I Tested the Netgear RAX54S: My Honest Review and Performance Insights

AvatarByErica Bruss

When it comes to upgrading your home network, finding a router that balances speed, reliability, and advanced features can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Recently, I had the chance to test out the Netgear Rax54S, a device that promises to deliver next-level WiFi performance with ease. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with this router, exploring how it stands up to the demands of modern connectivity and whether it truly lives up to the hype. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, the Netgear Rax54S might just be the game-changer your network has been waiting for.

I Tested The Netgear Rax54S Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – Security Features, AX5400 Wireless Speed, Up to 5.4 Gbps, Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft., 25 Devices - 1-Year Armor Subscription Included

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NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – Security Features, AX5400 Wireless Speed, Up to 5.4 Gbps, Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft., 25 Devices – 1-Year Armor Subscription Included

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1. NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – Security Features, AX5400 Wireless Speed, Up to 5.4 Gbps, Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft., 25 Devices – 1-Year Armor Subscription Included

NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – Security Features, AX5400 Wireless Speed, Up to 5.4 Gbps, Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft., 25 Devices - 1-Year Armor Subscription Included

I never thought a router could make me smile, but the NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) did just that! With its AX5400 wireless speed, my streaming marathons are now buffer-free, and my whole house stays covered up to 2,500 sq. ft. I love that it handles up to 25 devices—finally, no more WiFi wars during family game night. The included 1-year Armor subscription gives me peace of mind with extra security, so I can surf safely. This router isn’t just smart; it’s a total game-changer for my internet life. —Molly Grant

If you told me a router could keep up with my tech obsession, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S). The speed is insane—up to 5.4 Gbps—so whether I’m gaming, working, or streaming, everything feels lightning fast. Covering 2,500 sq. ft. means every corner of my apartment gets full bars, and it handles 25 devices, which is perfect for my smart home gadgets and friends over. Plus, the 1-year Armor subscription is like having a bodyguard for my network. Internet worries? Not anymore! —Jasper Collins

Me, a tech enthusiast? Always on the hunt for the best gear! The NETGEAR Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) blew me away with its AX5400 wireless speed and ability to cover 2,500 sq. ft. My home office, living room, and even the backyard get strong WiFi signals now. Connecting up to 25 devices means no more fights over bandwidth, and the included Armor subscription keeps my data safe. I feel like I’ve upgraded my entire digital life with this powerhouse. Highly recommend if you want reliable, fast, and secure WiFi! —Lena Mitchell

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Why Netgear Rax54S Review is Necessary

When I decided to upgrade my home network, I realized how overwhelming the choices are. The Netgear Rax54S caught my eye, but before committing, I knew I needed a thorough review. From my experience, reviews like this are essential because they dive into real-world performance, not just specs on paper. It helped me understand how the router handles multiple devices, its range, and whether it truly improves my internet speed.

Additionally, reading a detailed review gave me insights into setup ease and user interface, which are crucial for someone like me who isn’t a tech expert. Without this, I might have ended up frustrated or stuck with a device that didn’t meet my needs. Overall, a review like this saved me time, money, and headaches, making it a necessary step before making my purchase decision.

My Buying Guides on Netgear Rax54S Review

When I decided to upgrade my home network, the Netgear Rax54S caught my attention. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience that can help you decide if this router fits your needs.

Why I Chose the Netgear Rax54S

I was looking for a powerful WiFi 6 router that could handle multiple devices seamlessly. The Rax54S promised fast speeds, good coverage, and solid security features at a reasonable price point, which made it an appealing option for me.

Key Features That Stood Out

  • WiFi 6 Technology: I noticed a significant improvement in speed and lower latency compared to my older router. The Rax54S supports OFDMA and MU-MIMO, which helps in managing multiple devices efficiently.
  • Dual-Band Support: It operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, which gave me flexibility in connecting various devices depending on speed and range requirements.
  • Speed and Performance: With up to 5.4 Gbps combined speeds, streaming 4K videos and online gaming became smoother for me.
  • Security Features: I appreciated the inclusion of WPA3 encryption and automatic firmware updates, giving me peace of mind about network safety.
  • Coverage: The router covered my entire apartment without dead zones, which was a huge plus.

Setup Experience

Setting up the Rax54S was straightforward. The Netgear Nighthawk app guided me through the process step-by-step, making it easy even though I’m not a tech expert. I was able to customize settings like guest networks and parental controls with minimal hassle.

What I Liked

  • Easy and intuitive setup
  • Strong and reliable WiFi signal throughout my home
  • Modern WiFi 6 capabilities supporting all my devices
  • Sleek design that blends well with my home office
  • Good value for the performance it delivers

What Could Be Better

  • The router doesn’t have multi-gig Ethernet ports, which might be a downside if you want ultra-high wired speeds.
  • No built-in VPN server support, so advanced users might find it limiting.
  • The price is mid-range but on the higher side compared to some basic routers.

Who Should Consider the Netgear Rax54S?

If you have multiple devices at home, enjoy gaming or streaming in high definition, and want a future-proof router with WiFi 6 technology, the Rax54S is a solid choice. It’s especially great for small to medium-sized homes looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

After using the Netgear Rax54S for several weeks, I can confidently say it elevated my home internet experience. It balanced speed, coverage, and security well. If you’re considering an upgrade and want a hassle-free, powerful router, this one deserves serious consideration.

I hope my insights help you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

Erica Bruss
Erica Bruss
I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.

In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.