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Apple has just under 10 percent of the market share on computers. While it’s not nearly as popular as Windows, Mac users still need a reliable, secure router to connect to the internet.
It doesn’t matter if you have a MacBook Air or an iMac.
If you want to use your computer to access the internet, you need the best router for Mac. Keep reading to learn which model is right for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Routers For Mac
- OUR TOP PICK: ASUS RT-ACRH13
- RUNNER-UP: TP-Link AC1900
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Speedefy AC2100 Model K7
Comparison of the Best Routers For Mac
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What Makes a Router Great for Mac Users?
The best router for Mac users should meet a few qualifications. Whether this is your first router or first Mac, you need a router that provides a stable connection for you and your computer.
Compatibility
If you’re just switching from a Windows computer, you may need a new router. Many routers work with both popular operating systems, but you should check to be sure. If the router isn’t compatible with your Mac, it won’t matter what other specs it has.
Wi-Fi Generation and Speed
You should also consider what WiFi generation the router uses. Newer WiFi generations, like WiFi 6, are much faster than older generations. Because of that, you can work more quickly when your router has a newer connection.
Extendability
If you have a large house, you may want to look for a router with an extensive range so that you can use your Mac throughout your house. Extendability covers how far your router can reach, and it is essential if you have a laptop or if your router is on the other side of your house.
Price
Consider how much you can afford to spend on a Mac router. If you’re switching to a higher-priced internet plan, you may not have much money. But paying a little more can help you get a good quality router.
Can You Really Find a Quality Router for Mac That’s Affordable?
Price is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a router. But you don’t have to get the cheapest or most expensive router on the market. If you get the cheapest model, you will have to sacrifice some features, like build quality and speed.
On the other hand, you can get all of the bells and whistles with the most expensive option. However, most people don’t need to spend a ton of money on a router for a Mac. Whether you live alone or with family, you can opt for something in the middle. And make sure you buy, because renting a router can add up.
Review of the Best Mac Routers
The best Mac routers will vary depending on your needs. Whether you want fast speeds for a small apartment or a large house, you should consider a few models.
Best Overall:
ASUS RT-ACRH13
PROS
CONS
The ASUS RT-ACRH13 is the best Mac router on the market. Here’s why.
What Recent Buyers Report
People who bought this router say it works well and has a stable connection. The router features multiple Ethernet ports that can work as a backup when the WiFi connection isn’t as stable. It’s easy to set up, and it doesn’t take up a ton of space.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ASUS router is an excellent, flexible option for many households. You can use it with a variety of Mac versions, including Mac OS X 10.1, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, 10.7, and 10.8. The dual-band technology uses two bands to speed up your WiFi connection, so you can browse faster.
This router also features four external antennas that help extend its range. You can use it with any device that’s compatible with the WiFi generation 802.11ac.
Bottom Line
The ASUS RT-ACRH13 router offers a lot of fantastic features without taking up a ton of space. You can use it throughout your house with its multiple antennas. It’s compatible with multiple versions of Mac OS X, and it’s easy to set up.
Runner-up:
TP-Link AC1900
PROS
CONS
The TP-Link AC1900 is another great router for Mac users. Here’s what you need to know about it.
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers say this router is easy to install and connect to the Amazon Echo. After setup, it works well for most customers, but some report that their connection keeps dropping. When it does work, it offers an excellent connection throughout the house and yard.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The TP-Link router has won the JD Power Award in 2017 and 2019 for highest customer satisfaction in routers. It has three antennas that all offer continuous data streams to help you connect to the internet, and the faster connection is perfect for most people.
This router also features technology that automatically moves your connection to a less congested band. It also has a convenient app you can use to set up and manage the router.
Bottom Line
While it’s not the cheapest router for Macs, it offers plenty of features that make it worth the cost. You can connect it to your Mac and other devices, and it even works with Alexa devices. IT also features multiple WiFi connections, so it can work with newer and older computers.
Best for the Money:
Speedefy AC2100 Model K7
PROS
CONS
Here are a few of the benefits and features of the Speedefy AC2100 Model K7.
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers say the router can handle all of the devices for a medium-sized household. You can use it for computers, mobile devices, and even game consoles. It’s easy to set up the router, and you can maintain a strong signal throughout your house. While most customers love the router, some have had connection issues.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Speedefy router can reach across your house and up to the second floor. It can handle up to 25 connections or more at once, so you and your family can use the WiFi simultaneously. Even with multiple connections, you can maintain fast speeds while browsing or streaming.
Regular updates and a secure connection help protect your data when using the internet. You can use the guest network to keep visitors from using the same WiFi login as you, but they can use your network.
Bottom Line
If you want an excellent, secure WiFi router for Mac, you should choose this model. It offers all of the features you need to keep you and your family safe when using the internet. You don’t have to worry about it slowing down when you add devices, so you can keep getting your work done.
Editor's Pick:
Motorola MG7700
PROS
CONS
Here’s what you should know about the Motorola MG7700 router.
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers say that the router is easy to set up with Motorola’s instructions. It can help improve download and upload speeds, though it isn’t as fast as some routers. Some customers have an excellent connection, while others report that the router doesn’t work at all.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Motorola is a modem and router in one, so you don’t need to worry about renting a modem from your internet service provider. It can reach speeds up to 1900 Mbps, and downloads and uploads happen up to 600 Mbps.
You can connect your Mac as well as any other computers, phones, and other devices. The router has an excellent range, so you can use it anywhere in or around your house. It can even offer a focused signal to your device for a faster connection.
Bottom Line
While an expensive choice, the Motorola MG7700 is an excellent combination router and modem. You can use it anywhere in your house and with any Mac or other WiFi-compatible device. The fast connection is great for streaming or working with files.
Honorable Mention:
TP-Link AC1750 Archer A7
PROS
CONS
Another router to consider is the TP-Link AC1750 Archer A7.
What Recent Buyers Report
The router works very well and is easy to set up. It offers good connectivity in medium-sized homes, but the parental control options don’t work. However, this router is great for school or work, and it can also handle streaming. Some buyers report the router doesn’t work long-term.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Like the other router from TP-Link, this one works with Alexa devices. It works with a variety of WiFi generations and devices, so you can use it for much more than your Mac. The external antennas allow you to use the router anywhere in your home and still have a stable connection.
While there are some problems, this is a great router to consider. It’s very similar to the other TP-Link model, but it’s not quite as expensive. If you’re on a budget or need something simple, this is an excellent choice.
Bottom Line
The TP-Link AC1750 Archer A7 is an affordable router with many of the same features as its more expensive cousin. While some customers have reported connection issues, it’s relatively stable. And if you have issues, you can contact support for help or a replacement.
Characteristics of Our Favorite Mac Routers
You may have noticed some of the best routers share a few features. When looking for the best router for Mac computers, you should look for these attributes.
Ability to Connect to Multiple Devices
Some people may only have a Mac that they need to connect to WiFi. But in the age of smartphones and other mobile devices, you probably have at least one other device you may want to use on your WiFi network. Consider if your router lets you connect as many devices as you want and if doing so will slow down your connection.
Speed and Performance
Of course, you should also look for fast speeds and good performance with one device or multiple on WiFi. Look for a router with at least 1000 Mbps speeds for browsing and streaming. You should also consider if the connection is stable and consistent.
Antennas and Range
Next, look for a router with at least two or three external antennas. The antennas can extend the router’s range. If your router of choice doesn’t go far, consider if you can use a WiFi extender so that you can enjoy the internet throughout your house.
TP-Link AC1900
Google Router vs Apple - Comparison Overview
In general, Google has a better router than Apple. For one, the Apple AirPort stopped production in 2018, so it’s not up to date with new WiFi generations. But if you want to compare the two, Google’s router has smart technology that offers the best connectivity.
Setup and Connectivity
The router can connect to your device automatically, and it will give you the fastest signal possible. You can set up Google WiFi with the corresponding app, and it’s easy and secure to do. After that, you can use the app to monitor your WiFi, and you can get up to 4,500 square feet of coverage.
Compatibility
While both routers are compatible with Macs, you would need additional software to use the Apple AirPort with Windows computers. So if you live with people who don’t use Macs, it might not be the most convenient for your household.
Availability
And because Apple AirPort is no longer in production, you can only get a used one. You may have to search a lot to find a good deal on an Apple router. The search may be worth it if you only use Apple products, but Google WiFi is easy to find and has a better connection.
How to Install a Router for Mac
1. Go to your Mac desktop screen and look at the top bar next to the clock. You’ll see a few bars that look like part of a circle, which is your internet connection status. Click on the icon to see what networks are available to your computer.
2. You can find the name of your router’s network on the back of the router. Different manufacturers will have different naming schemes, but you should see something like Wireless Network, followed by the name. Click on the appropriate network on your Mac and enter the password, which is listed on your router as the Network/Security key.
3. Make sure you select “Remember This Network” so that you don’t have to enter the password each time. Then, you should see a connection on the top bar of your screen. Now, you can use your Mac with your new router.
Be sure that you take a look at this video for a full overview of the installation process.
Conclusion
The best router for a Mac varies based on your current living situation and your WiFi needs. Consider how many Macs or devices you need to connect and how big your house is to choose the best Mac router for you.
People Also Ask
Once you select the best router for your Mac, you may still have some questions. Here are a few things people ask about Macs and routers in case you’re still curious about anything.
How Do I Get Into My Router Settings on a Mac?
You can find your router settings by going to your System Preferences, then Network Preferences. Select WiFi and then Advanced before clicking on TCP/IP. You can use that to find your router’s IP address, and you can configure your connection settings if you want.
How Do I Connect My Netgear Router to My Mac?
You can go to your Network settings or select your router as a WiFi network from the top bar of your screen. Then, you will enter the password on your Netgear router. If you enter it correctly, you should have a connection.
Do Routers Have Mac Addresses?
Routers have Mac addresses along with an IP on individual network interfaces. The Mac address is the physical address of your router.
How Often Should You Reset Your Router?
You should reset your router every couple of months or whenever you experience connectivity or security issues. Resetting your router can disturb any malware on your network, and a reset can also speed up your WiFi.
How Do I Know if My Router Has MAC Filtering?
You can tell if your router has MAC filtering by going to your router’s settings. Go to your router’s Wireless or Wireless Security settings to see if MAC filtering is enabled or not.
What MAC Address to Use For a Router?
Manufacturers set the MAC address during production. You shouldn’t need to change it for your computer or router, so you just need to make sure the two devices can connect by adjusting your computer or router settings.
Is iMac Wireless?
While the iMac computer requires a power cord to operate, it can connect to the internet wirelessly. You can follow the same steps on your iMac as your MacBook to connect to your new router by going to your network settings and selecting the correct network.
