Highlights
- The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 share a sleek and modern design, featuring a white and gray color scheme that complements any home décor.
- Both systems comprise a set of two nodes, with the primary node serving as the central hub and the secondary node(s) extending coverage to additional areas.
- Both systems utilize a combination of beamforming and MU-MIMO technology to optimize signal strength and reduce interference, ensuring a seamless Wi-Fi experience in every corner of your home.
In the realm of home networking, Asus has established itself as a leading innovator, offering a wide range of advanced Wi-Fi solutions. Among their latest offerings are the Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12, two mesh Wi-Fi systems designed to provide exceptional coverage, speed, and reliability. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Asus ZenWiFi ET12 vs XT12, helping you make an informed decision for your home networking needs.
Design and Build
The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 share a sleek and modern design, featuring a white and gray color scheme that complements any home décor. Both systems comprise a set of two nodes, with the primary node serving as the central hub and the secondary node(s) extending coverage to additional areas. The ET12 nodes are slightly smaller than their XT12 counterparts, measuring 5.5 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches compared to 6.1 x 6.1 x 2.6 inches.
Wi-Fi Performance
Wi-Fi performance is a crucial factor when choosing a mesh Wi-Fi system. The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 utilizes the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, offering speeds up to 1.8 Gbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 5.4 Gbps on the 5 GHz band. The XT12, on the other hand, boasts even faster speeds thanks to its Wi-Fi 6E support, delivering up to 2.4 Gbps on the 2.4 GHz band, 5.4 Gbps on the 5 GHz band, and an additional 1.2 Gbps on the 6 GHz band. This additional spectrum provides interference-free connections for bandwidth-intensive applications such as gaming and video streaming.
Coverage
The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 offer exceptional coverage, ensuring a stable and reliable Wi-Fi signal throughout your home. The ET12 system is designed for homes up to 5,500 square feet, while the XT12 system extends coverage to an impressive 7,400 square feet. Both systems utilize a combination of beamforming and MU-MIMO technology to optimize signal strength and reduce interference, ensuring a seamless Wi-Fi experience in every corner of your home.
Security Features
Security is paramount in any home network. The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 incorporate a comprehensive suite of security features to protect your network and data. Both systems support WPA3 encryption, the latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol, providing robust protection against unauthorized access and cyber threats. Additionally, the XT12 system includes AiProtection Pro, a premium security service that offers advanced parental controls, malware protection, and automatic security updates.
Smart Features
The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 are not just mesh Wi-Fi systems; they are also smart home hubs. Both systems integrate with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your network and connected devices using voice commands. Additionally, the XT12 system features a built-in USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, enabling you to connect external storage devices and share files across your network.
Setup and Management
Setting up and managing the Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 is a breeze. Both systems come with the intuitive Asus Router app, which provides a user-friendly interface for configuring your network, adjusting settings, and monitoring your devices. The app also includes advanced features such as network diagnostics, traffic monitoring, and guest network management.
Takeaways: Making the Right Choice
The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 are both exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer a wide range of features and benefits. The ET12 is an excellent choice for homes up to 5,500 square feet, providing fast and reliable Wi-Fi coverage at an affordable price. The XT12, on the other hand, is the ultimate choice for larger homes or those who demand the best possible Wi-Fi performance and security. With its wider coverage, faster speeds, and advanced security features, the XT12 is the ideal solution for demanding home networking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which system is better for gaming?
The Asus ZenWiFi XT12 is the better choice for gaming due to its faster speeds and lower latency on the 6 GHz band.
2. Can I use the ET12 and XT12 together?
No, the ET12 and XT12 are not compatible with each other and cannot be used together in a mesh network.
3. Do the systems support parental controls?
Yes, both the ET12 and XT12 support parental controls through the Asus Router app, allowing you to set up content filters and usage limits for your children.
4. Can I connect external storage devices to the XT12?
Yes, the XT12 features a built-in USB 3.2 Gen 1 port that allows you to connect external storage devices and share files across your network.
5. How do I update the firmware on the systems?
Firmware updates for the Asus ZenWiFi ET12 and XT12 can be performed through the Asus Router app or the web-based interface.