What To Know
- The TP-Link Archer AX55 sports a sleek and compact design with a glossy black finish, making it unobtrusive in any room.
- For users on a tighter budget, the Archer AX55 offers a great value, providing solid performance and essential features at an affordable price.
- However, if you’re willing to invest in a premium router with exceptional performance, extended range, advanced features, and robust security, the ASUS RT-AX86U is the clear winner.
In the ever-evolving world of home networking, the search for the ultimate Wi-Fi router is a constant pursuit. Two contenders that stand out in the market are the TP-Link Archer AX55 and the ASUS RT-AX86U. Both routers boast impressive specifications and features, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the TP-Link Archer AX55 and the ASUS RT-AX86U, helping you make an informed decision for your home network.
Performance and Speed:
The TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX86U both support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, offering blazing-fast speeds and enhanced connectivity. The Archer AX55 features a theoretical maximum speed of 3 Gbps (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), while the RT-AX86U boasts a staggering 6 Gbps (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz + 5 GHz). In real-world scenarios, both routers deliver excellent performance, with the RT-AX86U having a slight edge due to its higher bandwidth capacity.
Coverage and Range:
When it comes to coverage and range, the ASUS RT-AX86U shines with its superior antenna configuration. It features eight external antennas, compared to the Archer AX55’s four, resulting in a wider coverage area and stronger signal penetration. Additionally, the RT-AX86U supports beamforming technology, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices, further enhancing range and stability.
Features and Functionality:
Both the TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX86U offer a wide range of features to cater to various home networking needs. However, the RT-AX86U boasts a more comprehensive feature set. It includes advanced features such as AiMesh support, which allows for seamless mesh networking with compatible ASUS routers, and Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service), which prioritizes network traffic based on user-defined rules. The Archer AX55, on the other hand, focuses on providing essential features, including parental controls, guest Wi-Fi, and basic QoS settings.
Security:
Security is paramount in any home network, and both the Archer AX55 and RT-AX86U offer robust security features. They support the latest WPA3 encryption protocol, ensuring strong protection against unauthorized access. Additionally, the RT-AX86U features AiProtection Pro, which provides advanced threat detection and prevention capabilities, including intrusion detection, malware blocking, and parental controls.
Design and Aesthetics:
The design and aesthetics of a router may not be a primary concern for everyone, but it can complement your home décor. The TP-Link Archer AX55 sports a sleek and compact design with a glossy black finish, making it unobtrusive in any room. The ASUS RT-AX86U, on the other hand, has a more aggressive and angular design with a matte black finish. Its eight antennas give it a distinct and futuristic appearance.
Price and Value:
When it comes to price, the TP-Link Archer AX55 is more budget-friendly than the ASUS RT-AX86U. The Archer AX55 typically retails for around $100, while the RT-AX86U is priced around $250. For users on a tighter budget, the Archer AX55 offers a great value, providing solid performance and essential features at an affordable price. However, if you demand the best performance, extended range, and advanced features, the RT-AX86U is worth the premium price tag.
The Verdict:
The TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX86U are both excellent Wi-Fi routers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. For budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and affordable router, the Archer AX55 is a solid choice. It provides good performance, basic features, and a compact design. However, if you’re willing to invest in a premium router with exceptional performance, extended range, advanced features, and robust security, the ASUS RT-AX86U is the clear winner.
What You Need to Know
1. Which router has a better range and coverage?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a better range and coverage due to its eight external antennas and beamforming technology.
2. Which router offers more advanced features?
The ASUS RT-AX86U offers more advanced features, including AiMesh support, Adaptive QoS, and AiProtection Pro.
3. Which router is more affordable?
The TP-Link Archer AX55 is more affordable than the ASUS RT-AX86U, typically priced around $100 vs. $250.
4. Which router is better for gaming?
Both the Archer AX55 and RT-AX86U support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which is ideal for gaming. However, the RT-AX86U’s Adaptive QoS feature provides more granular control over network traffic prioritization, making it a better choice for serious gamers.
5. Which router is more suitable for large homes?
The ASUS RT-AX86U is more suitable for large homes due to its superior range and coverage. Its eight external antennas and beamforming technology ensure strong Wi-Fi signal penetration throughout the home.
