Best Modem For Gaming

Top 10 Best DSL Modems for Gaming

Once an individual starts playing games, they surprisingly discover that a perfect rig with awesome parameters is a must. Regardless of what you are choosing for playing PC games, opt for the best. Obviously, you want a superb experience, right?

As a professional or amateur gamer, you must have heard about the importance of a top-notch modem for gaming. Never bought a DSL modem before? Check the information below.

1

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Connectivity – Wireless, wired

Data transfer – 2600 Mb/second

Ethernet ports – 5

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2

NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi DSL WiFi DSL

Connectivity – Ethernet, Wireless, USB

Data transfer – 867 Mb/second

Ethernet ports – 4

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3

TP-Link AC5400

Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB

Data transfer – 5334 Mb/second

Ethernet ports – 9

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4

ASUS AX5400

Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Ethernet

Data transfer – 4804 Mb/second

Ethernet ports – 4

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5

Zyxel Armor Z2 AC2600

Connectivity – Wireless

Data transfer – 2600 Mb/second

Ethernet ports – 5

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6

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900

Connectivity – WLAN

Data transfer – 1.9 Gb/second

Ethernet ports – 4

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7

NETGEAR N600 Dual Band

Connectivity – Wireless

Data transfer – 600 Mbps

Ethernet ports – 4

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8

TP-LINK ADSL2+ Modem Router TD-8816

Connectivity – Wired

Data transfer – 3.5 Mb/s

Ethernet ports – 2

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9

Motorola MG7700

Connectivity – Wi-Fi Built-In, Ethernet

Data transfer – 1 Gb/s

Ethernet ports – 4

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10

NETGEAR High-Speed Broadband DSL Modem

Connectivity – Wired-Ethernet, Single Ethernet Port, Wireless

Data transfer – 100 Mb/s

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DSL modem is a dedicated device used for connecting the worldwide network to an end device through a telephone line. The latter provides DSL broadband or a ‘digital subscriber line’ service. As a result, you get what everyone calls ‘the Internet’ or simply web. When it comes to speed, a DSL connection is faster than common dial-ups but slower compared to a fiberglass cable connection (or Starlink satellite).

DSL connections are widely available worldwide; their accessibility makes them so popular and variable in terms of the exact network type (ADSL or VDSL, for example).

Without a modem, worldwide multiplayer gaming is impossible. With a poor quality modem, it is impossible as well because the latency will go sky high, rendering you helpless and unable to react in time.

To stay on the safe side while buying an advertised DSL modem, check the top ten modems we have prepared for you.

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Top 1 of the Best Modems for Gaming

• Connectivity – Wireless, wired
• WiFi-spec – 802.11ac
• Weight – 3.71 lbs
• Data transfer – 2600 Mb/second
• Dimensions – 2.2 x 12.7 x 9.6 inches
• Ethernet ports – 5

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With 2.2 x 12.7 x 9.6 inches, the model comes in a stylish black color. Made of plastic, Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR 500 has 4 antennas the user must connect to special ports in the modem’s rear part. The router weighs 3.71 lbs. It is not much, considering the 4 antennas that ensure top-end Internet connection to the in-house devices.

The average price is $300. But the router is worth it, from the tiniest in-build LED lights to the superb design and five Ethernet ports.

Looking like an alien technology, the router will be among the top options you will find in the search engine results. Having a data transfer of 2600 Mb per second, the device ensures stable Internet connection and excludes the possibility of lagging – of course, if the server you connect to is up.

The router operates the system called DUMAOS. It is gamer-friendly and easy-to-use. A custom-designed dashboard contains graphs of CPU state, running applications, and Internet stats, among others. The model includes a Geo-Filter feature, allowing the gamer to prevent lag by changing the distance to the host servers.

NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi DSL

One with the Highest Level of Security

• Connectivity – Ethernet, Wireless, USB
• WiFi-spec – 802.11ac
• Weight – 1.44 lbs
• Data transfer – 867 Mb/second
• Dimensions – 11.5 x 9.76 x 4.13 inches
• Ethernet ports – 4

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This advanced dual-band 300+867Mbps router sits at the top because of its curious set of features. How about being able to access an external hard drive connected to the router through a USB?

The industry standard 4 Ethernet ports are merely a nice addition to its Beamforming functionality, advanced QoS, and top security.
With dimensions of 11.5 x 9.76 x 4.13 inches, the router does not need much space on one’s table. Meanwhile, a NETGEAR genie® home network manager ensures that the modem’s installation is user-friendly and easy-to-grasp.

The model has considerable wireless coverage. Big families with up to ten devices will be the happiest owners of NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi DSL; besides, it’s easy to set up and maintain. High speed and reliability make this device the best modem and router for gaming, too.

From now on, no worries watching your favorite Netflix shows: with a 867 Mb/second data transfer, no lags will interrupt the videos or multiplayer games.

TP-Link AC5400

Highest in Customer Satisfaction

• Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB
• WiFi-spec – 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency, 5 GHz Radio Frequency
• Weight – 3.00 lbs
• Data transfer – 5334 Mb/second
• Dimensions – 11.34 x 11.34 x 7.24 inches
• Ethernet ports – 9

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Looking more like an oversized Sauron’s crown, the model will definitely add spice to the user’s home design. Eight removable antennas are a symbol of the modem’s power and constitute a significant part of its total 3.00 lbs weight. The dimensions of 11.34 x 11.34 x 7.24 inches add to the grandeur of the user’s rig and the sense of confidence one might get from owning such a treasure.

The price of TP-Link AC5400 is pretty high but absolutely justified, taking into account its impressive characteristics.

The Tri-band ensures stable Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connection for all devices the user chooses to connect simultaneously. The data transfer of 5334 Mb/second makes TP-Link AC5400 the best modem for gaming and streaming.

The choice of frequencies (2.4 or 5 GHz) allows the user to set up devices in such a way that there is little to no interference. Thanks to the TP-Link AC5400 creators, you can keep a separate device for gaming and another one for file downloads or guest network.

To ensure high-end antivirus protection, QoS, and efficient parental control, check a lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare. No extra fees for your network’s protection.

The modem received a JD Power Award in the competition of wireless routers. The Satisfaction Reports from 2017 and 2019-2020 show that gamers preferred TP-Link AC5400, making it especially popular among professional players.

ASUS AX5400

Best Modem Design

• Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Ethernet
• WiFi-spec – 802.11ac
• Weight – 1.57 lbs
• Data transfer – 4804 Mb/second
• Dimensions – 10.96 x 7.26 x 6.5 inches
• Ethernet ports – 4

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Representing the routers of the new generation WiFi 6, Asus AX5400 demonstrates an exceptional 5400 Mbps maximum. The user has 4 Ethernet ports for a wired connection between the devices. Such a high speed ensures superb lag-free streaming and gaming.

The data transfer rate is 4804 Mb/second. The characteristic is a lot higher than average. You get low latency and no lagging. You can also restrict Internet traffic usage. By choosing QoS, it is easy to prioritize file downloads and streams. Another great option is a mobile application, allowing the user to turn on the Mobile Game Mode and be done with the lag.

• Light weight. Being only 1.57 lbs, the router is 10.96 x 7.26 x 6.5 inches. Compared to the previous model, it does not take much space in the user’s apartment.
• Light mode. The viewer can choose any color they like, making the router a truly customizable interior design element.
• Space-themed. Reminding the viewer of a tiny starship with two sloped side panels, Asus AX5400 is not only a modem for gaming but an artistic masterpiece.

Zyxel Armor Z2 AC2600

Best Trusted Modem

• Connectivity – Wireless
• WiFi-spec – 802.11ac
• Weight – 1.85 lbs
• Data transfer – 2600 Mb/second
• Dimensions – 4.25 x 2.83 x 11.7 inches
• Ethernet ports – 5

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Armor Z2 is a serious wireless router designed for heavy loads and demanding users.

If it can handle 4K gaming and video streaming with ease, one can hardly disagree that this modem is on par with the other beasts on the list.

As if the capacity to bring out the 2600Mbps streaming speed alone was not enough, the dual-core 1.7GHz processor makes this modem “smarter” than a bunch of budget smartphones.

HD-movies, fast file transfer, and better control of large networks are simple with Armor Z2.

It features lots of useful and pleasant perks:

• Intelligent beam focus that adapts to the number and location of nearby connected devices.
• eMMC 4GB data storage for internal media backup.
• PC-free installation.
• Usage monitor.
• Easy network expansion with ONE Connect.
• 500 m2 coverage!

Make the best use of your fiber connection with this outstanding next-gen modem for gaming.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900

Gaming Modem with Super Design

• Connectivity – WLAN
• WiFi-spec – 802.11b/g/n
• Weight – 3.35 lbs
• Data transfer – 1.9 Gb/second
• Dimensions – 13.91 x 10.2 x 3.23 inches
• Ethernet ports – 4

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Apparently, smart devices are becoming mainstream. NETGEAR Smart Wi-Fi Router is powered up by a 1GHz processor that enhances the device with lots of technologies for better security and comfort:

• Beamforming.
• Dynamic QoS.
• Smart Connect.
• Alexa Voice Controls.
• Parental Control.
• Guest Wi-Fi, DoS protection, Firewall, VPN, and more!

Wow. This router is the heart of the connected smart home, capable of supporting up to 30 devices on 1800 square feet (about 167 sq. meters).

Can there be a question about its data transfer rate? Dual-band 600+1300Mbps should be enough to connect the whole household and still provide lag-free gaming, streaming, and surfing experience. The best modem for gaming with a large family!

If there ever is a need to use LAN ports, there you go: four 1Gb Ethernet at your service.

NETGEAR N600 Dual Band

Most Popular Modem for Gaming

• Connectivity – Wireless
• WiFi-spec: 802.11b/g/n
• Weight – 0.51 lbs
• Data transfer – 600 Mbps
• Dimensions – 11.62 x 9.85 x 3.23 inches
• Ethernet ports – 4

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N600 Dual Band is the best of the two worlds: the players who want to have a decent quality of gaming and everyday browsing experience without lagging. The price is reasonable too since the developers have carefully thought out the customer’s budget.

The vendor has a strong position on the market. Users trust it worldwide, and it wouldn’t make it to this list if it were otherwise.

It can easily be nominated as the best modem and router for gaming if we judge by the price, the capabilities, the looks, and technical specifications.

One can either connect wirelessly (802.11b/g/n up to 600Mbps supported) in short-range or via one of the 4 Ethernet ports.

Dual-band connection improves performance for multiple connected devices.

The presence of a USB port might be crucial for you, and that fact alone would be enough to label it the best modem for gaming as per your taste.

TP-LINK ADSL2+ Modem Router TD-8816

Small and Presentable Modem

• Connectivity – Wired
• WiFi-spec – 802.11a
• Weight – 0.4 lb
• Data transfer – 3.5 Mb/s
• Dimensions – 10.24 x 7.09 x 2.76 inches
• Ethernet ports – 2

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This device looks rather humble compared to the luxurious gaming ones on the list, but don’t be misguided by the looks: it does its job. Being simplistic, it is more reliable as well.

If you don’t plan anything special, the default software should be enough to get it up and running. Otherwise, (e.g., to use IPv6) run an update.

3.5Mbps maximum upstream rate may not seem impressive compared to the high-end alternatives. Nonetheless, it will handle most of the modern online games on low-performance settings or streaming. 25Mbps download rate will ensure a comfortable Netflix or YouTube experience.

If ASUS AX5400 here seems a little bit of an overkill to you, this one will as easily serve as the best modem router for gaming. It is wired (802.11a standard), so it won’t be able to provide a wireless network to multiple devices out of the box. But it will be perfect for any kind of single–player adventure: there’s one input line port and one Ethernet LAN port to plug your PC or laptop in.

Budget-wise, it’s on the lower end of the price scale. It is lightweight and compact, too.

Motorola MG7700

The Best Compact Modem

• Connectivity – Wi-Fi Built-In, Ethernet
• WiFi-spec – 802.11ac
• Weight – 1.50 lbs
• Data transfer – 1 Gb/s
• Dimensions – 8.6 x 2.6 x 9 inches
• Ethernet ports – 4

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One really needs to see this one to fall in love with it. The futuristic looks of this model are enchanting. Metallic gray hull coloring and green LED status indicators make it fit into most of the design settings of your gaming room (or a streaming one, for that matter).

This is a standing model; it is not designed to hang on the wall.

All the antennas are concealed under the hull. Nonetheless, it provides impressive 1Gbps data transfer speed and features Power Boost technology to further expand the wireless signal range within the maximum allowed distance.

With the dimensions of 8.6 x 2.6 x 9 inches, Motorola MG7700 fits on any flat surface: a desktop or a bookshelf in the far end of a room, for example.

AnyBeam focusing technology enables you to place the modem particularly far from the linked devices. Or, you can throw a LAN party thanks to its 4 Ethernet ports.

The device complies with the latest 802.11ac standard, and, as a side note, Broadcom chipset provides extra security from the denial of service attacks.

Motorola MG7700 will be your best router and modem for gaming if you opt for a compact and stylish tabletop device weighing just 1.50 lbs.

NETGEAR High-Speed Broadband DSL Modem

One of the fastest Modems

• Connectivity – Wired-Ethernet, Single Ethernet Port, Wireless
• Weight – 0.3 lb
• Data transfer – 100 Mb/s
• Dimensions – 8.39 x 7.24 x 3.9 inches
• Ethernet ports – 2

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Very lightweight and minimalist, NETGEAR is a niche solution: it won’t fit every mainstream customer. The manufacturers emphasize that it is compatible only with DSL Internet service providers (ADSL, VDSL, VDSL2, ADSL2, & ADSL2+ but not, for example, upgraded vectoring CenturyLink DSLAM).

For that reason, it is best to study the characteristics of this device, and it will serve you well.

Design-wise, it is a neat-looking sharp tabletop box. Its non-aggressive dark gray tone makes it fit into any home or office; there’s no problem in using it for gaming purposes, too.

As for the DSL family of modems, it is indeed fast: as fast as one can get over the cable. It is possible to connect the device to another modem or router and thus provide network coverage to large territories. Mind that this NETGEAR DM200 model was meant to be used indoors, however.

There’s one VDSL port and one Ethernet LAN port at the rear of the device. It is modem and router combined, so there is no limit to possible configuration variants you may choose depending on the purpose of the network.

For about $130, this small 1.2 lb box may become your best DSL modem for gaming in a blink of an eye!

Comparison of 2 best modems

Consider these things choosing the right modem

The 802.11ax wireless standard provides backward compatibility with all the previous standards. So when we put 802.11ac against 802.11ax in the comparison table, it means that both of the modems support 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies and are compatible with one another. However, the 802.11ax, also known as WiFi 6, is much better because it supports up to 3500Mbps speed per single stream, and there can be four streams at most, resulting in tremendous scalability.

As for security, WPA2 encryption has been proven to be extremely hard to crack. Anything better than this makes your network practically invulnerable. Besides, modem vendors provide their own security solutions for some extra layer of safety.

Some other considerations when choosing a DSL modem:

• Make sure you have access to a telephone wire because DSL uses telephone lines.
• Give preference to renowned brands with acclaiming testimonials.
• If the network of your design includes multiple devices, make sure they are compatible.
• Double-check the transmission speed of all the divides in question so that there are no bottlenecks in your design.
• Keep an open eye for warranty conditions: five years of free support is better than two. It won’t particularly matter if you are not looking for the best modem for gaming but plan an upgrade soon.

Final word

The importance of the modem and router hardware cannot be stressed enough: offices, airports, and households alike need a seamless connection to property function in the world of information.

Your modem must be capable of streaming high-quality video and broadcasting it back to the network, providing Internet access wherever you are, and, of course, connecting you to the gaming worlds without lags and interruptions.

This is the guide you’ve been looking for to find the best modem for gaming on the market right now.

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