What To Know
- The newer routers often feature more powerful antennas and advanced beamforming technologies, which allow them to extend their Wi-Fi signal to a wider area and improve signal strength in hard-to-reach corners of your home or office.
- However, if you’re looking for the best possible networking experience and are willing to invest in the latest technology, the RT-AX routers are worth the premium.
- However, if you’re seeking the latest technology, the best possible performance, and a comprehensive suite of features, the RT-AX series is the way to go.
In the realm of home networking, ASUS has long been a formidable contender, offering a wide range of routers to cater to diverse needs. Two of their most popular lines, the RT-AC and RT-AX series, represent distinct generations of router technology, leaving many users wondering which one is the superior choice. This comprehensive guide will pit the ASUS RT-AC vs RT-AX routers head-to-head, examining their features, performance, and suitability for various use cases.
Wi-Fi Standards: RT-AX Emerges Victorious
The most fundamental difference between the RT-AC and RT-AX routers lies in their Wi-Fi standards. The RT-AC series operates on the 802.11ac standard, while the RT-AX series has embraced the cutting-edge 802.11ax standard, commonly known as Wi-Fi 6. Wi-Fi 6 introduces several enhancements, including increased bandwidth, reduced latency, and improved efficiency, particularly in crowded environments.
Speed and Performance: RT-AX Outpaces RT-AC
The upgraded Wi-Fi standard translates directly into superior speed and performance for RT-AX routers. With wider channels and more efficient modulation techniques, RT-AX routers can achieve significantly faster data transfer rates compared to their RT-AC counterparts. This translates into smoother streaming, faster downloads, and reduced buffering, making them ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like gaming, video conferencing, and 4K video streaming.
Range and Coverage: RT-AX Extends Its Reach
In terms of range and coverage, the RT-AX routers generally have an advantage over the RT-AC series. The newer routers often feature more powerful antennas and advanced beamforming technologies, which allow them to extend their Wi-Fi signal to a wider area and improve signal strength in hard-to-reach corners of your home or office. This makes them particularly suitable for larger spaces or buildings with multiple floors.
Features and Functionality: RT-AX Offers More Options
When it comes to features and functionality, the RT-AX routers offer a more comprehensive suite of options. In addition to the standard features found on RT-AC routers, such as parental controls and guest Wi-Fi networks, RT-AX routers often include additional features like:
- MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output): Allows multiple devices to connect to the router simultaneously without experiencing significant speed drops.
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access): Improves efficiency in crowded environments by dividing the available bandwidth into smaller sub-channels.
- Adaptive QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritizes traffic based on application or device type, ensuring that critical applications like gaming or video streaming receive the best possible performance.
Security: Both RT-AC and RT-AX Provide Robust Protection
Both the RT-AC and RT-AX routers offer robust security features to protect your home network from unauthorized access and malicious threats. They support industry-standard encryption protocols like WPA2 and WPA3, as well as advanced security features like firewall protection and intrusion detection systems. Additionally, ASUS offers its own AiProtection security suite, which provides additional layers of protection, such as parental controls, malware blocking, and vulnerability assessments.
Price and Value: RT-AC Remains Affordable
While RT-AX routers offer superior performance and features, they typically come at a higher price point compared to the RT-AC series. The RT-AC routers remain a more affordable option for users who prioritize value and basic functionality over cutting-edge technology. However, if you’re looking for the best possible networking experience and are willing to invest in the latest technology, the RT-AX routers are worth the premium.
In a nutshell: The Right Choice Depends on Your Needs
Ultimately, the best ASUS router for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable router for basic home networking, the RT-AC series is a solid choice. However, if you’re seeking the latest technology, the best possible performance, and a comprehensive suite of features, the RT-AX series is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which ASUS router series is newer, RT-AC or RT-AX?
The RT-AX series is newer and represents the latest generation of ASUS routers.
2. What are the main differences between RT-AC and RT-AX routers?
RT-AX routers operate on the newer Wi-Fi 6 standard, offering faster speeds, improved range, and more features compared to RT-AC routers.
3. Which ASUS router series is better for gaming?
RT-AX routers are generally better for gaming due to their faster speeds, lower latency, and features like MU-MIMO and OFDMA, which improve efficiency and reduce lag.
4. Which ASUS router series is more affordable?
RT-AC routers are typically more affordable than RT-AX routers.
5. Do both RT-AC and RT-AX routers offer security features?
Yes, both RT-AC and RT-AX routers offer robust security features, including encryption protocols, firewall protection, and intrusion detection systems.
