Parent-Approved Wi-Fi Routers and Extenders for Your Child's Room

Being a parent has taught me that you have to find ways to make boring things fun. A simple design change or unexpected feature can help make otherwise mundane things, like brushing your teeth, more exciting. (Thanks, Elmo the singing toothbrush!)

I found that the same is true for internet routers and Wi-Fi extenders. When it comes to home electronics, is there anything more annoying than a router? They’re small, probably off-white or gray, have no screen, and don’t even play music. Lights flash every now and then, but that usually means there’s a problem with your internet connection.

Routers play a crucial role in our home internet connection by creating our Wi-Fi network. It’s an important task but not necessarily flashy. Still, there’s no reason not to have a little fun with our routers. These devices will help you do just that. Plus, using your own router can save you a lot on your internet bill.

Davolink Minions Themed Routers

Maybe it’s because I’m still laughing after watching Despicable Me 4 or because this quality, original router is so cheap, but I love Davolink’s Minions-themed routers. Available in “Bob” or “Kevin,” these Wi-Fi 6 routers support WPA3 encryption, the latest router security protocol, and parental control settings. Depending on which Minion you choose to join your clan, your router will have dual-band or tri-band frequencies and either 2.7Gb or 5.4Gb transfer rates. Bob is the cheaper option, but you’ll get better performance with Kevin.

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Amazon Echo Pop Kids

Ideal for Eero Wi-Fi setups

If you have an Eero Wi-Fi system, the latest Amazon Echo smart speakers, including the Echo Pop Kids, can also serve as a Wi-Fi extender for your network. In addition to its fun designs featuring Marvel or Disney characters, the Echo Pop Kids comes with six months of Amazon Kids Plus, easy-to-use parental controls, and “Hey Disney” functionality. It’s great for listening to music and telling bedtime stories while boosting your Wi-Fi network.

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Gryphon AX Mesh Router

Best Router for Parental Controls

Sometimes you have to sacrifice fun for security. The Gryphon AX mesh router doesn’t look like any cute character, but that’s because it takes its job—parental controls—seriously. The device offers parents “active content monitoring, app and website blocking, individualized time limits, and comprehensive insights so you can better monitor your kids’ screen time.” Aside from parental controls, the router itself is impressive, with Wi-Fi 6 technology, a tri-band frequency, and coverage of up to 3,000 square feet.

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Night Light and Wi-Fi Extender by Todaair

Best Night Light and Wi-Fi Extender Combo

New parents know that a good night light is essential for a good night’s sleep, just like the noise machine. While most night lights simply plug in, turn on, and have no other function, the Todaair device will also serve as a Wi-Fi extender. Granted, the mushroom-shaped design is different, but if you’re interested in a night light that can improve your Wi-Fi coverage, this may be the best and only option you’ll find.

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Kids play video games, and if you’re like me, your parents play video games, too. Depending on the number of gamers and devices in your household, video games can have a big impact on your connection. The solution is a good gaming router, like the Asus RT-AX86U , CNET’s pick for the best overall gaming router. Not only does it look cool, but the router is designed to maintain low latency and high speeds, perfect for online gaming.

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If you’re looking for Wi-Fi routers and extenders, be sure to check out our other recommendations:

And to learn more about how to find the best internet provider for your home and get the most out of your internet connection, visit CNET’s Internet Hub page.