Essential Information
- In this comprehensive comparison, we delve deep into the features, performance, and user experience of the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ.
- Its matte black finish gives it a premium look, and the RGB lighting on the front panel adds a touch of flair.
- Box 7590 AX has a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in DECT base station, a media server, and a parental control system.
The world of Wi-Fi routers is constantly evolving, with new models promising faster speeds, wider coverage, and more advanced features. Two such routers that have caught the attention of tech enthusiasts are the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX. Both routers boast impressive specs and cutting-edge technology, but which one is the better choice for your home network? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve deep into the features, performance, and user experience of the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX to determine the ultimate Wi-Fi champion.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS RT-AX86U sports a sleek and angular design with eight external antennas that provide enhanced signal coverage. Its matte black finish gives it a premium look, and the RGB lighting on the front panel adds a touch of flair. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX, on the other hand, has a more traditional router design with four fixed antennas. It features a white and gray color scheme that blends seamlessly with most home decors. The build quality of both routers is excellent, with sturdy plastic construction and well-placed ventilation holes to prevent overheating.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the ASUS RT-AX86U packs a powerful 1.8 GHz quad-core processor and 512 MB of RAM. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which offers faster speeds and improved efficiency compared to previous generations. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX also features a quad-core processor, but it is clocked at 1.5 GHz and has 256 MB of RAM. It supports both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) standards, providing backward compatibility with older devices.
In terms of performance, both routers deliver blazing-fast speeds. The ASUS RT-AX86U slightly edges out the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX in raw throughput, but the difference is negligible for most users. Both routers provide excellent coverage throughout a typical home, and they handle multiple connected devices with ease.
Features and Functionality
The ASUS RT-AX86U offers a wide range of features, including AiMesh support, which allows you to create a mesh network with multiple ASUS routers for even wider coverage. It also has a built-in VPN server and a gaming mode that optimizes the router’s settings for online gaming. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in DECT base station, a media server, and a parental control system. It also supports the FRITZ!OS operating system, which provides a user-friendly interface and advanced network management tools.
Software and User Interface
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a user-friendly web interface that provides access to all the router’s settings. It is well-organized and easy to navigate, even for beginners. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX also has a user-friendly interface, but it is more comprehensive and offers more advanced options. It is suitable for both casual users and tech enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their network settings.
Security and Privacy
Both the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX offer robust security features to protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. They support WPA3 encryption, which is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol. Additionally, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has a built-in firewall and intrusion detection system that provides an extra layer of protection.
Price and Value
The ASUS RT-AX86U is priced slightly higher than the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX. However, it offers a more powerful processor and a wider range of features. The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX provides excellent value for money, especially considering its comprehensive feature set and user-friendly interface.
Verdict: The Final Say
Choosing between the ASUS RT-AX86U and the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw performance and advanced features, the ASUS RT-AX86U is the better choice. However, if you value user-friendliness, comprehensive functionality, and a built-in DECT base station, the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX is the more well-rounded option.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q1: Which router has better range and coverage?
Both routers provide excellent coverage throughout a typical home. However, the ASUS RT-AX86U has a slight edge in range due to its eight external antennas.
Q2: Which router is faster?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a slightly higher throughput than the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX. However, the difference is negligible for most users.
Q3: Which router has more features?
The FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in DECT base station, a media server, and a parental control system.
Q4: Which router is easier to use?
Both routers have user-friendly interfaces, but the FRITZ!Box 7590 AX has a more intuitive and streamlined interface.
Q5: Which router is better for gaming?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has a dedicated gaming mode that optimizes the router’s settings for online gaming. However, both routers provide excellent gaming performance.