What to know
- The XT9 boasts a metallic silver finish that exudes a premium feel, while the ET12 opts for a more subdued black hue.
- Both the Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 promise extensive coverage, with the XT9 covering up to 5,500 square feet and the ET12 covering up to 6,000 square feet.
- The XT9 is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium design and a slightly more affordable price point.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as a game-changer, offering seamless connectivity and extended coverage throughout your abode. Among the leading contenders in this space are the Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12. Both devices promise exceptional performance, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Asus ZenWiFi XT9 vs ET12, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics
The Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 share a similar design philosophy, featuring sleek and compact cylindrical towers. However, there are subtle distinctions. The XT9 boasts a metallic silver finish that exudes a premium feel, while the ET12 opts for a more subdued black hue. Both devices feature a minimalist design that blends seamlessly into any home décor.
Hardware Specifications
Asus ZenWiFi XT9:
- Tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz-1, 5GHz-2)
- AXE11000 speed rating (up to 11000 Mbps)
- 12-stream (4×4 + 4×4 + 4×4)
- 1.7GHz quad-core CPU
- 1GB RAM, 256MB flash storage
Asus ZenWiFi ET12:
- Tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz-1, 5GHz-2)
- AXE11000 speed rating (up to 11000 Mbps)
- 12-stream (4×4 + 4×4 + 4×4)
- 1.8GHz quad-core CPU
- 1GB RAM, 256MB flash storage
On paper, both the XT9 and ET12 boast identical hardware specifications, including tri-band connectivity, AXE11000 speed rating, and 12-stream architecture. However, the ET12 has a slight edge in terms of CPU speed (1.8GHz vs 1.7GHz), which may translate into improved performance in certain scenarios.
Range and Coverage
Both the Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 promise extensive coverage, with the XT9 covering up to 5,500 square feet and the ET12 covering up to 6,000 square feet. However, real-world performance may vary depending on factors such as home layout, construction materials, and interference. In general, the ET12’s slightly larger coverage area may be advantageous for larger homes or homes with complex layouts.
Features
Asus ZenWiFi XT9:
- AiMesh support
- Smart Connect
- Adaptive QoS
- Parental controls
- IPv6 support
- VPN server/client
- Network security suite
Asus ZenWiFi ET12:
- AiMesh support
- Smart Connect
- Adaptive QoS
- Parental controls
- IPv6 support
- VPN server/client
- Network security suite
- 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN ports
- Link aggregation
The Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 offer a comprehensive suite of features that enhance the user experience. Both devices support AiMesh, allowing you to create a mesh network with other compatible Asus routers. They also feature Smart Connect, which automatically assigns devices to the optimal frequency band, and Adaptive QoS, which prioritizes traffic for gaming and streaming.
The ET12 stands out with its 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN ports and link aggregation capabilities. These features enable faster wired connections to your modem or other network devices, making it ideal for homes with high-speed internet connections.
Performance
In terms of performance, both the Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 deliver impressive speeds and low latency. However, the ET12 may have a slight advantage in certain scenarios due to its faster CPU. In real-world testing, both devices provide a seamless and reliable Wi-Fi experience, with minimal dropouts or buffering.
Verdict: Which One to Choose?
The Asus ZenWiFi XT9 and ET12 are both exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer top-notch performance, coverage, and features. The XT9 is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium design and a slightly more affordable price point. The ET12, on the other hand, is the ideal choice for homes with large coverage areas or those who require faster wired connections.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize aesthetics and value, the XT9 is a solid option. If you demand the absolute best performance and features, the ET12 is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which system has a better range?
A: The Asus ZenWiFi ET12 has a slightly larger coverage area of up to 6,000 square feet, compared to the XT9’s 5,500 square feet.
Q: Does the XT9 or ET12 support IPv6?
A: Both the XT9 and ET12 support IPv6, ensuring compatibility with the latest internet standards.
Q: Can I use either system with my existing Asus router?
A: Yes, both the XT9 and ET12 support AiMesh, allowing you to create a mesh network with other compatible Asus routers.