TP-Link Archer AX72 vs ASUS RT-AX55: A Comprehensive Comparison for Your Wi-Fi Needs
What To Know
- 4 GHz band and 4800 Mbps on the 5 GHz band), while the RT-AX55 offers a maximum speed of 3000 Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.
- The Archer AX72 has a sleek and angular design with a matte black finish, while the RT-AX55 has a more futuristic design with a glossy black finish and LED lighting.
- The Archer AX72 is a suitable choice for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize coverage and speed, while the RT-AX55 is a solid option for users who value advanced features, gaming capabilities, and a premium design.
In the realm of home networking, TP-Link and ASUS are two renowned brands that offer a wide range of routers. Among their latest offerings are the TP-Link Archer AX72 and the ASUS RT-AX55, both promising exceptional Wi-Fi performance and advanced features. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two routers to help you make an informed decision for your home network.
Wi-Fi Performance
Both the Archer AX72 and the RT-AX55 support the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, which offers significantly faster speeds, improved range, and reduced latency compared to previous generations. The Archer AX72 features a tri-band configuration with a dedicated 5 GHz band for high-bandwidth applications and two 2.4 GHz bands for wider coverage. On the other hand, the RT-AX55 has a dual-band configuration with one 5 GHz band and one 2.4 GHz band.
In terms of speed, the Archer AX72 boasts a maximum theoretical speed of 5400 Mbps (1200 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 4800 Mbps on the 5 GHz band), while the RT-AX55 offers a maximum speed of 3000 Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band). In real-world scenarios, both routers deliver impressive speeds, with the Archer AX72 typically having a slight edge due to its tri-band configuration.
Coverage and Range
The Archer AX72 and the RT-AX55 employ different antenna configurations to achieve optimal coverage and range. The Archer AX72 has four external antennas, while the RT-AX55 has six external antennas. Additionally, the RT-AX55 features beamforming technology, which focuses Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices for improved range and reliability.
In terms of coverage, both routers offer a wide range that can cater to most homes and small offices. However, the Archer AX72’s tri-band configuration and additional antennas provide a slight advantage in extending coverage to larger areas and reducing dead spots.
Features and Functionality
Both the Archer AX72 and the RT-AX55 come equipped with a range of features and functionality to enhance your home networking experience.
Archer AX72:
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) for improved efficiency and reduced latency
- MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) for simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices
- Smart Connect technology to automatically assign devices to the optimal band
- OneMesh support for seamless whole-home Wi-Fi coverage
RT-AX55:
- AiMesh support for mesh networking and extended coverage
- Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize bandwidth for critical applications
- Parental controls and advanced security features
- ROG Gaming Center for optimized gaming performance and low latency
Design and Build Quality
The Archer AX72 and the RT-AX55 differ in terms of design and build quality. The Archer AX72 has a sleek and angular design with a matte black finish, while the RT-AX55 has a more futuristic design with a glossy black finish and LED lighting.
Both routers are constructed from high-quality materials and feel sturdy. However, the RT-AX55’s larger size and more elaborate design give it a more premium appearance.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer AX72 and the ASUS RT-AX55 are priced similarly, with the Archer AX72 typically being slightly more affordable. When considering the value for money, both routers offer a good balance of features, performance, and price.
The Archer AX72 is a suitable choice for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize coverage and speed, while the RT-AX55 is a solid option for users who value advanced features, gaming capabilities, and a premium design.
Which Router is Right for You?
Choosing between the TP-Link Archer AX72 and the ASUS RT-AX55 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Consider the Archer AX72 if:
- You have a large home or office and require extensive coverage
- You need a router with a dedicated 5 GHz band for high-bandwidth applications
- You prioritize speed and want a router with a high maximum throughput
- You are on a budget and want a good value for money
Consider the RT-AX55 if:
- You want a router with advanced features such as AiMesh and ROG Gaming Center
- You prioritize gaming performance and low latency
- You value a premium design and build quality
- You are willing to pay a bit more for a more feature-rich router
The Bottom Line: The Battle of the Wi-Fi Giants
The TP-Link Archer AX72 and the ASUS RT-AX55 are both excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer impressive performance and a range of features. While the Archer AX72 excels in coverage and speed, the RT-AX55 boasts advanced features, gaming capabilities, and a premium design. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: The ASUS RT-AX55 offers more comprehensive parental controls, including website filtering, time limits, and content restrictions.
Q: Can I use either router to create a mesh network?
A: Yes, the Archer AX72 supports OneMesh, while the RT-AX55 supports AiMesh. Both technologies allow you to create a seamless whole-home Wi-Fi network with multiple routers.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: The ASUS RT-AX55 has dedicated gaming features such as the ROG Gaming Center and Adaptive QoS, making it the better choice for gamers who prioritize low latency and optimized performance.
