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Gaming routers
essential in stepping up your game Pixabay.com

Competition in the world of gaming has skyrocketed since the birth of elaborate technology. Serious gamers are well-equipped with the latest gadgets -- dual-screens, RGB keyboards and naked CPUs that show off state-of-the-art circuitry. However, one thing that gamers often forget to upgrade in their gaming setup is their internet speed.

This is where gaming routers come in. Typical wireless routers are great for surfing on the web, but these basic routers simply cannot cater to the demands of heavy gaming. Some might resort to connecting their consoles via Ethernet, which can be a hassle for those who prefer the option of full mobility that WiFi offers. Gaming routers are the kings of routers as they provide the highest speeds and different technology that can give your gaming experience an ultra boost.

Every gamer's nightmare is lagging and these eight gaming routers are dreamcatchers that can effectively chase those bad dreams away. For just under $250, give your internet speed a mega upgrade.

1. Speedefy AC2100 Smart WiFi Router (Model K7)

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Starting at $79.00, gaming routers are just a card swipe away. Speedefy AC2100 Smart WiFi Router is a great option that can support up to 25 devices with its dual-band gigabit WiFi of 1733 Mbps at 5GHz and 300 Mbps at 2.4Ghz. Select your preferred band for specific internet tasks or devices. Exercise parental controls through Smart Control, so as not to compromise the safety of your children as they explore the internet. The same feature allows you to limit guest access as well. In just five minutes of installation, enjoy high-speed internet in every corner of your home.

2. NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router

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Another concern when it comes to spending time on the internet is security. We rely on it so much that the NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router has made it of utmost priority to protect your network and connected devices. This router supports WPA2 wireless security protocols, DOS, Firewall and VPN among others. Not only that, an exclusive Netgear Armor access provides a 30-day free trial of anti-virus, anti-malware and data protection for all your smart devices too. For your gaming needs, speedy and reliable WiFi of up to 1750 Mbps has been made attainable with its range-boosting Beamforming+ antennas and dual-band streaming.

3. Linksys AX1500 Wi-Fi Router

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Linksys AX1500 Smart Mesh Wi-Fi 6 Router is so powerful, it can cover up to 1700 square feet and handle 25 devices simultaneously. A user-friendly interface is brought by the Linksys App, which enables you to set up and control your network remotely. The USB 3.0 port lets you easily share files and add external storage for your network. Surfing at high speed in dense areas is a luxury. With the all-new WiFi 6, experience the next-generation WiFi standard which outperforms 802. 11ac. Pair this with their Intelligent Mesh Technology and be able to expand full-speed WiFi coverage.

4. ASUS AC1900 WiFi Gaming Router

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ASUS AC1900 WiFi Gaming Router has a dual-band with the latest 802. 11ac 3x3 technology, which is the preferred option for better WiFi performance compared to 802. 11n. The blazing speed of 1900 Mbps that this technology offers can be enjoyable without a single dead spot in your house, with up to 3,000 square feet of WiFi coverage. As if these specifications aren't enough, this award-winning router also works seamlessly into your smart home. Manage your WiFi settings without having to lift a finger and simply tell Alexa to do it for you.

5. ASUS AC2900 WiFi Gaming Router

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ASUS AC2900 WiFi Gaming Router also has a dual-band, but better, with the latest 802. 11ac powered with the MU-MIMO technology providing speeds of up to 2900 Mbps. This technology brings the ability to connect every device up to their individual maximum speed potentials all at the same time without compromising the network's performance. Perfect for gamers, the Adaptive QoS gives you the option to prioritize gaming activities. With the introduction of gamer solo mode, allocate a fully-dedicated bandwidth while playing to avoid lagging mishaps.

6. NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming Wi-Fi Router

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The possibilities are endless with the NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 Wi-Fi Router. Dive into immersive gaming and reach new heights with a speed of 2.6 Gbps. It is fully optimized for gaming with its geo-filtering function, allowing you to connect to the closest servers.

Get your ping indicators blinking green with this router and monitor every device and application's bandwidth consumption for full control of your network.

7. Linksys WRT Gaming WiFi Router

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The Linksys WRT Gaming WiFi Router was customized to cater to every gamer's needs. The top priority goes to Xbox players, with up to a 65% reduction in ping for smoother gameplay. Whether you are using a wired or wireless connection, the Killer Prioritization Engine prioritizes gaming traffic above all. If you're a professional gamer or just very serious about gaming, this is perfect for you.

8. TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band WiFi Gaming Router

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TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band WiFi Gaming Router is brought to you by a trusted brand that has been in the industry for 22 years now, ensuring only quality products in the market. Armed with MU-MIMO and AirTime Fairness, response rates are augmented for best results. For a stronger reception and larger coverage, RangeBoost and Beamforming are applied respectively. Shining the brightest among our listed routers, this one has tri-band WiFi. The availability of one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz bands grants the appropriation of one band specifically for gaming.

As internet threats and viruses continue to plague user experience, be at peace as you engage in various internet activities with its Comprehensive Threat Protection. This router is truly the all-in-one package coveted by gamers around the world.