What To Know
- However, the RT-AX86U’s larger antenna array gives it a slight advantage in extending the signal to the far corners of your home or office.
- In terms of usability, the RT-AX86U has a slight advantage due to its dedicated gaming port, which makes it easier to prioritize gaming traffic.
- Both the ASUS RT-AX86S and RT-AX86U are excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer a range of advanced features and impressive performance.
In the competitive world of networking, ASUS stands out as a leading manufacturer of high-performance routers. Two of their most popular offerings, the RT-AX86S and RT-AX86U, have garnered significant attention due to their advanced Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. This comprehensive comparison aims to delve into the key differences between these two routers, helping you make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.
Performance: Speed and Range
Both the RT-AX86S and RT-AX86U boast impressive speed and range capabilities. However, the RT-AX86U has a slight edge in terms of raw performance. With its 160MHz channel bandwidth support, it can achieve theoretical speeds of up to 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 4804Mbps on the 5GHz band. The RT-AX86S, on the other hand, is limited to 80MHz bandwidth, resulting in slightly lower maximum speeds of 574Mbps and 2402Mbps on the respective bands.
In terms of range, both routers offer excellent coverage, thanks to their high-gain antennas and beamforming technology. However, the RT-AX86U’s larger antenna array gives it a slight advantage in extending the signal to the far corners of your home or office.
Features: Advanced Functionality
When it comes to features, the RT-AX86U offers a more comprehensive suite of options compared to the RT-AX86S. One notable feature is the inclusion of a dedicated gaming port, which prioritizes traffic from gaming devices to minimize lag and optimize online gaming performance. The RT-AX86U also supports more advanced security features, such as AiProtection Pro, which provides real-time threat protection and parental controls.
Additionally, the RT-AX86U features a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port for connecting external storage devices, allowing you to share files and media across your network. The RT-AX86S, on the other hand, has two USB 2.0 ports, which offer slower data transfer speeds.
Design: Aesthetics and Usability
The RT-AX86S and RT-AX86U share a similar design aesthetic, with angular lines and aggressive styling. However, the RT-AX86U has a more premium feel due to its use of higher-quality materials. Both routers feature intuitive web interfaces for easy configuration and monitoring.
In terms of usability, the RT-AX86U has a slight advantage due to its dedicated gaming port, which makes it easier to prioritize gaming traffic. Additionally, the RT-AX86U’s more extensive feature set provides greater flexibility in customizing your network settings.
Price and Value
The RT-AX86S is generally priced lower than the RT-AX86U, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the RT-AX86U offers a better value for money due to its superior performance, more advanced features, and premium design. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget constraints.
Takeaways: Choosing the Right Router for Your Needs
Both the ASUS RT-AX86S and RT-AX86U are excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer a range of advanced features and impressive performance. However, the RT-AX86U stands out as the more premium option, with its superior speed and range, more comprehensive feature set, and premium design. If you’re looking for the best possible Wi-Fi experience, the RT-AX86U is the clear choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router is better for gaming, the RT-AX86S or RT-AX86U?
A: The RT-AX86U is better for gaming due to its dedicated gaming port and more advanced QoS features.
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: The RT-AX86U has more robust parental controls, including the ability to set time limits, filter content, and monitor online activity.
Q: Which router supports more simultaneous devices?
A: Both routers can handle a large number of simultaneous devices, but the RT-AX86U has a slightly higher capacity due to its more powerful CPU.
Q: Which router has a better warranty?
A: Both routers come with a standard 2-year warranty.
Q: Which router is more energy-efficient?
A: The RT-AX86S is slightly more energy-efficient than the RT-AX86U due to its lower power consumption.
