AC vs AX: The Battle for Wi-Fi Supremacy – ASUS ZenWiFi Showdown!

The world of Wi-Fi technology is constantly evolving, with the latest advancement being the introduction of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). ASUS, a leading manufacturer of networking devices, has released two Wi-Fi mesh systems that support both AC and AX standards: the ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare these two systems, exploring their features, performance, and suitability for different scenarios.

Wi-Fi Standards: AC vs. AX

Before delving into the comparison, let’s understand the fundamental differences between Wi-Fi AC and Wi-Fi AX standards. Wi-Fi AC, also known as 802.11ac, operates on the 5 GHz frequency band and offers significant speed improvements over previous standards. Wi-Fi AX, or 802.11ax, builds upon AC technology by adding new features such as OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and TWT, which enhance efficiency, capacity, and power saving.

Design and Features

Both ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX systems come in a two-pack or three-pack configuration. The AC system features a sleek, tower-shaped design, while the AX system has a more compact, cube-shaped design. Both systems support AiMesh technology, which allows you to combine multiple compatible ASUS routers or mesh nodes to create a seamless Wi-Fi network.

Performance

In terms of performance, the ZenWiFi AX system has a clear advantage over the ZenWiFi AC system. The AX system supports up to 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, while the AC system supports up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. Additionally, the AX system utilizes OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies, which improve efficiency and reduce latency, especially in congested environments.

Coverage

Both ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX systems provide excellent coverage, with each node covering up to 2,000 square feet. However, the AX system has a slight edge in coverage due to its higher signal strength and the use of beamforming technology, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices.

Security

Security is a crucial aspect of any Wi-Fi network. Both ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX systems offer robust security features, including WPA2 and WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and parental controls. Additionally, the AX system supports WPA3-Personal, which provides enhanced security over WPA2.

Management

Managing your Wi-Fi network should be easy and convenient. Both ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX systems come with the ASUS Router app, which provides a user-friendly interface for configuring and monitoring your network. The app allows you to view connected devices, prioritize traffic, and perform firmware updates.

Key Points: Choosing the Right System for Your Needs

The decision between the ASUS ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX systems ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you prioritize speed, efficiency, and future-proofing, the ZenWiFi AX system is the clear choice. Its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities offer significant performance improvements, especially in congested environments.

However, if you’re on a budget or don’t require the latest Wi-Fi technology, the ZenWiFi AC system is a solid choice. It provides reliable coverage and performance for most home and small office environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which system is better for gaming?
A: The ZenWiFi AX system is better for gaming due to its lower latency and improved efficiency.

Q: Can I mix ZenWiFi AC and ZenWiFi AX nodes?
A: No, you cannot mix AC and AX nodes in the same AiMesh network.

Q: How do I extend the coverage of my ZenWiFi system?
A: You can add additional ZenWiFi nodes to your network to extend the coverage.

Q: What is the difference between the two-pack and three-pack configurations?
A: The three-pack configuration provides wider coverage than the two-pack configuration, making it suitable for larger homes or offices.

Q: Which system has better parental controls?
A: Both systems offer robust parental controls through the ASUS Router app.