What To Know
- If you have a large home or require the fastest possible speeds, the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is the better choice due to its tri-band design and support for Wi-Fi 6E.
- If you have a smaller home or are on a tighter budget, the RT-AX86U is a great option that still provides excellent coverage and performance.
- However, if you have a smaller home or are on a tighter budget, the RT-AX86U is a great value that will still provide you with a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi network.
In today’s technology-driven world, reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi connectivity is paramount. ASUS, a leading manufacturer of networking devices, offers two exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems: the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and the RT-AX86U. Both systems promise seamless coverage, fast speeds, and advanced features. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 vs RT-AX86U to help you determine which system is the best choice for your home networking needs.
Design and Build
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 features a sleek and modern design with a hexagonal shape and rounded edges. The units are compact and blend seamlessly into any décor. In contrast, the RT-AX86U has a more traditional rectangular design with sharp angles. It is slightly larger than the ZenWiFi XT8 and may be more noticeable in some environments.
Coverage and Performance
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is a tri-band mesh Wi-Fi system that operates on the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, which offers significantly faster speeds and reduced latency compared to previous Wi-Fi generations. The ZenWiFi XT8 system can cover up to 6,000 square feet with its three units.
The RT-AX86U is a dual-band mesh Wi-Fi system that operates on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. It also supports Wi-Fi 6, but not Wi-Fi 6E. The RT-AX86U can cover up to 5,500 square feet with its two units.
In terms of performance, the ZenWiFi XT8 has an edge over the RT-AX86U due to its tri-band design and support for Wi-Fi 6E. However, the RT-AX86U still provides excellent speeds and coverage for most homes.
Features
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and RT-AX86U offer a wide range of features to enhance your home networking experience. These include:
- Easy Setup: Both systems can be easily set up using the ASUS Router app.
- Parental Controls: Manage your children’s online activity and set time limits.
- Guest Network: Create a separate Wi-Fi network for guests.
- Adaptive QoS: Prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or applications.
- VPN Support: Connect to a VPN server for secure and private internet access.
- Alexa and Google Assistant Compatibility: Control your network using voice commands.
Additionally, the ZenWiFi XT8 offers a few exclusive features, such as:
- AiMesh Support: Connect the ZenWiFi XT8 to other compatible ASUS routers to create a larger mesh network.
- AiProtection Pro: Advanced security features to protect your network from malware and cyberattacks.
- Game Accelerator: Optimize your gaming experience by reducing latency and jitter.
Price and Availability
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is available for around $350 for a two-pack and $500 for a three-pack. The RT-AX86U is available for around $250 for a two-pack and $350 for a three-pack.
Which System is Right for You?
The best choice between the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and RT-AX86U depends on your specific needs and budget.
- If you have a large home or require the fastest possible speeds, the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is the better choice due to its tri-band design and support for Wi-Fi 6E.
- If you have a smaller home or are on a tighter budget, the RT-AX86U is a great option that still provides excellent coverage and performance.
The Verdict: ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 vs RT-AX86U
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and RT-AX86U are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems. However, the ZenWiFi XT8 has a slight edge in terms of performance, features, and coverage. If you are looking for the best possible Wi-Fi experience, the ZenWiFi XT8 is the clear winner. However, if you have a smaller home or are on a tighter budget, the RT-AX86U is a great value that will still provide you with a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi network.
What You Need to Know
1. What is the maximum speed of the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8?
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 can achieve speeds of up to 6,000 Mbps.
2. How many devices can I connect to the RT-AX86U?
The RT-AX86U can support up to 250 connected devices.
3. Does the ZenWiFi XT8 support WPA3 security?
Yes, the ZenWiFi XT8 supports WPA3 security.
4. Can I use the RT-AX86U as a wired backhaul?
Yes, the RT-AX86U can be used as a wired backhaul to improve performance and stability.
5. Which system is better for gaming?
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is better for gaming due to its tri-band design and support for the Game Accelerator feature.
