As you already know, FIOS is the fiber-optic service or the fastest Internet service from the ISP Verizon. Since Verizon Internet Service Provider is on my top ISPs in the US 2023 list, I have brought you the three best Wi-Fi routers for Verizon Fios Internet.
After subscribing to Verizon Fios, the first thing that comes to mind is Verizon compatible router. And considering the Wi-Fi router is a crucial piece of equipment, we have to go through several router buying factors when choosing the best Verizon FiOS router.
Since those buying factors might be technical for most people, I have tested and reviewed a bunch of Wi-Fi routers approved by Verizon. Also, I compared them to narrow down your buying decision as per your taste.
Before moving towards the goal, let’s discuss Verizon’s role for those who want to have their own Wi-Fi router. Moreover, Verizon has already launched its first Wi-Fi 6 compatible router, 63% faster than the previous Wi-Fi 5 router. You can either buy it or rent it; you’ll have to pay $15 per month if you rent it, and you can buy it for $299.99, excluding taxes and shipping charges. You can check the full review of the Verizon Fios Wi-Fi 6 router here.
Now the role, you’ll have to call Verizon Fios and request them to switch from coaxial to ethernet, as most third-party modern Wi-Fi routers and routers in this guide include only an ethernet WAN port, not a coaxial port.
Now, take a look at the top three Verizon FiOS routers for 2023
- TP-Link WiFi 6 Router AX1800 (Archer AX21) – Budget Option
- ASUS AX5700 WiFi 6 (RT-AX86U) – Gaming Router
- NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream AX5400 – Streaming Router
1. TP-Link Archer AX21 – Budget Wi-Fi 6 Router For Verizon
Overview: Archer AX21 Wi-Fi 6
Tp-Link Archer AX21 is a dual-band Wi-Fi router that utilizes the latest wireless standard ‘AX.’ Even though the AX21 is built around 802.11ax standard, it ensures smooth connectivity with backward wireless standards, be it the popular 802.11n or the oldest one 802.11g.
This Wi-Fi 6 router is equipped with a powerful processor to handle 40+ devices at once. In addition to the simultaneous connections, the AX21 supports OFDMA and 4-streams for smooth and stable streaming. Besides, the router offers maximum Wi-Fi speeds of 1.8Gbps—1200Mbps on the 5GHz and 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band—enough for 4K/UHD streaming and live gaming.
With 4 high-gain external antennas, Tp-Link introduced an advanced chipset (FEM), a front-end module, with this router. The FEM chip and beamforming technology together ensure reliable and robust Wi-Fi coverage.
When it comes to compatibility with Verizon, the Tp-Link Archer AX21 works perfectly and can be set up in no time. Moreover, it is compatible with other internet service providers, such as Comcast, AT&T, Spectrum, RCN, Century Link, Frontier, cox, etc. However, you’ll need a modem for most of them.
Pros & Cons: Tp-Link Archer AX21
What I like:
- The latest wireless 802.11AX standard
- Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1.8Gbps
- 40+ multiple devices at once
- Single SSID assigns a suitable frequency automatically to the connected device.
- It works perfectly with Alexa
- WPA3 Wi-Fi security
- Easy setup with web Interface and Tether App.
What I don’t:
- None for the price.
Verdict: What do I think?
The Archer AX21 passes all tests for the price. If you’re looking for the best router under $100, the Archer AX21 will be my top recommendation for you. However, if you can go above $100, either the ASUS RT-AX86U or the NETGEAR AX5400 should be your goal.
Check The Price On Amazon2. ASUS RT-AX86U – Best Verizon Router for Gaming
Overview: The Asus AX5700
The Company ASUS designed the RT-AX86U primarily for gamers; It packs advanced features and technologies for gaming, such as the dedicated gaming port, Nvidia GeForce NOW, and Lower latency.
The ASUS RT-AX86, as it suggests, is A new-generation Wi-Fi 6 router that offers maximum Wi-Fi speeds of up to 5700Mbps and wired speeds upto 2Gbps. Besides, its dedicated gaming port offers 2.5Gbps.
Unlike most Wi-Fi 6 routers, the RT-AX86U has great compatibility with the older wireless standards (802.11 ac, 802.11n, 802.11g/b/a). Even I didn’t find any Wi-Fi issues whiles connecting the AX86 to my oldest (2014) Samsung Galaxy S5. So overall, Wi-Fi 6 on the RT-AX86 brings you lower latency, longer range, faster speeds, and energy efficiency.
Another highlight of the router is its commercial-grade security. Since network security is everyone’s priority, the company has packed the router with high-grade security features and included AiProtection Pro for free. Moreover, it supports the latest WPA3 security protocol for higher password security.
Pros & Cons:
What I like:
- AiMesh compatibility
- Amazing Wi-Fi 5GHz coverage
- Built-in VPN
- Dedicated gaming LAN port
- Works perfectly with Verizon Fios ISP
- Easy setup
What I don’t:
- UI could be better.
Verdict: What do I think?
Overall, the ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 impressed me for the price in my testing. It has amazing gaming potential, low latency, a dedicated gaming port, and faster 5GHz speeds. Besides, Adaptive QoS and high-grade network protection make the router the best router for gaming.
Check The Price On Amazon3. NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5400 – Best for Entertainment
Overview: The Netgear AX5400
The third router for your Verizon Internet is Netgear AX5400. I chose it for streamers primarily. However, the AX5400 doesn’t only limit to streamers; it offers incredible features that fit everyone. Furthermore, the AX5400 works with all ISPs, whether cable, satellite, fiber, or DSL internet service; it can support gigabit internet plans with over 1Gbps speeds.
With up to 5.4Gbps speeds, the Netgear RAX50 can cover 2,500 square feet with great network stability in every corner of your house. Since the router is Wi-Fi 6 supported and equipped with a powerful 1.5GHz triple-core processor, it easily handles simultaneous streaming, such as online movies, gaming, video calls, and file transfer. Moreover, Netgear claims that the AX5400 can handle up to 25 devices simultaneously.
On the hardware side, You have four fast gigabit LAN ports on the router’s back panel to connect wired-enabled devices. Also, there is a USB 3.0 port for connecting storage devices. The router has four external antennas, one on each side and the others next to the back panel.
You can set up the router within minutes using the Netgear Nighthawk Mobile App; moreover, it lets you monitor and protect your devices. From basic to advanced, all options to manage the Wi-Fi settings are available on the App.
Pros & Cons: The Netgear Nighthawk AX5400
What I like:
- OFDMA, 6-stream support (1024-QAM supported)
- Great Wi-Fi coverage up to 2,500 sq.ft.
- Looks great; its awesome design and built-quality
- VPN support
- Easy to set up
What I don’t:
- A bit pricey
Verdict: What do I think?
The RAX50 is a good option for home entertainment when you have multiple devices running simultaneously in your home. Its powerful processor, (6-stream) MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and 1024-QAM support handle the heavy-duty task with ease.
Check The Price On AmazonHow to choose a compatible router for Verizon Fios? What to consider before buying?
Not only routers, everything you buy should meet your expectations. Since a Wi-Fi router comes with many features and technologies, you should focus on your needs. Moreover, additional features always make a thing pricier.
So what are the things you should pay attention to when buying the compatible router for your Verizon fios?
Comparison: Verizon’s Router Vs. Third-party Router
To begin your journey toward the new router, make sure you compare the Verizon Fios router with the one you’re willing to buy. The comparison must include features, setup, compatibility, connectivity, technology, design, and price.
Consumer Reviews: Don’t forget to check forums and sites
Consumer reviews play a significant role in buying, as they’re not sponsored and paid actors, unlike most YouTubers. In short, you get unbias reviews directly from the users.
Price: Don’t waste your money on high-end features
It’s pretty common for people to buy advanced routers with high-end features which they will never use. Make sure you buy your new router keeping your internet use in mind. Don’t get mad for anything that you may not need.
What plan do you have with Verizon? Here is the Verizon FiOS internet plan chart:
Here I recommend the best router as per the Internet plan.
FAQs: What do most Verizon Fios subscribers ask?
If you rent the latest Wi-Fi 6 Verizon router, you’ll have to pay around $15 per month, excluding taxes.
No, you don’t need to think of any Verizon Fios modem, as Verizon offers an advanced fiber service to their customers. It doesn’t require a traditional modem as it uses an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) to convert the fiber signal. So, you’re free to use your own Verizon compatible Wi-Fi router.
Yes. You can buy The Router Fios, as Verizon names it, which costs around $15/month if you rent it. As for the question, you can buy it for $299, excluding taxes and shipping.
No. It’s not that difficult or technical to use your own Wi-Fi router with Verizon service. Moreover, it requires an essential ethernet connection to the compatible Verizon Fios router.
Conclusion: Verizon Fios Router
So, you have all the top Verizon Wi-Fi routers. I have done my job by giving you an honest review of these routers. Now, it’s your job to find a suitable router as per your taste.
You need to figure out your usage and choose accordingly. For example, Internet plan, Wi-Fi coverage, Wi-Fi speed, Wi-Fi/Wired Connectivity, compatibility, security, and price.
Still, if you have trouble, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section below. Also, let me know about this guide. If there is room for improvement, please do share with me.