Quick notes
- The RAX70 features a sleek and compact design with a glossy black finish, while the RT-AX86U has a more angular and aggressive look with eight prominent antennas.
- If you need a router with a sleek design and a user-friendly interface, the Netgear RAX70 is a great choice.
- If you want a router with customizable firmware and a wide range of connectivity options, the ASUS RT-AX86U is a better choice.
In the realm of Wi-Fi 6 routers, two formidable contenders emerge: the Netgear RAX70 and the ASUS RT-AX86U. Both routers promise blazing-fast speeds, wide coverage, and advanced features, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Netgear RAX70 vs ASUS RT-AX86U, helping you make an informed decision for your home or business network.
Performance: Speed and Coverage
Both routers boast impressive speeds, but the Netgear RAX70 has a slight edge. It features a 6-stream design, delivering up to 6000 Mbps in combined speed, while the ASUS RT-AX86U offers 5700 Mbps with its 4-stream design. However, the RT-AX86U compensates with its superior coverage, thanks to its eight external antennas and RangeBoost technology.
Features: Advanced Functionality
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U offer a range of advanced features, including:
- MU-MIMO and OFDMA: Both routers support MU-MIMO and OFDMA, enabling multiple devices to connect simultaneously without experiencing congestion.
- Beamforming: The RAX70 and RT-AX86U use beamforming to focus Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices, improving signal strength and stability.
- VPN Support: Both routers support VPN connections, allowing users to access secure networks remotely.
- Parental Control: The RAX70 and RT-AX86U offer comprehensive parental control features, including website filtering, time limits, and device blocking.
Design and Build Quality
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U have distinct designs. The RAX70 features a sleek and compact design with a glossy black finish, while the RT-AX86U has a more angular and aggressive look with eight prominent antennas. Both routers are well-built and durable, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
Ports and Connectivity
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U offer similar connectivity options, including:
- Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Both routers have four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections.
- USB Ports: The RAX70 has one USB 3.0 port, while the RT-AX86U has two USB 3.0 ports for connecting external storage devices or printers.
Software and User Interface
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U have easy-to-use web-based user interfaces. The RAX70’s interface is more straightforward and beginner-friendly, while the RT-AX86U’s interface offers more advanced options and customization. Both routers also support mobile apps for remote management.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
Choosing between the Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- If you prioritize raw speed and want the fastest possible Wi-Fi, the Netgear RAX70 is the better choice.
- If you value wider coverage and more advanced parental control features, the ASUS RT-AX86U is a better option.
- If you need a router with a sleek design and a user-friendly interface, the Netgear RAX70 is a great choice.
- If you want a router with customizable firmware and a wide range of connectivity options, the ASUS RT-AX86U is a better choice.
Ultimately, both the Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U are excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that will provide a reliable and high-performance network experience.
Popular Questions
1. Which router has better parental control features?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has more comprehensive parental control features, including website filtering, time limits, and device blocking.
2. Can either router be used as a mesh system?
No, neither the Netgear RAX70 nor the ASUS RT-AX86U can be used as part of a mesh system.
3. Which router has more USB ports?
The ASUS RT-AX86U has two USB 3.0 ports, while the Netgear RAX70 has only one.
4. Which router has a better warranty?
Both the Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U come with a 1-year limited warranty.
5. Which router is more energy-efficient?
The ASUS RT-AX86U is more energy-efficient than the Netgear RAX70, as it supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 power-saving features.