What To Know
- The ASUS RT-AX55 supports AiMesh, a proprietary technology that allows you to create a mesh network with compatible ASUS routers for seamless whole-home coverage.
- If you’re looking for a high-performance, affordable Wi-Fi 6 router with a sleek design, the TP-Link Archer AX73 is a great choice.
- If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a router with a premium build quality, more advanced features, and slightly better range, the ASUS RT-AX55 is worth considering.
In the realm of home networking, Wi-Fi 6 routers have emerged as the latest and greatest, offering blazing-fast speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced coverage. Among the top contenders in this category are the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the ASUS RT-AX55. Both routers boast impressive features, but which one is the right choice for your needs? Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you decide.
Design and Build Quality
The TP-Link Archer AX73 sports a sleek and angular design with a black and gold color scheme. It features four external antennas that are adjustable for optimal signal reception. The ASUS RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a more traditional router design with eight non-adjustable internal antennas. Both routers are made of durable plastic, but the ASUS RT-AX55 feels slightly more premium.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the TP-Link Archer AX73 packs a Qualcomm IPQ6000 quad-core processor with 512MB of RAM and 128MB of flash storage. The ASUS RT-AX55, meanwhile, uses a Broadcom BCM6750 quad-core processor with 256MB of RAM and 128MB of flash storage. In terms of performance, both routers deliver excellent speeds and low latency. However, the TP-Link Archer AX73 has a slight edge in Wi-Fi 6 performance, especially in densely populated environments.
Features
The TP-Link Archer AX73 and ASUS RT-AX55 come with a range of advanced features to enhance your networking experience. These include:
- OFDMA and MU-MIMO: Support for these technologies allows the routers to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, reducing congestion and improving efficiency.
- AiMesh: The ASUS RT-AX55 supports AiMesh, a proprietary technology that allows you to create a mesh network with compatible ASUS routers for seamless whole-home coverage.
- OneMesh: The TP-Link Archer AX73 supports OneMesh, a similar technology that allows you to create a mesh network with compatible TP-Link routers.
- Parental Controls: Both routers offer robust parental controls to manage internet access and filter content for children.
- VPN Server: The ASUS RT-AX55 includes a built-in VPN server, allowing you to securely access your home network from anywhere.
Software and User Interface
The TP-Link Archer AX73 and ASUS RT-AX55 both have user-friendly web interfaces that make it easy to configure and manage your network. The TP-Link interface is more straightforward and beginner-friendly, while the ASUS interface offers more advanced options for experienced users. Both routers also have mobile apps that provide remote access and control.
Coverage and Range
When it comes to coverage and range, the TP-Link Archer AX73 and ASUS RT-AX55 perform similarly. Both routers can cover a large area, even in multi-story homes. However, the ASUS RT-AX55 has a slight advantage in range due to its higher number of antennas.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer AX73 is typically priced around $100, while the ASUS RT-AX55 is priced around $130. Both routers offer excellent value for their price, but the TP-Link Archer AX73 is the more affordable option.
The Verdict: Which Router is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best router for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a high-performance, affordable Wi-Fi 6 router with a sleek design, the TP-Link Archer AX73 is a great choice. If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a router with a premium build quality, more advanced features, and slightly better range, the ASUS RT-AX55 is worth considering.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both routers offer robust parental controls, but the ASUS RT-AX55 has a slight edge with its ability to create individual profiles for each child.
Q: Can I use either router as a mesh node?
A: Yes, both routers support mesh networking. The TP-Link Archer AX73 supports OneMesh, while the ASUS RT-AX55 supports AiMesh.
Q: Which router has a longer warranty?
A: Both routers come with a standard 2-year warranty.
