TP-Link Archer AX55 vs ASUS RT-AX86U: Battle of the Wi-Fi 6 Routers
What To Know
- The TP-Link Archer AX55 sports a sleek and compact design, while the ASUS RT-AX86U exudes a more premium and aggressive look.
- However, the RT-AX86U has a more comprehensive security suite, including intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and a built-in VPN server.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router with decent performance, the TP-Link Archer AX55 is a solid choice.
In today’s digital world, a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi router is essential for seamless connectivity. When it comes to Wi-Fi 6 routers, two standout contenders are the TP-Link Archer AX55 and the ASUS RT-AX86U. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two routers, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.
Design and Features
The TP-Link Archer AX55 sports a sleek and compact design, while the ASUS RT-AX86U exudes a more premium and aggressive look. The RT-AX86U features a larger form factor and an integrated heatsink for improved thermal management.
In terms of features, the RT-AX86U comes out on top. It offers a wider range of connectivity options, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a USB 2.0 port, and a 2.5GbE WAN port. The AX55, on the other hand, has only one USB 3.0 port and a 1GbE WAN port.
Performance
Both routers support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, offering theoretical speeds of up to 1.8Gbps on the 2.4GHz band and 2.4Gbps on the 5GHz band. In real-world tests, the RT-AX86U consistently outperforms the AX55 in both speed and range. This is likely due to the RT-AX86U’s superior hardware, including a more powerful processor and a larger number of antennas.
Coverage and Signal Strength
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a wider coverage area than the TP-Link Archer AX55. It utilizes a combination of beamforming and MU-MIMO technologies to optimize signal distribution and reduce dead spots. Additionally, the RT-AX86U supports AiMesh, which allows you to create a mesh network by connecting multiple compatible routers.
Security and Software
Both routers offer robust security features, including WPA3 encryption and parental controls. However, the RT-AX86U has a more comprehensive security suite, including intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and a built-in VPN server.
In terms of software, the RT-AX86U has a more user-friendly and feature-rich web interface than the AX55. It also supports the ASUSWRT firmware, which provides advanced customization options for experienced users.
Gaming and QoS
The ASUS RT-AX86U is an excellent choice for gamers, as it offers a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes gaming traffic. It also supports Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service), which automatically allocates bandwidth based on device usage and application type.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer AX55 is typically priced lower than the ASUS RT-AX86U. However, the RT-AX86U offers a better overall value for money due to its superior performance, features, and software.
Which Router Is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router with decent performance, the TP-Link Archer AX55 is a solid choice. However, if you demand the best possible performance, features, and security, the ASUS RT-AX86U is the better option, despite its higher price tag.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which router has a faster processor?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U has a more powerful processor than the TP-Link Archer AX55.
Q: Which router has more antennas?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U has 8 antennas, while the TP-Link Archer AX55 has 4 antennas.
Q: Which router supports AiMesh?
A: Only the ASUS RT-AX86U supports AiMesh.
Q: Which router has a more user-friendly interface?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U has a more user-friendly and feature-rich web interface than the TP-Link Archer AX55.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: The ASUS RT-AX86U is a better choice for gaming due to its dedicated gaming mode and Adaptive QoS.
