At a Glance
- If you value a sleek design, advanced features like AiMesh, and a slightly faster performance at close range, the Asus RT-AX86U Pro is the better choice.
- However, if you prioritize a stable connection at longer distances, a dedicated gaming mode, and a slightly lower price, the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 is a solid option.
- Both the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 offer excellent Wi-Fi coverage, but the Asus router may have a slight edge at close range.
In the realm of home networking, Asus and Netgear stand as two titans, offering a plethora of high-performance Wi-Fi routers. Two of their most popular models, the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80, have garnered immense attention for their cutting-edge features and exceptional performance. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of both routers, pitting them against each other in a battle for Wi-Fi supremacy.
Design and Build Quality
The Asus RT-AX86U Pro boasts a sleek and futuristic design, featuring a matte black exterior with angular edges. Its compact form factor makes it easy to place anywhere in your home, while its four external antennas ensure wide signal coverage. The Netgear Nighthawk RAX80, on the other hand, exudes a more traditional router aesthetic with its glossy black finish and large, wing-like antennas. Its larger size may require more space, but it provides a sense of robustness and stability.
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the Asus RT-AX86U Pro packs a powerful Qualcomm IPQ8078 processor and 512MB of RAM, providing ample processing power for demanding applications. The Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 features a slightly faster Qualcomm IPQ8074 processor but offers the same 512MB of RAM. Both routers support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, delivering blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency.
Wi-Fi Performance
When it comes to Wi-Fi performance, both the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 deliver impressive results. In testing, the Asus router consistently provided slightly faster speeds at close range, while the Netgear router offered a more stable connection at longer distances. Both routers offer excellent range and can cover large homes or offices with ease.
Features
The Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 boast an array of advanced features that enhance their usability and performance. The Asus router features AiMesh support, allowing you to create a mesh network with compatible Asus routers for seamless coverage throughout your home. The Netgear router, on the other hand, offers a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes online gaming traffic for a lag-free experience.
Security
Both the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 come equipped with robust security features to protect your network from cyber threats. They support WPA3 encryption, the latest Wi-Fi security protocol, and offer advanced parental controls to manage your family’s online activities. Additionally, the Asus router features a built-in VPN server, allowing you to create a secure connection to your home network from anywhere.
Price and Availability
The Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 are both available at similar price points, typically ranging from $200 to $300. The Asus router is slightly more expensive but offers a few additional features, such as AiMesh support and a VPN server.
Final Verdict: Asus RT-AX86U Pro vs Netgear
Choosing between the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a sleek design, advanced features like AiMesh, and a slightly faster performance at close range, the Asus RT-AX86U Pro is the better choice. However, if you prioritize a stable connection at longer distances, a dedicated gaming mode, and a slightly lower price, the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 is a solid option.
Popular Questions
1. Which router has better Wi-Fi coverage?
Both the Asus RT-AX86U Pro and the Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 offer excellent Wi-Fi coverage, but the Asus router may have a slight edge at close range.
2. Which router is better for gaming?
The Netgear Nighthawk RAX80 offers a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes online gaming traffic, making it a better choice for gamers.
3. Which router is more secure?
Both routers offer robust security features, including WPA3 encryption and advanced parental controls. The Asus RT-AX86U Pro has a slight advantage with its built-in VPN server.