TP-Link Archer GX90 vs ASUS RT-AX86U: The Ultimate Gaming Router Showdown
What To Know
- In the realm of gaming, a reliable and high-performance router is essential for a seamless and lag-free experience.
- The RT-AX86U boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a black and gold color scheme.
- Its AiMesh support and Adaptive QoS make it a suitable option for larger homes or multi-user environments.
In the realm of gaming, a reliable and high-performance router is essential for a seamless and lag-free experience. The TP-Link Archer GX90 and the ASUS RT-AX86U stand as two formidable contenders in this category. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, performance benchmarks, and unique strengths of each router to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
TP-Link Archer GX90: The GX90 sports an aggressive design with angular lines and a large, illuminated “X” logo. It features eight external antennas and a sturdy base for stability.
ASUS RT-AX86U: The RT-AX86U boasts a sleek and minimalist design with a black and gold color scheme. Its four external antennas are strategically placed for optimal coverage.
Features
TP-Link Archer GX90:
- Game Accelerator: Prioritizes gaming traffic for reduced latency.
- OneMesh Support: Extends Wi-Fi coverage with compatible TP-Link devices.
- 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6): Supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster speeds and increased capacity.
- 160MHz Channel Width: Doubles the channel bandwidth for higher throughput.
ASUS RT-AX86U:
- OFDMA and MU-MIMO: Enhances efficiency and reduces latency in crowded networks.
- AiMesh Support: Connects multiple ASUS routers for a seamless whole-home mesh network.
- Adaptive QoS: Automatically prioritizes network traffic based on usage patterns.
- VPN Fusion: Allows simultaneous use of VPN and regular internet connections.
Performance
Speed and Range:
- TP-Link Archer GX90: Delivers impressive speeds of up to 6000Mbps (1200Mbps on 2.4GHz + 4800Mbps on 5GHz) and covers a wide range of up to 3,000 square feet.
- ASUS RT-AX86U: Offers comparable speeds of up to 5700Mbps (861Mbps on 2.4GHz + 4804Mbps on 5GHz) and covers a slightly smaller area of up to 2,500 square feet.
Latency:
- TP-Link Archer GX90: The Game Accelerator feature reduces latency by up to 50%.
- ASUS RT-AX86U: OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies minimize latency in crowded environments.
Security
Both routers offer robust security features, including:
- WPA3 encryption
- Firewall protection
- Parental controls
- Malware protection
Gaming Features
TP-Link Archer GX90:
- Game Statistics: Provides real-time insights into gaming performance.
- Ping Optimizer: Reduces latency and improves responsiveness.
- Traffic Optimizer: Prioritizes gaming traffic over other network activities.
ASUS RT-AX86U:
- Game Boost: Automatically detects and prioritizes gaming traffic.
- Game Profile: Allows users to create custom settings for different games.
- NAT Open: Simplifies port forwarding for online multiplayer gaming.
Verdict: Which Router is Right for You?
The TP-Link Archer GX90 is an ideal choice for gamers who demand the highest performance and customization options. Its Game Accelerator and dedicated gaming features provide a significant edge in online gaming.
The ASUS RT-AX86U excels in providing a stable and versatile networking experience. Its AiMesh support and Adaptive QoS make it a suitable option for larger homes or multi-user environments.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. If gaming is your top priority, the TP-Link Archer GX90 is the superior option. If you value versatility and whole-home coverage, the ASUS RT-AX86U is a solid choice.
Popular Questions
1. Which router has a wider range?
- TP-Link Archer GX90: 3,000 square feet
- ASUS RT-AX86U: 2,500 square feet
2. Which router offers more customization options for gaming?
- TP-Link Archer GX90
3. Which router supports AiMesh?
- ASUS RT-AX86U
4. Which router has a higher maximum speed?
- TP-Link Archer GX90: 6000Mbps
- ASUS RT-AX86U: 5700Mbps
5. Which router is more affordable?
- TP-Link Archer GX90
6. Which router has a better warranty?
- Both routers offer a 2-year limited warranty.
7. Which router is easier to set up?
- Both routers feature user-friendly setup processes.
8. Which router is more energy-efficient?
- Both routers offer energy-saving features.
9. Which router is better for streaming 4K content?
- Both routers can handle 4K streaming without buffering.
10. Which router is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant?
- Both routers support voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant.
