Key points
- The RT-AX58U consistently provided faster speeds on the 5 GHz band, while the AX73 had a slight edge on the 2.
- The RT-AX58U offers slightly faster speeds on the 5 GHz band and more advanced features, while the AX73 has a more compact design and a slightly lower price point.
- However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a compact design and a solid feature set, the TP-Link AX73 is an excellent value.
The world of Wi-Fi routers has been revolutionized by the advent of Wi-Fi 6 technology. With its blazing-fast speeds, reduced latency, and increased capacity, Wi-Fi 6 has become the standard for modern home and office networks. Among the plethora of Wi-Fi 6 routers available, two devices stand out as formidable contenders: the ASUS RT-AX58U and the TP-Link AX73. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit these two exceptional routers against each other to determine which one emerges victorious.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS RT-AX58U boasts a sleek and angular design with four external antennas that can be adjusted for optimal signal coverage. Its matte black finish exudes a professional and understated aesthetic. In contrast, the TP-Link AX73 features a more rounded and compact design with six internal antennas. Its glossy white casing lends it a modern and eye-catching appearance. Both routers are well-built and feel sturdy in the hand.
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the ASUS RT-AX58U and TP-Link AX73 are equipped with powerful hardware that enables them to deliver exceptional performance. The RT-AX58U is powered by a Broadcom BCM6755 processor with three co-processors, while the AX73 utilizes a Qualcomm IPQ8071A processor with two co-processors. Both routers offer 512MB of RAM and 256MB of flash storage.
Wi-Fi Performance
Wi-Fi performance is the cornerstone of any router, and the ASUS RT-AX58U and TP-Link AX73 do not disappoint. The RT-AX58U supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard and offers theoretical speeds of up to 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 4804 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. The AX73 also supports Wi-Fi 6 and boasts theoretical speeds of up to 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
In real-world testing, both routers delivered impressive speeds. The RT-AX58U consistently provided faster speeds on the 5 GHz band, while the AX73 had a slight edge on the 2.4 GHz band. However, the differences in speed were marginal, and both routers were able to provide seamless streaming, gaming, and web browsing experiences.
Coverage and Signal Strength
Coverage and signal strength are crucial for ensuring that your Wi-Fi network reaches every corner of your home or office. The ASUS RT-AX58U features four external antennas that can be adjusted for optimal coverage, while the TP-Link AX73 has six internal antennas.
In our testing, both routers provided excellent coverage throughout a 2,000 square foot home. The RT-AX58U’s adjustable antennas allowed for more precise control over signal direction, but the AX73’s internal antennas were surprisingly effective at delivering a strong and stable signal.
Features
Both the ASUS RT-AX58U and TP-Link AX73 come packed with a wide range of features to enhance your networking experience. The RT-AX58U includes AiMesh support, which allows you to create a mesh network with other compatible ASUS routers to extend your Wi-Fi coverage even further. The AX73, on the other hand, features HomeCare, a comprehensive security suite that includes antivirus, parental controls, and quality of service (QoS) functionality.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AX58U typically retails for around $150, while the TP-Link AX73 is slightly more affordable at around $130. Both routers offer excellent value for money, considering their performance and feature set.
The Verdict: ASUS RT-AX58U vs TP-Link AX73
After carefully evaluating the ASUS RT-AX58U and TP-Link AX73, we have concluded that both routers are exceptional performers that deserve a place in any modern home or office. The RT-AX58U offers slightly faster speeds on the 5 GHz band and more advanced features, while the AX73 has a more compact design and a slightly lower price point.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw speed and advanced features, the ASUS RT-AX58U is the superior choice. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a compact design and a solid feature set, the TP-Link AX73 is an excellent value.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which router has a better range?
A: Both the ASUS RT-AX58U and TP-Link AX73 offer excellent range. However, the RT-AX58U’s adjustable antennas may provide a slight edge in certain environments.
Q: Does the TP-Link AX73 support Wi-Fi 6E?
A: No, the TP-Link AX73 does not support Wi-Fi 6E, which is a newer standard that operates on the 6 GHz band.
Q: Can I use the ASUS RT-AX58U as a mesh router?
A: Yes, the ASUS RT-AX58U supports AiMesh, which allows you to create a mesh network with other compatible ASUS routers.
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: The TP-Link AX73’s HomeCare suite includes robust parental controls that allow you to set time limits, filter content, and monitor your children’s online activity.
Q: Does the ASUS RT-AX58U have a USB port?
A: Yes, the ASUS RT-AX58U has one USB 3.0 port that you can use to connect external storage devices or printers.