ASUS RT-AC68U vs DSL-AC68U: Unraveling the Superior Wireless Router for Your Network
What To Know
- The RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and compact form factor with four external antennas.
- However, the DSL-AC68U boasts a slightly larger chassis and a more angular design, which may appeal to those seeking a more aggressive look.
- However, if you are looking for the best overall performance and the latest features, the DSL-AC68U is the better choice despite its slightly higher price.
The ASUS RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U stand as formidable contenders in the realm of wireless routers, each promising exceptional performance and feature-rich functionality. This in-depth comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two devices, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to assist you in making an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and compact form factor with four external antennas. Both routers are constructed with durable plastic and offer wall-mounting options for versatile placement. However, the DSL-AC68U boasts a slightly larger chassis and a more angular design, which may appeal to those seeking a more aggressive look.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U pack a punch with their hardware capabilities. The RT-AC68U is powered by a dual-core Broadcom BCM4708A processor running at 800MHz, while the DSL-AC68U utilizes a Broadcom BCM63138 processor clocked at 1GHz. Both routers feature 256MB of RAM and 128MB of flash storage, providing ample resources for smooth operation.
In terms of performance, the DSL-AC68U holds a slight edge over the RT-AC68U due to its more powerful processor. It delivers faster data transfer speeds, particularly in the 5GHz band, where it supports up to 1300Mbps. The RT-AC68U, on the other hand, offers a more balanced performance across both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
Wireless Features and Range
Both the RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U support the latest 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, providing fast and reliable wireless connections. They offer a wide range of wireless features, including MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous data streaming to multiple devices, beamforming for improved signal strength, and AiProtection for enhanced network security.
When it comes to range, the RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U perform admirably, covering a large area with stable Wi-Fi signals. However, the DSL-AC68U has a slight advantage due to its more powerful antennas and AiRadar technology, which optimizes signal coverage and minimizes dead spots.
Software and Firmware
The RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U run on ASUSWRT, a user-friendly and feature-rich firmware platform. It offers a wide range of customization options, including traffic monitoring, parental controls, and VPN support. The DSL-AC68U, however, comes with a slightly enhanced version of ASUSWRT that includes additional features such as AiMesh support for mesh networking and Adaptive QoS for optimized traffic prioritization.
Connectivity and Ports
Both routers offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options. They feature four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for wired connections, a WAN port for connecting to your modem, and a USB 3.0 port for external storage or printer sharing. The DSL-AC68U has an additional USB 2.0 port, which can be useful for connecting older devices.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U fall within a similar price range, with the RT-AC68U being slightly more affordable. Considering their performance and feature set, both routers offer excellent value for money. However, if you are looking for the best overall performance and the latest features, the DSL-AC68U is the better choice despite its slightly higher price.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS RT-AC68U and DSL-AC68U depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability and a balanced performance, the RT-AC68U is a solid choice. However, if you demand the fastest speeds, the most advanced features, and the best possible range, the DSL-AC68U is the clear winner.
Popular Questions
Q: Which router has a better range?
A: The ASUS DSL-AC68U has a slightly better range than the RT-AC68U due to its more powerful antennas and AiRadar technology.
Q: Which router has more wired connectivity options?
A: Both routers offer four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports and a WAN port, but the DSL-AC68U has an additional USB 2.0 port.
Q: Which router is more suitable for gaming?
A: The ASUS DSL-AC68U is a better choice for gaming due to its faster speeds and Adaptive QoS feature, which prioritizes gaming traffic.
