Choosing the Right VoIP Router for Your Business
While most routers suffice for average consumers, businesses must carefully select VoIP routers to secure excellent call quality, robust security, effective load balancing, and redundancy. Whether you’re equipping a startup or upgrading an existing system, this guide presents top options and tips for selecting the ideal router for your needs.
VoIP Router Comparison
Use the following table for a quick glance at the essential technical specifications of top VoIP routers currently available:
| Router Model | Best For | Starting Price | Connection Type | Max Throughput | Ports |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asus RT-AX88U Pro | Best overall | $269.99 | Wireless (2.5GHz + 5GHz) | 6,000 Mbps | 4 LAN, 1 2.5 Gbps WAN, 1 2.5 Gbps LAN, USB 3.2 |
| TP-Link ER605 | Best for small businesses | $59.99 | Wired | 1,000 Mbps | 1 WAN, 2 WAN/LAN, 2 LAN, 1 USB 2.0 |
| Nighthawk Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E | Best for large office spaces | $599.99 | Wireless (2.5GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz) | 10,800 Mbps | 1 WAN, 1 WAN/LAN, 2 LAN, 1 2.5G LAN, 2 USB 3.0 |
| TP-Link ER7206 | Best VPN router | $139.99 | Wired | 1,000 Mbps (290 Mbps for VPN traffic) | Dual WAN, 2 WAN/LAN, 2 LAN |
| UniFi Dream Machine Pro | Best all-in-one SMB solution | $379 | Wired | 3,500 Mbps | Dual WAN, 8 LAN, 1 SFP+ |
Detailed Router Reviews
1. Asus RT-AX88U Pro: Best Overall VoIP Router
The Asus RT-AX88U Pro is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive VoIP router with integrated Wi-Fi and powerful 2.5G ports. It utilizes the latest Wi-Fi technology to enhance network efficiency, making it suitable for environments with many devices. This model ensures reduced latency, superior call quality, and efficient power use, supporting numerous concurrent calls without performance loss. Additionally, it features WAN connection aggregation and mobile data backup options, covering up to 3,000 square feet.
Price: Approximately $269.99.
Key Features:
- Wi-Fi 6 with up to 6,000 Mbps throughput.
- Dual 2.5G ports and WAN connection aggregation.
- Adaptive Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing VoIP traffic.
- Built-in bandwidth and traffic monitoring.
- Standard VPN capabilities.
2. TP-Link ER605: Best for Small Businesses
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly VoIP router for a small business, the TP-Link ER605 stands out. Primarily designed for wired connections, it can easily integrate with additional access points for wireless capabilities. Despite its lower price, it boasts stability and reliability, offering features often found in premium models.
Price: Starting at $59.99.
Key Features:
- Three WAN connections and one USB port for mobile broadband.
- VLAN support for traffic separation.
- QoS settings for prioritizing voice traffic.
- User-friendly cloud management.
3. Nighthawk Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E: Best for Large Office Spaces
For larger office environments, the Nighthawk Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E provides extensive wireless coverage with impressive speeds. Its tri-band support, including a 6GHz band, enhances performance in high-density settings.
Price: Starting around $599.99.
Key Features:
- Tri-band support and outstanding throughput of 10,800 Mbps.
- Mesh compatibility for greater coverage if needed.
- Built-in threat protection for enhanced security.
4. TP-Link ER7206: Best VPN Support for Remote Teams
The TP-Link ER7206 is optimal for businesses with remote workers needing secure VoIP services. It supports multiple VPN protocols, ensuring various users can connect simultaneously without performance issues.
Price: Approximately $139.99.
Key Features:
- Up to 100 simultaneous IPSec connections.
- Cloud management for easy control.
- Multi-WAN load balancing for enhanced network reliability.
5. UniFi Dream Machine Pro: Best All-in-One SMB Solution
The Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine Pro combines routing, firewall, and security functionalities for small to midsize businesses. This comprehensive device offers enterprise performance at an accessible price, simplifying network management for small IT teams.
Price: Starting at $379.
Key Features:
- Supports up to 3,500 Mbps throughput.
- Multiple WAN ports and country-based QoS.
- Integrated management touchscreen.
Selecting the Ideal VoIP Router
To narrow down your options, start by deciding between wired and wireless routers. Wired models deliver faster speeds and stability, while wireless routers offer mobility but may face interference and range limitations. Additionally, consider how many devices will connect to the router, planning for future growth and traffic demands.
Key elements to evaluate include:
- Quality of Service (QoS): Important for prioritizing VoIP traffic.
- VPN Support: Necessary for secure remote access.
- Dual or Tri-Band Capability: Helps manage multiple traffic types.
- Number of LAN Ports: Determines device connectivity options.
- Failover Options: Ensures reliable backup connections.
Conclusion
Choosing the right VoIP router involves balancing your business’s immediate needs with potential growth. Assess your current and future requirements to make an informed decision that supports seamless communication. If unsure, consult with your VoIP provider or ISP for tailored recommendations.
