Looking for a way to check on your house or pets while you are out?
Well, with the help of security cameras and routers, it’s completely possible. Because most modern security cameras provide remote access features.
However, smooth remote access performance and other smart features of the cameras are dependent on the wifi router you choose. As security cameras have some particular network requirements. So, which router should you choose?
Don’t worry. We got your back. Because in this article, our expert network professionals will provide an in-depth review and buying guide for choosing the best router for security cameras.
So, stay tuned.
- Which Are The Best Wireless Router For Security Cameras?
- Why Do I Need A Router For My Security Camera?
- What Kind Of Wifi Do I Need For Security Cameras?
- What Internet Speed Do I Need For Home Security Cameras?
- Best Router For Security Cameras In 2022
- 1. Best Router For Multiple Cameras-Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300)
- 2. Best Wireless Router For CCTV-Synology Rt 2600ac
- 3. Best Router For IP Cameras-Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000)
- 4. Best Mesh Router For Ring Cameras-Amazon Eero Pro Mesh Wifi Router
- 5. Best Wireless Router For Security Cameras-Tp-Link Ax5400 Wifi 6 Router
- Things To Consider For Choosing The Best Router For Security Cameras- An In-Depth Buying Guide In 2022
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Which Are The Best Wireless Router For Security Cameras?
Here is a list of the Best Wireless Router For Security Cameras currently available
- Asus Wifi gaming router (RT-AC5300)
- Synology RT 2600ac
- Netgear Nighthawk
- Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi router
- TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router
Comparison Table
This comparison is based on hands-on review knowledge.
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
ASUS WiFi Gaming Router (RT-AC5300) | ASUS WiFi Gaming Router (RT-AC5300) | ASUS WiFi Gaming Router (RT-AC5300) – Tri-Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, Gaming & Streaming, AiMesh Compatible, Included Lifetime Internet |
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Synology RT2600ac – 4×4 | Synology RT2600ac – 4×4 | Synology RT2600ac – 4×4 dual-band Gigabit Wi-Fi router, MU-MIMO, powerful parental controls, Threat Prevention, bandwidth management, VPN, expandable… |
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NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) | NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) | NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) – AC1900 Wireless Speed (Up to 1900 Mbps) | Up to 1800 Sq Ft Coverage & 30 Devices | 4 x 1G Ethernet and 2… |
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Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi router | Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi router | Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi router |
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TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX73) | TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX73) | TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX73)- Dual Band Gigabit Wireless Internet Router, High-Speed ax Router for Streaming, Long Range Coverage |
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Check On Amazon |
In A Hurry-Which Router Is Best For Camera?
If you are in a hurry and don’t want to go through every product on this article then we got your back. Here, our editor’s choice is the TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router.
This product is chosen depending on our meticulous hands-on review, great reviews in most of the user forums. Moreover,
- TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router is a value for money product with the most advanced wifi 6 technology, a blazing fast speed, and long-range.
- It has advanced security and encryption which is great for security cameras.
- TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router provides advanced features like OFDMA and Mu-MIMO for more efficiency.
Before diving into the main review let’s have a look at some of the important topics which will help you understand and choose the best router for your security camera.
Why Do I Need A Router For My Security Camera?
Though your security cameras can operate without a router and you can view the security footage locally. But if you have IP cameras then without a router, you will lose some of its most advanced features. Because
- Your security cameras/IP cameras can not transmit data. As a result, you will not get instant motion alerts without routers.
- Most modern security cameras have remote access features. But without connecting your IP camera with a router, you can not access your camera footage and other camera features remotely.
- Without a router, your security camera can only store data locally. So, if you want to store your security footage or other data on a server or cloud then you must need a router with an internet connection.
- Lastly, a router can provide an extra layer of WPA and WPA2 security for your IP camera.
However, router security protocols are breakable and they make your camera more prone to threats. As a result, your security camera will be safe from hacking if you don’t use a router.
So, if you deal with sensitive footage then storing it locally without a router might be a better option.
What Kind Of Wifi Do I Need For Security Cameras?
Actually, it depends on your security camera type. Currently, there are two types of security cameras. They are
- CCTV Camera
- IP Camera
Now if you have a CCTV camera then you might not need wifi for your security camera. Because most CCTV cameras are cable-based security camera systems. They are connected with a local monitor and storing device. CCTV cameras can make a good security system. But they are old and do not have modern features.
On the other hand, IP cameras are modern cameras with advanced features. They have motion detection, remote access, and many other features. IP cameras are wireless too. So, they must require wifi to transmit data.
However, IP cameras can be connected to any type of wifi. Because most IP cameras are compatible with wired routers, wireless routers, core routers, and edge routers.
What Internet Speed Do I Need For Home Security Cameras?
For streaming remotely, you’ll require at least 5-10 Mbps upload speed. Normally, 5 Mbps upload speed is enough for viewing low-resolution footage remotely and 10 Mbps will be good for high-resolution videos.
However, the internet speed you require depends on the number of cameras you have, their resolution, and frame rate.
Normally, most IP cameras have mainstream and substream recording ability. Here mainstream is, streaming at the highest resolution the camera can record and substream is a lower streaming capability that can be used for better remote viewing. Here is a chart for common mainstream and substream video bitrates.
For Mainstream
Resolution | Frame Rate | Bitrate |
8MP 4K | 15 fps | 8Mbps |
4MP 2K | 20 fps | 4Mbps |
2MP 1080P | 30 fps | 4Mbps |
For Substream
Resolution | Frame Rate | Bitrate |
D1 960H | 15 fps | 1Mbps |
VGA 480P | 15 fps | 512 Kbps |
D1 960H | 10 fps | 256 Kbps |
Now decide on an internet connection according to the number of cameras and their bitrate.
Best Router For Security Cameras
As this review completely focuses on security cameras. So, we will cover only the compatibility with different security cameras.
This review is done in real-time usage by network experts. However, some information shared might not match. As some routers provide different configurations for the same model in different regions.
1. Best Router For Multiple Cameras-Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300)
Unique Features
- Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300) has the latest Tri-band with 802; 11AC 4×4 technology for a maximum throughput of 5334 Mbps and covers up to 5000 sq. ft.
- Rt-Ac5300 is compatible with every operating system, including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
- It has the latest Mu-Mimo technology that enables multiple compatible devices to connect at each device’s respective maximum speed.
- Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300) is powered by Trend Micro. It provides multi-stage protection from vulnerability detection to protecting sensitive data
Specifications
Bands | Tri-Band one 2.4 GHz & two 5 GHz |
Security Protocols | WEP, WPA-PSK, WPS, WPA2-PSK |
Total Ports | 4 |
Number Of Antennas | 8 |
Design
Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300) has an aggressive design with 8 antennas and a mesh grill on the upper side for improved airflow. On the backside it has 5 ethernet ports, one USB, and a reset button.
Rt-Ac5300 has a dimension of 24.5 x 6.5 x 24.5 inches with a weight of 3.21 lbs.
Our Verdict On Performance
Though the Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300) is focused on gaming. But its security camera compatibility is outstanding.
On the test, we added a total of 30 cameras to our studio compound. To our surprise, it was able to support them all. We tested this device for almost 3 weeks and never found any lag or trouble with the camera.
We have also tested some of the advanced features like motion alert and remote access. With this router, the alerts were always fast and the remote video feed was also smooth. So, no complaints.
Moreover, the security and encryption of this router were top-notch.
Pros
- Blazing Fast Speed with a great range.
- Advanced security and encryption.
- Packed with all the advanced features.
- Can support a lot of security cameras and other devices.
Cons
- Too expensive.
- Have reports of firmware issues.
Most Suitable For
The Asus Wifi Gaming Router (Rt-Ac5300) is most suitable for a very large home or office compounds with a lot of security cameras and needs enterprise level security.
More Information and Price: Amazon
2. Best Wireless Router For CCTV-Synology Rt 2600ac
Unique Features
- Synology Rt2600ac has a 1.7GHz Dual-core processor that can provide a coverage area – of 3,000 square feet and a wireless speed up to 2.53Gbps.
- Rt2600ac has 4×4 802.11ac wave 2 radios with MU-MIMO and Smart Connect for a seamless transition between maximum speed or range.
- It has hardware accelerated Layer 7 traffic control and monitoring for advanced users.
Specifications
Bands | Dual-Band |
Security Protocols | WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
Total Ports | 5 |
Number Of Antennas | 4 |
Design
The design of Synology Rt2600ac is quite minimalistic. It has 4 antennas and in the font, it has 4 mesh grills and a Synology logo.
There are also 9 LEDs for different network indications. On the backside, there are 4 LAN ports, 1 WAN port, and a USB. Lastly, on 2 sides there is another additional USB and an SD slot in the front.
Our Verdict On Performance
On our testing, the performance of Synology Rt2600ac was satisfactory. Let’s break this review into 3 parts.
Firstly, Rt2600ac can cover almost 3000 sq. ft. with close to 2 Gbps of file transfer speed. So, the advertised claims were correct.
Secondly, we have connected 10 IP cameras with it. Synology Rt2600ac’s powerful 1.7GHz dual-core processor handled them pretty well. In our 30 days usage, we never missed an alert or had any issue with the footage.
Lastly, Synology Rt2600ac can also be used as a personal cloud server with advanced file management capability.
However, there might be some privacy concerns with Rt2600ac and it has a shady privacy policy.
Pros
- Great performance.
- Satisfactory range and speed at this price point.
- Several connectivity and storage options.
- Easy setup process.
Cons
- Privacy concerns.
Most Suitable For
We could have excluded this router for its privacy issues. However, at this price point, no router can beat Synology Rt2600ac in terms of features and performance.
So, people who have less privacy concerns and a medium-size house can use it without worrying.
More Information and Price: Amazon
3. Best Router For IP Cameras-Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000)
Unique Features
- Netgear Nighthawk(R7000) is designed with a 1GHz dual-core processor for fast wifi performance. It can cover up to 1800 square feet with up to 1 Gbps speed.
- It can support up to 30 devices wirelessly.
- R7000 is loaded with advanced technology like Beamforming+, Dynamic QoS, Smart Connect, Amazon Alexa Voice Controls, and many more.
- Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) comes with a 30-day free trial of Netgear Armor. It also supports WPA2 wireless security protocols including Guest WiFi access, DoS, Firewall, VPN, and more.
Specifications
Bands | Dual-Band |
Security Protocols | Double Firewall protection (SPI and NAT), WPA/WPA2 – PSK, DoS attack prevention |
Total Ports | 5 |
Compatible with | Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 8.1, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux. |
Design
Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) has a simplistic yet efficient design. It has 2 USB ports one in front and another at back. It also has 4 WAN ports and 1 uplink port. On the front side, it has 12 LED indicators.
Our Verdict On Performance
Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) is one of the low range routers of Netgear. Yet its performance with IP cameras was up to the mark.
In our testing, we tried to stress the router by connecting 30+ IP cameras wirelessly. But it successfully supported 34 devices without any interruption which was amazing.
After that, we tested the range and the speed. Though we got the range lesser than advertised, we got close to 1 Gbps file transfer speed wirelessly. So, it will surely transfer a great security footage viewing experience.
Moreover, with an R7000 personal cloud storage can be created and accessed remotely for IP camera footage storage.
Pros
- Surprisingly cheap.
- Good amount of ports.
- Speed and performance is up to the mark.
- Can support a lot of devices.
- Filled with advanced features.
Cons
- Have firmware issues.
- Less range.
- Customer support is not up to the mark.
Most Suitable For
Netgear Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Router (R7000) is a great router for IP cameras. However, it has a small range. So, if you have a medium-sized apartment or home then it can surely support your IP cameras.
More Information and Price: Amazon
4. Best Mesh Router For Ring Cameras-Amazon Eero Pro Mesh Wifi Router
Unique Features
- The eero Pro features tri-band technology with 1750 sq. ft coverage and 1 Gbps speed.
- Eero Pro automatically updates overnight so you always have the latest security and features.
- It’s powered with TrueMesh technology, eero Pro WiFi systems leverage multiple access points to create a mesh network to provide your home with incredibly reliable internet, all on a single system.
- Eero Pro has a Quick & easy setup and can be controlled with the app and Alexa.
Specifications
Bands | Tri-Band |
Security Protocols | WPA2 encryption, Family Profiles, DHCP, IPV6, NAT, VPN Passthrough, UPnP, Static IP, and Port Forwarding. |
Total Ports | 2 |
WiFi connectivity | MU-MIMO, beamforming, IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Design
Amazon Eero Pro Mesh has the simplest design. It’s small and minimalistic. It has one power cord, 1 uplink, and 2 LAN ports. It has a dimension of 4.76in x 4.76in x 1.26in.
Our Verdict On Performance
Amazon Eero Pro Mesh is one of the best performing mesh routers we ever tested. It’s great for smart homes and IOTs.
However, while testing we have found Amazon Eero Pro Mesh works best with ring cameras and ring doorbells. As all of them are amazon products. So, the software compatibility is great here.
Apart from that other security cameras also performed up to the mark. It can support a lot of IP cameras. The remote camera access and alerts were satisfactory too.
Pros
- Satisfactory speed with medium coverage.
- Range can be extended with more extensions.
- Amazing Security.
- Easy setup.
Cons
- Less number of ports.
- Expensive.
Most Suitable For
If you have a large home with a lot of smart devices and ring cameras then Amazon Eero Pro Mesh might be the best choice for you.
More Information and Price: Amazon
5. Best Wireless Router For Security Cameras-Tp-Link Ax5400 Wifi 6 Router
Unique Features
- Tp-Link Ax5400 is a wifi 6 Router with 4T4R and HE160 technologies on the 5 GHz band to enable max 4.8 Gbps with a moderate range.
- USB Sharing – 1× USB 3.0 port enables easy media sharing and private cloud storage
- TP-Link HomeShield features: Network Security, QoS, MI-MIMO, IoT Device Identification.
Specifications
Bands | Dual-Band |
Security Protocols | WPA3, WPA2-Enterprise, WPA2-PSK. |
Total Ports | 5 |
WiFi connectivity | 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g |
Design
Tp-Link Ax5400 has a premium yet minimal design. All the ports are located at the back. It has 6 antennas and on the upper front, it has a mesh design for improved airflow.
Our Verdict On Performance
Tp-Link Ax5400 has amazed us in every aspect while testing. It’s one of the highest performing routers for security cameras.
Firstly, it has a blazing fast speed for superfast security camera feed transmission. On some occasions we got almost 4680 Mbps to feed transfer speed on our personal network without any interruptions.
Secondly, it has supported 20+ cameras and covered almost 3500 sq. feet which is huge for a router at this price point.
Lastly, it comes with enterprise-grade security and encryption.
Pros
- Lightning-fast speed.
- Great performance.
- Affordable compared to its features.
- Enterprise-grade security.
- Easy setup.
Cons
- Inconsistant 5 GHz speed.
Most Suitable For
To be frank, we would suggest anyone to use this router for their security camera because of its diversified features.
More Information and Price: Amazon
Things To Consider For Choosing The Best Router For Security Cameras- An In-Depth Buying Guide
All the products mentioned in this review are currently the best routers for CCTV. However, for choosing the most suitable router for your needs you must consider a few things. They are
1. Range
The range is an important factor for choosing a router for security cameras. Because most of your security cameras will be placed outside your house. As a result, for connecting them wirelessly you must need a range covering the whole premises of your house.
So, try to choose a router with at least 200 sq feet more range than your house premises size.
2. Speed
Speed is another vital factor while choosing a router for wireless IP cameras. Because wireless cameras can not transmit data itself. They need a wireless connection to transmit data. As a result, a router with high speed can transmit the IP camera data fast.
So, try to choose a router with high speed.
3. Form Factor
Modern routers come in two form factors. Standalone routers and mesh routers. But which one do you need for your security camera?
Well, it depends on your house size. If you have a big multi-story house and you want cameras on each floor then a mesh router would be the best option. Otherwise, standalone routers are fine.
4. Security
Security protocols are one of the most important factors for IP cameras. Because the main purpose of these cameras is to make you safe. But if the footage of your CCTV cameras is not safe from perpetrators then there is no meaning of keeping them.
So, try to choose a wireless router with better encryption capability.
5. Range Boosting & Beamforming
A router with range boosting and beamforming can perform better while supporting your IP cameras.
So, purchase a router with advanced features like beamforming, range boosting, self-healing.
These are some of the most important features to consider before choosing a router for security cameras.
Now let’s have a look at some of the most asked questions on this topic.
FAQ
How Far Can Security Camera Be From Router?
Normally, a wireless security camera’s range is advertised to be up to 500 ft. or more if it’s placed outside of the house and 150 ft. if it’s placed inside. But most of the cameras don’t deliver it’s promised. So, it’s not a wise thing to put your security camera too far away from the router.
Moreover, obstacles like walls, steel furniture weaken wifi signals. So, always try to place your security cameras within a 100-150 ft. radius of your wifi router.
Can Wifi Camera Work Without Internet?
Yes, a wifi camera can work without the internet. Because wireless cameras depend on the internet to transmit motion alerts, remote access, and upload the footage. Other than that wireless cameras do not require the internet. Because a wifi camera only needs the power to operate and a hard drive or SD card to store data.
However, if you use a wifi camera without the internet then you’ll lose the above-mentioned features.
How Much Data Does A Wifi Security Camera Use?
A wifi security camera can consume from 60GB to 400GB of data each month. However, how much data your security camera is going to consume depends on many factors. They are video resolution, compression level, FPS, upload frequency, number of cameras, etc.
So, try to choose your security cameras according to your cloud storage and internet package.
Conclusion
We hope this in-depth review on Best Router For Security Cameras will help you in your quest.
This article is based on the hands-on review, professional insights, and public opinion. So, there is less chance that the above-mentioned products will cause any trouble while handling your security cameras.
However, try to purchase the routers from trusted sources.
That’s all for today. Have a great day!