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What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi? Router & Phones

Introduction Wireless networking has entered a new era with the arrival of the 6 GHz band. If you have recently shopped for a router or a flagship smartphone, you have probably seen terms like Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi 7, and 6 GHz wireless. These technologies promise f

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Introduction

Wireless networking has entered a new era with the arrival of the 6 GHz band. If you have recently shopped for a router or a flagship smartphone, you have probably seen terms like Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi 7, and 6 GHz wireless. These technologies promise faster speeds, lower latency, and less interference than the older 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. But there is a catch: not every device can take advantage of this new spectrum.

This guide answers the question What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi? in detail. We will cover routers, phones, laptops, tablets, and other gadgets. You will also learn how to check whether your current hardware supports 6 GHz, how to connect to a 6 GHz network, and what to look for when buying new equipment. Whether you are upgrading your home network or simply curious about compatibility, this article has you covered.

Table of Contents

What Is 6 GHz Wi-Fi?

To understand What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi?, you first need to understand what the 6 GHz band actually is. Wi-Fi traditionally operated on two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band travels farther but is slower and more crowded. The 5 GHz band offers higher speeds but has shorter range and can still become congested in apartment buildings or dense neighborhoods.

The 6 GHz band is a relatively new addition to unlicensed wireless spectrum. It opens up a wide swath of airwaves that were previously reserved for other services. Because far fewer devices operate on 6 GHz, there is significantly less interference. This means cleaner connections, more available channels, and the ability to use wider channel widths for faster data throughput.

Devices that support 6 GHz can connect to a router broadcasting on that band. However, both ends of the connection must be compatible. Your router must support 6 GHz, and your phone, laptop, or tablet must also have a wireless chip capable of using it. If either side lacks 6 GHz support, the connection will fall back to 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz.

Understanding Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7

When people discuss What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi?, they are usually talking about devices certified for Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7. These are the two main standards that enable 6 GHz connectivity.

Wi-Fi 6E is an extension of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). The “E” stands for Extended, meaning it brings Wi-Fi 6 features into the 6 GHz band. A Wi-Fi 6E router can broadcast on 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz simultaneously. A Wi-Fi 6E phone or laptop can connect to the 6 GHz portion of that signal.

Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) is the newer generation. It also supports 6 GHz and adds features such as wider 320 MHz channels, multi-link operation, and higher theoretical speeds. Wi-Fi 7 routers are backward compatible with Wi-Fi 6E and older devices, but to get the full benefit of Wi-Fi 7, your client device must also support it.

It is important to note that 6 GHz support is not automatic just because a device is new. A device must have the correct radio hardware and software certification. Many budget and mid-range devices released in 2024 still lack 6 GHz support, so checking specifications before purchase is essential.

What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi? Router & Phones Overview

If you are asking What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi?, the short answer is that support is currently concentrated in premium hardware. You will find 6 GHz capability in high-end routers, flagship smartphones, recent laptops, and select tablets. Budget phones, older laptops, and most smart home devices do not support it yet.

Router support is the foundation. Without a 6 GHz-capable router, no client device can use the band. Phone support is the most common client-side implementation because manufacturers often use 6 GHz as a selling point for flagship models. Laptop and tablet support is growing but remains uneven across brands and price tiers.

In the sections below, we break down compatibility by device category so you can determine whether your existing gear qualifies or whether you need to upgrade.

Routers That Support 6 GHz

The router is the most important piece of the puzzle. If you want to use 6 GHz Wi-Fi, your router must be a Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 model. These routers broadcast a separate 6 GHz signal alongside the traditional bands.

Wi-Fi 6E Routers

Wi-Fi 6E routers were the first wave of 6 GHz hardware. Popular models include the ASUS RT-AXE95U, Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500, TP-Link Archer AXE300, and Linksys Hydra Pro 6E. These routers are widely available and typically cost less than Wi-Fi 7 models. They are a solid choice if you have a few 6 GHz devices and want to reduce congestion on your network.

Wi-Fi 7 Routers

Wi-Fi 7 routers are the newest generation. Examples include the ASUS RT-BE96U, Netgear Orbi 970 series, TP-Link Deco BE85, and Eero Max 7. These routers support 6 GHz with wider channels and advanced features. They are ideal for homes with many high-bandwidth devices, such as 4K streaming, cloud gaming, and video conferencing. However, they are more expensive, and you need Wi-Fi 7 clients to unlock their maximum potential.

When shopping for a router, look for explicit mentions of “6 GHz,” “Wi-Fi 6E,” or “Wi-Fi 7” in the specifications. Do not assume that a dual-band router supports 6 GHz just because it is labeled “Wi-Fi 6.” Only tri-band routers with a dedicated 6 GHz radio provide this capability.

Phones That Support 6 GHz

Smartphones are the most common client devices for 6 GHz Wi-Fi. If you are wondering What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi? in the mobile category, the answer depends heavily on the brand and model tier.

Android Phones

Many flagship Android phones released from 2021 onward support 6 GHz. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, S22 Ultra, S23 Ultra, and S24 Ultra all include 6 GHz support. The Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip flagship lines also support it. Google Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro are compatible. OnePlus 11, OnePlus 12, and recent Xiaomi 13 and 14 series models generally include 6 GHz support as well.

Mid-range and budget Android phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy A series or Google Pixel a-series, typically do not support 6 GHz. Manufacturers reserve the 6 GHz radio for their premium models to control costs.

iPhones and Apple Devices

Apple adopted 6 GHz support starting with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not support 6 GHz. If you own an iPhone 14 or earlier, you do not have 6 GHz capability. The iPhone 16 lineup is expected to continue this trend, with Pro models supporting the band.

Apple tablets and computers are more selective. The iPad Pro with M2 and M4 chips supports 6 GHz, but the iPad Air and standard iPad do not. On the Mac side, MacBook Pro models with M2, M3, and M4 chips support 6 GHz, as do recent Mac mini and Mac Studio configurations. The MacBook Air generally does not support 6 GHz, even on newer models.

Laptops, Tablets, and Computers

Laptop support for 6 GHz depends on the wireless card installed inside the machine. Intel AX211 and AX210 cards support Wi-Fi 6E and therefore 6 GHz. Newer Intel BE200 cards support Wi-Fi 7 and 6 GHz. Many Dell XPS, Lenovo ThinkPad, HP Spectre, and Razer Blade models configured with these cards are compatible.

However, laptop manufacturers often offer multiple wireless card options for the same model. A Dell XPS 13 with one card may support 6 GHz, while the same model with a different card may not. You should check the specific wireless adapter listed in your laptop’s specifications rather than assuming compatibility based on the laptop brand alone.

Tablets outside the Apple ecosystem are less consistent. Some high-end Android tablets support 6 GHz, but many do not. Windows tablets with Intel Wi-Fi 6E or 7 cards can support the band, while ARM-based tablets often lag behind.

Other Connected Devices

Beyond routers, phones, and computers, 6 GHz support is still rare. Most smart home devices, such as smart plugs, light bulbs, and security cameras, operate only on 2.4 GHz because it offers better range and lower cost. Some premium mesh systems and access points support 6 GHz for backhaul between nodes, but the end devices connecting to them may still use 5 GHz.

Virtual reality headsets are an emerging category. The Meta Quest 3 supports Wi-Fi 6E and can use 6 GHz for wireless PC VR streaming, which reduces latency compared to 5 GHz. As the ecosystem matures, we may see more AR/VR devices and gaming consoles adopt 6 GHz, but for now, it remains a premium feature.

Comparison Table: Popular 6 GHz Devices

The table below summarizes whether popular devices support 6 GHz. Use it as a quick reference when evaluating your own hardware or planning a purchase.

Device Type Model Wi-Fi Standard 6 GHz Support Release Year
Router ASUS RT-AXE95U Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2022
Router Netgear Orbi 970 Wi-Fi 7 Yes 2023
Phone Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2024
Phone Google Pixel 8 Pro Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2023
Phone iPhone 15 Pro Max Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2023
Phone iPhone 15 Wi-Fi 6 No 2023
Laptop Dell XPS 13 Plus Wi-Fi 6E Yes (select configs) 2022
Tablet iPad Pro M4 Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2024
VR Headset Meta Quest 3 Wi-Fi 6E Yes 2023

How to Check If Your Device Supports 6 GHz

If you are unsure whether your current hardware can use 6 GHz, follow these steps. The process varies by operating system.

Windows Laptops

  1. Press the Windows key and type Device Manager, then press Enter.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for your wireless adapter. Common 6 GHz-capable adapters include Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211, Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210, and Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE200.
  4. If you see one of these names, your laptop supports 6 GHz. If you see an older adapter such as Intel AC-9560 or Realtek RTL8822CE, you do not have 6 GHz support.
  5. Alternatively, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Hardware properties. Check the protocol listed. Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 indicates 6 GHz capability.

Mac Computers

  1. Click the Apple menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
  2. Go to General > About.
  3. Look for your chip. Macs with M2, M3, or M4 chips in Pro, Max, or Ultra configurations typically support 6 GHz.
  4. You can also hold the Option key and click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar to view detailed wireless information.

Android Phones

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to About phone and note your model number.
  3. Search the manufacturer’s website for that model’s specifications.
  4. Look for “Wi-Fi 6E,” “Wi-Fi 7,” or “802.11ax 6 GHz” in the wireless section.
  5. You can also install a Wi-Fi analyzer app from the Play Store. If the app shows 6 GHz channels available when scanning near a 6 GHz router, your phone supports the band.

iPhone and iPad

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap General > About.
  3. Find your model name. iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and later Pro models support 6 GHz. Standard iPhone 15 models do not.
  4. For iPads, only iPad Pro models with M2 or M4 chips support 6 GHz.
  5. If you are unsure, visit Apple’s official specifications page for your exact model.

How to Connect to a 6 GHz Network

Once you have confirmed that both your router and client device support 6 GHz, connecting is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Set up your Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 router according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Log into the router’s admin panel, usually through a web browser or mobile app.
  3. Locate the wireless settings. You may see options for 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz.
  4. Decide whether to use a single network name (SSID) for all bands or separate names. Many routers use band steering by default, which automatically pushes compatible devices to 6 GHz.
  5. If you use separate SSIDs, create a distinct name for the 6 GHz band, such as HomeNetwork-6GHz.
  6. On your phone or laptop, open Wi-Fi settings and select the 6 GHz network.
  7. Enter the password and connect.
  8. Verify the connection. On some devices, you can view connection details to confirm you are connected to the 6 GHz band rather than 5 GHz.

Keep in mind that 6 GHz signals have shorter range than 5 GHz and do not penetrate walls as well. If you move too far from the router, your device may automatically switch to 5 GHz to maintain a stable connection.

Tips and Best Practices for 6 GHz Wi-Fi

To get the most out of 6 GHz, follow these best practices:

  • Place your router centrally. Because 6 GHz has limited range, position your router in an open area away from thick walls and large metal objects.
  • Use the same SSID for all bands if your router supports band steering. This lets your devices roam seamlessly between 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz based on signal strength.
  • Create a separate 6 GHz SSID for manual control. If you prefer to decide which devices use 6 GHz, give it a unique network name and connect only your compatible, high-bandwidth devices to it.
  • Keep firmware updated. Router manufacturers regularly release updates that improve 6 GHz stability and performance.
  • Match your client devices to your router. A Wi-Fi 7 router will not make a Wi-Fi 5 phone faster. Upgrade your phones and laptops to Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 models to fully benefit.
  • Use wide channel widths. In your router settings, enable 160 MHz or 320 MHz channels on the 6 GHz band if your client devices support them. This maximizes throughput.
  • Do not expect 6 GHz to reach every room. For large homes, consider a mesh system with 6 GHz backhaul, but understand that satellite nodes may still connect to devices on 5 GHz if they are far from the main router.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every new phone support 6 GHz?

No. Only flagship and some upper mid-range phones support 6 GHz. Budget models typically lack the required wireless hardware.

Does iPhone 15 support 6 GHz?

Only the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max support 6 GHz. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not.

Can I add 6 GHz to an old laptop?

In some cases, yes. If your laptop has an accessible M.2 slot for the wireless card, you may be able to replace an older card with an Intel Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 card. However, many laptops have soldered cards or BIOS whitelists that prevent this. Check your laptop’s service manual before attempting an upgrade.

Is 6 GHz the same as 6G cellular?

No. 6 GHz Wi-Fi is a local wireless networking standard. 6G refers to the next generation of cellular mobile networks, which does not exist commercially yet.

Do I need a new router to use 6 GHz?

Yes. Your router must be a Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 model with a 6 GHz radio. Older Wi-Fi 5 and standard Wi-Fi 6 routers cannot broadcast on 6 GHz.

Is 6 GHz safe?

Yes. 6 GHz Wi-Fi uses unlicensed radio spectrum similar to existing Wi-Fi bands. It operates within established safety guidelines for radio frequency exposure.

Conclusion

Answering What Devices Support 6ghz Wifi? requires looking at both your router and your client devices. The 6 GHz band offers exciting improvements in speed and reliability, but it is not universally available. You need a Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 router, and your phone, laptop, or tablet must also have compatible hardware.

Flagship phones from Samsung, Google, and Apple’s Pro lineup generally support 6 GHz, while budget and older models do not. Laptop support depends on the specific wireless card installed, and most smart home devices still operate exclusively on 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.

Before upgrading, check your current devices using the steps outlined above. If your hardware is compatible, configure your router to broadcast a 6 GHz network and connect your devices to enjoy less congestion and faster performance. If your gear does not support 6 GHz, consider whether the benefits justify new purchases based on your internet usage and home layout.

Wireless technology continues to evolve quickly. As 6 GHz becomes more common, we can expect broader support across phones, laptops, and even smart home gadgets. For now, knowing which devices support 6 GHz puts you in the best position to make smart networking decisions.