Introducing the ultimate guide to the "9 Best VPN Routers For 2023." In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the top VPN routers available in the upcoming year, serving as your go-to resource for navigating the ever-changing landscape of internet privacy and security. Whether you are a tech-savvy enthusiast or a novice user, our expert analysis and recommendations will help you find the perfect VPN router to safeguard your online activities and provide seamless connectivity for all your devices. Stay tuned for an in-depth exploration of the top nine VPN routers that will redefine your online experience in 2023.
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: 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: 8/10
The ExpressVPN Aircove is an ultra-fast Wi-Fi 6 dual-band VPN router that brings world-class VPN protection to your entire home network. With Aircove, you can connect all your devices to ExpressVPN, including smart TVs and other devices that aren't typically compatible with VPN software. The router offers fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds of up to 1,200 Mbps and provides coverage for up to 1,600 sq. ft. It also features easy setup, advanced protection features like parental controls and ad blocking, and world-class customer support. Overall, the ExpressVPN Aircove is a reliable and convenient solution for protecting your entire home network with VPN.
Key Features
- World-class, built-in VPN
- 30-day free trial of Express VPN
- Always-on protection for all devices
- Connect to multiple VPN locations
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- Easy setup and device control
- Advanced protection features
- 24/7 customer support
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: 210 x 120 x 36.8mm
Pros
- Built-in VPN for whole home network
- 30-day free trial of Express VPN
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- Easy setup and device control
- Advanced protection features
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Slower speeds when VPN is enabled
- Some functionality limited to non-U.S. version
- Inconsistent customer service
The ExpressVPN Aircove is a reliable and easy-to-use VPN router that offers world-class protection for your entire home network. With built-in VPN functionality and fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds, it provides seamless and secure browsing for all your devices. The advanced protection features, including parental controls and ad blocking, further enhance your online privacy. While there may be occasional speed limitations when using the VPN, the overall performance and convenience of the Aircove make it a worthwhile investment. With a 30-day free trial and 24/7 customer support, ExpressVPN ensures a hassle-free experience. Protect your home network with ExpressVPN Aircove and enjoy peace of mind.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) is a dual-band wireless internet router that offers fast and reliable connectivity. With a total speed of up to 1900 Mbps, it ensures smooth 4K streaming without any lag. The router also prioritizes security with six layers of advanced network security, ensuring a safe internet experience. Its AiRadar Beamforming technology extends the coverage area up to 3000 Sq Ft, providing optimized coverage and stability. Additionally, the router supports MU-MIMO technology, allowing multiple devices to connect at their maximum speeds simultaneously. The setup process is effortless, and the ASUS Router App allows for easy management of the router from anywhere. Overall, the ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) offers a powerful and reliable internet connection with advanced features to enhance the user experience.
Key Features
- PCMag Readers’ Choice Router
- Fast Internet Router
- Secure Router For Wireless Internet
- Optimized Coverage With Ai Radar Beamforming
- MU-MIMO For Full Speed On Multiple Devices
- 3-Step Effortless Setup
- Control Your Network Router Anywhere
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.66Lx6.30Wx3.43H
Pros
- Fast and reliable internet connection
- Effortless setup process
- Secure network with advanced security features
- Extended coverage area with beamforming technology
- Supports simultaneous high-speed connections on multiple devices
Cons
- Connectivity issues reported by some users
- Limited availability of customer support during non-business hours
The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) offers excellent performance, providing fast and reliable internet connectivity. With its advanced features, including optimized coverage, secure network, and easy setup, it ensures a seamless user experience. While some users have reported connectivity issues, overall, it is a reliable and powerful router. Its compatibility with the ASUS Router App adds convenience by allowing users to manage and control their network from anywhere. The ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality router with advanced features.
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 AX3000 WiFi 6 Router combines high-speed Wi-Fi 6 technology with advanced features to deliver a more responsive experience for smoother streaming, faster downloads, and lag-free gaming. With its dual band capabilities, expanded Wi-Fi coverage, improved battery life, and improved cooling design, this router is designed to meet the demands of modern users. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa for easy voice control, and offers TP-Link HomeShield for enhanced network and IoT protection. With support for all major internet service providers and a sleek black design, the TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router is a fantastic choice for home networks.
Key Features
- Next-Gen Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Speeds
- A More Responsive Experience with OFDMA
- Expanded Wi-Fi Coverage with Beamforming
- Improved Battery Life with Target Wake Time
- Improved Cooling Design for top speeds
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice control
- TP-Link Home Shield for network and Io T protection
- Works with all major internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 12.99Lx9.45Wx2.87H
Pros
- High-speed Wi-Fi 6 technology
- Expanded Wi-Fi coverage
- Improved battery life
- Improved cooling design
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa
- TP-Link Home Shield for enhanced security
- Works with all major internet service providers
Cons
- Some users experienced reliability issues with previous models
The TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router is a powerful and versatile router that delivers excellent Wi-Fi speeds, expanded coverage, and improved performance. With its advanced features such as OFDMA, Beamforming, and Target Wake Time, it offers a more responsive experience for gaming, streaming, and downloading. The improved cooling design ensures that the router maintains top speeds even in demanding environments. The compatibility with Amazon Alexa allows for convenient voice control, while the TP-Link HomeShield provides enhanced network and IoT protection. Although some users have reported reliability issues with previous models, the overall performance and features of the TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router make it a great choice for home networks.
Overall Score: 8/10
The GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Router is a compact and versatile router that allows you to convert a public network to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. It is lightweight and pocket-friendly, making it ideal for travel. The router comes with OpenWrt pre-installed and has programmable features such as USB disk extendability and dual Ethernet ports. With an OpenVPN client already installed, it is compatible with over 30 VPN service providers. The GL-MT300N-V2 also has 128MB of RAM, 16MB of Flash ROM, and various ports available for hardware DIY. Overall, it is a powerful and convenient travel router for secure and reliable internet access on the go.
Key Features
- Wireless mobile mini travel router
- Open source & programmable with Open Wrt
- 128MB RAM and extendable storage
- Open VPN client compatible with 30+ providers
- Portable and pocket-friendly design
Specifications
- Dimension: 2.30Lx2.30Wx1.00H
- Size: V2 (MTK7628NN So C)
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Open Wrt pre-installed for advanced customization
- Supports multiple VPN service providers
- Ample RAM for smooth performance
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Limited VPN bandwidth
- Requires external power source
The GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Router is a highly recommended device for frequent travelers seeking secure internet access. With its compact design, OpenWrt support, and compatibility with various VPN service providers, it offers great flexibility and convenience. Although it has some limitations in terms of VPN bandwidth and requiring an external power source, these drawbacks can be easily overlooked considering its portability and powerful performance. Whether you need to convert public networks to private Wi-Fi, extend existing networks, or access VPN services on the go, this mini router is a reliable companion. Overall, it’s an excellent investment for improving internet security and connectivity while traveling.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The TP-Link ER7206 Multi-WAN Professional Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a powerful networking device that offers increased network capacity and a range of advanced security features. With flexible port configuration and the ability to optimize bandwidth usage across multiple WAN ports, this router is suitable for professional use. It is integrated into Omada SDN, allowing for centralized cloud management and control options. The router also supports highly secure VPN connections and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. While it may not be beginner-friendly, the TP-Link ER7206 offers excellent features and performance for its price.
Key Features
- Flexible Port Configuration
- Increased Network Capacity
- Integrated into Omada SDN
- Cloud Access
- SDN Compatibility
- Abundant Security Features
- Highly Secure VPN
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.90Lx5.17Wx1.38H
- Size: 5 Port + 1 SFP
Pros
- Flexible port configuration for optimized bandwidth usage
- Integrated into Omada SDN for centralized cloud management
- Advanced security features for network protection
- Supports highly secure VPN connections
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not beginner-friendly and requires technical knowledge
- Documentation may be below average in terms of clarity
- Does not support WOL (Wake On Lan)
Overall, the TP-Link ER7206 Multi-WAN Professional Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a reliable and feature-rich networking solution. It offers increased network capacity, advanced security features, and highly secure VPN connections. The integration into Omada SDN allows for centralized cloud management, making it convenient for professional use. While it may not be the most user-friendly router for beginners, it offers excellent value for its price range. The limited lifetime warranty and responsive technical support add to its appeal. If you are looking for a versatile and reliable router for professional networking needs, the TP-Link ER7206 is worth considering.
Overall Score: 9/10
Experience the sheer performance of Archer AX72 Pro with WiFi 6 speeds up to 4804 Mbps at 5GHz Band, and 574 Mbps at 2.4GHz Band. Boosted coverage, enhanced cybersecurity, remote access with VPN, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Key Features
- Dual-Band AX5400 Wi Fi 6
- 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Port
- Maximized Coverage
- Fast and Efficient
- Remote Access with VPN
- Enhanced Cybersecurity
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Works with All Internet Service Providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 10.73Lx5.80Wx1.94H
Pros
- High-speed Wi Fi performance
- Multiple Ethernet ports for expansion
- Strong and reliable Wi Fi coverage
- Boosted throughput and efficiency
- Enhanced cybersecurity features
- Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Compatible with various internet service providers
Cons
- Difficult setup process
- Speeds may not reach maximum capacity
- TEETHER app issues
- Config app/browser needs improvement
The TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX72 Pro) is a high-performance router that delivers blazing fast WiFi speeds and excellent coverage throughout your home. With features like remote access with VPN, enhanced cybersecurity, and compatibility with voice assistants, this router offers convenience and security. While the setup process can be challenging and the speeds may not always reach their maximum capacity, the overall performance and features make it a solid choice for upgrading your home network. Just be aware of the TEETHER app issues and the need for improvements in the configuration app/browser. Overall, it’s a reliable and powerful router that offers great value for money.
VPN Router Buyer's Guide
Benefits of a VPN Router
- Enhanced Security: A VPN router encrypts your internet connection, protecting your sensitive data from cyber threats and hackers.
- Anonymity: It allows you to browse the internet anonymously, preventing your online activities from being tracked by your ISP or anyone else.
- Geo-blocking Bypass: With a VPN router, you can access geo-restricted content such as streaming services, websites, and social media platforms.
- Multiple Device Support: A VPN router enables you to secure multiple devices simultaneously without the need for individual installations.
- Easy Setup: Setting up a VPN router is generally straightforward and allows you to protect all devices on your network with a single configuration.
Key Considerations
When choosing a VPN router, keep the following factors in mind:
- VPN Protocols: Ensure the router supports the VPN protocol(s) provided by your VPN service provider, such as OpenVPN, IPsec, or WireGuard.
- VPN Speed: Look for routers with higher processing power and capable hardware to maintain fast VPN speeds, especially if you engage in bandwidth-intensive activities.
- VPN Client Support: Some routers come with built-in VPN clients, allowing you to connect directly to your VPN service. Check if it is compatible with your preferred VPN service.
- Router Performance: Consider the router's overall performance, such as Wi-Fi range, number of ports, gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi standards (e.g., 802.11ac) to ensure it meets your specific needs.
- Device Compatibility: Ensure the VPN router is compatible with all the devices you intend to connect, including smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other IoT devices.
- VPN Server Support: If you plan to set up a VPN server at home, ensure the router supports VPN server functionality to enable secure remote access to your network.
- User Interface: Look for routers with user-friendly interfaces or companion apps that make it easier to configure and manage your VPN settings.
- Price: Consider your budget and find a VPN router that offers a good balance of features and affordability.
Common Features to Look For
A reliable VPN router should have the following features:
- Dual Band Support: Look for routers that support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for better Wi-Fi performance and flexibility.
- VPN Passthrough: This feature allows non-VPN devices on your network to still access the internet while the VPN is active.
- Advanced Security Features: Features like firewall, DoS protection, and malware protection enhance the overall security of your network.
- Quality of Service (QoS): QoS prioritizes certain types of internet traffic (e.g., streaming or gaming) to ensure a better user experience.
- Guest Network Support: If you frequently have visitors, a guest network feature lets you create a separate network to protect your main network and its devices.
- USB Ports: USB ports enable you to connect external storage devices or printers, expanding the functionality of your router.
- Parental Controls: This feature allows you to manage and restrict internet access for specific devices or users within your network.
Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best VPN Routers For 2023
While it is possible to manually configure many routers to work as VPN routers, not all routers have this capability built-in. It is recommended to choose a router explicitly designed for VPN usage.
Using a VPN router can impact your internet speed to some extent due to the encryption and routing processes. However, choosing a router with higher processing power and suitable VPN protocols can minimize this effect.
The number of devices that can connect to a VPN router depends on the router’s specifications. Most routers support dozens of simultaneous connections, but it is essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Yes, you can use your existing VPN service with a compatible VPN router. However, ensure that the router supports the VPN protocols used by your VPN service provider.
While a VPN router adds an extra layer of security to your online activities, it is important to remember that it is not a foolproof solution. It is still recommended to practice good online hygiene and use additional security measures such as strong passwords and regular software updates.
Yes, with a VPN router, you can switch VPN servers by merely changing the server configuration within the router’s settings. This eliminates the need to reconfigure individual devices, offering greater convenience.