What To Know
- If you have a smaller home and are looking for an affordable option, the ZenWiFi AX Mini is a good choice.
- The ZenWiFi AX Mini is a budget-friendly option with a compact design and good coverage, while the XT8 boasts superior performance, larger coverage, and additional features.
- The XT8 has a maximum speed of 6Gbps, while the ZenWiFi AX Mini has a maximum speed of 1.
When it comes to home networking, Wi-Fi routers play a crucial role in providing fast, reliable, and secure internet connectivity. ASUS, a renowned brand in the networking industry, offers two exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems: the ZenWiFi AX Mini and the XT8. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two routers, exploring their features, performance, and suitability for various use cases.
Design and Build
The ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini is a compact and sleek device, featuring a minimalist design with a white finish. Its small size makes it easy to blend into any home décor. In contrast, the XT8 boasts a more robust and angular design, with a black finish and RGB lighting accents. Both routers are well-built and durable.
Hardware Specifications
Processor:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: Qualcomm IPQ5018
- XT8: Qualcomm IPQ8074
RAM:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: 512MB
- XT8: 1GB
Storage:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: 256MB
- XT8: 512MB
The XT8 has a more powerful processor, double the RAM, and double the storage capacity compared to the ZenWiFi AX Mini. This hardware advantage translates into improved performance and handling of demanding applications.
Wi-Fi Performance
Wi-Fi Standard:
- Both: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Maximum Speed:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: 1.8Gbps (2.4GHz + 5GHz)
- XT8: 6Gbps (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz)
The XT8 supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, which utilizes the 6GHz band for faster speeds and reduced interference. Its maximum speed of 6Gbps is significantly higher than the 1.8Gbps of the ZenWiFi AX Mini.
Coverage and Range
Number of Nodes:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: 2-pack, 3-pack
- XT8: 2-pack
Coverage Area:
- ZenWiFi AX Mini: Up to 3,000 sq. ft. per node
- XT8: Up to 5,500 sq. ft. per node
The XT8 offers a larger coverage area per node, making it suitable for larger homes or multi-story buildings.
Features
AiMesh Compatibility:
- Both: Yes
Parental Controls:
- Both: Yes
Guest Network:
- Both: Yes
VPN Support:
- XT8: Yes
The XT8 has an additional feature, VPN support, which allows users to create secure and private connections to their home network from remote locations.
Price and Value
The ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini is priced lower than the XT8, offering a more affordable option for those on a budget. However, the XT8 provides better performance, coverage, and features, making it a better value for large homes or demanding applications.
Which is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini and XT8 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you have a smaller home and are looking for an affordable option, the ZenWiFi AX Mini is a good choice. However, if you have a larger home or require faster speeds and more features, the XT8 is the better investment.
Key Points: The Ultimate Verdict
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini and XT8 are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable and high-performance internet connectivity. The ZenWiFi AX Mini is a budget-friendly option with a compact design and good coverage, while the XT8 boasts superior performance, larger coverage, and additional features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which router has a faster speed?
A1: The XT8 has a maximum speed of 6Gbps, while the ZenWiFi AX Mini has a maximum speed of 1.8Gbps.
Q2: Which router has a larger coverage area?
A2: The XT8 has a larger coverage area per node, up to 5,500 sq. ft., compared to 3,000 sq. ft. for the ZenWiFi AX Mini.
Q3: Which router has VPN support?
A3: Only the XT8 has VPN support, allowing users to create secure and private connections to their home network from remote locations.
