7 best router for apple computers

When it comes to using routers with Apple computers, it's important to choose a router that is compatible with Apple's devices and provides seamless performance. Here are some considerations and information about routers for Apple computers:

Apple's Recommendations: Apple used to manufacture its own line of routers, including the Airport Express, Airport Extreme, and Airport Time Capsule. However, Apple discontinued its router products in 2018. As a result, users with newer Apple computers need to consider third-party routers.
Compatibility: When selecting a router for Apple computers, ensure that it is compatible with macOS and iOS devices. Most modern routers are compatible, but it's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's specifications.
Dual-Band or Tri-Band: Consider whether you need a dual-band or tri-band router. Dual-band routers offer two separate frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), which can be useful for connecting a variety of devices. Tri-band routers add an additional 5 GHz band, which can be beneficial for homes with many connected devices.
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems: Whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems, like those offered by brands such as Eero, Google Nest Wifi, and Netgear Orbi, are great choices for Apple users. They provide seamless coverage throughout your home and are easy to set up and manage using smartphone apps. These systems are also compatible with Apple devices.
Security Features: Look for routers with robust security features, including WPA3 encryption, automatic firmware updates, and built-in security software. Apple devices often receive regular security updates, and a secure router can complement this.
Apple HomeKit Integration: Some routers may offer integration with Apple HomeKit, which allows you to control and manage your smart home devices through the Apple Home app. If you have a smart home setup, this could be a convenient feature.
Quality of Service (QoS): QoS settings can help prioritize network traffic for specific devices or applications, ensuring a smooth online experience for your Apple devices, especially during high-bandwidth activities like video streaming or online gaming.
Guest Network Support: Having a guest network feature can be useful if you want to provide internet access to visitors without giving them access to your main network.
Router Placement: Proper router placement in your home is crucial for optimal performance.Try to position your router centrally and away from physical obstructions, such as walls and appliances, to ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal.
Router Brand: Trusted router brands known for their reliability and performance include ASUS, TP-Link, Netgear, Linksys, and Google (Nest). Research customer reviews and expert recommendations to find the best fit for your needs.

Remember that the choice of a router for Apple computers depends on your specific requirements, such as the size of your home, the number of connected devices, and your budget. It's important to do some research and read reviews to find a router that meets your needs and complements your Apple ecosystem effectively.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best router for apple computers on the market

Routers for Apple computers are networking devices designed to provide wireless internet connectivity and network management for Apple devices like MacBooks, iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products. These routers are compatible with Apple's ecosystem and often offer features that enhance the user experience for Apple users.Here are some key points about routers for Apple computers:

Apple AirPort Routers: Apple used to manufacture its own line of routers under the "AirPort" brand. These routers were known for their sleek design and seamless integration with Apple devices. The AirPort Extreme and AirPort Express were popular models. However, Apple had discontinued its router product line.
Third-Party Routers: Since the discontinuation of the AirPort routers, Apple users have been using third-party routers that are compatible with Apple devices. These routers work well with macOS, iOS, and other Apple software and offer features such as easy setup and management through Apple's network preferences.
Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi Systems: Many Apple users opt for whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems from companies like Eero, Google Nest, or Linksys Velop. These systems consist of multiple nodes or access points that work together to create a seamless Wi-Fi network throughout the home. They are known for their ease of setup and management via mobile apps, which are often available for iOS.
Compatibility: When choosing a router for Apple devices, it's important to ensure compatibility with the latest Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 6) and security protocols (e.g., WPA3). Apple devices benefit from routers that support these technologies to provide fast and secure wireless connections.
Apple HomeKit Integration: Some third-party routers offer integration with Apple's smart home platform, HomeKit. This allows users to manage their network security and devices within the Home app on iOS devices.
Parental Controls and Guest Networks: Many routers offer parental control features and the ability to set up guest networks. These features can be especially useful for Apple users looking to manage their network's security and accessibility.
Apple Time Machine Backup: Some third-party routers support Apple Time Machine backups, allowing users to back up their Macs wirelessly to network-attached storage (NAS) devices connected to the router.
Security Updates: Regularly updating the router's firmware is crucial to ensure network security. Apple users should opt for routers from reputable manufacturers that provide timely firmware updates.

In conclusion, while Apple no longer manufactures its own routers, there are many third-party router options available that work seamlessly with Apple devices. These routers offer features such as whole home mesh Wi-Fi, compatibility with the latest standards, easy setup, and integration with Apple's ecosystem, making them suitable choices for Apple computer users seeking reliable and user-friendly networking solutions.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best router for apple computers on the market

StarTech.com Portable Wireless N WiFi Travel Router for iPad/Tablet/Laptop - USB Powered w/Charge Port - 802.11n WISP Portable Router

StarTech

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Wireless N travel router lets you create a portable wireless hot-spot from a wired network connection or an existing wireless network, to share with all of your Wi-Fi enabled devices, including tablets, laptops, Ultrabooks™, or smartphones. Pocket-sized and portable Support for several operating modes helps you create, share or extend a wireless connection while traveling between hotel rooms, conference centers, or boardrooms. The travel Wi-Fi router offers a pocket-sized, USB-powered design with support for Wireless N data rates (backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks). Practical uses with painless setup Directly configurable using any wireless device with a web browser, the travel router supports several additional operation modes including WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider - AP & Client), which lets you share an existing WiFi connection with multiple devices, or WiFi repeater mode, which extends the coverage area of an existing wireless network to avoid dead spots. Perfect for iPad and includes charge port The USB-powered wireless router is designed to fit directly over your iPad wall charger. For other USB wall chargers or an available USB port on a laptop, we've included a USB extension cable to power the device. The portable router also offers a front port for USB charging, allowing you to charge your devices as needed. R150WN1X1T is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.

Create a wireless hot-spot from a wired network connection to share with any Wifi-enabled device
Portable Wireless N WiFi Travel Router for iPad / Tablet / Laptop
USB Powered w/ Charge Port
802.11n WISP Portable Router
Travel WiFi Router

User questions & answers

Question:	can i connect 1tb external hard disk and use it as a cloud storage
Answer:	It depends, since the R150WN1X1T requires a USB wall charger and also different wireless networks are configured to support (or exclude) different types of devices. -Malcolm, StarTech.com Support
Question:	Does this boost poor WiFi signal in hotels to enable streaming
Answer:	Unfortunately our R150WN1X1T requires an existing internet connection to then create a Wi-Fi hotspot. It's intended for locations with only a wired network port so it can be shared with a wireless device(s). Brian, StarTech.com Support
Question:	Can you take it on the train
Answer:	No, the batteries must be removed and charged.
Question:	I am looking for a device that i can put in my car and drive and still have wifi. Can i do this with this
Answer:	Of course. Just set the same channel and CTCSS.

NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 - Coverage Up to 1000 Sq Ft and 15 Devices with AC750 Dual Band Wireless Signal Booster & Repeater (Up to 750Mbps Speed), and Compact Wall Plug Design

NETGEAR

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender (EX3700-100NAS). System Requirements:2.4 and/or 5GHz, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless router or gateway, Microsoft. Internet Explorer. 8.0, Firefox. 20, Safari. 5.1, Google Chrome 25.0 browsers or higher. Troubleshooting tip- If you cannot get a WiFi connection working, you can use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the extender. Data throughput, signal range, and wireless coverage per sq. ft. may vary due to differences in operating environments of wireless networks, including without limitation building materials and wireless interference. Operating temperature: 32°to 104°F.

Extended wireless coverage: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 1000 square feet, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
AC750 WIFI speed: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual band and patented FastLane technology
Universal compatibility: works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with wifi. The product may not be compatible with routers or gateways with firmware that has been altered, is based on open source programs, or is non standard or outdated
Wired Ethernet port: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one 10/100M port for maximum speed
Safe & secure: Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
Simple to setup: Press the WPS button to connect to your router. Use the NETGEAR WiFi Analyzer app for optimal location

User questions & answers

Question:	My family has two appartments next to each other, both separate electrical installations. Would this work if we wanted to split the internet bill
Answer:	Yes the EX8000 used as a wifi extender you have the option of having a guest network. You can use same SSID name as your main router or use a different SSID altogether. I did have issues with more than one extender on the same network using same SSID name as main router so I had to change one of the extenders to a different SSID.
Question:	Has anyone connected a ps4 of xbox one to the wifi from the range extender? if so, signal and game play any good
Answer:	If you mean an AT&T router signal, yes. If you mean cell tower signal, then no.
Question:	Does it create a new sid or does it exteneded your current sid, so one does not have to switch to differing networks when in range
Answer:	the input voltage is from 100 to 240 volts
Question:	I don't understand how some people give this 4-5 stars and others can't get it to work and give it 1 star
Answer:	there are 4 ports. I use multiple ones as this is the only system I can find that does not change the network name but once a year I also have one break and have to replace it or hard reset it myself.

Product features

Discrete Wall Plug Design

Plug into a wall outlet for a sleek solution that extends your router's range and stays out of sight.

Smart Connect up to 15 Devices

Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your smart wireless devices.

5-Minute Setup

Connect to your existing router with one button press, connect devices to your network, and you’re done.

Connect a Wired Device, Too

One 10/100M Ethernet port lets you easily connect a nearby wired device for faster transfer and uninterrupted connection.

Universally Compatible

Works with any WiFi router for hassle-free reliability.

Apple Airport Extreme Router Model Number ME918LL/A, 6th Generation, Dual Band 1300 mps

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The intelligent, easy-to-use AirPort Extreme Base Station with simultaneous dual-band support is the perfect wireless access point for home, school, or office. It offers next-generation 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology and delivers high-performance wireless access for Mac computers, PCs, and Wi-Fi devices such as iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple TV.

ShineBear Airport Express A1392 MC414LL/A 802.11n 600 Mbps 1-Port 10/100 Wireless Wi-Fi Router AirPlay WiFi for Apple - (Cable Length: US)

ShineBear

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Condition:

Used

100% tested

Includes:

AirPort Express

Cable

window.adminAccountId=201688251.

Item specifics:

Package: Yes

Products status: Stock

Model number: A1392

Type: Flexible Flat Cable

Cable length: US
Package: Yes
Products status: Stock
Model number: A1392
Type: Flexible Flat Cable

User questions & answers

Question:	Can 3.5mm mini-jack port be used as a input
Answer:	no

NETGEAR - R7000P-100NAS Nighthawk WiFi Router (R7000P) - AC2300 Wireless Speed (up to 2300 Mbps) | Up to 2000 sq ft Coverage & 35 Devices | 4 x 1G Ethernet and 2 USB ports | Armor Cybersecurity, Black

NETGEAR

Based on 68 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Built with gaming, streaming, and mobile devices in mind, this gigabit WiFi router supports MU-MIMO for simultaneous streaming and delivers extreme speed so you enjoy less lag and less buffering. With next generation WiFi, Beamforming+, and built-in high powered amplifiers and external antennas, get ready for extreme performance. System Requirements: Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 8.1, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux. Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher.High-performance antennas for better WiFi coverage & faster speeds.

Fast wifi performance: Get up to 2000 square feet wireless coverage with AC2300 speed (Dual band up to 600 + 1625 Mbps).
Recommended for up to 35 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices.
Wired Ethernet ports: plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired devices with 4 x 1 gigabit Ethernet ports.
Loaded with advanced technology: Designed with a dual core 1GHz processor, 3 amplified antennas, Beamforming+, MU-MIMO, Dynamic QoS, Smart Connect, Amazon Alexa Voice Controls, and more.
USB connections: Share a storage drive and printer with any connected device, and create a personal cloud storage to access from anywhere, using the 1x3.0 and 1x2.0 USB ports.
Smart parental controls: Pause device internet access, view site history usage, and filter websites for free. Set online time limits, schedule device internet access, and more for $4.99/month (1st month free trial).
Netgear Armor protects your network and connected devices from Internet threats. Get peace of mind knowing you have the best-in-class anti-virus, anti-malware, and data protection for all your smart devices, smartphones, and computers with a 30 day free trial.

Product features

Better Wi-Fi? We’ve got you covered.

Up to 2,000 sq. ft of powerful WiFi coverage

Easily upgrade your Wi-Fi experience and coverage with the Nighthawk R7000P. Range-boosting Beamforming+ antennas and Dual Band streaming deliver fast, reliable Wi-Fi to every corner of your home.

Built for Serious Streaming

Up to 2300Mbps wireless speed for demanding activities like HD streaming and online gaming.

Seamless WiFi for up to 35 Devices

Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.

NETGEAR Armor: Powered by BitDefender

The world’s leading cybersecurity software protects all your home devices from virus, malware, and data theft with a 30-day free trial.

Circle Smart Parental Control

The Circle App lets you easily manage internet content access and device screen time. Use the app to set usage time limits, device schedules, filter websites and more for every connected device in your home.

Easy 5-Minute Setup with App

The Nighthawk App makes it a snap to set up your router. Just connect your internet Ethernet cable to the router and the app will walk you through simple setup steps. Connect your devices to the network and you’re done.

Four High-Speed 1G Wired Connections

Gigabit Ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, game box and other devices. Two USB ports let you share a storage drive or printer across your network.

TP-Link USB to Ethernet Adapter (UE300), Foldable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Adapter, Support Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP for Desktop Laptop Apple MacBook Linux

TP-Link

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The USB 3. 0 To Gigabit Ethernet adapter UE300 adds Gigabit Ethernet network connectivity to your Ultrabook, MacBook Air or desktop through a USB 3. 0 port. Backward compatible with USB 2. 0/1. 1 standards, transferring files at ultrafast speed over an Ethernet port.

【More stable connections】 the TP Link UE300 is a Gigabit Ethernet Adapter that enables you to turn your laptop's USB port into an RJ45 Ethernet port. Switch from an unstable wireless connection to a stable high speed Ethernet connection
【Gigabit speeds】 take your speed to the next level with the UE300 Ethernet adapter. Experience full 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet performance over your laptop's USB 3. 0 port and elevate your browsing experience to transfer files, play games, video chat, and stream HD videos seamlessly
【Compatible with most devices】 does not support Nintendo Switch, Wii U, Wii. Compatible with IEEE 802. 3, IEEE 802. 3U and IEEE 802. 3ab. Supports IEEE 802. 3az (Energy Efficient Ethernet). backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 standard
【Plug & play】 utilizing Realtek RTL8153 Chipset, driver free installation for Windows XP and later version, macOS 10.9 and later version, Chrome OS and Linux OS. (Note: for Mac OS 10.6 10.8, a driver is required and needs to be downloaded from TP Link website)
Ultra compact & foldable design, the UE300 conveniently folds down and is extremely portable, enabling you to take it with you wherever you go
【Worry free customer support】 industry leading 24 month warranty and free lifetime 7/24 technical support

User questions & answers

Question:	can you add it to pc that already has lan port, to have 2 ethernet ports
Answer:	Hi, Yes, you can simply download the drivers for your respective computer, and start using the UE300 along side of your current LAN port. Best Regards, TP-Link Support
Question:	Does this adapter work for MacOS
Answer:	yes
Question:	It works for OS
Answer:	Hi, We can confirm that the UE300 will work with OS 10.13 from our testing. Best Regards, TP-Link Support
Question:	is it compatible with nintendo switch
Answer:	So we have an update to this. Our older version the UE300 is not compatible with the Nintendo Switch. The New version the UE305 is compatible with the The Nintendo Switch though. We did merge the SKUs so it might be hard to tell which is which so the simplest way to do this is by the color of the chassis the UE300 is white and the UE305 is black. If you are looking for Switch compatibility look for the adapter that is black.

NETGEAR Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home Mesh WiFi Satellite Extender - works with your Orbi Router to add 2,500 sq. feet at speeds up to 3 Gbps, AC3000 (RBS50)

NETGEAR

Based on 872 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FAST WHOLE HOME SYSTEM - ADD-ON SATELLITE

Need more range? No more WiFi boosters or extenders necessary. The Orbi Add-On Satellite extend high performance WiFi to your property from the basement to the backyard. The system smartly manages your WiFi so that each device's access is optimized and never interrupted. *Requires existing Orbi WiFi System or Orbi Router*

ADD UP TO 2,500 SQUARE FEET OF COVERAGE

From the home office to the basement to the pool, this wireless internet system covers every inch of your home with a strong WiFi signal. Unlike router and repeater combinations, Orbi covers the whole home with a single WiFi network and name, enabling seamless indoor/outdoor and room-to-room connectivity.

TRI-BAND TECHNOLOGY

Award winning and patented Tri-Band Technology provides Orbi with a dedicated backhaul connection between the router and the satellite, so the system can manage multiple network connections without compromising speed. Watch movies and TV, play video games, download music, books, and more.

QUICK & EASY SETUP

Selected as Editors’ Choice by PC Magazine, Orbi works with your current internet service provider and sets up in minutes right out of the box. Use the Orbi app or any web browser to create your entire home’s secure WiFi network in minutes. No personal info, account creation, or hands required with the new Amazon Echo Alexa skill and our intuitive and preconfigured system.

GUEST CAPABILITY

Allow guests the opportunity to access WiFi while protecting your network and password. Easily create a network to service visitors, and Orbi handles everything else. You'll rest easy knowing that your information is safe from security breaches, viruses, malware, and network worms.

- NETGEAR Orbi AC3000 WiFi Router

- WiFi Add-On Satellite - High-Performance Tri-Band Technology

- Add up to 2,500 Square Foot of WiFi coverage

- RBS50.Four high-performance antennas with high-powered ampliﬁers

Only works with an Orbi Whole Home Mesh WiFi Router. Get the fastest speeds by adding to your RBK50
Eliminates WiFi dead zones and buffering in hard to reach places, adding 2,500 sq. feet of coverage to your existing Orbi Mesh WiFi network — with speeds up to 3.0 Gbps
Single WiFi network name lets you move around the house without losing connectivity
Creates an ultra-performance Mesh WiFi network that blankets every inch of your home in super fast and seamless WiFi connectivity — room to room, wall to wall, floor to floor
Up to 161% faster than the leading brands, as certified by an independent study, makes Orbi the highest performance Mesh WiFi system on the market
Maintains speed even as more devices use your WiFi at the same time, thanks to patented tri-band technology
4 Ethernet ports provide ultimate flexibility and connectivity for your Smart TV, game console, streaming player, and more

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this work with at&t u-verse
Answer:	These M3W devices only work with Deco routers and other M3W units in a mesh network configuration. The RE300 can function as a traditional range extender or as a mesh module with the traditional style Archer 7 if it’s running One Mesh software
Question:	Can i use an ethernet to coax adapter (moca) to hardwire the satellite units? would that help improve speeds
Answer:	The Deco M3 3-Pack Deco M3 immerses your entire home in strong, seamless WiFi — no matter its size or shape. One Deco M3 unit and two M3W Wall satellite extender units work together to deliver fast, reliable WiFi speeds up to 4,500 sq. ft. that eliminates dead zones. Plug the compact add-on unit Deco M3W into a wall outlet to easily extend your mesh Wi-Fi coverage. If you need more WiFi coverage, no problem; simply add more Decos to increase coverage at anytime. Like all of our Deco units, the M3 can be conveniently set up and managed via the Deco app. Both the Deco M5 and Deco M3 3-Pack are dual-band Mesh WiFi Systems. Regards, TP-Link Support
Question:	Are either of these extenders compatible with orbi pro (SRR
Answer:	You should be able to plug in one of the extenders into an outlet in your barn. We did. As long as it's not too, too far from the router. But we know our extenders work through walls, tin roofing, and give us 1 - 2 bars of service even at roughly 600-700ft away across our pasture. We've had it now for almost a year and it's still going strong.
Question:	Why is a single satellite almost as expensive as the router satellite combo
Answer:	Yes, the base (router) is equipped with two gigabit Ethernet ports. One will typically be used for the Internet source (i.e. modem), while the other can be used at your discretion. Regards, TP-Link Support

Product features

Whole Home Coverage - Upstairs and Downstairs

Eliminate deadzones throughout your whole home by adding up to 2,500 square feet of WiFi coverage. Other types of WiFi equipment lose speed and range over large distances.

Fast and reliable WiFi coverage

Connect all your WiFi devices without losing speeds! Freely roam around your home with uninterrupted streaming and downloading.

Parental Controls

Limit daily Internet time for websites, apps, and more. Set individual filter levels for family members to match their age and interests.

Flexible connectivity options

Each Orbi device comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports. This is ideal to hard-wire entertainment centers, game systems, and home offices for fast Internet speeds.

Expandable for more WiFi coverage

Easily add more Orbi satellites to your existing Orbi WiFi system for additional WiFi coverage. Indoor and Outdoor satellite options fit any need (sold separately).