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12 Best DD-WRT Routers 2023 – Top Picks

You must have often heard people say that your connection is not streamlined because of the router. Surprisingly, this is true. To ensure the most of your internet connection, you need the best DD-WRT Router.

Moreover, you are reading this article since you are looking for a decent router for your wi-fi connection. However, ordinary internet users usually don’t look for DD-WRT routers since the complexities of such models are often beyond reach for them. 

Best Pick
Netgear Renewed R8000-100NAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (Renewed)
Good Choice
TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router (TL-WDR3500)
Don't Miss
ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC68U) - Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, Gaming & Streaming, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet Security, Adaptive QoS, Parental Control
Also Consider
D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router With 6 High Performance Beamforming Antennas (DIR-890L/R) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
Netgear Renewed R8000-100NAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (Renewed)
TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router (TL-WDR3500)
ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC68U) - Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, Gaming & Streaming, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet Security, Adaptive QoS, Parental Control
D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router With 6 High Performance Beamforming Antennas (DIR-890L/R) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
Best Pick
Netgear Renewed R8000-100NAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (Renewed)
Netgear Renewed R8000-100NAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (Renewed)
Good Choice
TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router (TL-WDR3500)
TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router (TL-WDR3500)
Don't Miss
ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC68U) - Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, Gaming & Streaming, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet Security, Adaptive QoS, Parental Control
ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC68U) - Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, Gaming & Streaming, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet Security, Adaptive QoS, Parental Control
Also Consider
D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router With 6 High Performance Beamforming Antennas (DIR-890L/R) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router With 6 High Performance Beamforming Antennas (DIR-890L/R) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)

Last update on 2024-03-20 / Affiliate links / Product Titles, Images, Descriptions from Amazon Product Advertising API

When buying a DD-WRT router, you must get the specifics right the first time so that you don’t regret your decision later. Moreover, when the product is intricate, you cannot afford even a single mistake. Additionally, we have included a buying guide to help you follow a few essential protocols while buying a router. 

Without further ado, let’s get started with some of the best available choices so that you don’t get overwhelmed. 

Contents

DD-WRT Routers Reviews & Buying Guide

1. Netgear Nighthawk X6 AC3200

NETGEAR Renewed R8000-100NAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router

 

This one is an upgraded and versatile choice that helps users streamline their internet connection. This one has Genie software and tri-band operations that are making it an outstanding choice. Its interface for the installation process and the overall performance are both incredibly impressive. The best thing about this particular choice is that it offers a bandwidth of around 3,200 Mbps. 

With an angular, sleek build, and geometrically lined grille, it has a beast-like appearance. It has 13 LED ports at the bottom to let the users know about the activation of ports and bands. It also has six durable antennas to help achieve signals for excellent performance. 

The router also has handy USB ports, 2.0 and 3.0. This enables you to connect this router easily to the printer or hard drive. This router will help you obtain maximum benefits since it is an advanced and efficient choice. 

Pros
  • Dual USB ports for connectivity with maximum devices
  • Easy interface and setup
  • Excellent LED features
Cons
  • Lacks upgraded range of wi-fi

 

2. TP-Link N600

TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router (TL-WDR3500)

 

TP links is a famous brand and have been operating in the market for several years now. It is well-known for providing cost-effective, high-performing products to people. The N600 router is a stellar product of Tp-link that offers a dual-band connection.

It provides a range of 300 Mbps with 2.4 GHz and 5-GHz processing power. Additionally, it also offers dual USB ports, a WPS button, and 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports. 

The Gigabit ports integrated into the router offer fast and seamless transfer speeds. The LAN and WAN throughput enables the router to provide high-speed performance. Its interface is well-patterned and relatively intuitive. Though this one doesn’t have as many features as other available options, you can customize it the way you want. 

The LED light panels indicate operation status, so you have a clear idea of the working of the internet. If you are looking for fast internet speed in your handheld devices at home, go for this choice. It is not so advanced but a decent choice for a DD-WRT setup.  

Pros
  • Easy installation and setup
  • Consistent Wi-Fi connections
  • Can be customized as per requirements
  • No buffering and lagging while using the internet
Cons
  • Is not much advanced
  • Is not speedy enough when compared to its competitors

 

3. Linksys AC1900

Linksys WRT1900ACS Open Source Dual-Band Gigabit WiFi Wireless Router ,Black

 

Speaking of the performance, the Linksys AC1900 router stands class apart. It offers a bandwidth of around 1,900 Mbps and dual-core processing power of 1.6 GHz. The range offered by this choice is impressive and also has an easy setup for maximum advantages.

This is by far one of the best routers produced by the brand. That said, this one boasts many upgrades in terms of features and is a versatile option. 

It has DD-WRT and OpenWRT firmware which makes this router the best choice. It packs a faster client and CPU performance and is one of the highly preferred choices. 

Pros
  • Enables compelling data transfers and performances
  • Has special networking firmware
Cons
  • It might be challenging to set up for first-time users
  • Lacks settings for customized configurations

 

4. Asus AC1200

ASUS AC1900 WiFi Gaming Router (RT-AC68U)

 

The hardware of this choice is better than the other available DD-WRT routers. It is more or less the same as its previous version but is more durable and extensive. It has a sleek design and is black.

The best part is that it doesn’t require much space and can be placed almost anywhere. One of the best routers with compatible technology, and can be connected to over five wi-fi devices without budges. 

It has two excellent features, which are AiCloud and AiRadar, that enable incredible usability. Its price-performance ratio is ideal for the users. If you are looking for a valuable and stable DD-WRT router, this one is your go-to choice. 

Pros
  • Compact and Portable option
  • Easy to use and sleek design
  • Has strong signal compatibility
Cons
  • Not as fast as other counterparts

 

5. D-Link AC3200

D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router With 6 High Performance Beamforming Antennas (DIR-890L/R) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)

 

This one from D-Link is a tri-band DD-WRT router that offers blazingly fast internet speed. It provides dual 600 Mbps and dual 1,300 Mbps. It has better performance and design for maximum results. It has three wireless bands that are high in power for the user to obtain benefits. Also, it has proper ventilation to ensure that the internal hardware doesn’t get heated up quickly. 

For utmost convenience, the router has two USB ports, 2.0 and 3.0. Also, it ensures seamless hardware connection with Ethernet ports. It has a web-based and well-streamlined interface. You can also customize the router according to your needs. The console is very advanced and easy to configure, so it is preferred by most of the users out there. 

When it comes to speed, the router fairs well and offers decent performance. To make a difference, this one comes with several features, like website filtering, parental locks, and beamforming. It also ensures faster usability and maintenance. 

Pros
  • Eye-catching design
  • Speedy wi-fi connections
  • Dual USB ports
  • SmartConnect technology
Cons
  • The configuration features aren’t that great

 

Buying Guide

Wireless router concept. Man using smartphone
Source: hp.com

It is essential to know a few important things before investing in a DD-WRT router. Here are some of the essential things that you should consider while buying a DD-WRT router:

Data transferring speed

These days you will easily find routers with high speed; however, they are generally more expensive. You should invest in a DD-WRT router that fits your requirements. In case you need a router for essential work, then any data transferring speed should be fine.

However, if you are a professional gamer, you will require a high data transfer speed router. Thus, analyze the reasons you require a router and then buy accordingly.

VPN

Thinking about online security should be the priority of everyone these days. Getting a VPN on the router would be the best decision. We would suggest the OpenVPN protocol for almost all users because it is known for its high security.

However, it would help if you kept in mind that not every router supports VPN. You should always invest in a router with advanced frameworks as it will support all the latest protocols. Once you get your hands on a router that supports VPN, you will be able to install the VPN very easily.

Connectivity

Connectivity is another factor that you must check while purchasing a DD-WRT router. Connectivity again depends on the type of work you do. If your work is basic and involves casual browsing, you can go for a router with a 2.4Ghz connection.

However, if your work is tedious, you will require a stronger connection. These days, most routers come with a 5.6GHz connection which is ideal for online gaming or high-quality video streaming. In general, getting a router with high frequency is always better.

Hardware

A router with good hardware enhances the user experience because the router will be more responsive and faster. Although requirements differ from user to user, buying a router with good flash memory and at least a 1.6 GHz dual-core CPU is highly recommended.

Since hardware doesn’t upgrade frequently, the best thing to do would be to get your hands on the latest products for heavier loads.

Range

Each router has a certain range of signal broadcasting which means that those devices not in the range of the router will not be able to connect. Besides that, if the signal is lower, it will hamper the stability of the connection. Before investing in a router, make sure to check the range of sign broadcasting of that particular router. 

FAQs

Best-DD-WRT-Router
Source: cnet.com

Why should I invest in a DD-WRT router?

DD-WRT router is ideal for maintaining a seamless and secure network. A router and VPN are best for protecting several devices in your home or office. In a nutshell, investing in a DD-WRT router will give you better performance and several other features.

What is the ideal frequency of a DD-WRT router?

Connectivity depends on the type of work you do. If your work is basic and involves casual browsing, you can purchase a router with a 2.4Ghz connection. However, if your work is tedious, you will require a stronger connection.

These days, most routers come with a 5.6GHz connection which is ideal for online gaming or high-quality video streaming. However, getting a router with high frequency is always better.

Which router should I purchase?

You should purchase a router that gives a stable and fast connection. Besides that, a good router should have top-notch performance. It would help if you went for a router that meets all your requirements. However, we would suggest you always go with the latest router that fits your budget. Routers upgrade every year; therefore, getting the latest one is always ideal.

Can I install a VPN on the DD-WRT router?

Yes, you can install a VPN in the DD-WRT router. However, it would help if you kept in mind that not every router supports VPN. If you want to install a VPN in the router, make sure you check the router before buying; invest in a router that supports VPN. Once you get your hands on a router that supports VPN, you will be able to install the VPN very easily.

Can I control the DD-WRT router remotely?

Yes, you can control the DD-WRT router remotely. All you have to do is to give remote access to the router, and that is it! Generally, using a dedicated application for the router in your mobile phone is the best. With mobile applications, you can easily control internet access and content, amongst other things.

Is the range of signal broadcasting an important factor while buying a router?

Yes, the range of signal broadcasting is an important factor while buying a router. Each router has a certain range of signal broadcasting which means that those devices not in the range of the router will not be able to connect.

Besides that, if the signal is lower, it will hamper the stability of the connection. Before investing in a router, make sure to check the range of sign broadcasting of that particular router. 

How can I update my DD-WRT router?

Auto-update is not possible in the DD-WRT router; therefore, the only option is to update it manually. Updating the DD-WRT router is not very difficult. We would recommend checking for the new version once a month. You can also get professional help to upgrade your router properly, or else go through the user manual, and you will be able to update it easily.

Conclusion

If you have read the entire article, you must have a decent idea about the DD-WRT router. Consider all the features of the options mentioned above and then make an informed choice. Speed, connection, and performance are some of the most important factors you should consider while buying a DD-WRT router.

Also, you must keep your budget in mind and try to look for routers within that price range. DD-WRT routers upgrade every year; therefore, it is recommended that you get your hands on the latest products.

Take a look at these products also:

ASUS ROG Rapture WiFi 6 Wireless Gaming Router (GT-AX11000) - Tri-Band 10 Gigabit, 1.8GHz Quad-Core CPU, WTFast, 2.5G Port, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet Security, AURA RGB
  • Triple level game acceleration accelerate game traffic With device, game packet and game server prioritization.Power Supply : AC Input : 110V-240V(50-60Hz), DC Output : 19 V with max. 3.42 A current..Antenna : External antenna x 8
  • Cutting edge hardware offers the best performance 1.8 GigaHertz Quad Core cpu and 2.5 G gaming port for ultimate performance
  • Your own gaming mesh network Compatible with ASUS AiMesh Wi Fi system for seamless whole home coverage.Memory:256 MB Flash,1 GB RAM
  • ASUS wrt enables support for open, advanced monitoring and control which includes device bandwidth utilization as well as device or usage prioritization
  • ASUS AiProtection security to neutralize internet threats before they hit your network
Sale
NETGEAR AC5300 Nighthawk X8 Tri-Band WiFi Router (R8500-100NAS) (Discontinued)
  • Get fastest speeds available up to 5.3Gbps. Up to 1,000 Mbps @ 2.4GHz 1024 QAM. Up to 2,166 Mbps @ 5 GHz 11ac 1024 QAM
  • Tri-band WiFi/Quad Stream/MU-MIMO delivers more WiFi to your devices. Smart Connect intelligently selects the fast WiFi band for every device.
  • 4 active antennas and 4 internal antennas to amplify and maximize range. 6 Gigabit Ethernet ports-aggregate two for faster file transfers
  • Dynamic QoS prioritizes bandwidth by application and device
  • Easy Setup - The NETGEAR Up app makes setting up and managing your network a breeze
Sale
Linksys WRT3200ACM: AC3200 Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router, Beamforming Tri-Stream Wireless Signal, Ethernet Ports, MU-MIMO (Black, Blue)
  • Fast wireless router provides Wi-Fi coverage for your home (works with existing modem)
  • Open source firmware offers advanced customization; Certified operating systems: MacOS (10.X or higher), Windows 7, Windows 8.1 (Works with Windows 10)
  • Tri stream 160 technology doubles bandwidth from 80 MHz to 160 MHz
  • Enjoy 4K HD streaming, gaming and more in high quality without buffering
  • Dual band Wi-Fi speeds up to 2.6 Gbps (2.4 GHz / 600 Mbps) plus (5 GHz / 2600 Mbps). Operating temperature: 32 to 104 F (0 to 40 C)
Sale
Tenda AC1200 Smart WiFi Router, High Speed Dual Band Wireless Internet Router with Smart APP, 4 x 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet Ports, Supports Guest WiFi, Access Point Mode, IPv6 and Parental Controls(AC6)
  • Dual-Band 2.4Ghz + 5 Ghz: Get Lightning Quick Connections For All Your Wireless Devices By Upgrading To Tenda'S Enhanced 1200 Mbps High Speed Wi Fi Technology (300Mbps At 2. 4Ghz Plus 867Mbps At 5Ghz)
  • Powerful Belt Capacity: Link Up To 20 Wireless Devices Like Google Assistant, Alexa And Various Streaming Devices, Simultaneously, While Maintaining Optimum Network Conditions
  • Antennas Maximum Signal Coverage: The Tenda Ac6 Is Equipped With Four Powerful 5Dbi Antennas, Delivering High Speed Internet Throughout Your Home And Provides Seamless Coverage For Up To 2000 Sq. Ft. Output: Dc 9V1A
  • Mu-Mimo Technology: More Users In The Network At The Same Time, Due To Advanced Mu-Mimo Technology, Even More Users Can Now Use The Network For Games, Streaming Or Data Transmissions At The Same Time. The Guest Network Also Benefits From Mu-Mimo Technology
Sale
Linksys WRT3200ACM: AC3200 Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router, Beamforming Tri-Stream Wireless Signal, Ethernet Ports, MU-MIMO (Black, Blue)
  • Fast wireless router provides Wi-Fi coverage for your home (works with existing modem)
  • Open source firmware offers advanced customization; Certified operating systems: MacOS (10.X or higher), Windows 7, Windows 8.1 (Works with Windows 10)
  • Tri stream 160 technology doubles bandwidth from 80 MHz to 160 MHz
  • Enjoy 4K HD streaming, gaming and more in high quality without buffering
  • Dual band Wi-Fi speeds up to 2.6 Gbps (2.4 GHz / 600 Mbps) plus (5 GHz / 2600 Mbps). Operating temperature: 32 to 104 F (0 to 40 C)
Sale
TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A8) -High Speed MU-MIMO Wireless Router, Dual Band Router for Wireless Internet, Gigabit, Supports Guest WiFi
  • OneMesh Compatible Router- Form a seamless WiFi when work with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders.
  • Wave 2 Wireless Internet Router, 600 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz band
  • MU-MIMO Gigabit Router, 3 simultaneous data streams help your devices achieve optimal performance by making communication more efficient
  • Boosted WiFi Coverage, Beamforming technology delivers a highly efficient wireless connection, long range WiFi
  • Full Gigabit Ports: Create fast, reliable wired connections for your PCs, Smart TVs and gaming console with 4 x Gigabit LAN and 1 x Gigabit WAN. No USB Port
DD-WRT Mega - Linksys WRT54G-RG with Heatsink Router Repeater Bridge USB VPN Ready WiFi WAN Wireless N Access Point AP [DD-WRT PREINSTALLED]
  • These routers are flashed by us with DD-WRT.
  • They are then tested to assure perfect working order!
  • We reset the router to default settings before shipment.
  • It will prompt you to set your own username and password when you log into the web interface.
  • All routers come with a 1 year warranty!
Sale
Linksys Mesh Wifi 5 Router, Tri-Band, 2,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Supports Guest WiFi, Parent Control, 20+ Devices, Speeds up to (AC2200) 2.2Gbps - MR8300
  • Provides up to 2,000 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage for 20plus wireless devices
  • Works with existing modem, simple setup through Linksys App. A mobile device with Android 4.4 or iOS 9 and higher, Bluetooth preferred
  • Enjoy 4K HD streaming, gaming and more in high quality without buffering
  • Tri band router delivers the fastest combined Wi-Fi speeds to all your devices
  • Tri band Wi-Fi speeds up to 2.2 Gbps (5 GHz / 400 Mbps) plus (5 GHz / 867 Mbps) plus (2.4 GHz / 867 Mbps)

Last update on 2024-04-04 / Affiliate links / Product Titles, Images, Descriptions from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQ:

Q: Can I put DD-WRT on this router?

A: How to Install DD-WRT Firmware on Your Router Downloading the DD-WRT firmware. If your device is compatible with DD-WRT, you will be able to see it below the search bar on the DD-WRT database. Setup your hardware. Connect your router to the PC using the LAN cable and proceed to the admin page by typing in the routers IP address on your … Upgrade the firmware. … Finishing up. …

Q: How to set the ddwrt router to use only OpenDNS?

A: Log in to the router (192.168.1.1); Go to Setup->Basic Setup Under Router IP,set the Local DNS to 208.67.222.222

Q: What does DD-WRT mean for routers?

A: What Does DD-WRT Mean? DD-WRT (DresDren-Wireless RouTer) is a type of firmware for routers based on the Linux kernel. It was designed especially for 802.11a/b/g/h/n routers having the Broadcom or Atheros chipsets. This firmware is registered under GPL and free software licenses and supports a large variety of wireless routers.

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