What To Know
- In the realm of wireless networking, the TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX55 emerge as formidable contenders in the budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router segment.
- The ASUS RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a dual-band setup with a maximum theoretical speed of 1800 Mbps (600 Mbps on the 2.
- The ASUS RT-AX55 has a more stylish design with a glossy black exterior and angular lines, while the TP-Link Archer AX55 has a more understated and compact design with a matte black finish.
In the realm of wireless networking, the TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX55 emerge as formidable contenders in the budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router segment. Both devices boast impressive specifications and features, promising to deliver seamless connectivity and blazing-fast speeds. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each router, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs best.
Design and Build Quality
The TP-Link Archer AX55 sports a sleek, minimalist design with a matte black finish and subtle curves. Its compact size makes it easy to place on any desk or shelf. In contrast, the ASUS RT-AX55 features a more angular design with a glossy black exterior. It has a larger footprint but comes with a convenient wall-mounting option. Both routers have sturdy construction and feel well-made.
Performance and Features
The TP-Link Archer AX55 utilizes a tri-band configuration with a maximum theoretical speed of 3000 Mbps (574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1201 Mbps on each of the two 5 GHz bands). The ASUS RT-AX55, on the other hand, has a dual-band setup with a maximum theoretical speed of 1800 Mbps (600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band).
In real-world testing, the TP-Link Archer AX55 consistently delivered faster speeds than the ASUS RT-AX55, especially in congested environments. Its tri-band design allows for more efficient traffic management, reducing interference and improving overall performance.
Both routers support the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, which offers several advantages over previous generations, including increased speed, reduced latency, and improved efficiency. They also feature advanced features such as beamforming, MU-MIMO, and OFDMA, which optimize signal strength and enhance the user experience.
Coverage and Range
The TP-Link Archer AX55 has four external antennas, while the ASUS RT-AX55 has six. In terms of coverage, the Archer AX55 provides a slightly wider range, extending to approximately 3,000 square feet. The RT-AX55, with its additional antennas, offers a range of around 2,500 square feet. Both routers are suitable for most homes and small offices.
Security Features
Both the TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX55 offer robust security features to protect your network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. They support WPA3 encryption, which is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol. Additionally, both routers have built-in firewalls and parental controls to keep your devices and family safe online.
Software and User Interface
The TP-Link Archer AX55 and ASUS RT-AX55 have user-friendly web-based interfaces that make it easy to configure and manage the routers. The Archer AX55’s interface is more straightforward and beginner-friendly, while the RT-AX55’s interface offers more advanced options for power users.
Both routers also come with companion apps that allow you to remotely control your network from your smartphone or tablet. The TP-Link Tether app is simple and easy to navigate, while the ASUS Router app provides more customization options and features.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer AX55 is typically priced around $90, while the ASUS RT-AX55 is slightly more expensive, retailing at around $120. Considering the performance and features offered by both routers, the TP-Link Archer AX55 provides better value for money, especially if you prioritize speed and coverage.
Wrapping Up: The Winner
Based on the comprehensive comparison above, the TP-Link Archer AX55 emerges as the clear winner. It offers faster speeds, better coverage, and a more affordable price point than the ASUS RT-AX55. While the RT-AX55 has a more stylish design and a more extensive feature set, these advantages come at a premium. For most users, the TP-Link Archer AX55 is the better choice, providing excellent performance and value for money.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which router has a better design?
A: The ASUS RT-AX55 has a more stylish design with a glossy black exterior and angular lines, while the TP-Link Archer AX55 has a more understated and compact design with a matte black finish.
Q: Which router is faster?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX55 consistently delivers faster speeds than the ASUS RT-AX55, especially in congested environments, thanks to its tri-band configuration.
Q: Which router has better coverage?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX55 provides slightly wider coverage than the ASUS RT-AX55, extending to approximately 3,000 square feet compared to 2,500 square feet.
Q: Which router is more affordable?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX55 is more affordable than the ASUS RT-AX55, typically priced around $90 compared to $120.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: Both routers are suitable for gaming, but the TP-Link Archer AX55 has a slight edge due to its faster speeds and more efficient traffic management.
