Are Gaming Routers Worth Investment? Here’s the Answer!
Online gaming is all the rage these days. Whether it is PUBG or MMORPG, there is no end to it. But, for you to have a smooth online gaming experience, having the correct networking device means a lot. Various companies have been manufacturing networking devices like gaming routers. These promise impeccable speeds and zero network connectivity problems for serious gaming enthusiasts.
But, there are some who believe that gaming routers are more of a bane than a boon for the gaming community. Let’s find out why so.
Why Gaming Routers are Unnecessary?
Gaming routers come loaded with network settings that offer a smooth gaming experience. At least, this is what the marketing gimmics want us to believe. Although gaming routers might have been a bit superior during their initial launch, this is not a good reason to invest in them.
Many gaming routers offer features like extra Ethernet ports and powerful antennas, but these do not impress a casual gamer.
Fortunately, normal routers also come with many features that ensure a flawless gaming experience. So, do you want to enjoy seamless gaming experience but are not sure how to do that with a normal WiFi router? Keep reading.
3 Secrets to Turn Your Existing WiFi Router Into Gaming Router
Given below are 3 secrets to convert a WiFi router into a gaming router.
1. Activate QoS
QoS (Quality of Service) is a WiFi router feature which helps you prioritize data for specific devices. This comes handy when there are multiple devices connected to the same network with each performing network-intensive activities. For example, one of your family members might be watching a 4K movie on Netflix while another is downloading a PC game patch.
Unfortunately, multiple devices deplete the majority of network bandwidth. So, when you sit down for a gaming session there is not much internet left.
Activating QoS helps the router prioritize network bandwidth for your gaming needs over other devices. You can activate this feature by going to the router login web page. No need to invest in an expensive gaming router.
2. MU-MIMO
MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) is a vital feature to have on your WiFi router. It comes handy when your router’s network is connected to multiple devices. Without MU-MIMO, the WiFi router will have to provide network to every device one by one. This reduces the WiFi network speed to a great extent.
Activating MU-MIMO lets you set up multiple “mini networks”. This lets it work with multiple devices without compromising on network connectivity and speed.
3. Use Gigabit Ethernet Ports
Professional gamers recommend that you play online games using the Ethernet connection as opposed to WiFi. Gaming on WiFi is not a bad idea but there is a good chance it can lead to issues with network speed and connectivity. You should buy a WiFi router that comes with Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Make sure the Gigabit Ethernet ports can handle speeds up to 1,000Mbps. At the same time, your ISP too must be able to deliver that speed. So, in case you have multiple gaming systems, choose a router with more Ethernet ports. For example, if you own a Netgear AC1000 WiFi router then you can easily decide the speed during the Netgear AC1000 setup.
But, if the WiFi router is kept at a distance from the gaming system then you can use powerline adapters. A powerline adapter lets you transfer data through the normal power outlet in the establishment.
You can plug one near the WiFi router and the second one near the gaming system. Then you can use an Ethernet cable to connect the adapters to the router and the system.
Conclusion
Want to enjoy online gaming without investing in expensive gaming routers? Follow the tips mentioned above and turn your regular WiFi router into a gaming router.