6 Best Alternatives to the NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router (2026)
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router delivers AX1800 speeds and covers up to 1,500 square feet for about 20 devices. If you are searching for netgear 4 stream wifi 6 alternatives, you may want a different form factor or higher device capacity. Some buyers prefer mesh systems for better whole-home coverage. Others need more Ethernet ports or specific security features. This list highlights options that share the same WiFi 6 standard and AX1800 speed rating. These alternatives overlap with the original router in core specifications while offering distinct advantages. You might choose a compact router for tight spaces or a mesh extender to fill dead zones. The selected products provide reliable performance for small homes. They support gigabit connections and maintain compatibility with existing modems. Each option meets the basic requirements for streaming and web conferencing. You can pick the model that best fits your home layout. The following products are ranked by their practical value. They offer clear benefits for specific networking needs. Consider your device count and space when choosing.
How these routers compare
Amazon eero 6+ Wi-Fi 6 Router
The Amazon eero 6+ shares the same 1,500 square foot coverage area as the NETGEAR R6700AX, but it supports over 75 devices. This is a significant increase from the NETGEAR limit of 20 devices. You get gigabit ports on both, but the eero prioritizes smart home integration and easy setup over raw throughput. If you have many connected gadgets, the eero handles the load better. The NETGEAR is better if you need four physical Ethernet ports for wired connections. Choose the eero for device density, not speed.
TP-Link Archer AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router
The TP-Link Archer AX1800 matches the NETGEAR AX1800 speed rating and uses Wi-Fi 6. However, it lacks specific coverage area data in its attributes, so you must assume similar range. It includes built-in VPN support, which the NETGEAR does not list. This makes it better for users who need secure remote access. The TP-Link is lighter and more compact. You give up the known 1,500 square foot guarantee if you prefer the TP-Link. Pick this router if security features like VPN are more important to you than a verified coverage map.
NETGEAR Nighthawk Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router
This NETGEAR Nighthawk model is essentially the same AX1800 router as the original. It covers 1,500 square feet and supports Wi-Fi 6. The main difference is likely the included model number variation, which may affect port counts or specific firmware. It offers solid security and app control. If you already have the original, this is redundant. However, if you need a replacement or a second unit for mesh, it provides identical performance. It is best for users who want the exact same specs but perhaps a different packaging or bundle configuration.
Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router
The Smart Air Minions Bob router also uses Wi-Fi 6 and AX1800 speeds. It is a dual-band device with gigabit ports, similar to the NETGEAR. Its distinct feature is the themed design, which appeals to users wanting a playful look. It is rated for gaming use, though it lacks the specific device capacity data of the NETGEAR. You get a unique aesthetic but potentially less established brand support. Choose this if you want a secondary router for a child's room or a themed setup. It is not better for large homes or high device counts.
Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Extender
The Amazon eero 6 Mesh Extender is not a standalone router replacement. It expands existing eero coverage by 1,500 square feet using Wi-Fi 6. It has no Ethernet ports listed, unlike the NETGEAR which has four. This device is only useful if you already own an eero system. It cannot replace the NETGEAR for a new standalone setup. You get seamless mesh integration but lose the ability to connect wired devices directly. Pick this only if you are expanding an eero network, not if you need a primary router.
Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router (Like-New)
The Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router (Like-New) offers the same 1,500 square foot coverage and gigabit ports as the new version. It supports over 75 devices, far exceeding the NETGEAR's 20-device limit. This refurbished option provides the same smart home benefits and app management. You save on cost but get a pre-owned unit. The physical specs are identical to the new eero 6+. Choose this if you want high device capacity and easy management at a lower price point. It is better for smart homes than the NETGEAR for basic networking.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router
Best for: small homes with few devices
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1800
- Coverage Area
- 1,500 sq. ft.
- Device Capacity
- 20
- Max Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 4
View on Amazon: NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router Affiliate link
The NETGEAR R6700AX is a WiFi 6 router delivering AX1800 speeds up to 1.8 Gbps. It covers up to 1,500 square feet and supports 20 devices. You get four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections. This model replaces your existing router and works with any internet service provider up to 1Gbps. It includes built-in security features to protect your network.
Pros
- AX1800 WiFi 6 standard for faster speeds
- Covers up to 1,500 square feet
- Supports 20 connected devices
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
Cons
- Limited to 1,500 square feet coverage
- Max port speed is 1 Gbps
- Capacity capped at 20 devices
Good fit if
- You need a router for small apartments
- You have fewer than 20 connected devices
- You want Gigabit Ethernet ports
Skip if
- You require coverage larger than 1,500 square feet
- You need more than 20 device connections
- You want speeds exceeding 1 Gbps
Verdict: NETGEAR R6700AX AX1800 WiFi 6 Router fits small homes with low device counts. It offers reliable AX1800 performance for basic streaming and web use.
Amazon eero 6+ Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: small homes with smart home devices
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Coverage Area
- 1,500 sq ft
- Device Capacity
- 75+ devices
- Pack Size
- 1-Pack
- Features
- Mesh
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
View on Amazon: Amazon eero 6+ Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link
The eero 6+ is a single Wi-Fi 6 router designed for homes up to 1,500 square feet. It supports gigabit internet speeds and handles 75 or more connected devices. The unit includes a built-in smart home hub for Thread and Zigbee devices. You can manage the network via the eero app. It uses TrueMesh technology to reduce dead spots. This setup is ideal for small apartments or compact houses.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 standard with 160 MHz channel support
- Built-in smart home hub for Thread and Zigbee
- Supports internet plans up to a gigabit
- Handles 75+ connected devices simultaneously
- Compact white design measuring 3.94 by 3.82 inches
Cons
- Coverage limited to 1,500 square feet
- Online security features require a separate subscription
- Single router unit without included extenders
Good fit if
- You need a simple, single-unit solution for a small home
- You want to connect Thread or Zigbee smart devices directly
- You prefer app-based network management without complex settings
Skip if
- You require coverage for areas larger than 1,500 square feet
- You need a high-performance router for heavy gaming or 4K streaming
- You want robust security features without a monthly subscription
Verdict: Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router is a straightforward choice for small spaces under 1,500 square feet. It suits users who prioritize easy setup and smart home integration over raw speed or extensive coverage.
TP-Link Archer AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: Basic home networks needing VPN support
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1800
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Features
- Mesh
- Dimensions
- 10.3 × 5.3 × 1.61 inches
View on Amazon: TP-Link Archer AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router delivering up to 1.8 Gbps of total bandwidth. It uses OFDMA to handle more devices simultaneously and beamforming with four high-gain antennas to direct signal strength. This model supports both OpenVPN and PPTP VPN servers. It is a practical option for users seeking reliable coverage and security features without the complexity of tri-band hardware.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard for improved capacity
- AX1800 speed rating with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth
- Supports OpenVPN and PPTP VPN servers
- Four high-gain antennas with beamforming technology
Cons
- Dual-band only, lacking the 6 GHz band
- Gigabit Ethernet ports limit speeds above 1 Gbps
- No mention of a dedicated gaming mode or QoS settings
Good fit if
- You need basic Wi-Fi 6 speeds for a small home
- You want to run a VPN server on your router
- You prefer a simple dual-band setup over tri-band
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 6E with the 6 GHz band
- You have a gigabit internet plan and need 2.5G ports
- You need advanced gaming features like dedicated QoS
Verdict: The TP-Link Archer AX21 AX1800 Router offers solid AX1800 performance and built-in VPN support for basic home networks. It suits users who prioritize security and standard dual-band coverage over high-end gaming features.
NETGEAR Nighthawk Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router
Best for: small homes with under 20 devices
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1800
- Frequency Bands
- Dual Band
- Coverage Area
- 1,500 sq ft
- Device Capacity
- 20 devices
- Max Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
View on Amazon: NETGEAR Nighthawk Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router Affiliate link
The NETGEAR R6700AX is a dual-band WiFi 6 router delivering up to 1.8 Gbps of wireless speed. It covers areas up to 1,500 square feet and supports up to 20 connected devices. The unit includes five 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections. It pairs with existing modems and offers app-based management. This setup suits small homes or apartments needing reliable, secure connectivity for everyday tasks.
Pros
- WiFi 6 standard for improved efficiency and speed
- Five 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices
- App management for setup and network control
- WPA3 encryption and automatic firmware updates
- Covers up to 1,500 square feet
Cons
- Limited to 1 Gigabit WAN and LAN port speeds
- Supports only 20 connected devices
- Requires subscription after 30-day trial for NETGEAR Armor
Good fit if
- You need a reliable router for a small home under 1,500 square feet
- You want app-based control for guest networks and device pausing
- You have fewer than 20 connected devices
Skip if
- You require speeds faster than 1 Gigabit for wired connections
- You need to connect more than 20 devices simultaneously
- You want a mesh system for multi-story coverage
Verdict: The NETGEAR R6700AX AX1800 WiFi 6 Router fits small apartments with few devices. It offers solid security and app control for basic home networking needs.
Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best for: Users wanting themed Wi-Fi 6 mesh basics
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX1800
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Ethernet Ports
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router Affiliate link
This Smart Air router uses Wi-Fi 6 (AX1800) with dual-band speeds up to 1.77 Gbps. It includes one Gigabit WAN and one LAN port for wired connections. The device supports mesh expansion with compatible units and offers router, access point, and extender modes. Its compact, officially licensed Minions Bob design fits on desks or shelves, making it a practical choice for users seeking themed home networking hardware.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for stable PCVR and gaming connections
- AX1800 dual-band speeds up to 1.77 Gbps
- Gigabit WAN and LAN ports for wired devices
- Mesh flexibility with compatible Davolink Minions routers
- Compact upright design with licensed Minions Bob aesthetic
Cons
- Only two Gigabit Ethernet ports total
- Limited to AX1800 speed class compared to higher-end alternatives
- Mesh compatibility restricted to specific Davolink Minions models
Good fit if
- You want a Wi-Fi 6 router with a unique, licensed character design
- You need basic Gigabit wired connectivity for a few devices
- You plan to expand coverage using compatible Minions mesh nodes
Skip if
- You require more than two wired Ethernet ports for gaming consoles or PCs
- You need a high-performance AX3000 or AX5400 router for larger homes
- You want universal mesh compatibility with major brands like eero or TP-Link
Verdict: Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 Router is a themed entry-level Wi-Fi 6 option that suits small spaces or secondary setups. It fits users who prioritize distinctive design and basic mesh expansion over high port counts or top-tier speeds.
Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Extender
Best for: expanding existing eero mesh coverage
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Coverage Area
- 1,500 sq. ft.
- Features
- Mesh
- Dimensions
- 3.91 × 3.82 × 2.42 inches
- Weight
- 10.1 ounces
View on Amazon: Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Extender Affiliate link
This is a refurbished eero 6 add-on extender for your existing mesh system. It supports Wi-Fi 6 dual-band connections to help eliminate dead zones. The device covers up to 1,500 square feet of space. You can set it up quickly using the eero app. It uses TrueMesh technology to route traffic intelligently. This unit is designed to integrate seamlessly with your current eero network rather than acting as a standalone router.
Pros
- Supports Wi-Fi 6 dual-band standards
- Covers up to 1,500 square feet
- Uses TrueMesh technology for traffic routing
- Includes automatic security updates
Cons
- Requires an existing eero network to function
- Refurbished unit in generic packaging
- Cannot operate as a standalone router
Good fit if
- You already own an eero mesh system
- You need to extend coverage by 1,500 sq. ft.
- You want automatic security updates
Skip if
- You do not have an existing eero base
- You need a standalone router
- You prefer new devices in retail packaging
Verdict: Amazon eero 6 Mesh Extender is a practical add-on for users who already have an eero network and need to expand coverage by 1,500 square feet with Wi-Fi 6 support.
Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router (Like-New)
Best for: small homes needing gigabit speeds
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Coverage Area
- up to 1,500 sq. ft.
- Device Capacity
- 75+ devices
- Pack Size
- 1-Pack
- Features
- Mesh
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
View on Amazon: Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router (Like-New) Affiliate link
The eero 6+ is a Wi-Fi 6 mesh router supporting speeds up to a gigabit. It covers up to 1,500 square feet and handles 75+ devices. TrueMesh technology routes traffic to reduce dead spots. You get automatic updates for security. The app guides setup and management. This refurbished unit works like new.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 standard with 160 MHz channel support
- Covers up to 1,500 square feet
- Supports 75+ connected devices
- TrueMesh technology reduces dead spots
- Automatic security updates
Cons
- Refurbished Like-New condition
- No mention of Ethernet port count
- Online security features require a subscription
Good fit if
- You need gigabit speed support
- You want to expand an existing eero network
- You prefer app-based setup and management
Skip if
- You require wired Ethernet for all devices
- You want a brand-new sealed unit
- You need advanced manual security controls without a subscription
Verdict: Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router is a solid choice for small homes needing gigabit speeds and easy app management. It fits users who value coverage and device capacity over physical port variety.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router | Amazon eero 6+ Wi-Fi 6 Router | TP-Link Archer AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router | NETGEAR Nighthawk Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router | Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 Router | Amazon eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Extender | Amazon eero 6+ Mesh Router (Like-New) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Speed Rating | AX1800 | not stated | AX1800 | AX1800 | AX1800 | not stated | not stated |
| Frequency Bands | not stated | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated |
| Coverage Area | 1,500 sq. ft. | 1,500 sq ft | not stated | 1,500 sq ft | not stated | 1,500 sq. ft. | up to 1,500 sq. ft. |
| Device Capacity | 20 | 75+ devices | not stated | 20 devices | not stated | not stated | 75+ devices |
| Max Port Speed | 1 Gbps | not stated | Gigabit | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps | not stated | not stated |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 | not stated | not stated | 5 | 2 | not stated | not stated |
| Frequency Band | not stated | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated | not stated |
| Pack Size | not stated | 1-Pack | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1-Pack |
| Use Case | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Gaming | not stated | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Mesh | Mesh | not stated | Mesh, WPA3 | Mesh | Mesh |
| Port Speed | not stated | Gigabit | Gigabit | Gigabit | Gigabit | not stated | Gigabit |
| Dimensions | 14 × 11 × 4 inches | 3.94 × 3.82 × 2.6 inches | 10.3 × 5.3 × 1.61 inches | not stated | 4.2 × 4.8 × 5.5 inches | 3.91 × 3.82 × 2.42 inches | 3.94 × 3.82 × 2.6 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 11 ounces | 1.1 pounds | 1.41 pounds | not stated | 10.1 ounces | 11 ounces |
| Size | 1.8Gbps | 1 router | AX1800 | 1.8 Gbps | 4.2 inches (L) x 4.8 inches (W) x 5.5 inches (H) | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Black | WHITE | Black | Black | Yellow, Blue | WHITE | WHITE |
| Model | R6700AX-1AZNAS | R010001 | Archer AX21 | R6700AX-3AZPAS | AXE-5400 | Q010001 | R010001 |
Readers of this guide also look at connelly lil easy 4 6 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which router is best for small homes with smart home devices?
The Amazon eero 6+ is the top choice for this use case. It supports over 75 devices, which is significantly higher than the NETGEAR R6700AX limit of 20. Both cover 1,500 square feet, but the eero prioritizes easy setup and smart home integration for small spaces.
Is there a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 alternative?
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is the best budget option. It offers AX1800 performance similar to the NETGEAR model but includes built-in VPN support. It is designed for users who prioritize security and standard dual-band coverage over high-end gaming features or extensive coverage areas.
Can I expand my existing eero network coverage?
Yes, the Amazon eero 6 Mesh Extender is designed for this purpose. It adds 1,500 square feet of Wi-Fi 6 coverage to an existing eero network. This makes it a practical add-on for users who need to extend their mesh system without buying a new primary router.
Which router supports gaming features?
The Smart Air Minions Bob AX1800 is listed as suitable for gaming. It is a themed entry-level Wi-Fi 6 option with dual-band support. While it fits users who want distinctive design and basic mesh expansion, it prioritizes aesthetics over high port counts or top-tier speeds.
What is the device capacity of the Amazon eero 6+?
The Amazon eero 6+ supports over 75 devices. This capacity is much higher than the NETGEAR R6700AX, which handles about 20 devices. Both routers provide gigabit port speeds and cover up to 1,500 square feet, making the eero better for homes with many connected gadgets.
Is there a NETGEAR option with app control?
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router offers solid security and app control. It is suitable for small apartments with under 20 devices. Like the primary R6700AX, it provides AX1800 speeds and covers 1,500 square feet, making it a reliable choice for basic home networking needs.