At a Glance
- The Netgear RAX70 sports an angular, stealthy design with a matte black finish, while the ASUS RT-AX86U boasts a more futuristic aesthetic with its sharp edges and glossy accents.
- The RAX70 offers a slightly better value for budget-conscious users, while the RT-AX86U provides additional features and performance for those willing to pay a bit more.
- The RAX70 is a solid choice for users seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option, while the RT-AX86U is ideal for those demanding the best possible performance, advanced features, and robust parental controls.
The wireless networking landscape has evolved significantly with the advent of Wi-Fi 6 technology, offering faster speeds, improved efficiency, and reduced latency. As a result, discerning users seeking the best Wi-Fi 6 routers have two standout options: the Netgear RAX70 and the ASUS RT-AX86U. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between these exceptional routers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Netgear RAX70 sports an angular, stealthy design with a matte black finish, while the ASUS RT-AX86U boasts a more futuristic aesthetic with its sharp edges and glossy accents. Both routers feature sturdy construction, ensuring durability and longevity.
Performance and Features
Wi-Fi Speed and Range:
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U are both equipped with the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, offering theoretical maximum speeds of up to 6000 Mbps (combined 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands). However, the ASUS RT-AX86U has a slight edge in terms of range, thanks to its four external antennas compared to the RAX70’s three.
MU-MIMO and OFDMA:
Both routers support MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) and OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) technologies, allowing multiple devices to connect simultaneously without experiencing significant speed degradation.
Beamforming:
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U utilize beamforming technology to focus Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices, enhancing signal strength and stability.
Security and Parental Controls
Both routers offer robust security features, including WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and intrusion detection systems. Additionally, the ASUS RT-AX86U provides advanced parental controls with features such as time limits, content filtering, and device prioritization.
Ports and Connectivity
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U both have a comprehensive array of ports, including multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, USB 3.0 ports, and WAN ports. The RT-AX86U has an additional 2.5 Gbps WAN port for faster internet connectivity.
Software and User Interface
Both routers offer user-friendly web-based interfaces that provide easy access to configuration settings and advanced features. The ASUS RT-AX86U has a slightly more intuitive interface with a more modern design.
Gaming and Quality of Service (QoS)
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U cater to gamers with dedicated gaming modes and QoS features. The RT-AX86U, however, has a dedicated gaming port that prioritizes gaming traffic for smoother online gameplay.
Price and Value
The Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U are both premium routers with comparable price points. The RAX70 offers a slightly better value for budget-conscious users, while the RT-AX86U provides additional features and performance for those willing to pay a bit more.
Summary: The Verdict
Both the Netgear RAX70 and ASUS RT-AX86U are exceptional Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer impressive performance, features, and value. The RAX70 is a solid choice for users seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option, while the RT-AX86U is ideal for those demanding the best possible performance, advanced features, and robust parental controls. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which router has better range, the Netgear RAX70 or the ASUS RT-AX86U?
A1. The ASUS RT-AX86U has a slight edge in terms of range due to its four external antennas.
Q2. Which router is better for gaming, the Netgear RAX70 or the ASUS RT-AX86U?
A2. The ASUS RT-AX86U has a dedicated gaming port and more advanced QoS features, making it a better choice for gamers.
Q3. Which router has more advanced parental controls?
A3. The ASUS RT-AX86U offers more comprehensive parental controls, including time limits, content filtering, and device prioritization.