What To Know
- The RT-AX88U has a slight edge in terms of size, offering more ports and a larger antenna array.
- The RT-AX88U has a slightly larger antenna array and supports AiMesh, giving it a slight edge in coverage.
- Both routers have a dedicated gaming port, but the RT-AX88U has a more robust software suite for QoS and traffic prioritization.
In the realm of home networking, ASUS reigns supreme with its exceptional range of routers. Two of their most formidable offerings are the RT-AX86U and RT-AX88U, both promising unparalleled performance and connectivity. But which one emerges as the true champion? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two titans.
Design and Build
The ASUS RT-AX86U boasts a sleek and angular design, while the RT-AX88U exudes a more traditional router aesthetic. Both routers feature sturdy construction and ample ventilation to prevent overheating. The RT-AX88U has a slight edge in terms of size, offering more ports and a larger antenna array.
Performance and Features
Under the hood, both routers pack a punch with their powerful hardware. The RT-AX86U utilizes a 1.8GHz quad-core CPU, while the RT-AX88U boasts a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU with a dedicated network acceleration engine. In terms of speed, the RT-AX88U delivers slightly faster Wi-Fi speeds, especially in the 5GHz band.
Both routers support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard and feature advanced features like OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and beamforming for enhanced efficiency and coverage. The RT-AX88U takes it a step further with its AiMesh support, allowing you to create a seamless mesh network with multiple nodes.
Ports and Connectivity
The RT-AX86U offers a generous array of ports, including 4 Gigabit LAN ports, 1 Gigabit WAN port, and 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The RT-AX88U expands on this with 8 Gigabit LAN ports, 2 Gigabit WAN ports, and 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. Both routers also feature a dedicated gaming port for prioritizing gaming traffic.
Software and Features
ASUS’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to configure and manage both routers. The RT-AX88U has a slight advantage with its more robust software suite, which includes features like AiProtection Pro for enhanced security and QoS for traffic prioritization.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AX86U typically retails for around $200, while the RT-AX88U comes in at around $250. For the price difference, the RT-AX88U offers a significant upgrade in performance, features, and connectivity. However, the RT-AX86U remains a solid choice for those on a tighter budget.
Key Points: The Verdict
In the battle of ASUS RT-AX86U vs RT-AX88U, the victor is clear. The RT-AX88U emerges as the superior choice with its blazing-fast speeds, comprehensive feature set, and robust software suite. While the RT-AX86U offers a compelling value proposition, the RT-AX88U is the ultimate choice for demanding users who seek the best possible home networking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has better coverage?
A: The RT-AX88U has a slightly larger antenna array and supports AiMesh, giving it a slight edge in coverage.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: Both routers have a dedicated gaming port, but the RT-AX88U has a more robust software suite for QoS and traffic prioritization.
Q: Which router is better for large homes?
A: The RT-AX88U is the better choice for large homes due to its faster speeds, larger antenna array, and AiMesh support.
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both routers offer parental controls, but the RT-AX88U has more advanced features like URL filtering and time limits.
Q: Which router has better security features?
A: Both routers offer robust security features, but the RT-AX88U has AiProtection Pro, which provides additional protection against malware and cyberattacks.
