What To Know
- If you’re looking for a router with the best possible performance and features, the RT-AX86U is worth the extra investment.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget and prioritize value for money, the Archer AX73 is a solid option that offers good performance and a range of essential features.
- However, if you’re on a budget or prioritize value for money, the TP-Link Archer AX73 is a commendable alternative that offers good performance and a range of essential features.
When it comes to upgrading your home network, choosing the right router can be a daunting task. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to compare features and performance to make an informed decision. In this blog post, we pit two highly acclaimed budget-friendly AX routers against each other: the ASUS RT-AX86U and the TP-Link Archer AX73. We’ll delve into their specifications, capabilities, and real-world performance to help you determine which router is the best choice for your needs.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | ASUS RT-AX86U | TP-Link Archer AX73 |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | AX5400 (802.11ax) | AX5400 (802.11ax) |
| Bands | Tri-Band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz + 5 GHz) | Dual-Band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) |
| Maximum Speed | 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 2402 Mbps (5 GHz) + 2402 Mbps (5 GHz) | 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 4804 Mbps (5 GHz) |
| Ports | 1x WAN + 4x LAN (Gigabit Ethernet) | 1x WAN + 4x LAN (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| USB Ports | 1x USB 3.0 | 1x USB 2.0 |
| CPU | 1.8 GHz Quad-Core | 1.5 GHz Quad-Core |
| Memory | 512 MB RAM + 256 MB Flash | 512 MB RAM + 128 MB Flash |
| Dimensions | 9.4 x 6.3 x 2.6 inches | 8.9 x 5.9 x 1.5 inches |
| Price | $169 | $129 |
Features
ASUS RT-AX86U
- Tri-Band Connectivity: Offers three separate Wi-Fi bands for improved bandwidth allocation and reduced interference.
- OFDMA and MU-MIMO: Supports advanced technologies that optimize network efficiency and allow multiple devices to connect simultaneously without speed degradation.
- AiMesh Support: Compatible with ASUS’s AiMesh system for seamless mesh networking throughout your home.
- Lifetime Free Security: Includes ASUS’s AiProtection Pro lifetime security suite, which provides advanced malware protection and parental controls.
- Intuitive Interface: Features a user-friendly web interface that makes configuration and management a breeze.
TP-Link Archer AX73
- Dual-Band Connectivity: Provides two Wi-Fi bands, which may be sufficient for most home environments.
- OneMesh Support: Compatible with TP-Link’s OneMesh system for mesh networking capabilities.
- WPA3 Encryption: Supports the latest Wi-Fi security protocol for enhanced protection against hacking and eavesdropping.
- Parental Controls: Offers robust parental control features to manage internet access for children.
- Easy Setup: Includes a mobile app for quick and convenient setup and management.
Performance
In real-world performance tests, both routers delivered impressive speeds. The ASUS RT-AX86U consistently outperformed the TP-Link Archer AX73 in terms of overall throughput, especially on the 5 GHz bands. However, the Archer AX73 offered slightly better range and coverage.
Gaming and Streaming
For gamers and streamers, the ASUS RT-AX86U is the clear choice. Its tri-band connectivity and advanced features, such as OFDMA and MU-MIMO, provide a more stable and lag-free gaming experience. The RT-AX86U also supports Adaptive QoS, which prioritizes gaming traffic for optimal performance.
Value for Money
Both the ASUS RT-AX86U and the TP-Link Archer AX73 offer excellent value for money. However, the RT-AX86U provides a wider range of features, including tri-band connectivity, AiMesh support, and lifetime free security. If you’re looking for a router with the best possible performance and features, the RT-AX86U is worth the extra investment.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS RT-AX86U and the TP-Link Archer AX73 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require the best possible performance, tri-band connectivity, and advanced features, the RT-AX86U is the superior choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and prioritize value for money, the Archer AX73 is a solid option that offers good performance and a range of essential features.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Based on our comprehensive analysis, the ASUS RT-AX86U emerges as the winner in this battle of budget-friendly AX routers. Its superior performance, tri-band connectivity, and advanced features make it the ideal choice for users who demand the best possible home networking experience. However, if you’re on a budget or prioritize value for money, the TP-Link Archer AX73 is a commendable alternative that offers good performance and a range of essential features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has the better range and coverage?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX73 offers slightly better range and coverage than the ASUS RT-AX86U.
Q: Which router is better for gaming and streaming?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U is the better choice for gaming and streaming due to its tri-band connectivity and advanced features, such as OFDMA and MU-MIMO.
Q: Which router has more advanced security features?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U includes ASUS’s AiProtection Pro lifetime security suite, which offers advanced malware protection and parental controls.
Q: Which router is easier to set up and manage?
A: Both routers offer user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps for easy setup and management.
Q: Which router has a longer warranty?
A: Both routers come with a 2-year warranty.
