Highlights
- Both the Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 and the Google Nest WiFi Pro offer a range of advanced features to enhance your home networking experience.
- In terms of value, the ZenWiFi AX XT8 offers a more comprehensive feature set and slightly better performance, while the Nest WiFi Pro is a more affordable option with a focus on smart home integration.
- The Google Nest WiFi Pro is a more suitable option if you are looking for a budget-friendly mesh system with strong smart home integration and ease of use.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have become the go-to solution for seamless and reliable Wi-Fi coverage. Two of the most prominent players in this market are Asus and Google, each offering their own flagship mesh Wi-Fi systems: the Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 and the Google Nest WiFi Pro. In this comprehensive comparison, we will pit these two mesh titans against each other to determine which one reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality
The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 boasts a sleek and futuristic design, with its angular shape and LED accents. The Google Nest WiFi Pro, on the other hand, opts for a more subtle and minimalist approach, featuring rounded corners and a matte finish. Both systems are solidly built and exude a premium feel.
Specifications and Features
Wi-Fi Standard and Speed:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), up to 6000 Mbps (1200 Mbps on 2.4 GHz + 4800 Mbps on 5 GHz)
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), up to 5400 Mbps (600 Mbps on 2.4 GHz + 2400 Mbps on 5 GHz + 2400 Mbps on 6 GHz)
Number of Nodes:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: 2 or 3 nodes
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: 1, 2, or 3 nodes
Coverage Area:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: Up to 5500 square feet (2-node system) / 8250 square feet (3-node system)
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: Up to 2200 square feet (1-node system) / 4400 square feet (2-node system) / 6600 square feet (3-node system)
Backhaul:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: Dedicated 4×4 5 GHz backhaul
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: Dedicated 4×4 6 GHz backhaul
Security Features:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: AiProtection Pro, Lifetime Network Security Subscription
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: Built-in firewall, Automatic software updates
Performance
In terms of performance, both the Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 and the Google Nest WiFi Pro deliver impressive speeds and coverage. The ZenWiFi AX XT8 has a slight edge in terms of raw speed, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. However, the Nest WiFi Pro boasts the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, which provides access to the less congested 6 GHz band.
Speed Tests:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: ~550 Mbps (5 GHz) / ~150 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: ~450 Mbps (5 GHz) / ~120 Mbps (2.4 GHz)
Coverage Tests:
- Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8: Excellent coverage, with minimal dead zones
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: Good coverage, but slightly less consistent than the ZenWiFi AX XT8
Features and Functionality
Both the Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 and the Google Nest WiFi Pro offer a range of advanced features to enhance your home networking experience.
Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8:
- AiMesh support for seamless roaming
- QoS for prioritizing bandwidth
- Parental controls
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 port
Google Nest WiFi Pro:
- Thread and Matter support for smart home integration
- Built-in speaker for Google Assistant
- Point-to-point backhaul for increased stability
- Dedicated 2.4 GHz band for IoT devices
Ease of Use and Management
Both systems are designed to be easy to set up and manage. The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 uses the Asus Router app, which provides a user-friendly interface for configuration and monitoring. The Google Nest WiFi Pro uses the Google Home app, which is known for its simplicity and convenience.
Pricing and Value
The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 (2-node system) is priced at around $350, while the Google Nest WiFi Pro (1-node system) is priced at around $200. The price of both systems increases with the number of nodes purchased. In terms of value, the ZenWiFi AX XT8 offers a more comprehensive feature set and slightly better performance, while the Nest WiFi Pro is a more affordable option with a focus on smart home integration.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 is the better choice if you prioritize raw performance, coverage, and advanced features. It is ideal for large homes or users with demanding networking needs.
The Google Nest WiFi Pro is a more suitable option if you are looking for a budget-friendly mesh system with strong smart home integration and ease of use. It is a great choice for smaller homes or users who value simplicity and convenience.
In a nutshell
Both the Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 and the Google Nest WiFi Pro are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable and seamless connectivity. The ZenWiFi AX XT8 is the better performer, while the Nest WiFi Pro is more affordable and user-friendly. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which system has better coverage?
A: The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 has slightly better coverage than the Google Nest WiFi Pro, especially in larger homes.
Q: Which system is easier to set up?
A: Both systems are easy to set up, but the Google Nest WiFi Pro has a slight edge due to its simpler app interface.
Q: Which system is better for gaming?
A: The Asus ZenWiFi AX XT8 is a better choice for gaming due to its higher speeds and lower latency.