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Wifi Guide

What Has Wifi 6? Compatible Devices, Routers and Laptops Listed

Introduction If you have been shopping for a new router, laptop, or smartphone recently, you have probably seen the term Wi-Fi 6 everywhere. It promises faster speeds, better range, and smoother performance when dozens of devices connect at once. But a very co

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you have been shopping for a new router, laptop, or smartphone recently, you have probably seen the term Wi-Fi 6 everywhere. It promises faster speeds, better range, and smoother performance when dozens of devices connect at once. But a very common question remains: What Has Wifi 6? In other words, which routers, phones, laptops, tablets, and smart home gadgets actually support the newest wireless standard, and how do you know if your current gear qualifies?

This guide breaks it all down. You will learn what Wi-Fi 6 actually is, how it differs from Wi-Fi 5, which device categories have adopted it, specific examples of compatible routers and laptops, how to check whether your own equipment supports it, and practical tips for upgrading. Whether you are a casual user trying to stop buffering on Netflix or a power user building a smart home, this article will help you figure out exactly what has Wi-Fi 6 and whether you need it.

Table of Contents

What Is Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6 is the consumer-friendly name for the wireless standard officially called 802.11ax. It was certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance in 2019 and represents the biggest leap in wireless networking since Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). The numbering system was introduced to make it easier for everyday people to understand which generation of Wi-Fi they are buying.

Wi-Fi 6 is not just about raw speed. While the theoretical maximum speed jumped to about 9.6 Gbps compared to 3.5 Gbps on Wi-Fi 5, the real magic is in efficiency. Wi-Fi 6 introduces technologies like OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), Target Wake Time, 1024-QAM, and BSS Coloring. These features allow a single router to communicate with many devices simultaneously, reduce latency, and extend battery life on mobile gadgets.

So when people ask What Has Wifi 6?, they are really asking which devices have the hardware radios capable of speaking this new, more efficient language. Not every device released after 2019 supports it, and price tier often matters.

Wi-Fi 6 vs Wi-Fi 5: Key Differences

Before diving into specific device lists, it helps to understand why Wi-Fi 6 matters. The table below summarizes the biggest differences.

Feature Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Max Theoretical Speed ~3.5 Gbps ~9.6 Gbps
Frequency Bands 5 GHz only 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Multi-Device Handling MU-MIMO (downlink only) OFDMA + MU-MIMO (up and down)
Modulation 256-QAM 1024-QAM
Battery Efficiency Standard Target Wake Time
Congestion Handling Basic BSS Coloring

The short version: Wi-Fi 5 is still fast for a single device, but Wi-Fi 6 shines in crowded environments like apartments, offices, and smart homes where dozens of gadgets compete for airtime.

What Has Wi-Fi 6? Routers

Routers are the most important piece of the puzzle because even the best Wi-Fi 6 phone cannot reach its potential on an old router. Fortunately, Wi-Fi 6 routers are now widely available across every price tier.

Entry-Level Wi-Fi 6 Routers

If you want an affordable upgrade, these models deliver Wi-Fi 6 without breaking the bank:

  • TP-Link Archer AX21 — one of the most popular budget Wi-Fi 6 routers, great for small homes.
  • ASUS RT-AX55 — solid entry-level option with good coverage and parental controls.
  • Linksys MR7350 — simple setup, ideal for beginners upgrading from Wi-Fi 5.
  • Netgear R6700AX — reliable brand with AX1800 speeds.

Mid-Range and Mesh Wi-Fi 6 Routers

For larger homes or families with many devices, mesh systems and mid-range routers make sense:

  • TP-Link Deco X20 / X60 — popular mesh systems with Wi-Fi 6 throughout the house.
  • ASUS RT-AX86U — excellent gaming router with Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 Gbps port.
  • Netgear Orbi RBK752 — tri-band mesh system covering large homes.
  • Eero 6 / Eero 6+ — easy-to-use mesh routers from Amazon.
  • Google Nest Wifi Pro — newer mesh with Wi-Fi 6E support.

Premium Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E Routers

At the high end you will find routers with Wi-Fi 6E, which adds the 6 GHz band:

  • ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 — flagship gaming router.
  • Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 — tri-band Wi-Fi 6E powerhouse.
  • Linksys Hydra Pro 6E — premium home router with 6 GHz support.

When shopping, always look for the words “Wi-Fi 6,” “802.11ax,” or “AX” in the product name. The number after AX (like AX1800 or AX5400) indicates combined theoretical speeds across bands, not a single-device speed.

What Has Wi-Fi 6? Laptops

Most laptops released from 2020 onward include Wi-Fi 6, but budget models sometimes still ship with Wi-Fi 5 to cut costs. Here is a breakdown by category.

Windows Laptops with Wi-Fi 6

  • Dell XPS 13 / XPS 15 — premium ultrabooks with Wi-Fi 6 standard.
  • HP Spectre x360 — convertible with Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt.
  • Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon — business laptop with Wi-Fi 6.
  • ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 — gaming laptop with Wi-Fi 6.
  • Acer Swift 3 / Swift 5 — affordable ultrabooks, most trims include Wi-Fi 6.
  • Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and newer — Wi-Fi 6 across the lineup.

MacBooks with Wi-Fi 6

Apple adopted Wi-Fi 6 starting with the MacBook Air (M1, 2020) and MacBook Pro (M1, 2020). All subsequent Apple Silicon MacBooks (M2, M3 series) include Wi-Fi 6. Older Intel-based MacBooks generally top out at Wi-Fi 5.

Chromebooks with Wi-Fi 6

Many mid-range and premium Chromebooks now include Wi-Fi 6, including the HP Chromebook x360 14c, Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook, and ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5. Budget Chromebooks may still use Wi-Fi 5, so check specs.

What Has Wi-Fi 6? Smartphones

Smartphones were among the first devices to adopt Wi-Fi 6 because battery life and congestion matter so much on mobile. Today, nearly every flagship and mid-range phone supports it.

Android Phones with Wi-Fi 6

  • Samsung Galaxy S10 and newer (S20, S21, S22, S23, S24 series)
  • Google Pixel 4 and newer (Pixel 5, 6, 7, 8 series)
  • OnePlus 8 and newer
  • Xiaomi Mi 10 and newer
  • Motorola Edge series

iPhones with Wi-Fi 6

Apple introduced Wi-Fi 6 with the iPhone 11 in 2019. Every iPhone since then — iPhone 12, 13, 14, and 15 series — supports Wi-Fi 6. The iPhone 15 Pro models also support Wi-Fi 6E, adding the 6 GHz band.

What Has Wi-Fi 6? Tablets and Other Devices

Tablets, gaming consoles, and smart home devices are increasingly Wi-Fi 6 capable.

  • iPad Pro (2020 and newer), iPad Air (4th gen and newer), iPad (9th gen and newer), iPad mini (6th gen)
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 and newer
  • Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021 and newer)
  • PlayStation 5 — Wi-Fi 6 built in
  • Xbox Series X / Series S — Wi-Fi 6 built in
  • Nintendo Switch OLED — still Wi-Fi 5 (a notable exception)
  • Smart TVs — many 2021+ models from Samsung, LG, and Sony include Wi-Fi 6
  • Smart home hubs like Amazon Echo (4th gen) and Google Nest Hub (2nd gen) support Wi-Fi 6

Comparison Table: Wi-Fi 5 vs Wi-Fi 6 Devices

This quick-reference table shows which device generations typically have Wi-Fi 6 versus Wi-Fi 5.

Device Category Usually Wi-Fi 5 Usually Wi-Fi 6
Routers Pre-2019 models, older mesh kits 2019+ models labeled AX
Laptops Pre-2020 models, budget 2020 models 2020+ mid-range and premium
Smartphones Pre-2019 flagships, budget phones 2019+ flagships and mid-range
Tablets Pre-2020 iPads and Android tablets 2020+ iPads, Galaxy Tab S7+
Gaming Consoles PS4, Xbox One, Switch (all models) PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Smart TVs Pre-2021 models 2021+ Samsung, LG, Sony

How to Check If Your Device Has Wi-Fi 6

You do not need to guess. Here are reliable ways to verify Wi-Fi 6 support on any device.

On Windows Laptops and PCs

  1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
  2. Type netsh wlan show drivers and press Enter.
  3. Look for “Radio types supported.” If you see 802.11ax, your adapter supports Wi-Fi 6.

Alternatively, open Device Manager, expand Network adapters, and check the adapter name. Models like “Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201” or “Killer Wi-Fi 6” confirm support.

On Mac

  1. Click the Apple menu and choose About This Mac.
  2. Click System Report.
  3. Select Wi-Fi under Network. The supported PHY modes will list 802.11ax if Wi-Fi 6 is present.

On Smartphones

On Android, go to Settings, then About phone, then look for Wi-Fi or connectivity specs, or check the manufacturer’s product page. On iPhone, any model from iPhone 11 onward supports Wi-Fi 6. You can also check Settings, General, About, and search the model number online.

On Routers

Check the product box or label for “Wi-Fi 6,” “802.11ax,” or “AX” in the model name. You can also log into the router admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1) and look under wireless settings for the standard in use.

Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade to Wi-Fi 6

If your audit reveals gaps, follow this upgrade path to get the most benefit.

  1. Start with the router. A Wi-Fi 6 router is the foundation. Without it, Wi-Fi 6 devices fall back to Wi-Fi 5 speeds.
  2. Place it centrally. Position the router in the middle of your home, away from walls and metal objects, to maximize coverage.
  3. Update firmware. Log into the admin panel and install the latest firmware for security and performance.
  4. Enable WPA3 if available. Wi-Fi 6 routers often support WPA3 encryption for stronger security.
  5. Connect devices. Reconnect your phones, laptops, and smart devices. They will automatically negotiate the best standard.
  6. Test speeds. Run a speed test near the router and in distant rooms to confirm improvement.
  7. Consider mesh. If you have dead zones, add Wi-Fi 6 mesh nodes rather than older extenders.
  8. Upgrade clients gradually. You do not need to replace everything at once. Wi-Fi 6 is backward compatible, so older devices still work.

Real-World Benefits of Wi-Fi 6

Understanding What Has Wifi 6? is only half the battle. Knowing why it matters helps you decide whether to upgrade.

  • Faster speeds in crowded networks: OFDMA lets the router serve multiple devices in the same transmission, reducing wait times.
  • Better range and penetration: Improved signaling helps Wi-Fi 6 reach farther and through walls more reliably.
  • Lower latency: Gamers and video callers notice smoother performance.
  • Longer battery life: Target Wake Time lets devices sleep between transmissions, saving power on phones and IoT gadgets.
  • Future-proofing: As more devices adopt Wi-Fi 6, your network stays ready.

Backward Compatibility Explained

One of the best things about Wi-Fi 6 is that it is fully backward compatible. A Wi-Fi 6 router will happily serve Wi-Fi 5 and even Wi-Fi 4 devices. Those older devices simply connect at their own maximum speeds while Wi-Fi 6 devices enjoy the full benefits. This means you can upgrade your router today and replace phones and laptops over the next few years without worrying about breaking anything.

The reverse is also true: a Wi-Fi 6 phone connected to a Wi-Fi 5 router will only reach Wi-Fi 5 speeds. To get the full benefit, both ends of the connection need Wi-Fi 6.

Tips and Best Practices

  • Do not buy based on speed numbers alone. An AX1800 router is plenty for most homes; AX5400+ is only needed for power users.
  • Check for Wi-Fi 6E if you live in a congested area. The 6 GHz band is less crowded but requires 6E-capable devices.
  • Use Ethernet for stationary devices. Gaming consoles and desktop PCs benefit from wired connections, freeing wireless airtime.
  • Keep firmware updated. Manufacturers regularly improve Wi-Fi 6 performance through updates.
  • Separate IoT devices. If your router supports it, put smart home gadgets on a guest network to reduce congestion on your main network.
  • Consider channel width. 80 MHz is usually the sweet spot for compatibility; 160 MHz gives more speed but can be less stable in crowded areas.
  • Verify before buying. Always check the spec sheet for “802.11ax” rather than relying on marketing terms like “next-gen Wi-Fi.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wi-Fi 6 the same as 5G?

No. Wi-Fi 6 is a local wireless networking standard used in homes and offices. 5G is a cellular technology used by mobile carriers. They are completely different systems, though both improve wireless performance.

Do I need a new modem for Wi-Fi 6?

Not necessarily. Wi-Fi 6 is a router feature. If your modem is separate from your router, you can keep the modem and just upgrade the router. If you use a combo unit, you will need a new combo device that supports Wi-Fi 6.

Will Wi-Fi 6 make my internet faster?

Wi-Fi 6 improves wireless performance between your devices and the router, but it cannot exceed your internet plan’s speed. If you pay for 100 Mbps, Wi-Fi 6 will not give you 500 Mbps. However, it can help you actually reach your plan’s speeds more consistently, especially with many devices.

What is Wi-Fi 6E?

Wi-Fi 6E is an extension of Wi-Fi 6 that adds the 6 GHz frequency band. It offers even less congestion and faster speeds, but requires both a 6E router and 6E-capable devices. Most current devices are Wi-Fi 6 only, not 6E.

How long will Wi-Fi 6 be relevant?

Wi-Fi 6 is expected to remain the mainstream standard for years. Wi-Fi 7 is beginning to appear in premium devices, but widespread adoption will take time. Investing in Wi-Fi 6 today is a safe, cost-effective choice.

Can I add Wi-Fi 6 to an old laptop?

Yes, in many cases. You can replace the internal Wi-Fi card if the laptop allows it, or use a USB Wi-Fi 6 adapter. However, USB adapters may not deliver full performance, and internal upgrades require compatible M.2 slots.

Conclusion

So, What Has Wifi 6? The answer spans nearly every category of modern tech: routers from budget to premium, laptops from ultrabooks to gaming rigs, flagship and mid-range smartphones, recent tablets, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and smart home hubs. If you bought a mainstream device after 2019 or 2020, there is a good chance it already supports Wi-Fi 6. The key is verifying your specific model and, most importantly, pairing Wi-Fi 6 clients with a Wi-Fi 6 router.

Upgrading does not have to happen all at once. Start with the router, confirm your most-used devices support the standard, and replace older gear gradually. With backward compatibility, nothing breaks, and you gain a faster, more efficient, more reliable wireless network that is ready for the growing demands of modern homes. Whether you are streaming 4K video, gaming online, or running a house full of smart devices, Wi-Fi 6 delivers the performance and stability that Wi-Fi 5 simply cannot match in crowded environments.