Are you looking for the best home VPN routers to ensure a secure and private internet connection in 2023? Look no further, as we present to you the ultimate list of the 11 Best Home VPN Routers For 2023. In today's digital age, protecting our online presence has become increasingly important, and having a reliable VPN router is crucial. Whether you're an avid gamer, a remote worker, or simply value your privacy, these top-notch routers offer fast speeds, advanced security features, and seamless VPN integration. With our comprehensive guide, you'll be able to choose the perfect home VPN router that suits your needs and keeps your online activities secure and private.
Overall Score: 8/10
The ExpressVPN Aircove router is a game-changer when it comes to online security and privacy. With its built-in VPN, it brings the benefits of ExpressVPN to your entire home network. The router offers always-on protection for all devices, including those that aren't usually compatible with VPN software. It allows you to connect to multiple VPN locations at once and provides fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds. The Aircove router is easy to set up and use, with advanced protection features and world-class customer support. While some users have experienced speed and stability issues, overall, the Aircove router is an excellent investment for anyone who values online privacy.
Key Features
- World-class, built-in VPN
- 30-day free trial
- Always-on protection for all devices
- Connect to multiple VPN locations at once
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- Easy to use
- Advanced protection features
- World-class customer support
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.70Lx2.30Wx8.10H
- Size: 210 x 120 x 36.8 mm
Pros
- Built-in VPN for whole home network
- Wide coverage area
- Easy setup
- Comprehensive protection for all devices
- Fast speeds even with VPN
Cons
- Speed and stability issues for some users
- Limited control over router settings
- Wi Fi range not as good as some competitors
The ExpressVPN Aircove router is an excellent choice for those who prioritize online security and privacy. With its built-in VPN, it offers comprehensive protection for all devices in your home network. The router is easy to set up and provides fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds. While some users have experienced speed and stability issues, overall, the Aircove router delivers on its promises. It may not have all the advanced features of some high-end routers, but its simplicity and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment. With world-class customer support, any issues you encounter will be promptly addressed. If you value online privacy and want a powerful VPN router, the ExpressVPN Aircove is worth considering.
Overall Score: 9/10
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is a dual-band gigabit wireless internet router that is perfect for home use. It works with Alexa and is compatible with all Wi-Fi devices. With a high speed of 1750 Mbps, it provides a seamless internet experience, reducing buffering and making it ideal for 4K streaming. The router also features three external antennas for long-range Wi-Fi coverage, four Gigabit LAN ports for fast wired connections, and an integrated USB port that acts as a media server. It comes with the TP-Link tether app, allowing you to easily set up and manage your home network. This router is compatible with all internet service providers and requires a modem for most of them.
Key Features
- One Mesh Compatible Router – Form a seamless Wi Fi with TP-Link One Mesh Wi Fi Extenders
- Dual band router upgrades to 1750 Mbps high-speed internet
- 3 external antennas for long-range Wi-Fi
- Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports
- Integrated USB port acting as a media server
- TP-Link tether app for easy network management
- Works with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.59Lx6.32Wx1.29H
- Size: AC1750
Pros
- Easy to set up and manage with the app
- Provides fast internet speed and reduces buffering
- Long-range Wi-Fi coverage
- Multiple Gigabit LAN ports for wired connections
- USB port for media sharing
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Cons
- May occasionally disconnect Wi-Fi clients
- Limited integration with voice assistants
- Requires periodic restarts for optimal performance
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is an excellent choice for home users in need of a reliable and high-performing router. With its seamless WiFi capabilities, fast internet speeds, and extensive features like parental controls and media sharing, it offers everything you need for a smooth online experience. The router is also highly compatible with various devices and internet service providers, making it a versatile option. While it may have some minor drawbacks like occasional Wi-Fi disconnections and limited voice assistant integration, these do not significantly affect its overall performance. Overall, the TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A7) is a top-notch router that delivers impressive results.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a powerful and compact wireless VPN encrypted travel router. It offers dual-band network with wireless speeds of 400Mbps(2.4G) and 867Mbps(5G) and is compatible with tethering. With the latest OpenWrt 21.02 operating system, the router allows for customization and application installations. It comes with pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for easy VPN client and server setup, providing added security for your internet connections. The GL-A1300 also supports network storage, allowing you to create a private network storage with an external USB hard drive. It is small and lightweight, making it perfect for travel and use in various public places. The router offers features like VPN internet kill switch, separate private and guest Wi-Fi networks, and encrypted DNS with Cloudflare for enhanced security. Overall, the GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a versatile travel router with powerful features and easy setup.
Key Features
- Dual-band network with wireless speeds of 400Mbps(2.4G) and 867Mbps(5G)
- Customizable and programmable with Open Wrt 21.02 operating system
- Pre-installed Open VPN and Wire Guard for VPN client and server setup
- Network storage support for creating a private storage network
- Compact and lightweight design for easy travel and use in public places
- VPN internet kill switch for all internet traffic
- Separate private and guest Wi-Fi networks for increased security
- Encrypted DNS with Cloudflare for privacy and security
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.65Lx3.35Wx1.18H
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Powerful VPN functionality
- Compact and portable design
- Customizable and programmable
- Supports network storage
Cons
- Limited Wire Guard speeds
- May experience occasional hiccups with 5G
- Compatibility issues with some devices
The GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a highly versatile and reliable travel router. It offers excellent wireless speeds, powerful VPN functionality, and a range of security features. The ability to customize and program the router based on personal preferences is a major advantage. The compact design and portability make it convenient for travel and use in various public places. While there may be occasional hiccups with the 5G connection and some compatibility issues with certain devices, overall, the GL-A1300 delivers outstanding performance and security. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply looking to enhance your internet security at home, the GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a top choice for a wireless VPN encrypted travel router.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a powerful networking device designed for small to medium-sized businesses. With five Gigabit ports and support for up to three WAN connections, this router optimizes bandwidth usage and provides reliable internet connectivity. It is integrated into the Omada SDN platform, enabling centralized cloud management of the network from anywhere. The router offers advanced security features, including firewall policies, VPN connections, and IP/MAC/URL filtering, ensuring the protection of your network and data. It also comes with a limited lifetime protection warranty and 24/7 technical support. With its robust performance and abundant features, the TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a reliable choice for businesses in need of secure and efficient networking.
Key Features
- Five Gigabit Ports
- Up to 3 WAN Ethernet Ports + 1 USB WAN
- Omada SDN Integrated
- Load Balance
- SPI Firewall
- Limited Lifetime Protection
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 6.22Lx3.94Wx1.00H
Pros
- Optimizes bandwidth usage
- Integrates into Omada SDN platform
- Advanced security features
- Supports multiple VPN connections
- Limited lifetime protection and 24/7 technical support
Cons
- Lack of visibility for WAN port problems
- Interface can be complicated for novices
The TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a reliable and feature-packed networking solution for small to medium-sized businesses. Its five Gigabit ports and support for multiple WAN connections ensure efficient bandwidth usage and reliable internet connectivity. The integration with the Omada SDN platform allows for centralized cloud management of the network, making it convenient for businesses with multiple sites. The router’s advanced security features provide protection against threats and the limited lifetime warranty offers peace of mind. However, the lack of visibility for WAN port issues and a complicated interface may pose challenges for inexperienced users. Overall, the TP-Link ER605 V2 is a highly recommended router for businesses in need of a secure and efficient networking solution.
Overall Score: 9/10
The GL.iNet MT2500 (Brume 2) is a mini VPN security gateway designed for home office and remote work. It serves as a VPN server and client, offering VPN cascading and internet security. With its 2.5G WAN port and 1 gigabit LAN port, it makes an ideal gateway for hosting a VPN server at home or office. The device is compatible with over 30 VPN service providers and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. It provides full protection for your network with Cloudflare encryption and IPv6 security protocol. The GL.iNet MT2500 comes with 8 GByte EMMC storage for offline data storage and does not have Wi-Fi capability. With its advanced hardware specifications, it offers a reliable and secure VPN solution for your network.
Key Features
- Compatible with 30+ VPN service providers
- Pre-installed with Open VPN and Wire Guard
- Supports VPN cascading
- Ideal gateway for hosting a VPN server at home or office
- Advanced hardware specifications
Specifications
Pros
- Full protection for your network
- Supports VPN cascading
- High-speed VPN protocols
- Advanced hardware specifications
- Ample storage for offline data
- Cloudflare encryption and IPv6 security protocol
Cons
- No Wi-Fi capability
- Limited DDNS support without customization
The GL.iNet MT2500 (Brume 2) is a powerful mini VPN security gateway that offers a reliable and secure solution for home office and remote work. With its support for multiple VPN service providers, high-speed VPN protocols, and advanced hardware specifications, it provides full protection for your network and enables easy hosting of a VPN server. The device’s compatibility with Cloudflare encryption and IPv6 security protocol ensures your privacy and security. Although it lacks Wi-Fi capability and has limited DDNS support, the GL.iNet MT2500 excels in delivering secure connectivity and efficient VPN management. Overall, it is a valuable addition to any home or office network.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
The Deeper Connect Pico is an all-in-one smart VPN router/miner that offers unlimited internet freedom, enhanced security, and various features like ad blocking, parental control, and IoT protection. It's a portable and silent device with free lifetime access to the Deeper Network Decentralized VPN and decentralized CDN for faster web browsing. Despite some negative reviews regarding overheating and non-responsive tech support, the Deeper Connect Pico provides a secure and fair internet experience. With the added bonus of a free WIFI adapter, it allows you to connect wirelessly to the decentralized VPN from anywhere in the world. This device offers a frictionless user experience and serves as an easy and passive income cryptocurrency miner.
Key Features
- Portable and energy-efficient cryptocurrency miner
- Blockchain-powered device for internet freedom and enhanced security
- Free lifetime access to decentralized VPN and CDN
- Ad blocking, parental control, and Io T protection features
- Includes free WIFI adapter for wireless connectivity
Specifications
- Dimension: 3.39Lx1.26Wx0.28H
Pros
- Portable and virtually silent
- Provides unlimited internet freedom and enhanced security
- Decentralized VPN and CDN for faster web browsing
- Ad blocking, parental control, and Io T protection features
- Includes free WIFI adapter
Cons
- Some reports of overheating and Wi-Fi speed issues
- Non-responsive tech support in certain cases
- Potential issues with defective devices and lack of customer support
The Deeper Connect Pico offers a combination of convenience, security, and income generation. It serves as both a smart VPN router and a cryptocurrency miner, making it a versatile device. While there are some concerns raised by customers regarding overheating and unresponsive tech support, the overall functionality and features provided by the Deeper Connect Pico make it an attractive option for those seeking internet freedom and enhanced security. The inclusion of a free WIFI adapter is a bonus for wireless connectivity. However, potential buyers should be cautious and consider the reported issues before making a purchase decision.
Overall Score: 9/10
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is a powerful and versatile networking device designed for travel and public network use. With Wi-Fi 6 technology, it offers high-speed dual-band connectivity and supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections. It features advanced security measures such as OpenVPN and WireGuard encryption, ensuring fast and secure browsing. The router also allows for easy file sharing with its NAS feature. Running on the latest OpenWrt 21.02 operating system, users can customize and install applications according to their preferences. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 is the perfect companion for travelers, offering reliable and secure connectivity on the go.
Key Features
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 1800 Mbps
- Supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections
- Advanced security with Open VPN and Wire Guard encryption
- Easy file sharing with NAS feature
- Customizable with Open Wrt 21.02 operating system
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.92Lx3.23Wx1.42H
Pros
- High-speed Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Advanced security measures for secure browsing
- Easy file sharing with NAS feature
- Customizable and flexible with Open Wrt OS
Cons
- May overheat and experience performance issues
- Bulky power adapter
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is a feature-packed networking device that offers fast and secure connectivity for travelers. With its Wi-Fi 6 technology, advanced security measures, and customizable operating system, it provides a reliable and flexible solution for on-the-go internet needs. While it may experience overheating and performance issues, its overall performance and functionality make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you need to connect multiple devices, share files, or enhance your online security, this travel router has you covered.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The GL.iNet MT2500A (Brume 2) Mini VPN Security Gateway is an essential tool for home offices and remote work. This compact device allows for secure VPN server hosting, VPN client usage, and VPN cascading. With compatibility with over 30 VPN service providers and pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, it provides fast and reliable speeds. The gateway also offers advanced network protection, including Cloudflare encryption and support for IPv6 security. Its hardware specifications include a 2.5 gigabit WAN port, 1 gigabit LAN port with a USB 3.0 port, and 8 GByte EMMC storage for offline data storage. While it doesn't have Wi-Fi capabilities, it is perfect for users seeking a portable and secure VPN solution.
Key Features
- Compatible with 30+ VPN service providers
- Full protection for your network with Cloudflare encryption
- Supports VPN cascading
- Ideal gateway for hosting a VPN server at home or office
- Advanced hardware specifications with 2.5G WAN and USB 3.0
- Pre-installed with Open VPN and Wire Guard
Specifications
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Fast and reliable VPN speeds
- Advanced network protection
- Allows for VPN server hosting and client usage
- Easy setup and configuration
- Allows bypassing of geo-blocking and secure remote work
Cons
- No Wi-Fi capabilities
- Initial setup might be slightly tricky for non-technical users
- Shipping packaging could be improved
The GL.iNet MT2500A Mini VPN Security Gateway is a powerful and versatile device that provides essential VPN functionality for home offices and remote work. With its support for multiple VPN service providers, fast speeds, and advanced network protection, it offers a secure internet browsing experience. While it lacks Wi-Fi capabilities, its compact design and robust features make it an ideal choice for users looking for a portable VPN solution. Whether you’re accessing sensitive information or bypassing geo-blocking, this gateway ensures your privacy and security. Overall, the GL.iNet MT2500A is a reliable and convenient tool for anyone concerned about online privacy and internet security.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link WiFi 6 Internet Gaming Router is a high-speed tri-band router designed for extreme gaming. With Wi-Fi speeds of up to 10 Gbps and a powerful quad-core CPU, this router delivers optimal performance for gaming enthusiasts. It features game acceleration technology to prioritize gaming streams and reduce lag, as well as OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous data delivery to multiple devices. The router also comes with TP-Link HomeCare, offering antivirus protection, parental controls, and QoS. With 8 Gigabit LAN ports and a 2.5 Gbps WAN port, as well as USB 3.0 connectivity, this router provides extensive connectivity options. It is compatible with all major internet service providers and can be easily set up. Overall, the TP-Link WiFi 6 Internet Gaming Router is a reliable and powerful choice for gamers looking for exceptional Wi-Fi performance.
Key Features
- Ultra-Fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 10 Gbps
- Game Accelerator for optimized gaming
- 2.5 Gbps WAN port and 8 Gigabit LAN ports
- OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology for multi-device support
- 1.8 GHz Quad-Core CPU for powerful processing
- TP-Link Home Care for network protection
- TP-Link One Mesh Supported for whole-home Wi-Fi
- Works with all major internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black and Red
- Dimension: 14.37Lx11.42Wx4.72H
Pros
- Ultra-fast Wi-Fi speeds for gaming
- Extensive connectivity options
- Powerful processing capabilities
- Free lifetime subscription to TP-Link Home Care
- Compatible with all major internet service providers
Cons
- Lack of long-term statistics for internet traffic
- No link/activity LEDs on Ethernet ports
- Initial setup may require manual configuration for optimal performance
The TP-Link WiFi 6 Internet Gaming Router is a top choice for gamers seeking exceptional Wi-Fi speeds and performance. With its ultra-fast speeds, game acceleration technology, and powerful processing capabilities, it ensures an immersive gaming experience. The extensive connectivity options and compatibility with major internet service providers make it a versatile choice. The TP-Link HomeCare features provide added network protection and control. While the lack of long-term statistics and absence of link/activity LEDs on Ethernet ports are minor drawbacks, they do not significantly impact the overall performance and functionality of the router. Overall, the TP-Link WiFi 6 Internet Gaming Router is a reliable and powerful solution for gamers and tech enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8/10
The ASUS RT-AX55 (AX1800) Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router is a feature-packed router that offers subscription-free network security, parental controls, built-in VPN, and support for gaming, streaming, and smart home devices. It supports the latest WiFi standard, 802.11AX (WiFi 6), with a maximum range of 3000 Sq Ft. The router features a 1.5GHz quad-core processor and supports 80MHz bandwidth for better capacity and efficiency. With a total networking speed of about 1800Mbps, it provides ultra-fast WiFi speed with 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5GHz band. The router also supports MU-MIMO and OFDMA techniques to efficiently communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. It offers commercial-grade security with AiProtection Classic powered by Trend Micro and features ASUS Instant Guard for one-click secure VPN when away from home. The router is also AiMesh compatible, allowing for easy extendable network with advanced features. Overall, the ASUS RT-AX55 is a reliable and powerful router for all your networking needs.
Key Features
- Maximum Range: 3000 Sq Ft
- Next-Gen Wi Fi Standard – 802.11AX (Wi Fi 6)
- Ultra-fast Wi Fi Speed – 1800Mbps
- Increase Capacity and Efficiency with MU-MIMO and OFDMA
- Commercial-grade Security – Ai Protection Classic
- Easy Extendable Network with Ai Mesh compatibility
- Nitro QAM (1024-QAM) technology for faster data rates
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.06Lx5.28Wx2.20H
- Size: 9.06 x 5.28 x 2.2 inches
Pros
- Wide coverage range
- Supports latest Wi Fi standard
- Ultra-fast speed for gaming and streaming
- Efficiently handles multiple devices
- Strong network security features
- Easy to extend network with Ai Mesh
Cons
- Some users have experienced firmware issues
- Limited support outside normal business hours
The ASUS RT-AX55 (AX1800) Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router is a reliable and feature-packed router that offers excellent WiFi performance and a wide range of advanced features. With its support for the latest WiFi standard, wide coverage range, and high-speed connections, it is perfect for gaming, streaming, and smart home applications. The router’s built-in security features and parental controls provide peace of mind for family use. The ability to extend the network with AiMesh compatibility is an added bonus for those who need seamless roaming and advanced features. However, some users have reported firmware issues, and the availability of customer support outside normal business hours is limited. Overall, the ASUS RT-AX55 offers great value for its price and is a solid choice for a home WiFi router.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) Home AC Gigabit VPN Router is a powerful and versatile router that offers high-speed wireless performance, open-source customization options, and VPN client and server capabilities. With dual-band AC gigabit wireless connectivity and a speed of 400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band, this router is capable of providing fast and reliable internet access. It comes with OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed, allowing for easy customization and access to a wide range of software options. The router supports VPN services and has a larger storage capacity with 256MB RAM and 32MB flash ROM. It also includes three gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB 3.0 port for additional connectivity options. The GL.iNet GL-B1300 is an excellent choice for users who require a reliable and customizable router with VPN capabilities.
Key Features
- Dual band AC gigabit wireless router
- Open source and programmable
- VPN client and server support
- Larger storage and EAP support
- Package includes router, power adapter, and Ethernet cable
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.61Lx4.61Wx1.38H
- Size: GL-B1300
Pros
- Fast and reliable dual-band wireless performance
- Open-source customization options with pre-installed Open Wrt/LEDE
- Supports VPN client and server with compatibility for multiple service providers
- Ample storage capacity and additional connectivity options
- Includes necessary accessories in the package
Cons
- Difficulties setting up NAS features
- Outdated stock firmware
- Wi Fi drops out occasionally
- Modifications through the web interface may not always take
The GL.iNet GL-B1300 (Convexa-B) Home AC Gigabit VPN Router is a feature-rich and customizable router that offers excellent wireless performance and VPN capabilities. With its dual-band AC gigabit wireless connectivity, OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed software, and support for VPN services, this router provides a reliable and secure internet connection. The larger storage capacity and EAP support further enhance its capabilities. While it may have some drawbacks, such as difficulties with NAS setup and occasional WiFi drops, overall, it is a solid choice for users who require a powerful and customizable router. With its affordable price point and included accessories, the GL.iNet GL-B1300 is a great option for both home and travel use.
Buyer's Guide: Home VPN Router
To ensure a secure and private internet connection at home, investing in a reliable home VPN router is essential. With the multitude of options available in the market, choosing the right router can be overwhelming. Fear not, for we've put together this comprehensive buyer's guide to steer you in the right direction. So, let's dive in and explore the factors you should consider before making a purchase!
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting a home VPN router, keep the following factors in mind:
- VPN Compatibility: Ensure that the router supports your chosen VPN protocol. Look for routers that are compatible with popular protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, or WireGuard.
- Performance: Opt for a router with sufficient processing power and memory to handle the demands of encryption and decryption processes involved in VPN connections. Check for routers with a minimum of 128MB RAM.
- Speed and Range: Consider the router's maximum data transfer speed and range, as these factors impact the overall performance of your VPN connection.
- Security Features: Look for features like a built-in firewall, intrusion prevention, and malware protection to enhance the security of your network.
- Number of Connections: Determine the number of simultaneous VPN connections the router can handle. This is particularly important if you have multiple devices that need to connect to the VPN simultaneously.
- Ease of Setup and Use: Consider routers with intuitive interfaces, easy-to-use firmware, and clear documentation to simplify the setup and management process.
- Wired and Wireless Connectivity: Assess the availability of both wired and wireless connectivity options based on your specific needs.
- Parental Controls: If you have children at home, consider routers that offer robust parental control features to manage internet access and content filtering.
- Price: Set a budget and compare features and prices across different routers to find the best value for your investment.
- Customer Reviews: Research user reviews and ratings of different routers to gain insights into their real-world performance and user satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Best Home VPN Routers For 2023
A VPN router is a special type of router that has built-in features and capabilities to support a Virtual Private Network (VPN). It allows you to secure your internet connection by encrypting data traffic and routing it through a VPN server.
A VPN router provides a secure and private connection, protecting your online activities from prying eyes and potential threats. It also allows you to access geographically restricted content and enhances your online privacy.
While it is possible to use a regular router with a VPN by installing custom firmware, it may not offer the same level of security and functionality as a dedicated VPN router.
Setting up a VPN router involves configuring the router’s firmware with the necessary VPN settings, such as server addresses and authentication credentials. Detailed setup instructions are usually provided by the router manufacturer or VPN service provider.
Yes, many VPN routers support multiple simultaneous VPN connections, allowing you to protect multiple devices within your home network.
