🛜 Top 5 Routers for Open NAT in 2025 (Gamers & Power Users)

If you’re tired of Strict NAT errors ruining your multiplayer experience on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC — it’s time to upgrade your router.

The right router can help you achieve Open NAT, ensure smoother voice chat, reduce lag, and eliminate frustrating matchmaking issues. In this guide, we’ve ranked the Top 5 routers for achieving Open NAT in 2025, with a focus on UPnP, port forwarding ease, and gaming performance.

✅ Bonus: These routers are also great for remote access, streaming, and handling multiple devices.

🥇 1. ASUS RT-AX88U Pro

Best Overall for Gaming + NAT Flexibility

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
• Features:
  • Easy UPnP and port forwarding
  • Game Accelerator
  • Dual WAN + VPN Fusion
  • Supports manual DMZ
• Why it’s great: Rock-solid performance with flexible NAT controls via ASUSWRT.

👉 Ideal for: Xbox/PS5/PC gamers + remote workers

🔗 Check Price on Amazon

🥈 2. Netgear Nighthawk XR1000

Best for Competitive Console Gamers

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6
• Features:
  • DumaOS for QoS and NAT tuning
  • Geo-filtering for better latency
  • Easy UPnP setup
• Why it’s great: Designed for latency-sensitive gaming; great for eliminating Strict NAT in Warzone or Fortnite.

👉 Ideal for: PS5, Xbox, Switch players seeking low ping

🔗 Check Price on Amazon

🥉 3. TP-Link Archer AX73

Budget-Friendly and Reliable for Open NAT

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6
• Features:
  • UPnP supported
  • Easy port forwarding UI
  • Excellent value for price
• Why it’s great: Great mix of performance and affordability, with good NAT handling.

👉 Ideal for: Gamers on a budget or first-time port forwarders

🔗 Check Price on Amazon

🏅 4. Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Router (UDR)

Best for Advanced Users & Remote Access

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6
• Features:
  • Full control over NAT/firewall rules
  • VLAN and VPN support
  • Modern web UI and app
• Why it’s great: Enterprise-grade flexibility in a consumer-friendly package.

👉 Ideal for: Home labs, self-hosters, and remote access users

🔗 Check Price on Amazon

🛠 5. GL.iNet Flint 2

Portable, OpenWRT-Powered, VPN-Friendly

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6
• Features:
  • OpenWRT-based (advanced NAT control)
  • Built-in VPN & port forwarding
  • Compact, travel-ready design
• Why it’s great: Great for those who travel or want full control over their firewall/NAT.

👉 Ideal for: Developers, travelers, tech enthusiasts

🔗 Check Price on Amazon

🧠 What to Look For in a NAT-Friendly Router

🚀 Final Thoughts

Getting Open NAT isn’t just about luck—it’s about the right hardware and smart configuration. With one of these top-tier routers, you'll unlock smoother connections, better online gaming, and easier remote access.

🔎 Not sure what your current NAT type is?
👉 Test your NAT type for free at whatsmynat.com