What Are the Most Popular & Best DD-WRT Routers This Year

To be honest, this DD-WRT-compatible router is a sitting beast. With a powerful 1GHz dual-core processor and ample flash storage, you won’t have to worry about storing the firmware, settings, and passwords. Besides, its high-speed performance, simple setup, and increased controls compared to its competition take the router at the top of my list.

7 Best DD-WRT Routers in 2023 [Tried & Tested]

While the capabilities of the DD-WRT firmware can lift up the restrictions of the stock firmware on your router, you can’t install the open-source firmware on any random device. And, if you’ve decided to take control of your home network by installing DD-WRT, you’ll need to get a compatible router. But which one?

Compatibility with DD-WRT is a major aspect before flashing DD-WRT on a router. But that’s not the only factor to look into. There are many other things to consider, such as speed capabilities, coverage area, etc. So, I tested 24 routers compatible with DD-WRT and qualified the 7 best options for 2023 that tick all the boxes:

1. Best Overall: Netgear Nighthawk X6
2. Best Open-Source: Linksys WRT3200ACM
3. Best for Medium Homes: D-Link DIR-882-US
4. Best WiFi Range: ASUS RT-AC68U
5. Best for Streaming: Netgear R6700
6. Best Budget Router: TP-Link A7
7. Cheapest Option: Linksys E2500 N600

• Do You Need DD-WRT?
• 7 Best DD-WRT Routers in 2023
  • 1. Best Overall: Netgear Nighthawk X6
  • 2. Best Open-Source Router: Linksys WRT3200ACM
  • 3. Best for Medium Homes: D-Link DIR-882-US
  • 4. Best WiFi Coverage: ASUS RT-AC68U
  • 5. Best for Streaming: Netgear Nighthawk R6700
  • 6. Best Budget Router: TP-Link Archer A7
  • 7. Best for Home Use: Linksys E2500 N600

  Do You Need DD-WRT?

  Almost every modern wireless router has stock firmware that allows you to optimize your wireless network, set parental controls, etc. However, there are certain limitations, if you’re interested to use your router’s hardware to the fullest potential, then you might need the DD-WRT firmware. But if you’re okay with the features provided by the stock firmware, you don’t have to.

  Installing open-source firmware like DD-WRT, Tomato, OpenWRT, etc gets your router a whole arsenal of features and tools to fine-tune, control, and optimize your network usage experience. Features like content filtering and parental controls, online privacy protection, advanced optimization for separate online activities, and malware protection are just a drop of water in a vast ocean.

  7 Best DD-WRT Routers in 2023

  To provide my readers with the best routers that support DD-WRT, I installed it on 24 models and observed them against several aspects. It includes suitability with DD-WRT, wireless and wired speeds, and coverage, and listed ones that passed with flying colors.

  Before we start, let me mention that DD-WRT routers can be expensive. But, I understand that my readers want options suitable for different needs and budgets. I have gone for a sizeable list to let you get your ideal device. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

  1. Best Overall: Netgear Nighthawk X6

  

  • Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
  • 2.4GHz Speeds: 600 Mbps
  • 5GHz Speeds: 1300 + 1300 Mbps
  • WiFi Range: Up to 3,500 Sq Ft
  • Number of Devices Supported: 50
  • Processor: 1GHz Dual-Core
  • RAM & NAND Memory: 256MB + 128MB

  The Netgear Nighthawk X6 is a versatile and reliable router that stands out in the space of DD-WRT routers with its tri-band operations and in-built Genie software. Besides, I was extremely impressed by its ease of installation and overall performance it delivers alongside boasting high-grade security. These weren’t to be seen in its preceding model, Nighthawk R7000.

  Why is it a suitable choice?

  To be honest, this DD-WRT-compatible router is a sitting beast. With a powerful 1GHz dual-core processor and ample flash storage, you won’t have to worry about storing the firmware, settings, and passwords. Besides, its high-speed performance, simple setup, and increased controls compared to its competition take the router at the top of my list.

  The thing that makes it a good router for DD-WRT is its ease of installation, courtesy of the sophisticated Genie software setup wizard. Following the instructions, you can install and set up the firmware within minutes. Connect your router to the website and let the wizard do the magic. Once it’s done, get ready to explore a whole lot of features.

  Getting started on security, you get the most up-to-date features, including WPA/WPA2 enterprise encryption alongside NAT or Network Address Translation firewalls and Stateful Packet Inspection, among others. As a result, it’s not just about the popular VPN connection.

  Also, installing the DD-WRT firmware makes controlling the router much easier. You can toggle through the available security features using the app besides checking through the connected devices and regulating other of its aspects.

  Wireless Speeds

  Integrating an additional 5GHz band, this Netgear router offers a lot more on the speed front. Boasting maximum throughput speeds of 3.2 Gbps, it seems fair to pair the device up with any internet plans with Gigabit speeds.

  And doing the same, I extracted download and upload speeds at 970 Mbps and 215 Mbps, respectively, on the 5GHz band. The additional band facilitated a few extra Mbps by clearing out the congestion and taking the data through available channels, leading to faster data transfer. Besides, the MU-MIMO technology also helped in this respect.

  On the other hand, the overly congested and low-frequency 2.4GHz band has a respective speed output of 525 Mbps and 115 Mbps for downloads and uploads. The speeds seemed perfectly fine for handling bandwidth-intensive tasks like online gaming, 4K streaming, and video conferencing, sending emails and browsing social media.

  WiFi Coverage & Connections Capacity

  Apart from speed, I found the device excels in its coverage aspect. With 6 powerful antennas, the router can dissipate strong signals across a 2,600 Sq Ft area or an average-sized apartment or workspace. Besides features like Beamforming+, MU-MIMO, and advanced QoS, you will get 5 signal bars on the devices you connect.

  I connected 28 devices to my father’s workspace without experiencing any speed drops. Taking up the devices a bit higher would work, but there might be a drop in a few Mbps, which is enough, especially for low-bandwidth tasks like emailing and browsing social media.

  Ports & Connectivity

  Netgear hasn’t been lenient in giving out the ports, and with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, there’s a possibility for you to create an Ethernet backhaul. It gives you an extra possibility to boost your speeds a notch and let your bandwidth-hogging devices enjoy a few extra Mbps and run at a constant throughput.

  Conclusion

  In conclusion, Netgear Nighthawk X6 is a reliable router that comes with some high-end features to qualify as the best DD-WRT router. Easy installation, multiple customizations, greater speeds, coverage, and others make it climb to the top of my list. The only disadvantage of this device would be its price, which is much higher than other routers on my list.

  What Are the Most Popular & Best DD-WRT Routers This Year?

  

  DD-WRT is an open-source router firmware upgrade project created to enhance the performance and features of consumer wireless routers. It is used by many networking-savvy users to enhance wireless router stability, privacy, and (most importantly) network security.

  Can I Use Wi-Fi 6/Wi-Fi AX With DD-WRT?

  Unfortunately, DD-WRT is not compatible with Wi-Fi 6 routers, as they feature different chipsets than those that work with the firmware. In addition, DD-WRT development has stalled, so if you’re looking to take advantage of the newest wireless features we recommend one of the following options:

  

  Flint Wi-Fi 6 VPN Router by FlashRouters – Supports WiFi 6 (Wireless-AX) speeds / Includes WireGuard Fast VPN Protocol Support / Features Built-in Ad-Block & DNS Encryption SALE PRICE: $229.99 $299.99 | BUY NOW

  

  Asus RT-AXE7800 Wi-Fi 6 FlashRouter – Easy Router Setup via Asus App / Blazing-fast Wi-Fi 6 (Wireless-AXE) Speeds / Wireguard Support / Elevated VPN Setup + Implementation Options SALE PRICE: $429.99 $499.99 | BUY NOW

  Best DD-WRT Wireless Routers

  Looking for flashed DD-WRT routers? These are the best! Join the router revolution now!

  

  Netgear R7000 DD-WRT FlashRouter – Great For Medium Homes / Perfect For 6-10 Devices / Works With All ISPs & Supported VPNs / 1 GHz Dual-Core Broadcom Processor SALE PRICE: $259.99 $299.99 | BUY NOW

  Our expert in-house technicians have tested the top consumer routers available to bring you the list of the best DD-WRT routers this year. These models have been extensively tested and vetted by our specialists to ensure a smooth and seamless experience using DD-WRT. Our router experts vet each router to ensure optimal performance and provide each user with a personalized setup guide.

  What Is DD-WRT Router Firmware?

  DD-WRT is a Linux-based firmware project developed to enhance the performance and features of wireless Internet routers. This open-source firmware upgrade replaces the inconsistent and buggy stock firmware that comes on routers by default. Modifying a router to DD-WRT lifts restrictions built into the default firmware, providing advanced capabilities to make your Internet and Home Network more controllable and versatile.

  Essentially, DD-WRT unlocks expensive features usually limited to high-end business routers and runs them right on popular consumer models. To get these advanced features, you need to have a DD-WRT installed router.

  Additionally, DD-WRT has a slew of VPN & non-VPN-related features to meet the common and niche needs of every user.

  Looking for a VPN? Try one of our favorites!

  

  $3.99 PER MONTH
  1,500+ VPN servers in 75+ locations

  What Are The Best DD-WRT Routers of 2023?

  Well, that’s enough explanation, now on to the good stuff. Here are our best DD-WRT wireless routers available right now.

  Netgear R7000 DD-WRT FlashRouter

  

  $259.99
  $299.99

  • Great For Medium Homes
  • Perfect For 6-10 Devices

  We even have routers that support next-generation VPN protocols like Wireguard!

  What Are The Features and Benefits of DD-WRT Router Firmware?

  • FAQs
  • Advanced DD-WRT Features
  • Features & Tutorials
  • DD-WRT FAQs

  FAQs

  Have Questions

  Get the latest Info on DD-WRT FAQs, Advanced Features, and more!

  Advanced DD-WRT Features

  • Router firmware backdoors, bugs & fixes
    
  • Improved Network Stability & Network Information
  • Advanced Wireless Modes: Access Point (AP), wireless client bridge & repeater modes
  • VLAN (Virtual LAN) Support
  • Adjustable Antenna Transmission Settings – Increase wireless strength and coverage
  • Policy-Based Routing – Choose segments of Internet activity based on website, device, wireless network, etc.
  • VPN Client/Server Integration – OpenVPN, WireGuard & more.
  • Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service integration
  • SPI Firewall/ IP Tables
  • IPV6 Support
  • Advanced Port Forwarding – Create port forwards, redirects, & triggers with included UPnP (Universal Plug and Play).
  • NAT (Network Address Translation) support
  • Access Restrictions – Custom time, website, app & user-based restrictions
  • DNS forwarder – DNSmasq with local hostnames, domain names, and internet address caching
  • Bandwidth Graphing/Statistics: Real-time, daily & monthly
  • DHCP Server – Using DNSmasq with dynamic and static DHCP leases
  • WPS Disabled
  • Wi-Fi hotspot Integrations: Create hotspots for businesses with a verification page using the integrated Chillispot or NOCATSPLASH system
  • Wake-on-LAN – Remote network access
  • Samba file-share/CIFS client
  • WDS: Wireless distribution system AKA wireless bridging
  • Telnet/SSH Support
  • Radius Authentication: Enterprise-level wireless security
  • JFFS2 Support

  Features & Tutorials

  • VPN Configuration—DD-WRT Supports VPN Client & Server Integration
  • Extensive VPN Protocol Support—OpenVPN, WireGuard & More (PPTP no longer supported by most providers)
  • Built-in Quality of Service (QoS) Features—Prioritize Certain Traffic, Streaming Video/Music Services, or VOIP
  • Turn OFF Wi-Fi—Disable Wi-Fi Connection Completely
  • Port Forwarding—Send Network Traffic To Specific Devices
  • PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet)—Connect to DSL over Ethernet
  • Mobile Hotspot Support— Connect All Your Devices To 3G/4G/5G Mobile Hotspot Devices When On-The-Go
  • Disable Network SSID—Don’t Let Other People See Your Network
  • Support for Multiple Network Configurations—Wireless Repeater, Network Extender, Client Bridge & More
  • DNSMasq—Store The Address Of Specific Sites Locally For A Faster Browsing Experience
  • Bandwidth Monitoring—Track Your Network Bandwidth Usage
  • Repeater Bridge Setup—Use A DD-WRT Router To Broadcast Your Network Signal To Connect Both Wired and Wireless Devices
  • WOL (Wake on LAN)—Allow Remote Access to Your Device Even If It’s Not On
  • Guest Network—Set Up A Separate Wi-Fi Network For Anyone You Don’t Want To Have Full Access To Your Network

  DD-WRT FAQs

  How does DD-WRT compare to my router’s stock firmware?

  Manufacturers develop routers with non-technical users in mind, making them simple and easy to use while limiting their effectiveness as a web-access gateway. DD-WRT transforms a personal-class router with limited functionality into a powerful, multi-use, business-class router. With DD-WRT, a router’s enterprise potential can be unlocked at a home user’s price.

  What benefits does DD-WRT bring to my network?

  Benefits range from superior network stability/performance to being able to encrypt your entire network by tunneling all traffic through a VPN connection, as well as the ability to create completely multiple segmented WiFi networks and much, much more. Users also appreciate the peace of mind that comes from a community-vetted-and-tested firmware that is being consistently updated and upgraded, and removes frustrating bugs as well as potential backdoors.

  How does DD-WRT compare to other popular router firmware?

  DD-WRT has been impressing users since its inception in 2005, and is the go-to alternative router firmware due to its longevity of existence and support of the largest array of devices. Consequently, DD-WRT can claim the largest community of users. It’s the backbone of what we do here at FlashRouters. Our team selects high-performance wireless router hardware and supercharges, or “flashes”, it with DD-WRT for it to become the best possible version of itself.

  Does DD-WRT support OpenVPN and PPTP?

  Yes. OpenVPN and PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) are two different protocols for logging into VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) in order to secure your identity and encrypt your connection.

  OpenVPN is a full-featured SSL VPN solution that can accommodate a wide range of configurations. Those include home, office, and campus telecommuting, Road Warrior access, WiFi security, secure branch office linking, and more.

  PPTP is another method for implementing VPNs. PPTP uses a control channel over TCP and a GRE tunnel operating to encapsulate PPP Packets. Before OpenVPN, it was the standard for VPNs. However, most VPN providers no longer support PPTP, due to security concerns associated with the protocol. Newer protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, are now considered the norm.

  Where Does the Name DD-WRT Come From?

  DD-WRT branched off Sveasoft’s work once they began to start charging for their firmware, releasing its first version in early 2005. Part of the name of that initial router, the WRT (Wireless Receiver/Transmitter) was merged with DD, the German automobile license plate code for Dresden, home of the project’s founder BrainSlayer.

  The project was successful enough that DD-WRT has become the basis for other firmware created by router manufacturers themselves.

  Does DD-WRT Support WireGuard?

  Our DD-WRT FlashRouters offer support for the ultra-fast WireGuard VPN protocol.

  Does DD-WRT Support Lightway?

  What Are The Top Reasons to Use A DD-WRT FlashRouter?

  1. Pre-installed DD-WRT Firmware For Easy Setup

  FlashRouters takes high-powered consumer-grade hardware with stock firmware and, by adding improved DD-WRT firmware, turns a $50-$400 wireless router into something worth double or triple its value. This replaces out-of-date and vulnerability-riddled stock firmware and adds features and security to your device.

  Flashing a router with DD-WRT can be a frustrating task for some, involving a lot of research, finding the correct model, file, trial and error, etc. that can easily lead to making a router unusable. Flashing the router incorrectly can result in a dead router or a “brick.” Meaning, all this work would be for naught and completely void the device’s manufacturer warranty. Purchasing from FlashRouters eliminates the hassle and potential worry of upgrading your device on your own.

  2. Open-Source Firmware Warranty

  As we just mentioned, flashing a router with open source firmware voids the manufacturer’s warranty. For this reason, we offer our customers an open-source warranty on each FlashRouter we sell.

  FlashRouters specializes in testing, upgrading, and supporting DD-WRT firmware routers worldwide. Our team only selects the top-performing routers, with the best variation of DD-WRT firmware for users’ needs, and delivers them right to your door. However, should your router’s hardware malfunction during the warranty period, FlashRouters will equip you with a fully-tested replacement unit.

  3. VPN Setup & Network Integration

  Trying to unblock content from your favorite music and film streaming services while traveling or relocating for work? Using a router flashed with DD-WRT will also allow you to use a VPN service to change your IP address on all your devices with a single setup!

  FlashRouters works with leading VPN providers to help users enhance their network security. And, FlashRouters makes it super simple for users to connect to the VPN provider of their choice. All users need to do is enter in their credentials when they receive their customized router. And, if you’re looking for provider suggestions, check out one of our favorites:

  

  $6.67 PER MONTH
  3,000+ VPN servers in 90+ countries

  4. Comes Included With Our FlashRouters VPN Privacy App

  FlashRouters wants to simplify security for users, which is why we’ve released the FlashRouters Privacy App. The FlashRouters VPN Privacy App is an easy, free, and user-friendly way to access and configure your wireless network. Our app runs directly from any Internet browser on desktop or mobile devices.

  This allows for easy tweaking and VPN configuration, including but not limited to:

  • Easy device management.
  • Kill switch and VPN bypass by device
  • Seamless VPN server switching.
  • Optimized UI on any browser or mobile phone.

  5. No Need To Change Your Current Setup

  Using one of the top routers of 2021 does not mean you will need to replace your current router setup. Using our popular dual router setup you can daisy-chain your VPN-configured FlashRouter to an existing modem or modem/router. Meaning, you can have a dedicated VPN connection working side-by-side with any current router, ISP router/modem, or ADSL router/modem.

  6. Robust Help Center

  Whether it helps with setting up your router, updating your firmware, or how to use the newest FlashRouters Privacy App feature, the FlashRouters Help Center has the answer!

  7. Customizable Service Plans

  Choose your preferred tier of tech help ranging from e-mail assistance to live support chat to a remote 1-on-1 session with our expert US-based specialists. Best of all, know that you’ll be chatting with a real live human.

  Our friendly support staff is ready to help with troubleshooting, firmware updates, and any other issues you may have. Whether you’re a tech whiz or a networking rookie, FlashRouters has a perfectly priced support option for you.

  Service Plans

  FlashRouter Service Plans

  To get the most from your FlashRouter, choose what level of ongoing expert service/technical support will suit your needs.

  Monthly

  

  BRONZE

  BILLED $15

  • Support Team Tickets
  • FlashRouter App Updates
  • Help Center Access
  • Add-on Support Session +$75

  

  SILVER

  BILLED: $30

  3 MONTHS FREE

  • All Bronze Features, plus
  • 48 Hour Response Time
  • Live Chat Assistance
  • Return & Repair Service
  • Additional Sessions +$50

  

  GOLD

  BILLED: $60

  BILLED $30

  • All Silver Features, plus
  • 24 Hour Response Time
  • One 1-on-1 Support Session
  • Additional Sessions +$25

  Annually

  

  BRONZE

  BILLED $48

  BILLED:$18

  • Support Team Tickets
  • FlashRouter App Updates
  • Help Center Access
  • Add-on Support Session +$75

  

  SILVER

  BILLED: $96

  BILLED: $66

  • All Bronze Features, plus
  • 48 Hour Response Time
  • Live Chat Assistance
  • Return & Repair Service
  • Additional Sessions +$50

  

  GOLD

  BILLED: $144

  BILLED $114

  • All Silver Features, plus
  • 24 Hour Response Time
  • One 1-on-1 Support Session
  • Additional Sessions +$25

  FAQs

  Is the service plan a one time purchase or does it renew?

  All FR service plans automatically renew on a quarterly or annual basis based on the term initially purchased. A reminder e-mail will be sent one week prior to renewal. In your FlashRouter account panel, you can cancel the plan at any time to stop any further renewals.

  Does the service plan include a VPN subscription?

  At this time, our service plans provide setup and configuration assistance for users who already have their own VPN service. If you are looking for VPN service options, check out our full list of supported VPN providers.

  Do I have to buy a service plan?

  Our routers are priced for the custom upgrades performed at our warehouse, testing expenses and keeping the FlashRouter App update to date.

  Our service plan has three levels as an optional add-on with your purchase to get continued direct assistance from our team. This is especially useful to customers who are less tech savvy and want direct access to our support team to make sure their network is running exactly how they desire. Here is how these plans differ

  Bronze – Basic E-mail Support
  Silver – E-mail and Live Chat Support.
  Gold – E-mail, Live Chat, and Remote One-on-One Sessions

  Each situation and user has different needs and expertise. Our team of US-based support agents are highly trained specialists in VPN and DD-WRT router setup. From firmware updates to networking configuration/troubleshooting solutions, the purpose of our Service Plans is to help our customers in whatever level they deem necessary.

  Does FlashRouters offer phone support?

  At this time, we do not provide phone support with our service plans. We have tested phone support for networking troubleshooting in the past but have found that on average caused us to help less customers in a less efficient manner. However, with a purchase of a Gold Service Plan, customers can schedule 1-on-1 remote support sessions via Teamviewer with our engineers and they will provide a hands-on, personal solution, to any problems you may be facing.

  Do I need a Service Plan for a firmware upgrade?

  Firmware upgrades are free of charge to any FlashRouter customer!

  You can visit our support center and select your specific router model to upgrade your firmware based on the recommendations provided.

  If you want the help of our Support Team to assist in this upgrade, you can always sign up for our Gold Service Plan and schedule a 1-on-1 Teamviewer session in which our trained engineers will take care of the upgrade for you!

  Can I purchase a router without a service plan and subscribe later?

  Yes, you may purchase a service plan at any time. However, we can’t guarantee any pricing, or apply any previously offered discounts or specific features at that later date.