The Ultimate Showdown: TP-Link Archer AX73 vs. ASUS RT-AX55
What To Know
- The Archer AX73 has a slight edge in terms of features, offering a built-in VPN server and a dedicated gaming mode.
- The RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a more user-friendly web interface and a mobile app with a wider range of customization options.
- The Archer AX73 has a slightly better hardware configuration and a few more features, while the RT-AX55 has a more user-friendly interface and a longer warranty.
The world of home networking has entered a new era with the advent of Wi-Fi 6 technology. With its blazing-fast speeds and enhanced coverage, Wi-Fi 6 promises to revolutionize the way we connect our devices. However, finding the right Wi-Fi 6 router that meets your needs and budget can be a daunting task. Two of the most popular options in the budget-friendly category are the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the ASUS RT-AX55. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, performance, and value proposition of each router to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Archer AX73 and the RT-AX55 sport a sleek and modern design. The Archer AX73 features a matte black finish with angular lines, while the RT-AX55 has a more rounded and glossy appearance. Both routers are compact and can be easily placed on a shelf or desk.
In terms of build quality, both routers feel solid and well-made. The Archer AX73 has a slightly heavier construction, which gives it a more premium feel. However, both routers have sturdy plastic casings that are designed to withstand everyday use.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, both routers pack a punch with their hardware specifications. The Archer AX73 features a powerful 1.5GHz quad-core CPU and 512MB of RAM. The RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a slightly faster 1.8GHz dual-core CPU but less RAM at 256MB.
In terms of performance, both routers deliver excellent speeds and coverage. The Archer AX73 offers slightly faster speeds on the 5GHz band, while the RT-AX55 has a better range on the 2.4GHz band. However, the differences in performance are negligible and both routers will provide a seamless wireless experience for most users.
Features and Software
The Archer AX73 and the RT-AX55 come with a comprehensive suite of features to enhance your home networking experience. Both routers support the latest security protocols, including WPA3, and offer advanced parental controls to keep your children safe online.
The Archer AX73 has a slight edge in terms of features, offering a built-in VPN server and a dedicated gaming mode. The RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a more user-friendly web interface and a mobile app with a wider range of customization options.
Connectivity and Ports
Both routers offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Gigabit Ethernet ports, USB ports, and a WPS button. The Archer AX73 has one more Gigabit Ethernet port than the RT-AX55, which can be useful for connecting wired devices.
Price and Value
The Archer AX73 and the RT-AX55 are both priced competitively in the budget-friendly category. The Archer AX73 typically retails for slightly less than the RT-AX55.
In terms of value, both routers offer a great bang for your buck. The Archer AX73 has a slightly better hardware configuration and a few more features, while the RT-AX55 has a more user-friendly interface and a longer warranty.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict
The TP-Link Archer AX73 and the ASUS RT-AX55 are both excellent budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer a great balance of performance, features, and value. However, based on our comprehensive comparison, we believe that the TP-Link Archer AX73 is the slightly better choice for most users.
The Archer AX73 has a more powerful hardware configuration, a slightly wider range of features, and a lower price. While the RT-AX55 has a more user-friendly interface and a longer warranty, these advantages are not enough to outweigh the Archer AX73’s superior performance and value.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which router has a better range?
The ASUS RT-AX55 has a slightly better range on the 2.4GHz band, while the TP-Link Archer AX73 has a slightly better range on the 5GHz band.
2. Which router has more features?
The TP-Link Archer AX73 has a few more features, including a built-in VPN server and a dedicated gaming mode.
3. Which router is easier to set up and use?
The ASUS RT-AX55 has a more user-friendly web interface and a mobile app with a wider range of customization options.
4. Which router is better for gaming?
Both routers offer a dedicated gaming mode, but the TP-Link Archer AX73 has a slightly faster CPU and more RAM, which may provide a slight edge for gaming.
5. Which router is better for a large home?
Both routers are suitable for large homes, but the TP-Link Archer AX73 has a slightly wider range and more Gigabit Ethernet ports.
