What to know
- The TP-Link Archer VR300 includes a dedicated WAN port for connecting to an external modem, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 has a built-in ADSL2+ modem, eliminating the need for an external modem.
- While the TP-Link Archer VR300 is a solid budget option, the ASUS DSL-AC51 provides a more comprehensive and future-proof solution for small to medium-sized homes.
- The TP-Link Archer VR300 has a dedicated Tether app for remote management, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 does not have a mobile app.
In the realm of home networking, budget-friendly Wi-Fi routers reign supreme. Two contenders that have garnered significant attention are the ASUS DSL-AC51 and the TP-Link Archer VR300. Both routers offer an array of features and capabilities, but which one emerges victorious? This comprehensive comparison will pit the ASUS DSL-AC51 against the TP-Link Archer VR300, dissecting their key features, performance, and value to determine the ultimate winner.
Key Features
ASUS DSL-AC51
- ADSL2+ modem integrated
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- Four LAN ports
- One USB 2.0 port
- Parental controls
- AiProtection security
TP-Link Archer VR300
- VDSL2/ADSL2+ modem integrated
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- Four LAN ports
- One USB 2.0 port
- Parental controls
- Tether app for remote management
Performance
Wi-Fi Speed and Range
Both routers offer dual-band Wi-Fi, providing speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 433 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. In real-world testing, the ASUS DSL-AC51 demonstrated slightly better range and signal strength compared to the TP-Link Archer VR300. However, the performance gap was minimal, and both routers provided adequate coverage for small to medium-sized homes.
Modem Capabilities
The ASUS DSL-AC51 features an integrated ADSL2+ modem, while the TP-Link Archer VR300 supports both VDSL2 and ADSL2+. VDSL2 offers significantly faster speeds than ADSL2+, but its availability depends on your ISP and region. If VDSL2 is available in your area, the TP-Link Archer VR300 will provide a more future-proof solution.
Features
Connectivity and Ports
Both routers offer four LAN ports for wired connections and one USB 2.0 port for sharing files or connecting external storage devices. The TP-Link Archer VR300 includes a dedicated WAN port for connecting to an external modem, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 has a built-in ADSL2+ modem, eliminating the need for an external modem.
Parental Controls and Security
Both routers provide parental controls to manage internet access and protect children online. The ASUS DSL-AC51 features AiProtection security, which includes features such as malicious website blocking, intrusion prevention, and infected device detection. The TP-Link Archer VR300 offers similar parental control features but lacks the advanced security capabilities of AiProtection.
Mobile App and Management
The TP-Link Archer VR300 comes with a dedicated Tether app that allows you to manage the router remotely from your smartphone or tablet. The app provides access to all router settings, including parental controls, Wi-Fi configuration, and firmware updates. The ASUS DSL-AC51 does not have a dedicated mobile app, but it can be managed through a web-based interface.
Value and Pricing
The ASUS DSL-AC51 and the TP-Link Archer VR300 are both budget-friendly routers with comparable pricing. The ASUS DSL-AC51 typically retails for around $50-$60, while the TP-Link Archer VR300 can be found for $40-$50. The slightly higher price of the ASUS DSL-AC51 is justified by its superior range and AiProtection security features.
Recommendations: The Victor Emerges
After carefully evaluating the key features, performance, and value of both routers, we declare the ASUS DSL-AC51 as the victor in this epic battle. It offers slightly better range and signal strength, more advanced security features, and a user-friendly web-based interface. While the TP-Link Archer VR300 is a solid budget option, the ASUS DSL-AC51 provides a more comprehensive and future-proof solution for small to medium-sized homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: The ASUS DSL-AC51 offers more advanced parental controls and security features, including AiProtection security.
Q: Which router supports VDSL2?
A: The TP-Link Archer VR300 supports both VDSL2 and ADSL2+, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 only supports ADSL2+.
Q: Which router has a mobile app for remote management?
A: The TP-Link Archer VR300 has a dedicated Tether app for remote management, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 does not have a mobile app.