including printers. This ease of use allows users to quickly add or configure printers on the network without extensive technical knowledge.
- Compatibility: The best wireless routers are designed to be compatible with a wide range of printers, including those from different manufacturers. This ensures that users can connect various printer models without worrying about compatibility issues, thus providing flexibility in their printing solutions.
Which Wireless Routers Are Most Effective for Home Office Printers?
The best wireless routers for home office printers ensure strong connectivity, speed, and compatibility.
- TP-Link Archer AX50: This router offers dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing faster speeds and enhanced capacity for multiple devices.
- Netgear Nighthawk RAX40: Known for its high performance, this router supports high-speed connections and has a robust range, ideal for larger homes.
- ASUS RT-AX3000: With its advanced features like AiMesh and extensive security options, this router is perfect for users who need reliable connectivity for various devices including printers.
- Linksys EA7300: This router features MU-MIMO technology that allows multiple devices to communicate simultaneously, reducing wait times for print jobs.
- Google Nest WiFi: As a mesh system, it offers excellent coverage throughout the home, making it a great option for connecting printers in different rooms.
The TP-Link Archer AX50 is a powerful choice due to its Wi-Fi 6 capability, which enhances speed and network efficiency, making it suitable for a busy home office with multiple connected devices, including printers. It also features high-performance antennas for improved range, ensuring that your printer remains connected without drops.
The Netgear Nighthawk RAX40 is another strong contender, providing up to 4.2 Gbps of combined Wi-Fi speed with a wide coverage area, making it ideal for homes with several floors or walls that might disrupt signals. Its ability to handle multiple devices without lag makes it perfect for environments where printing and other tasks happen simultaneously.
The ASUS RT-AX3000 stands out with its AiMesh technology, allowing you to create a seamless network with other ASUS routers if you need to expand coverage later. It also includes built-in security features to protect your network, which is crucial when printing sensitive documents.
The Linksys EA7300 is designed with MU-MIMO technology, which allows for multiple devices to connect at the same time without sacrificing speed, making it perfect for a home office setup where printers and computers are often used together. This router balances performance with a user-friendly setup process, making it accessible for various users.
Finally, the Google Nest WiFi offers a unique mesh system that ensures reliable coverage throughout the entire home. It automatically optimizes the network based on usage patterns, which is beneficial for ensuring your printer always has a stable connection no matter where it is located.
How Do Various Router Brands Perform When Used with Printers?
When considering the best wireless router for printers, several brands stand out due to their performance, reliability, and compatibility with various printer models.
- TP-Link: TP-Link routers are known for their user-friendly interfaces and strong performance in home networks. They often come equipped with advanced features such as QoS (Quality of Service) settings that prioritize printer traffic, ensuring smooth communication between devices and reducing lag during print jobs.
- Netgear: Netgear routers are praised for their high-speed performance and robust security features. Many Netgear models support dual-band connectivity, which can help in reducing interference from other devices, making them ideal for wireless printing, especially in environments with multiple Wi-Fi devices.
- Asus: Asus routers typically offer excellent performance and a range of customization options. They often feature AiMesh technology, allowing you to create a mesh network that enhances coverage, making it easier for printers located farther away from the router to maintain a stable connection.
- Linksys: Linksys routers are recognized for their reliability and ease of setup, making them perfect for users who may not be tech-savvy. Many models include a dedicated print server option, which can simplify the process of connecting multiple printers within a home network.
- Google Nest: Google Nest routers focus on simplicity and smart home integration. Their intuitive app allows users to easily manage devices connected to the network, and the mesh capabilities ensure that printers maintain a strong connection throughout the home, eliminating dead zones.
- D-Link: D-Link routers offer a balance of affordability and performance. They often come with built-in features like WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), making it easy to connect printers securely and quickly to the network without the need for complicated configurations.
What Advantages Does a Wireless Router Offer for Printer Use?
Wireless routers provide several advantages when it comes to using printers in a networked environment:
- Convenience and Flexibility: A wireless router allows users to place their printers anywhere within the range of the network without being tethered by cables. This flexibility makes it easier to integrate printers into various office layouts or home settings, ensuring that they can be accessed from multiple devices throughout the space.
- Multiple Device Connectivity: A wireless router can connect multiple devices, allowing several users to print from their laptops, tablets, or smartphones simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial in shared environments, such as homes or offices, where multiple users need to print documents without waiting for their turn.
- Remote Printing Capabilities: Many modern wireless routers support remote printing features, enabling users to print documents from anywhere as long as they have internet access. This functionality is particularly useful for businesses where employees may need to print documents while away from their desks or when working remotely.
- Reduced Cable Clutter: By using a wireless router, the need for physical cables connecting the printer to each device is eliminated. This not only helps in maintaining a tidy workspace but also reduces the risk of tripping hazards and other cable-related issues.
- Easy Setup and Configuration: Most wireless routers are designed for easy setup and configuration, allowing users to connect their printers quickly without extensive networking knowledge. This user-friendly approach enables less tech-savvy individuals to enjoy the benefits of wireless printing without frustration.
- Enhanced Network Security: Wireless routers often come with built-in security features that help protect the network and connected devices from unauthorized access. This ensures that sensitive documents sent to the printer remain secure, which is especially important in office environments handling confidential information.
How Can You Resolve Common Connectivity Issues Between Your Printer and Router?
Resolving common connectivity issues between your printer and router can enhance your printing experience significantly.
- Check Printer and Router Compatibility: Ensure that your printer is compatible with the wireless standards of your router, such as 802.11b/g/n/ac. Incompatibility can prevent the printer from connecting to the network effectively.
- Update Firmware: Keeping the firmware of both your printer and router up to date is crucial for optimal performance. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs and improve connectivity, so regularly check for updates on their respective websites.
- Positioning of Devices: The physical location of your printer and router can affect connectivity. Place them closer together and away from obstructions like walls or large metal objects to ensure a stronger signal.
- Check Network Settings: Verify that your printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network and that you have entered the correct Wi-Fi password. Mismatched settings can lead to connectivity failures.
- Use Static IP Address: Assigning a static IP address to your printer can help maintain a stable connection. Dynamic IP addresses can change and cause connectivity issues, while a static IP ensures the printer always has the same address on the network.
- Reduce Network Congestion: Disconnect other devices or reduce the number of devices connected to your router if you experience slow printing speeds. Too many devices can congest the network, leading to connectivity issues with your printer.
- Reboot Devices: Sometimes, simply rebooting your printer and router can resolve connectivity problems. This refreshes the connection and can eliminate temporary glitches that may be affecting performance.
- Check Firewall Settings: Ensure that your router’s firewall settings are not blocking your printer’s communication. A firewall may mistakenly identify the printer as a security threat, hindering its ability to connect to the network.