ASUS RT-AX57 vs RT-AX58U: The Ultimate Wi-Fi 6 Router Showdown
What To Know
- 2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band, 574 Mbps on the second 5 GHz band, and 574 Mbps on the 2.
- The RT-AX57 is a budget-friendly option that provides solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, while the RT-AX58U is a premium choice for users who demand the best in speed, coverage, and features.
- The ASUS RT-AX58U is a better choice for gaming due to its dedicated gaming port and support for the WTFast GPN, which optimizes gaming traffic for reduced latency and lag.
In the realm of Wi-Fi routers, ASUS reigns supreme with its cutting-edge technology and innovative products. The ASUS RT-AX57 and RT-AX58U are two of the company’s most popular Wi-Fi 6 routers, offering exceptional performance and a plethora of features. But which one should you choose? In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the ASUS RT-AX57 vs RT-AX58U to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Speed and Coverage
Both the RT-AX57 and RT-AX58U support Wi-Fi 6, the latest wireless standard that delivers blazing-fast speeds and improved coverage. The RT-AX57 features a dual-band configuration with a maximum speed of 1.8 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The RT-AX58U, on the other hand, boasts a tri-band configuration with a maximum speed of 1.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band, 574 Mbps on the second 5 GHz band, and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
In terms of coverage, the RT-AX58U has a slight edge over the RT-AX57. It features four external antennas and ASUS’s RangeBoost technology, which extends the signal range and minimizes dead zones. The RT-AX57, with its four internal antennas, also provides impressive coverage, but it may struggle in larger homes or offices.
Features: Functionality and Flexibility
The ASUS RT-AX57 and RT-AX58U come packed with a range of features that enhance your Wi-Fi experience. Both routers support beamforming, which directs the signal towards connected devices, and MU-MIMO, which allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without sacrificing speed.
The RT-AX58U offers a few additional features that set it apart from the RT-AX57. It includes a built-in VPN server, allowing you to create a secure connection to your network from anywhere. It also has a dedicated gaming port that prioritizes gaming traffic for lag-free online gameplay.
Design: Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The ASUS RT-AX57 and RT-AX58U have distinct designs that cater to different tastes. The RT-AX57 is a compact and sleek router with a black finish and subtle LED indicators. The RT-AX58U, on the other hand, is larger and more angular, with a metallic gray finish and prominent LED lights.
Both routers feature easy-to-use web interfaces and mobile apps that allow you to manage your network settings remotely. The RT-AX58U, however, has a more intuitive interface with advanced features such as traffic monitoring and parental controls.
Security: Protection and Privacy
ASUS routers are renowned for their robust security features. The RT-AX57 and RT-AX58U both support WPA3 encryption, the latest security protocol that provides enhanced protection against unauthorized access. Additionally, they feature a built-in firewall, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and malware protection.
The RT-AX58U takes security a step further with its AiProtection Pro technology. It includes advanced features such as automatic threat detection and blocking, parental controls, and traffic analysis to protect your network and devices from online threats.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AX57 is available for around $120, while the RT-AX58U is priced at around $150. Both routers offer excellent value for money, considering their performance and feature set. The RT-AX57 is a budget-friendly option that provides solid Wi-Fi 6 performance, while the RT-AX58U is a premium choice for users who demand the best in speed, coverage, and features.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best router for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a high-performance Wi-Fi 6 router at an affordable price, the ASUS RT-AX57 is a solid choice. However, if you require the ultimate in speed, coverage, and features, the ASUS RT-AX58U is worth the extra investment.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which router has better parental controls?
The ASUS RT-AX58U has more robust parental controls than the RT-AX57, including features such as content filtering, time limits, and app blocking.
2. Does the ASUS RT-AX57 support mesh networking?
No, the RT-AX57 does not support mesh networking. However, the RT-AX58U does, allowing you to extend your Wi-Fi coverage with additional mesh nodes.
3. Which router is better for gaming?
The ASUS RT-AX58U is a better choice for gaming due to its dedicated gaming port and support for the WTFast GPN, which optimizes gaming traffic for reduced latency and lag.
