ASUS RT-AC87U vs. NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000: A Comprehensive Guide for Home Networkers
What To Know
- The ASUS RT-AC87U comes with a comprehensive suite of features, including AiProtection for network security, Adaptive QoS for traffic prioritization, and GameBoost for optimized gaming performance.
- The ASUS RT-AC87U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 are both excellent routers that offer a range of features and performance levels.
- However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a user-friendly interface, the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 is a great choice.
Choosing the right router is crucial for a seamless and reliable home network experience. Two popular options in the market are the ASUS RT-AC87U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000. This in-depth comparison will help you understand their key features, performance, and suitability for different needs, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS RT-AC87U sports a sleek and angular design with four adjustable antennas. Its robust chassis ensures durability and efficient heat dissipation. The NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000, on the other hand, features a more compact and rounded design with three external antennas. Both routers are built with high-quality materials and offer a premium feel.
Hardware Specifications
The ASUS RT-AC87U boasts a powerful Quad-Core 1.4 GHz processor and 512MB of RAM, providing ample processing power for demanding applications. It also includes 256MB of flash storage for firmware updates and other purposes. The NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 features a Dual-Core 1 GHz processor and 256MB of RAM, which may be sufficient for most home users.
Wireless Performance
Both routers support the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 standard, promising theoretical speeds of up to 1733 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. In practical tests, the ASUS RT-AC87U consistently outperforms the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000, delivering faster real-world speeds and a more stable connection.
Range and Coverage
The ASUS RT-AC87U has a slightly larger coverage area than the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 due to its four external antennas. However, both routers offer a decent range and should be sufficient for most homes. For larger homes or those with thick walls, consider using a mesh network system.
Features
The ASUS RT-AC87U comes with a comprehensive suite of features, including AiProtection for network security, Adaptive QoS for traffic prioritization, and GameBoost for optimized gaming performance. The NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 offers similar features, but its user interface is more user-friendly and intuitive.
Software and Firmware
The ASUS RT-AC87U runs on the ASUSWRT firmware, which provides a wide range of customization options and advanced settings. The NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 uses the NETGEAR Genie firmware, which is simpler and more straightforward. Both firmware platforms receive regular updates for security and performance enhancements.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AC87U typically retails for around $150, while the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 can be found for around $120. The ASUS RT-AC87U offers a slightly better overall value due to its superior hardware and features.
Which Router Is Right for You?
ASUS RT-AC87U:
- Ideal for power users who demand the best performance and customization options
- Suitable for large homes or those with multiple devices
- Recommended for gamers and those who rely on a stable and fast network
NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000:
- A solid choice for most home users who prioritize ease of use and affordability
- Capable of handling moderate to heavy network traffic
- Suitable for smaller homes or those with a limited number of devices
The Final Verdict
The ASUS RT-AC87U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 are both excellent routers that offer a range of features and performance levels. If you’re a demanding user who requires the best possible network experience, the ASUS RT-AC87U is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a user-friendly interface, the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 is a great choice.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which router has a better processor?
A: The ASUS RT-AC87U has a Quad-Core 1.4 GHz processor, while the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 has a Dual-Core 1 GHz processor.
Q: Does either router support mesh networking?
A: No, neither the ASUS RT-AC87U nor the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 natively supports mesh networking.
Q: Which router has better parental control features?
A: The ASUS RT-AC87U offers more comprehensive parental control options, including time limits, website filtering, and device blocking.
Q: Can I use either router as a wireless access point?
A: Yes, both the ASUS RT-AC87U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 can be configured to operate as wireless access points.
Q: Which router has a longer warranty?
A: Both the ASUS RT-AC87U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 come with a 2-year limited warranty.
