The best VPN routers of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

2026-05-14 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Cybersecurity & Data Privacy, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure · Depth: Novice, extended

Summary

ZDNET's updated guide for 2026 reviews the best VPN routers, highlighting options for various needs, from affordability to high performance and travel. The Privacy Hero 2, priced at $180 (or $160 with code ZDNET), is recommended as the best overall, featuring preinstalled NordVPN and speeds up to 3,000Mbps. Other top picks include the ExpressVPN Aircove for its speed and built-in VPN at $190, the affordable Asus RT-AX1800S at $70 with free IoT security, and the Asus RT-BE88U for multiple connections and Wi-Fi 7 at $290. The GL.iNET Beryl-AX, at $150, is noted for travel flexibility. The article also details the benefits of VPN routers, such as blanket device protection and bypassing geo-restrictions, while acknowledging potential setup complexities and subscription costs.

Key takeaway

For IT professionals managing home networks or remote work setups, integrating a VPN directly into your router provides comprehensive, always-on security for all connected devices, including those without native VPN support like smart TVs. Evaluate preinstalled VPN options or compatible routers supporting WireGuard/OpenVPN to streamline deployment and ensure consistent privacy. Be mindful of potential warranty impacts and the need for a paid VPN subscription for optimal performance and bandwidth.

Key insights

VPN routers offer blanket network protection and geo-unblocking, simplifying security for all connected devices.

Principles

• Preinstalled VPNs simplify router setup.
• VPNs encrypt traffic and mask IP addresses.
• Router VPNs protect devices lacking native VPN support.

Method

To set up a VPN on a router, check compatibility, subscribe to a VPN service, access the router's firmware via its IP address, enable VPN services, and install the VPN client.

In practice

• Use Privacy Hero 2 for easy NordVPN integration.
• Consider ExpressVPN Aircove for minimal speed loss.
• GL.iNET Beryl-AX is ideal for portable VPN use.

Topics

• VPN Routers
• Online Privacy
• Network Security
• Router Configuration
• ExpressVPN Aircove

Best for: General Interest, IT Professional, Security Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.