Wi-fi 7 Dual-Band Asus RT-BE86U Router Delivers Strong Performance
The Asus RT-BE86U Wi-Fi 7 router has made a significant entry into the market, offering impressive Wi-Fi 7 performance and a host of additional features. This router is designed to cater to users who require a strong Wi-Fi connection throughout a medium-sized home, while also appreciating its extra functionalities.
**Benefits**
One of the standout advantages of the RT-BE86U is its Wi-Fi 7 performance. With high-speed connections even when multiple devices are in use, this router is ideal for tasks such as streaming 4K content and gaming with minimal latency. Another notable feature is its high-speed ports, including one 10Gbps and four 2.5Gbps flexible network ports, which are excellent for high-speed wired devices.
The router also boasts a range of features, including AiMesh 2.0 for seamless network expansion, Guest Network Pro, and VLAN support. It also supports MLO (Multi-Link Operation) and AI WAN detection, enhancing network stability and speed. Despite its robust features, the router has a relatively compact design, making it easier to place in various environments.
**Drawbacks**
One potential drawback is the cost, as the router is priced on the higher end of the spectrum, which might be overkill for average users without the infrastructure to fully utilize its capabilities. Some users might also find the subscription-free network security lacking compared to paid solutions. The router lacks a second 10Gbps port and does not support the 6GHz band, which could be a limitation for some advanced users. Additionally, the router is not designed for wall mounting, which can be inconvenient for some users.
**Performance Comparison**
In terms of speed, the RT-BE86U excels, outperforming many other routers in terms of raw speed. Its coverage is also notable, although specific details are not provided. However, its AiMesh capability allows for seamless expansion of the network, which can improve coverage when used with compatible routers. In terms of NAS performance, it is noted for having the fastest NAS read speed performance among its peers when hosting a portable SSD.
Compared to routers like the TP-Link Archer GE650, which focuses on multi-Gigabit wired connections and is more suited for network storage setups, the Asus RT-BE86U offers a broader range of features and performance, especially in wireless capabilities. However, routers like the ROG Rapture GT-AC5300 might offer different strengths, such as powerful gaming features and robust design, depending on user priorities.
In testing, the Asus RT-BE86U was able to reach devices like the Netatmo Presence Wi-Fi security camera and Meross garage door opener. The router's web interface offers options for setting up IP reservations, adjusting transmission power, toggling Wi-Fi features, and configuring a local virtual network. Farther away, Wi-Fi throughput with the Asus RT-BE86U was between just shy of 580Mbps and 630Mbps.
In conclusion, the Asus RT-BE86U Wi-Fi 7 router offers several benefits and drawbacks, and its performance in speed and coverage is notable compared to other routers in the market. It is a good purchase for those who need a strong Wi-Fi connection throughout a medium-sized home and appreciate its additional features, but may not be the best choice for those who require 6GHz Wi-Fi 7 devices.
Gizmodo's review of the Asus RT-BE86U Wi-Fi 7 router highlighted its impressive technology and gadget-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for users seeking high-speed Wi-Fi performance and additional functionalities. In future tech discussions, the router's Wi-Fi 7 capabilities and speed will be compared to other routers on the market, as it competes in a competitive and ever-evolving technology landscape. With its notable features and unique advantages, the Asus RT-BE86U Wi-Fi 7 router is certain to receive numerous tech reviews and industry analysis.
