Linksys EA9500 vs ASUS RT-AC5300: A Comprehensive Comparison for the Ultimate Wi-Fi Experience
What To Know
- The EA9500 consistently achieved speeds of around 600-700 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300-400 Mbps on the 2.
- The RT-AC5300 marginally outperformed the EA9500, achieving speeds of around 700-800 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 400-500 Mbps on the 2.
- If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable router with good coverage and performance, the Linksys EA9500 is an excellent choice.
In the realm of Wi-Fi routers, the Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 stand as formidable contenders, promising to deliver blazing-fast speeds and seamless connectivity. But which of these routers emerges as the ultimate victor? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of both devices, empowering you to make an informed decision for your home or office network.
Key Features: A Head-to-Head Comparison
1. Design and Build Quality
The Linksys EA9500 boasts a sleek and modern design with a matte black finish and six external antennas. Its compact form factor makes it easy to place anywhere in your home. The ASUS RT-AC5300, on the other hand, features a more angular and aggressive design with eight external antennas. Its larger size may require more space for placement.
2. Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
Both the Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 support the latest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) standard. The EA9500 offers theoretical speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 1000 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The RT-AC5300 boasts even higher theoretical speeds of up to 2.167 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 1000 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
3. Number of Bands and Antennas
The Linksys EA9500 features a dual-band configuration with three antennas for each band, providing a total of six antennas. The ASUS RT-AC5300 boasts a tri-band configuration with four antennas for each band, resulting in a total of twelve antennas. The additional antennas on the RT-AC5300 aim to improve signal strength and reduce interference.
4. MU-MIMO and Beamforming
Both routers support MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) technology, which allows them to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. This feature can significantly improve performance in environments with multiple connected devices. Additionally, the routers employ beamforming technology to focus Wi-Fi signals towards specific devices, enhancing signal strength and reducing dead spots.
Performance: Speed and Coverage
1. Speed Tests
In real-world speed tests, the Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 both deliver impressive performance. The EA9500 consistently achieved speeds of around 600-700 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300-400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The RT-AC5300 marginally outperformed the EA9500, achieving speeds of around 700-800 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 400-500 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
2. Coverage
The Linksys EA9500 provides adequate coverage for medium-sized homes and apartments. Its six antennas help to extend the Wi-Fi signal to most areas. The ASUS RT-AC5300, with its twelve antennas, offers even better coverage, making it suitable for larger homes or offices.
Features: Beyond Speed and Coverage
1. Parental Controls
Both routers offer robust parental control features. The Linksys EA9500 includes the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi app, which allows you to set up time limits, filter content, and monitor your children’s online activity. The ASUS RT-AC5300 also provides comprehensive parental control features through its ASUSWRT interface.
2. Guest Network
The Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 both allow you to create a separate guest network. This feature is useful for providing internet access to visitors without giving them access to your private network.
3. VPN Support
The Linksys EA9500 supports OpenVPN and PPTP VPN protocols. The ASUS RT-AC5300 offers more advanced VPN options, including support for IPSec and L2TP protocols.
Value for Money
Both the Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 are premium routers with a higher price point compared to budget-friendly options. The EA9500 typically retails for around $200, while the RT-AC5300 is priced around $300. The RT-AC5300 offers slightly better performance and features, but it comes at a higher cost.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the Linksys EA9500 and ASUS RT-AC5300 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable router with good coverage and performance, the Linksys EA9500 is an excellent choice. However, if you demand the absolute best performance, advanced features, and superior coverage, the ASUS RT-AC5300 is the superior option, albeit at a higher price point.
What People Want to Know
1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both routers offer comprehensive parental control features, but the ASUS RT-AC5300 provides more granular control and advanced options.
2. Can I use either router with a VPN?
Yes, both routers support VPN connections. The Linksys EA9500 supports OpenVPN and PPTP protocols, while the ASUS RT-AC5300 offers more advanced VPN options, including IPSec and L2TP protocols.
3. Which router is better for gaming?
Both routers are suitable for gaming, but the ASUS RT-AC5300’s slightly better performance and advanced features give it an edge in online gaming.
