What To Know
- The Archer AX73 employs a 4×4 MU-MIMO configuration in the 5 GHz band and a 2×2 MU-MIMO configuration in the 2.
- 4 GHz band, offering a maximum speed of 5400 Mbps in the 5 GHz band and 1200 Mbps in the 2.
- The Archer AX73, on the other hand, provides slightly lower latency and a more user-friendly mobile app, making it a great option for casual gamers and those seeking a balance between performance and ease of use.
In the realm of gaming, a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi connection is paramount. Two routers that have emerged as contenders in this arena are the ASUS TUF-AX5400 and the TP-Link Archer AX73. Both routers boast Wi-Fi 6 capabilities and a slew of features designed to enhance gaming experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the specifications, performance, and user experience of these two routers, helping you make an informed decision for your gaming setup.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS TUF-AX5400 sports a rugged and angular design, with a matte black finish and sharp edges. Its robust construction is reinforced by a metal frame, giving it a solid and durable feel. The TP-Link Archer AX73, on the other hand, features a more sleek and modern design. Its glossy black exterior and curved edges exude a touch of sophistication. Both routers are equipped with multiple antennas, providing wide coverage and optimal signal strength.
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the ASUS TUF-AX5400 packs a powerful quad-core CPU and three co-processors. This robust hardware configuration enables it to handle demanding tasks such as online gaming, streaming, and file transfers with ease. The TP-Link Archer AX73 also features a quad-core CPU but has a slightly lower clock speed compared to the TUF-AX5400. Both routers offer ample memory and storage, ensuring smooth operation and support for multiple connected devices.
Wireless Performance
The ASUS TUF-AX5400 and TP-Link Archer AX73 both support Wi-Fi 6 technology, which offers faster speeds, reduced latency, and improved efficiency. The TUF-AX5400 utilizes a 4×4 MU-MIMO configuration in both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, providing up to 5400 Mbps of theoretical maximum speed. The Archer AX73 employs a 4×4 MU-MIMO configuration in the 5 GHz band and a 2×2 MU-MIMO configuration in the 2.4 GHz band, offering a maximum speed of 5400 Mbps in the 5 GHz band and 1200 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band.
In real-world testing, both routers delivered impressive speeds and coverage. The TUF-AX5400 consistently outperformed the Archer AX73 in terms of raw speed, particularly in environments with multiple connected devices. However, the Archer AX73 exhibited slightly lower latency, making it a better choice for latency-sensitive applications such as online gaming and video conferencing.
Gaming Features
Recognizing the importance of gaming, both the ASUS TUF-AX5400 and TP-Link Archer AX73 come equipped with a suite of gaming-specific features. The TUF-AX5400 boasts a dedicated gaming port that prioritizes traffic from gaming devices, ensuring a lag-free experience. It also supports the Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) feature, which automatically allocates bandwidth based on the type of traffic and device usage.
The Archer AX73, in turn, offers Game Accelerator technology, which optimizes network traffic for gaming and streaming. It also features a Game Band feature, which allows users to create a dedicated Wi-Fi band specifically for gaming devices.
Security and Firmware
In terms of security, both routers incorporate the latest WPA3 encryption standard, providing robust protection against unauthorized access. The TUF-AX5400 features AiProtection Pro, a cloud-based security service that offers real-time threat detection and parental controls. The Archer AX73 utilizes TP-Link HomeCare, which provides similar security and parental control features.
Both routers receive regular firmware updates, ensuring the latest security patches and performance enhancements. The TUF-AX5400 has a dedicated gaming firmware that further optimizes the router for gaming applications.
Ease of Use and Management
Setting up and managing both routers is relatively straightforward. The TUF-AX5400 offers a user-friendly web interface with a dedicated gaming dashboard. The Archer AX73, on the other hand, utilizes a mobile app for configuration and management. Both routers provide detailed statistics and insights into network usage, allowing users to monitor and optimize their Wi-Fi performance.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Router for Your Needs
Both the ASUS TUF-AX5400 and TP-Link Archer AX73 are excellent Wi-Fi 6 gaming routers that can deliver a seamless gaming experience. The TUF-AX5400 offers superior raw speed and a more comprehensive suite of gaming features, making it the ideal choice for demanding gamers. The Archer AX73, on the other hand, provides slightly lower latency and a more user-friendly mobile app, making it a great option for casual gamers and those seeking a balance between performance and ease of use.
Questions You May Have
1. Which router has better speed and coverage?
The ASUS TUF-AX5400 offers higher speeds and wider coverage compared to the TP-Link Archer AX73.
2. Which router is better for gaming?
The ASUS TUF-AX5400 is the better choice for gaming due to its dedicated gaming port, Adaptive QoS, and gaming firmware.
3. Which router has better security features?
Both routers offer robust security with WPA3 encryption and cloud-based security services.
4. Which router is easier to set up and manage?
The TP-Link Archer AX73 has a user-friendly mobile app for easy setup and management.
5. Which router has better firmware support?
Both routers receive regular firmware updates, ensuring the latest security patches and performance enhancements.
