What To Know
- The Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge in terms of speed and range, while the Asus RT-AC5300 offers a more user-friendly interface and a slightly lower price point.
- While the Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge in performance, the Asus RT-AC5300 offers a more user-friendly interface and a more affordable price point.
- Both the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 offer robust parental controls, but the Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge with more advanced features and customization options.
In the realm of home networking, the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 stand as two titans, offering cutting-edge Wi-Fi capabilities for the discerning user. Both routers boast impressive specifications, promising unparalleled connectivity and speed. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Linksys EA9500 vs Asus RT-AC5300 to determine the ultimate Wi-Fi router for your needs.
Performance: Speed and Range
The heart of a router lies in its ability to deliver fast and reliable internet connectivity. Both the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 excel in this regard, supporting the latest Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard. However, the Linksys EA9500 boasts a slightly higher theoretical maximum speed of 5.3 Gbps compared to the Asus RT-AC5300’s 5 Gbps.
In terms of range, the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 are both equipped with powerful antennas to ensure wide coverage. The Linksys EA9500 features eight antennas while the Asus RT-AC5300 has six. This difference in antenna count may result in a marginally wider range for the Linksys EA9500, but both routers should provide ample coverage for most homes.
Features: Connectivity and Functionality
Beyond speed and range, routers offer a host of additional features to enhance the user experience. The Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 are no exception, boasting a wide range of capabilities:
- USB Ports: The Linksys EA9500 has two USB 3.0 ports while the Asus RT-AC5300 has one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port. These ports allow you to connect external storage devices or printers for easy sharing within your network.
- QoS: Both routers support Quality of Service (QoS), which prioritizes certain types of traffic such as gaming or video streaming for a smoother online experience.
- Parental Controls: The Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 offer robust parental controls, enabling you to manage internet access for your children and set time limits.
- Guest Network: Both routers allow you to create a separate guest network to provide internet access to visitors without compromising your main network’s security.
Design: Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 are both visually appealing routers, featuring sleek and modern designs. The Linksys EA9500 has a more angular shape with sharp lines, while the Asus RT-AC5300 has a more rounded appearance with subtle curves.
Both routers are relatively large, with the Linksys EA9500 being slightly larger than the Asus RT-AC5300. However, their compact designs allow them to be easily placed on a shelf or table.
Setup and Configuration
Setting up and configuring the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 is a straightforward process. Both routers come with user-friendly web interfaces that guide you through the setup process. You can also use the mobile apps provided by both companies for remote management and configuration.
The Linksys EA9500 offers a slightly more advanced interface with more customization options. However, the Asus RT-AC5300’s interface is more intuitive and beginner-friendly.
Price: Value for Money
The Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 are both premium routers with a price tag to match. The Linksys EA9500 is typically priced slightly higher than the Asus RT-AC5300.
When considering value for money, both routers offer a comprehensive set of features and impressive performance. The Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge in terms of speed and range, while the Asus RT-AC5300 offers a more user-friendly interface and a slightly lower price point.
Final Note: The Ultimate Choice
The Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 are both exceptional Wi-Fi routers that deliver blazing-fast speeds, wide coverage, and a host of advanced features. While the Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge in performance, the Asus RT-AC5300 offers a more user-friendly interface and a more affordable price point.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw performance and are willing to pay a premium, the Linksys EA9500 is the superior option. However, if you prefer a more user-friendly interface and a more budget-friendly option, the Asus RT-AC5300 is an excellent choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 offer robust parental controls, but the Linksys EA9500 has a slight edge with more advanced features and customization options.
2. Can I connect external storage to either router?
Yes, both the Linksys EA9500 and Asus RT-AC5300 have USB ports that allow you to connect external storage devices or printers for easy sharing within your network.
3. Which router is easier to set up and configure?
The Asus RT-AC5300 has a more intuitive and beginner-friendly web interface. However, both routers offer user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps for remote management and configuration.
