What Are The Best Modems and Routers For NBN?
Today I’m sharing some knowledge about the types of modem routers that are best suited for your NBN services. I have over 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and work daily to solve internet issues for home and business owners. The ISP-supplied modems/routers can be fine for most people. But, if you’re like me and want the best performance from your NBN internet service, then upgrading from your cheap ISP’s modem/router to something with more grunt, such as the best NBN modem or best NBN router, then this is the post for you.
As an Internet Technician, I’ve installed a wide variety of modem routers from different brands, and I’ve found that performance can vary. To help you choose the best one for your needs, I’ve curated a list of NBN-compatible modems suitable for various budgets. I’ve also categorised them based on their compatibility with different NBN technologies. If you’re unsure about which technology your NBN connection uses, click here and enter your address to find out.
To make your decision easier, I’ve located the best online prices and provided links for each modem router. Our team of Internet technicians are here to assist you every step of the way.
While getting a modem router from your ISP isn’t always a bad choice, the connection performance may range from adequate to very good. However, it’s worth noting that additional features are often lacking in ISP-provided equipment like Telstra gateway modems. So, keep that in mind when making your selection for the best modem for NBN or best WiFi router.
Clarification of Terminology
It's worth noting that the term "modem" is frequently used in discussions about NBN internet connections, but this can be a bit misleading. In the context of NBN, we don't actually use a modem in the traditional sense to establish a connection. Traditional modems modulate and demodulate digital and analogue signals, hence the term "modem" (modulator-demodulator). However, the NBN network is designed to work with digital signals throughout, rendering the modulation and demodulation functions of traditional modems unnecessary.
Updated Terminology
Instead, the device you'll be using is more accurately referred to as a connection device, router, or gateway. This device serves multiple functions: it routes your internet traffic to and from your local network and also includes features like a built-in firewall and often, a wireless access point for WiFi connectivity.
In summary, while you might hear people referring to their "NBN modem," it's technically more accurate to use terms like NBN modem router, gateway, or router to describe the device that connects you to your NBN service.
Wi-Fi performance on ISP-provided modems is generally subpar. I spoke to an ISP rep who said their in-home Wi-Fi is bad, so a separate router is highly recommended. For the best results, have your modem and router as separate devices, giving you more control. If a problem arises, you won't need to swap out a combo unit; just replace one. With this in mind, I've compiled a few recommendations to cover most situations. Let's start with the entry-level options.
TP-Link 300Mbps Wireless N VDSL/ADSL Modem Router
Experience versatile and reliable connectivity with the TP-Link 300Mbps Wireless N VDSL/ADSL Modem Router. NBN-ready and equipped with DSL and LAN/WAN ports, it's compatible with a range of standards including VDSL2, ADSL2+, and ADSL2, and even works with fibre and cable access. Enjoy superfast VDSL broadband speeds of up to 100 Mbps, alongside 300 Mbps Wi-Fi speeds for seamless streaming and browsing. The multi-functional USB port makes it easy to share files and media within your network. Its powerful external antennas ensure maximum wireless coverage, providing a strong and consistent signal in every direction. Backed by TP-Link's industry-leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support, it's a reliable choice for your connectivity needs.
NBN Technologies
The router will work on FTTN and FTTB
Price Range $
Technician Review
We recently installed the TP-Link TD-W9970 for a client seeking a budget-friendly modem router. The setup was straightforward, revealing the router as a low-cost solution with robust WiFi performance, ideal for smaller living spaces. Its compatibility with 802.11B/G/N networks and low power consumption under 5 Watts enhances its cost-efficiency.
The two external 4dBi high-gain antennas ensured strong signal strength, appreciated by our client for stable Wi-Fi connectivity. Technically, it supports the latest ITU-T G.993.2 VDSL2 standard, providing up to 100Mbps speed downstream and upstream, versatile for ADSL, NBN FTTB or FTTN services. Some users noted range and speed issues in larger premises. Customer feedback highlighted its build quality, value for money, and Wi-Fi range with positive ratings. Our client was satisfied with its performance, finding it a cost-effective solution for stable connectivity in smaller homes or apartments.
TP-Link WiFi 6 AX1500 Smart WiFi Router (Archer AX10)
Experience seamless connectivity with the Archer AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Router. Engineered with the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, this router offers speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps—delivering 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. Its triple-core 1.5 GHz processor ensures smooth, lag-free communication between all connected devices. Revolutionary OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies allow for more data transmission to multiple devices, while Beamforming technology and four antennas provide reliable coverage. The router also supports TP-Link OneMesh™ for whole-home coverage and is backward compatible with previous Wi-Fi standards.
NBN Technologies
The router will work on FTTC. FTTP, HFC, Fixed Wireless
Price Range $
Technician Review
In our continuous endeavour to offer robust internet connectivity solutions to our clientele, we recently introduced the TP-Link Archer AX1500 router to our suite of products, installing it for customer-facing routine connectivity issues. The Archer AX1500, a budget-friendly router embracing the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, promised a leap towards faster speeds, higher capacity, and reduced latency for home networks.
Setting up the Archer AX1500 was a smooth venture, thanks to its user-friendly interface. Once operational, the Wi-Fi 6 technology immediately showcased its potential by significantly enhancing the network's capability to handle multiple connections simultaneously, courtesy of features like OFDMA and MU-MIMO. The router managed to provide a solid performance, especially on the 5 GHz band, making real-time activities like gaming and streaming feel more seamless
The dual-band speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps further added to the router's appeal, ensuring a buffer-free 4K/HD streaming and gaming experience for our client. This was particularly evident on the 5 GHz band with speeds reaching up to 1201 Mbps, a stark contrast to the previous network's constant buffering issues
However, it's essential to note some of the Archer AX1500's limitations as well. The performance on the 2.4 GHz band could use some improvement, especially when operating on the Wi-Fi 4 standard. Additionally, the absence of a USB port and the router's inability to fully utilise 1 Gbps internet connections were minor drawbacks that were observed. Nonetheless, these shortcomings were not deal-breakers for our client, considering the significant improvement in the overall network performance and the budget-friendly price point of the Archer AX1500.
In summation, the TP-Link Archer AX1500 router emerged as a prudent choice for customers seeking to upgrade their network infrastructure without a hefty investment. Its Wi-Fi 6 capability, along with the robust performance on the 5 GHz band, adequately addressed the common network challenges, rendering a noticeable enhancement in connectivity for our client.
ASUS RT-AX53U (AX1800) Dual Band WiFi 6
Transform your home network with the ASUS RT-AX53U Dual Band WiFi 6 Router. Built for modern connectivity, it supports the new-gen WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standard, featuring MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies for improved efficiency and throughput. Offering blazing-fast speeds of up to 1800 Mbps—574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5GHz band—it's perfect for gaming, streaming, and smart home applications. With 4 Gigabit ports, it's 10X faster than traditional Ethernet. Plus, enjoy subscription-free network security with AiProtection, powered by Trend Micro, and seamless whole-home coverage with ASUS AiMesh compatibility.
NBN Technologies
The router will work on FTTC. FTTP, HFC, Fixed Wireless
Price Range $$
Technician Review
Our team at Secure A Com recently had the privilege of installing the ASUS RT-AX53U router for a client. The compact router, boasting the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, promised a leap in speed and reduced latency. The setup process was straightforward, making it operational in no time. Once up and running, the router's dual-band capabilities were evident, offering speeds up to 1800Mbps which significantly improved the client's network performance. The RT-AX53U efficiently handled multiple device connections courtesy of its OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, ensuring a smooth online experience.
A standout feature was the AiProtection, powered by Trend Micro™, providing a robust security layer to the network, a critical aspect in today's cyber threat landscape. This security feature ensured a safer browsing environment for all connected devices, a selling point our client greatly appreciated. The router also showcased its versatility by allowing internet sharing from a 3G/4G dongle via a USB port, adding a touch of flexibility to the network setup.
Despite its compact footprint, the router's performance was on par with larger, more expensive models, making it a cost-effective solution for our client's needs. Moreover, its capability to provide reliable coverage throughout the premises, thanks to the Wi-Fi 6 technology, was a significant upgrade from the client's previous setup. The added feature of ASUS AiMesh compatibility, enabling the creation of a whole-home Wi-Fi system, provided a pathway for potential network expansion in the future.
Overall, the ASUS RT-AX53U router proved to be a worthy investment for enhancing network connectivity, offering a blend of speed, security, and reliability. Its budget-friendly price point coupled with its robust performance made it a commendable solution for small to medium-sized setups looking to upgrade their network infrastructure. Our client was extremely satisfied with the upgrade, marking another successful installation by our team at Secure A Com.
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro AX5700 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6
The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro is a powerhouse Wi-Fi 6 router built for high-performance gaming, streaming, and smart home connectivity. Delivering speeds up to 5700Mbps, it supports dual-band Wi-Fi with 160MHz channels, ensuring smoother, faster wireless connections across multiple devices. Whether you're gaming on a PC or mobile, the dedicated Mobile Game Mode minimises latency with a single tap via the ASUS Router app.
Equipped with a 2.5Gbps gaming port, QoS Adaptive settings, and comprehensive port forwarding options, this router is a dream for competitive gamers. It also supports AiMesh, allowing you to expand your network with other compatible ASUS routers for seamless whole-home coverage. For security, ASUS includes AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro—free for life—plus Safe Browsing and Instant Guard VPN to keep your network protected at home and on the go.
With 1x WAN, 3x LAN, USB 3.2, and USB 2.0 ports, the RT-AX86U Pro delivers on both speed and connectivity. It's a top-tier choice for users who demand reliable performance and cutting-edge features.
NBN Technologies
The router will work on FTTC. FTTP, HFC, Fixed Wireless
Price Range $$$
Technician Review
We recently installed the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro for a client in a multi-level home running on an FTTP NBN connection. Right out of the box, the setup was straightforward thanks to the intuitive ASUS Router app. Once configured, the router delivered outstanding Wi-Fi performance across both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The speed and coverage improvements were immediately noticeable, especially in previously weak signal zones.
Our client is an avid gamer, so we enabled Mobile Game Mode and connected their console through the dedicated gaming port. The result? Virtually no lag, even during peak usage times. They also appreciated the Adaptive QoS feature, which prioritised gaming traffic without needing constant manual adjustments.
Security-wise, the AiProtection Pro and Instant Guard VPN added peace of mind, especially since the client works remotely. The only slight drawback was the size of the unit—it’s a bit bulky—but considering the performance and features, it’s a minor trade-off.
Overall, the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro is a fantastic option for serious gamers and households with high connectivity demands. The client was thrilled with the performance boost and now enjoys a faster, more stable network experience throughout their home.
ASUS TUF-AX6000 Dual-Band WiFi 6 Extendable Gaming Router
The ASUS TUF-AX6000 is a rugged, high-performance WiFi 6 gaming router designed to handle demanding online activities with ease. With dual-band speeds of up to 6000Mbps, this router uses the latest 802.11ax standard to deliver ultra-fast, stable connectivity—even in device-heavy households. Whether you're gaming, streaming in 4K, or running a smart home, the TUF-AX6000 is built for it.
Dual 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN ports provide flexible, ultra-fast wired connections, and a dedicated gaming port ensures your console or PC always gets top priority. The router is AiMesh-compatible, letting you expand your network with other ASUS routers for seamless whole-home coverage. It also includes Mobile Game Mode, one-click Instant Guard VPN for secure browsing on the go, and robust, subscription-free network security.
Engineered under ASUS’s TUF brand, this router is durability-tested to withstand extended operation under load, making it an ideal long-term investment for serious gamers and high-traffic households.
NBN Technologies
The router will work on FTTC. FTTP, HFC, Fixed Wireless
Price Range $$$$$
Technician Review
Our team had the chance to install the ASUS TUF-AX6000 for a gamer in a household using NBN HFC. Setup was quick and painless using the ASUS Router app, and we were impressed with the router’s speed and coverage right out of the gate. With up to 6000Mbps in total WiFi bandwidth and dual 2.5G ports, it handled multiple devices without breaking a sweat.
We hardwired their gaming rig into the dedicated gaming port, and the performance was superb—fast, consistent, and with noticeably reduced ping. The user also noted a significant improvement in their video streaming experience across the house, even while multiple people were online. The TUF-AX6000 handled this load with ease, thanks to its OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology.
Security was another highlight. The built-in, subscription-free protection and Instant Guard VPN gave the client peace of mind, especially when using public Wi-Fi away from home. While there’s no USB port for media sharing or backups, it wasn't a dealbreaker given the powerful wired and wireless performance.
This router is a tough, feature-packed performer ideal for serious gamers and larger households. Our client was stoked with the speed boost and overall stability—definitely a smart choice for power users.