Netgear Nighthawk X6 Vs Asus Rt-ac86u

When it comes to Wi-Fi routers, two brands stand out as industry leaders: Netgear and ASUS. Their flagship models, the Netgear Nighthawk X6 and ASUS RT-AC86U, are among the most sought-after routers in the market. In this comprehensive comparison, we will dive into the key features, performance, and value proposition of both routers to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Netgear Nighthawk X6 boasts an aggressive design with six external antennas and a sleek black finish. It has a large footprint and is relatively heavy, weighing in at over 2 pounds. The ASUS RT-AC86U, on the other hand, is more compact and lightweight, featuring a subtle white and black design with four external antennas. Both routers offer sturdy construction and durable materials.

Wi-Fi Performance

Speed:
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 supports the Tri-Band AC3200 standard, offering a maximum theoretical speed of up to 3200 Mbps. The ASUS RT-AC86U is a Dual-Band AC2900 router, providing a maximum speed of up to 2900 Mbps.

Coverage:
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 has a wider coverage range than the ASUS RT-AC86U, thanks to its six antennas and Beamforming+ technology. It can effectively cover large homes and offices, while the ASUS RT-AC86U is better suited for smaller spaces.

Features

USB Ports:
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 offers three USB 3.0 ports, allowing you to connect external storage devices, printers, and other peripherals. The ASUS RT-AC86U has only one USB 3.0 port, limiting its connectivity options.

QoS:
Both routers support Quality of Service (QoS) features that prioritize traffic based on application or device type. The Netgear Nighthawk X6 offers more granular control over QoS settings, enabling you to fine-tune your network performance.

Security

Firewall:
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 and ASUS RT-AC86U both feature built-in firewalls to protect your network from unauthorized access. However, the ASUS RT-AC86U offers additional security features such as intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS).

Parental Controls:
Both routers come with parental control features that allow you to set limits on internet usage, block inappropriate content, and monitor your children’s online activity.

Setup and Management

Initial Setup:
Both routers offer easy-to-follow setup processes through web-based interfaces or mobile apps. The ASUS RT-AC86U has a slightly more user-friendly interface, making it more accessible for beginners.

Advanced Features:
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 offers a wider range of advanced features, such as IPv6 support, VPN server functionality, and port forwarding. The ASUS RT-AC86U has some advanced features but is not as comprehensive as the Nighthawk X6.

Price and Value

The Netgear Nighthawk X6 is typically priced higher than the ASUS RT-AC86U. The Nighthawk X6 offers more features, a wider coverage range, and faster speeds, justifying its premium price. However, the ASUS RT-AC86U provides excellent value for its price, offering a balance of performance, features, and affordability.

Verdict

The Netgear Nighthawk X6 is the ultimate Wi-Fi router for demanding users who require the best possible performance, coverage, and features. However, its premium price may not be suitable for everyone. The ASUS RT-AC86U is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality router at a more affordable price. It offers a solid balance of features, performance, and value.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both routers offer parental controls, but the ASUS RT-AC86U has a more comprehensive set of features.

Q: Can I connect a USB printer to either router?
A: Yes, both routers have USB ports that support connecting external printers.

Q: Which router is more suitable for large homes?
A: The Netgear Nighthawk X6 has a wider coverage range and is better suited for large homes.