7 Best DD-WRT Router Review List With Buying Guide in 2024

DD-WRT is a brilliant, open-source firmware that adds an array of features and functionalities to your router. This Linux-based firmware is created to unleash the full potential of your wireless router.

Most routers available in the market come with stock firmware, developed by the manufacturer. This type of firmware is designed to provide a user-friendly experience for users. It involves less technical stuff and is easy to use for everyone.

On the other hand, custom firmware like DD-WRT removes all limitations and allows complete control over your device. There are various advantages to using DD-WRT router firmware. For instance, it can improve your router’s privacy, stability, wireless connectivity, and network security. By pairing it with a modern router, you can make it even more powerful.

If you are looking for the Best DD-WRT Router, you are in the right place. After testing tens of routers, we have finally picked 7 of the best routers that can be used with DD-WRT. So without wasting any time, let’s dive into the details.

7 Best DD-WRT Routers Review

We have reviewed each unit to give you an idea of what it has to offer. Go through the details and choose the one that is most appropriate for you.

1. Linksys WRT3200ACM: AC3200 Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router: Our Top Pick

Let’s start our list with the Linksys WRT3200ACM dual-band router, which is popular for its speed and performance. It is a reliable unit that is compatible with DD-WRT and provides connections to multiple devices simultaneously.

Why is it Unique?

It is a dual-band unit that supports up to 2600 Mbps and 600Mbps speed on the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands respectively.

The TRI-stream 160 technology helps increase the bandwidth to 160 MHz from 80 MHz. Thus, it allows you to enjoy online, 4K HD streaming, etc. without any lag.

With MU-MIMO, it can provide reliable connections to multiple devices simultaneously. On the other hand, beamforming tech reduces interferences and improves performance by directing wireless signals to connected devices.

It also has high encryption standards and supports WPA/WPA2. You can install and manage this device easily through a browser or the Smart WiFi app from Linksys.

Buyers Experience

This DD-WRT-compatible router combines powerful hardware with strong features. Besides DD-WRT, it is also compatible with OpenWRT.

It has multiple operating modes such as a wired bridge, access point, router, repeater, and wireless bridge.

2. NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router: Best Overall

Next in the line, we have NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200. It is a versatile, tri-band router designed for super-fast speed.

If you are looking for a high-performance router, this could be the ideal option for you. But before that let’s take a look at its features.

Why is it Unique?

With 3.2Gbps speed, this is one of the fastest combined speeds you will get. Whether you want to stream 4K HD movies or play online, it will give you an interrupted experience.

The Tri-Band feature ensures more WiFi to more devices. In addition, it is equipped with Dynamic QoS bandwidth prioritization by device and application.

It is packed with powerful amplifiers along with six antennas for maximum range. With smart connect; it easily picks the WiFi for all your devices.

Buyers Experience

This Netgear router has received solid ratings from buyers because of obvious reasons. It not only delivers high speed but also has a 1GHz dual-core processor for lag-free performance.

The beamforming+ tech focuses on WiFi signals and ensures stronger connections for mobile devices. Other notable features include a USB 3.0 port, 4 gigabit Ethernet ports, and storage-ready access.

3. ASUS Wi-Fi Gaming Router (RT-AC5300): Best For Gamers

If you are in search of a gaming-specific router, the Asus RT-AC5300 is for you. This amazing router is not only packed with features, but it also provides high performance.

It delivers a high-speed connection along with USB storage sharing and more.

Why is it Unique?

It is a feature-rich unit with multiple configuration settings. Its Tri-Band technology ensures maximum throughput.

It is also backed by Mu Mimo technology that enables it to connect multiple devices with each device receiving maximum speed.

The best thing about this unit is that it is compatible with all major operating systems, including Mac, Windows, and Linux.

It provides built-in access to GPN (gamer’s private network) while ensuring stable ping times for gaming. With this unit, you can game without any worries. It provides multi-layer protection against vulnerability with Trend Micro technology. It keeps your private sensitive data protected.

Buyers Experience

As far as buyers are concerned, they prefer this router over other units because of various reasons. To start with, it comes with eight external antennas for high-quality performance and reduced collisions.

The 3 Wi-Fi bands provide excellent speeds of up to 5300, 2167, and 1000 Mbps. Not only that, but it also includes an in-built 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz WiFi range. This is one of the many reasons why it makes the favorite choice for gamers.

4. NETGEAR Nighthawk X4S Smart WiFi Router (R7800): Best For Speed

We have another Netgear unit on the list, which is built for ultimate speed. With Netgear Nighthawk X4S smart router, you can upgrade your WiFi experience.

From dual-band streaming to beamforming+ antennas, it includes everything you need. It is a fast, reliable router ideal for home use.

Why is it Unique?

With this unit, you can enjoy incredible speeds of up to 2600Mbps for demanding online activities like multiplayer online gaming and 4K Ultra-HD streaming.

It can smartly select between dual bands to increase speed and reduce interference for all your wireless devices.

When using a Netgear Nighthawk X4S smart router, you need not worry about safety. It provides high-level protection with a double firewall and WPA/WPA2 wireless security. To add to it, it can also create a separate guest network for your guests.

Buyers Experience

This is one of the most user-friendly routers you will find. With the Nighthawk App, it becomes much easier to manage this unit.

It also comes with an easy setup process, so you don’t need to struggle much over it. 

Users also like the fact that it includes parental controls. Using this feature, you can easily restrict inappropriate content for your kids.

5. TP-Link N600 Wireless Wi-Fi Dual Band Router: Best Affordable

TP-Link is a brand that needs no introduction. It is one of the most popular names in the market.

The TP-Link N600 is a cost-effective unit, which is ideal for users on a budget. It provides a dual-band connection and many other features to enhance your router experience.

Why is it Unique?

It provides a total bandwidth of up to 600Mbps, including 300Mbps at 5 GHz and 300Mbps at 2.4 GHz.

It also includes dual external antennas, so you can adjust it to improve the connection speed. The good thing is that the antennas are detachable.

With a single USB port, you can easily share media and files with networked devices. It also provides Guest Network Access for secure WiFi access for guests.

Another feature that is worth mentioning is IP-based Bandwidth Control. It lets you manage and control the bandwidth of all the devices connected to the router.

Buyers Experience

Most buyers prefer this unit because it is easy to set up. 

If you are a parent, you have additional reasons to like this unit. This is because it includes Live Parental Controls using which you can restrict access for children.

It also comes with an intuitive interface for convenient usage. It has LED light panels to display the operation status.

6. Linksys Open Source Dual-Band Gigabit WiFi Wireless Router: Best User-Friendly

The next best option we have is Linksys. It is an open-source, dual-band gigabit router with the best features.

If you want a user-friendly router for your home that is also compatible with DD-WRT, then you should try this unit.

Why is it Unique?

The best thing about this unit is the speed. It is 4.3x faster than N technology. Its dual-band technology offers speeds up to 1300Mbps at 5 GHz and 600Mbps at 2.4 GHz.

It also has 4 powerful antennas, which can be adjusted to receive strong WiFi signals. This makes it an ideal choice for small offices and homes.

It is equipped with a powerful CPU for high-speed data processing. This enables more than one user to simultaneously stream movies and transfer files, and games online without lagging.

Buyers Experience

Many buyers have particularly bought this unit because it includes parental controls. This feature is useful in restricting inappropriate content for staff and children.

This Linksys router also allows you to share content through an external storage device with super-fast speed. 

The web interface allows home and local network configuration. Not only that, but users can also create a smart WiFi account for free.

7. Netgear WNDR4500-100PAS N900 Dual Band Gigabit Wifi Router: Best For Large Homes

If you are looking for a reliable router for large homes, Netgear WNDR4500 is the one for you. It is packed with a host of features that make it a desirable choice for users.

The best thing about this unit is that it makes the basic features of a router stand out.

Why is it Unique?

Out of all the available features, ReadyShare technology and Broadcom processor makes all the difference.

With the ReadySHARE option, you can both USB access and print via the internet. 

With this router, you get faster Wi-Fi speeds of up to 450 Mbps. This makes it ideal for streaming videos and HD gaming.

It also includes 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports with auto-sensing technology. Along with that, it has two USB 2.0 ports.

Buyers Experience

Buyers gave positive ratings because it has impressive security features. It has WPA/WPA2—PSK and WEP, Denial of service, and double firewall protection.

They also like this unit because it is easy to install. You can easily set it up for your computer or mobile device.

Other than that it has parental controls for web filtering and guest network to allow secure access for guests.

Buying Guide For The Best DD-WRT Router

Finding the best DD-WRT-compatible router is not easy, especially when you have less or zero knowledge about it. But don’t worry, we have got you covered. In the buyer’s guide below, we have explained all the important factors that you must consider when buying a router for DD-WRT firmware.

Here you go with the details:

1. Specifications

The specifications of a router are probably the most important thing to consider. The router you are planning to buy needs to be compatible with DD-WRT. Otherwise, there’s no point in purchasing it.

Speaking of specifications, some routers are equipped with single-core CPUs, while others have multiple cores. To get the most out of your router, you must look for powerful CPUs and high RAM. You will find these features in high-end units. However, some cheap models bring you capable features and specs. However, opting for a cheap router can create problems while installing the firmware.

2. Pre-flashed or DIY Flashing

The cheaper option will be to get a router directly from the manufacturer and upgrade the firmware flash yourself. However, doing so will void the warranty period of your router. Also, there are chances that you will mess up the unit in the process.

This is why you should opt for a pre-flashed unit from a third-party company. A pre-flashed router comes with a valid warranty. Not only that, but the router is also tested to work with DD-WRT.

3. Connectivity Options

The next important thing to check is the connectivity options. A 2.4 GHz connection is perfect for basic online browsing. But for more heavy-duty tasks, you will need a powerful option like 5 GHz.

We recommend you opt for a 5 GHz router as it makes a better choice. With a 5 GHz unit, you can stream 4K HD content with ease. Not only that, but it will also give you an interrupted online gaming experience.

Benefits Of Own DD-WRT Router

DD-WRT provides a wide range of benefits to router users. Before you think of installing it on your router, you should check out the benefits it offers.

• IPv6 Functionality

Currently, most routers use the IPv4 protocol. But with the increasing number of devices, it doesn’t have enough addresses available. On the other hand, IPv6 is becoming more popular. The problem is that many routers still can’t handle it. But this issue can be taken care of with DD-WRT.

• More Customisation available

One of the biggest advantages of installing DD-WRT is that it offers plenty of customization options. For example, it allows you to modify your antenna, prevent certain activities, configure your firewall, and block your internet at certain times. Through this, you can gain more control over your route.

• Makes Your Router More Powerful

The standard router firmware usually restricts the potential of your router. But DD-WRT helps make your router more powerful. It overclocks your router, so it can perform better.

• Improved Quality of Service

You can improve the QoS by configuring your device. This feature is mainly important for online gaming, streaming media, video conferencing, and more. With the help of DD-WRT, you can access full control over your router and thus, improve its QoS.

• Improved Reliability

DD-WRT is highly efficient in reducing the number of glitches, interruptions, and other issues that your router might have. This is because DD-WRT is a Linux-based firmware that is designed to boost the performance of your router.

How to Configure the DD-WRT Router?

If you are using a DD-WRT compatible router, you can take advantage of the built-in DDNS to maintain records for your domain automatically updated.

Here are the steps you need to follow to configure a DD-WRT router.

1. The first thing you need to do is enable dynamic DNS for your domain.
2. Now create an A+ dynamic DNS record using any IP address for the hostname that you want to update.

Note: Your router will automatically update the IP address.

1. Next, you need to set up DDNS on the router. For this, you will need to sign in to your router’s web interface. From there you need to go to Setup and then to DDNS.
2. After that, you must fill out the required details such as DDNS service, DYNDNS server, password, username, hostname, and URL.

Note: You must replace your DynamicDNSPassword and yourdomain.com with the relevant details.

You must enter your domain name in the “Username” field for “Password” You need to enter your Dynamic DNS password. 

If you want to update more than one hostname, separate them using an ‘-a’ argument.

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Conclusion

Installing DD-WRT in your router can improve its functionality significantly. But before that, you will need to find the best DD-WRT router that is compatible with the said firmware. Instead of wasting your time looking in several places, you can simply pick any of the mentioned models in this post. These are all top-rated units that are preferred by most buyers. You will surely find something to suit your requirements on this list.

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