ASUS RT-AX86U vs. FRITZ!Box 7590 AX: Battle of the Wi-Fi 6 Superstars

The world of Wi-Fi 6 routers is evolving rapidly, with new models emerging to meet the ever-increasing demand for faster, more reliable wireless connectivity. Two such routers that have garnered significant attention are the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of these two Wi-Fi 6 powerhouses to determine which one reigns supreme.

Network Performance: Speed and Range

Both the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX are equipped with the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, promising blazing-fast speeds and extended range. The RT-AX86U boasts a theoretical maximum speed of 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 4804 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, while the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX claims speeds of 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 4800 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.

In real-world testing, the RT-AX86U consistently delivered faster speeds, particularly at longer distances from the router. However, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX exhibited slightly better range, providing a more stable connection in areas with weaker signal strength.

Connectivity and Features

The ASUS RT-AX86U offers a wide range of connectivity options, including four Gigabit Ethernet ports, one WAN port, and one USB 3.0 port. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX, on the other hand, features a more comprehensive set of ports, including four Gigabit Ethernet ports, two WAN ports, one USB 3.0 port, and one USB 2.0 port.

Both routers support advanced features such as beamforming, MU-MIMO, and OFDMA, which enhance signal strength and efficiency. Additionally, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX boasts a built-in DECT base station for cordless phones, as well as a dedicated mesh backhaul channel for seamless mesh networking.

Security and Software

The ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX both offer robust security features to protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. They support WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and parental controls.

However, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has a slight edge in terms of software, thanks to its intuitive user interface and advanced features such as VPN support, dynamic DNS, and a built-in security scanner.

Design and Aesthetics

The ASUS RT-AX86U has a sleek and modern design with sharp angles and a predominantly black color scheme. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX, on the other hand, has a more traditional and functional design with rounded corners and a white finish.

Ultimately, the choice between the two designs is a matter of personal preference.

Price and Value

The ASUS RT-AX86U typically retails for around $200, while the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX is priced at around $300. For the slightly higher price, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX offers a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in DECT base station, dedicated mesh backhaul channel, and more advanced software.

Which One to Choose?

The choice between the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you prioritize sheer speed and affordability, the ASUS RT-AX86U is an excellent option. However, if you value a more comprehensive feature set, including advanced software, a built-in DECT base station, and improved range, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX is the better choice.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX offer parental controls, but the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has more advanced options, including time limits, website filtering, and content blocking.

2. Can either router handle a large number of connected devices?
Yes, both the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX support MU-MIMO and OFDMA, which allow them to efficiently handle multiple devices simultaneously.

3. Which router is better for gaming?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes gaming traffic, making it the better choice for online gaming.