The Ultimate Wi-Fi 6 Router Battle: Asus RT-AX86U vs S
What To Know
- The RT-AX86U also has a larger memory capacity, with 512 MB of RAM and 256 MB of flash memory, while the RT-AX86S has 256 MB of RAM and 128 MB of flash memory.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the additional features of the RT-AX86U, the RT-AX86S offers a solid Wi-Fi 6 experience at a lower price point.
- The RT-AX86U stands as the clear winner for those seeking the ultimate in performance and versatility, while the RT-AX86S provides a cost-effective option for those who value a reliable and feature-rich Wi-Fi connection.
In the realm of home networking, the ASUS RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S routers stand as formidable contenders, offering cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6 technology for seamless connectivity. However, discerning the subtle differences between these two devices can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide will delve into the specifications, features, and performance aspects of the ASUS RT-AX86U vs S, empowering you to make an informed choice for your home Wi-Fi needs.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | RT-AX86U | RT-AX86S |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Bands | Tri-band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz + 5 GHz) | Dual-band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) |
| Maximum Theoretical Speed | 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 1201 Mbps (5 GHz) + 4804 Mbps (5 GHz) | 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 1201 Mbps (5 GHz) |
| Ports | 1x Gigabit WAN, 4x Gigabit LAN, 1x USB 3.0 | 1x Gigabit WAN, 4x Gigabit LAN |
| CPU | 1.8 GHz Quad-core | 1.5 GHz Quad-core |
| Memory | 512 MB RAM + 256 MB Flash | 256 MB RAM + 128 MB Flash |
Key Features
Tri-Band vs Dual-Band
The RT-AX86U boasts a tri-band configuration, providing three separate Wi-Fi bands for optimized performance. This allows for dedicated channels for different devices and activities, minimizing interference and ensuring a stable and fast connection for all connected gadgets. In contrast, the RT-AX86S features a dual-band configuration, which combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands into two channels.
Maximum Theoretical Speed
The RT-AX86U delivers an impressive maximum theoretical speed of 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, 1201 Mbps on the first 5 GHz band, and 4804 Mbps on the second 5 GHz band. This translates to a combined speed of up to 6600 Mbps, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as 4K streaming, online gaming, and file transfers. The RT-AX86S offers a slightly lower maximum theoretical speed of 1775 Mbps, combining 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
Processor and Memory
Both routers feature quad-core processors, with the RT-AX86U boasting a slightly higher clock speed of 1.8 GHz compared to the 1.5 GHz of the RT-AX86S. The RT-AX86U also has a larger memory capacity, with 512 MB of RAM and 256 MB of flash memory, while the RT-AX86S has 256 MB of RAM and 128 MB of flash memory. This additional memory allows the RT-AX86U to handle more simultaneous connections and perform more complex tasks with ease.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, the RT-AX86U consistently outperforms the RT-AX86S in both close-range and long-range tests. The tri-band configuration of the RT-AX86U provides a significant advantage, especially in congested environments where multiple devices are competing for bandwidth. The RT-AX86U also offers better signal strength and stability, ensuring a reliable connection even in large homes or offices.
Additional Features
ASUS AiMesh Support: Both the RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S support ASUS’s AiMesh technology, which allows you to create a mesh network by connecting multiple compatible routers. This provides seamless roaming capabilities and extended Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.
VPN Support: The RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S both support VPN connections, allowing you to securely connect to remote networks or access geo-restricted content.
Parental Controls: Both routers offer robust parental control features, enabling you to monitor and manage internet usage for your children.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between the ASUS RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require the best possible performance, tri-band configuration, and maximum flexibility, the RT-AX86U is the superior choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the additional features of the RT-AX86U, the RT-AX86S offers a solid Wi-Fi 6 experience at a lower price point.
Final Thoughts
Both the ASUS RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S are excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that will elevate your home networking experience. The RT-AX86U stands as the clear winner for those seeking the ultimate in performance and versatility, while the RT-AX86S provides a cost-effective option for those who value a reliable and feature-rich Wi-Fi connection.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which router is faster, the RT-AX86U or RT-AX86S?
A: The RT-AX86U offers a higher maximum theoretical speed and consistently outperforms the RT-AX86S in both close-range and long-range tests.
Q: Does the RT-AX86U support VPN connections?
A: Yes, both the RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S support VPN connections, allowing you to securely access remote networks or bypass geo-restrictions.
Q: Which router has more parental control features?
A: Both the RT-AX86U and RT-AX86S offer robust parental control features, enabling you to monitor and manage internet usage for your children.
