Buying guide for the Best Linksys Router for Gaming

Are you looking for the best Linksys router for your gaming? With Linksys routers, you get so many quality and dependable options on the market so here is a narrowed down look on the best one for you.

Simply put, a router is a networking device that sends data packets between computer networks ensuring your internet works ever so smoothly. Now, when it comes to gaming, the best router is crucial. The last thing anyone would want is internet that hangs just when you are about to finish your mission or cross the finishing line. Nothing is more annoying than a delay or lag when you are trying to play your online games. Without a proper gaming router you can find yourself having to put up with hanging characters.

To help you pick the best router for your gaming, I have done extensive research on all the options available on the market. It was not hard to narrow down to Linksys so here is a look at the best Linksys routers for gaming.

Comparison Table

Name	Data Transfer Speeds	Ethernet Ports	Range	Frequency Bands Supported	Size	Wireless Standard	Action
Linksys WRT32X AC3200	3.2Gbps	5	3,000 sq. feet 15+ devices	Dual with Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS)	2. x 9.7 x 7.6 inches 1.76lbs	802.11a/b/g/n/ac	View here
Linksys EA9500	5.3Gbps	8	3,000 sq. feet 25+ devices	Tri	14.3 x 5.4 x 11.7 inches 3.25lbs	802.11a/b/g/n/ac	View here
Linksys EA8300	2.2Gbps	5	1,500 sq. feet 15+ devices	Tri	6.4 x 8.4 x 2.2 inches 0.634 ounces	802.11a/b/g/n/ac	View here
Linksys EA9300 Max Stream	4Gbps	4	5,000+ sq. feet 8+ devices	Tri	11.58 x 9.01 x 2.26 inches 3.6lbs	802.11a/b/g/n/ac	View here
Linksys WRT3200 ACM	2.16Gbps	4	1,500 sq. feet 10+ devices	Dual with Tri-Stream 160 technology	9.7 x 2 x 7.6 inches 3.57lbs	802.11ac	View here
Linksys Velop MX10	2.2Gbps	1	6,000 sq. feet	Tri	3.1 x 9.3 x 7.3 inches 6lbs	802.11a/b/g/n/ac	View here
Linksys Max Stream EA7500	1.9Gbps	4	1,500 sq. feet 10+ devices	Dual with Tri-Stream 160	9.7 x 2.4 x 7.6 inches 3.6lbs	802.11ac	View here
Linksys WRT1900 ACS	1.9Gbps	4	1,500 sq. feet 10+ devices	Dual	9.7 x 7.6 x 2.5 3.5lbs	802.11ac	View here

Best Linksys Router for Gaming

1. Linksys WRT32X AC3200– Our top pick

Linksys WRT32X has the glossy black and blue features that is classic with Linksys. However, the WRT32X Gaming router is different from the branch because it is specifically tweaked with gamers in mind.

Specs

• 8GHz core processor
• Tri-band design
• MU-MIMO and Beamforming antennas
• Supports Tri-Stream 160 Dynamic Frequency Selection
• Designed with Killer Networks Prioritization Engine

If you have a gaming PC, this is the Linksys router you need to pair it up with. First, it has a killer prioritization engine which can automatically prioritize gaming traffic which in turn accelerates it. With a gaming PC from brands like Razer or MSI the Killer network card they come with can really optimize your gaming experience. For instance, it can get 77 percent reduction in your peak ping. It also supports tri-stream DFS which simply means it can search for the least congested Wi-Fi channels for you.

With Linksys WRT32X you get high latency that can literally make the difference between whether you will win or not. Its MU-MIMO and Beamforming technology also enhances how well this router can handle simultaneous use of the network.

The only downer with Linksys WRT32X is that you need a gaming PC with certain hardware specs if you want to use all the features in WRT32X.

Pros

• Gamer-centric interface
• Prioritization engine
• Low latency design

Cons

• Does not come with parental controls

Verdict

Designed with gamers in mind, WRT32X is the ideal Linksys router for gaming. It has  MU-MIMO, Beamforming technology and a Killer Prioritization Engine that makes it the best Linksys router for gaming.

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2. Linksys EA9500 Tri-Band Wireless Router– Fast speeds ideal for gaming

Linksys EA9500 has been on the market for many years and there is a whole bunch of reasons why that makes it good for gaming. Its performance is solid with eight Ethernet ports for faster wired connections and has a dual 1.4GHz core processor for just as fast wireless transmission.

Specs

• Designed with MU-MIMO technology
• 2 USB (3.0) ports for device and file sharing
• 8 built-in gigabit LAN ports

This router is ramped up to deliver the best performance especially when it comes to gaming. It can handle many connected devices at the same time with minimal lag. Its tri-band technology ensures you enjoy seamless gaming as it can reach up to 1,000Mbps on older wireless standards like 802.11g and 802.11n. For newer connections like 802.11ac, Linksys EA9500 can deliver up to 4,332 Mbps.

Linksys EA9500 also works with max-stream range extenders if you want your entire home covered with a pseudo-mesh system. The seamless roaming feature allows you to move around the room without being disconnected.

The only downside with Linksys EA9500 is that it is pricey and it takes up quite a lot of space.

Pros

• Can offer seamless performance for up to 12 connected devices
• You can extend your network because of its seamless roaming feature
• Comes with parental controls

Cons

• Quite expensive
• Takes up a lot of space

Verdict

If your internet service provider is fast and you want a stable and powerful home network for your gaming, Linksys EA9500 measures up.

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3. Linksys EA8300 AC2200 Max-Stream– Works best for streaming and gaming

For 4K video streaming and handling game enthusiasts, Linksys EA8300 fits the bill. It is powered with a quad-core processor that is tri-band for speeds up to 2.2Gbps. If your internet service provider can support this, you can be assured of impressive gaming performance.

Specs

• MU-MIMO technology enabled
• Offers coverage of 1,500 square feet with 15+ devices connected
• Can deliver up to 2.2Gbps (400Mbps 5GHz + 867Mbps 5GHz + 867Mbps 2.4GHz)

Linksys EA8300 is designed with MU-MIMO+ technology that ensures you have a stable and strong connection that are two important elements for gaming. With four Gigabit Ethernet ports you are also in for faster wired connections. Its combined speeds of up to 2.2Gbps are a plus for gaming and 4K streaming.

To add, Linksys EA8300 has automatic firmware updates to keep your network secured with the latest advancements. It is also synced with Amazon’s Alexa for easier use of your router like you can turn it off with a voice command. A bonus is that you get this quality and reliable network at a budget friendly price.

Pros

• Fast speeds for gaming and 4K streaming without buffering
• Easy to install and use with the Linksys app
• Small enough

Cons

• Lack of proper parental controls

Verdict

If you want good coverage for your mid-sized home and stable speeds, Linksys EA8300 is a quality buy. You also get customization options to tweak it to your gaming needs.

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4. Linksys EA9300 Max Stream– Budget priced with powerful performance specs for gaming

For the best bang for your buck with a lot of value to boot, Linksys EA9300 is the router for you. It comes with six tri-band antennas, MU-MIMO and Beamforming technology for amplified gaming performance.

Specs

• 8GHz quad-core processor, tri-band and 512MB RAM
• Enabled with Beamforming and MU-MIMO technology
• Combined speeds of 750Mbps 2.4GHz and 1625Mbps on the two 5GHz bands

Linksys EA9300 is a dual-band 1.8GHz quad core processor that is boosted to deliver strong and reliable signals in your home. Those two are largely the main factors to look at when looking for a gaming router because you want one that can deliver on powerful signals while still handling all the devices you might have connected to your network.

It also has Beamforming technology and coupled with the 1.8GHz processor, you can get high speeds of up to 4Gbps which is more than ideal for gaming. For the latest safety features, Linksys EA9300 gets automatic firmware updates. The only downer with Linksys EA9300 is you do not get many parental controls.

Pros

• Powerful reliable speeds of more than 2Gbps
• MU-MIMO comes in handy for many connected devices
• Sleek design

Cons

• Does not come with a wide array of parental control options

Verdict

While it is quite pricey, Linksys Max Stream EA9300 is able to handle the intensity that comes with gaming making it a good Linksys router specifically for that.

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5. Linksys WRT3200 ACM– Comes with customization features for optimized performance

With many attributes like the WRT32X, Linksys WRT3200 ACM is another quality gaming router. Its specs like four LAN ports, dynamic frequency selection enabled and dual-band technology all work to ensure you enjoy your gaming experience with it.

Specs

• Dual-band with fast 5GHz throughput performance
• MU-MIMO and Tri-Stream 160 technology
• Powerful 1.8GHz core processor

WRT3200 ACM also comes enabled with device prioritization which automatically gives your connected device priority over others. This ensures seamless gaming and 4K streaming. Designed with MU-MIMO technology and Tri-Steam this router can deliver on a good gaming experience even when there are many connected devices to your network.

As for its design, it has a sleek, all-black finish that is quite different from other WRT Linksys model. It still lives up to the line and even comes with an app that you can use to control and monitor your network remotely.

Pros

• Exclusive Wi-Fi app you can use to monitor your network
• Up to 3Gbps fast speeds
• Works with the latest 802.11ac wireless standard

Cons

• Its 2.4GHz performance can be a tad disappointing

Verdict

Linksys WRT3200ACM is the router for you if you are specifically looking to take advantage of the customization options like using DD-WRT or Open WRT firmware.

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6. Linksys Velop MX10-Whole Home Mesh System

If you are out for a splurge, Linksys MX10 is the router for you. It is expensive but it is jammed with advanced and edgy technology making it ideal for all kinds of uses including gaming.

Specs

• Advanced Wi-Fi 6 mesh technology
• Tri-band frequency

Being a mesh system, with Linksys MX10 you get a router that can offer you more than 6,000 square feet coverage for more than 100 devices. MX10 also supports the 802.11ax Wi-Fi standard which simply means you can get ultra-fast speeds with this router. With combined speeds of more than 5GBps you are assured of a lag-free gaming experience.

In addition to this, you get four gigabit LAN ports, one gigabit WAN port and a 3.0 USB jack. You therefore get fast wired connections. As for its design, it is quite bulky and monolithic with an all-white look. Installing it is a breeze with the Linksys app that works on both Android and iPhones. You only have to keep in mind the hefty price tag.

Pros

• Can cover more than 100 devices
• Offers speeds of up to 5.3GBps

Cons

• Expensive

Verdict

If you have a small-mid sized home, the MX10 might just be overkill. However, if you are looking for wide coverage and you do not mind splurging quite a bit, Linksys MX10 is worth considering.

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7. Linksys Max Stream EA7500– Wide coverage and fast speeds

Linksys Max Stream EA7500 makes the cut with its 1,500 square feet coverage and combined speeds of up to 1.9Gbps.

Specs

• MU-MIMO technology
• 1,500 square feet coverage for 15+ connected devices
• Combined speeds of up to 1.9Gbps (600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band + 1300Mbps on 5GHz band)

One feature that also makes Linksys Max Stream EA7500 ideal for gaming is the speeds you can get. The 2.4GHz band can deliver 600Mbps and 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band. Together, you get good enough speeds for online gaming and streaming.

This router is also enabled with Beamforming and MU-MIMO technology that ensures your game does not lag even with multiple devices connected to your network. It also offers coverage over 1,500 square feet for more than 15 devices connected to it.

Pros

• Easy to install with the Linksys app
• Can deliver up to 1,900Mbps
• Efficient transfer speed over a wired connection

Cons

• Needs an upgrade to 5GHz for optimal performance

Verdict

While the Linksys Max Stream EA7500 does not come in cheap, it is worth the buy for its 1.4GHz core processor and capacity.

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8. Linksys WRT1900 ACS-Customized for gaming

With a blue and black design, Linksys WRT1900 is no-doubt the classic Linksys router in its appearance. Even so, it has tweaked features that make it ideal as a gaming router.

Specs

• Four antennas
• Combined speeds of up to 1900Mbps

Linksys WRT1900 can deliver 600Mbps on its 2.4GHz band and up to 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band. Coupled together, you get fast speeds that ought to be enough for gaming depending on your internet service provider. It also has five gigabit Ethernet ports that can handle fast wired connections. All these are designed in a sleek, retro look.

Another winning feature of the WRT1900 is that you can use custom software on it. All you need to do is access the router’s Web Interface and you can remotely manage your router with the Linksys smart app. It also comes with an internal fan meaning you can even forget that it is there. For proper maintenance, it has a slew of LED lights that indicate the condition of the router at all times.

Pros

• Reliable fast speeds
• Works with Amazon Alexa for voice remote controls

Cons

• Pricey

Verdict

Linksys WRT1900ACS has impressive hardware and software specs like its retro design and fast network storage speed. The only downer is that it is quite expensive.

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What should you consider before buying Best Linksys Router for Gaming? 265 words

Type of Router

When you are looking for the best router for your gaming, you definitely have to consider all the various types of router out there. There is a traditional router that uses proprietary software and it is a stand-alone device majorly using MIMO technology.

Secondly, there are open source routers that are arguably more reliable and secure. You can also choose from mesh and whole home mesh Wi-Fi routers. Also consider going for a range extender which expands your router’s reach for the best.

Range and Speed

It goes without saying that speed highly matters when it comes to gaming. Do check how fast your internet service provider can do then go for the fastest router you can buy. As for range,

Budget

You should always consider how much you are willing to spend. More often than not, you can find a budget-priced router that will still be good enough for your needs.

Number of users

Are you the only gamer in your house or do you have many devices connected to the router? Be sure to go for a router that can seamlessly handle many connected devices.

Final Thoughts

Linksys routers have dominated the market since the 90s with a wide array of models to choose from. This article has narrowed down to the best Linksys router for gaming. Having had a look at the specs of each router like speed, range and seamless roaming features there are many Linksys routers to choose from. Depending on your budget, you can choose from Linksys WRT32X to Linksys Max Stream 7500.

FAQ’s

1. How is latency different from speed when it comes to gaming routers?

While routers have theoretical speeds that can be impressive, the latency of a router determines how good it will be for gaming. A good Linksys router for gaming should be able to minimize all latency spikes.

2. Are there affordable Linksys routers for gaming?

Yes. Linksys has budget-priced gaming routers that are still impressive performers.