What to know
- In terms of speed, the Archer VR400 has a slight edge, offering up to 1750 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 2.
- If you’re looking for a fast and reliable router with a sleek design and OneMesh support, the Archer VR400 is an excellent choice.
- If you need a router with a built-in DSL modem and advanced features like AiMesh support, the DSL-AC51 is a better option.
The world of networking is constantly evolving, with new routers emerging to meet the demands of modern users. Two such routers that have garnered significant attention are the TP-Link Archer VR400 and the ASUS DSL-AC51. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two routers to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
The TP-Link Archer VR400 boasts a sleek and modern design with a matte black finish and subtle LED indicators. Its compact size makes it easy to place in various locations around your home. The ASUS DSL-AC51, on the other hand, has a more traditional router design with a glossy black finish and prominent antennas. While both routers are well-built, the ASUS DSL-AC51 feels slightly more robust.
Wireless Performance
Both the Archer VR400 and the DSL-AC51 are equipped with the latest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) technology, providing fast and reliable wireless connectivity. The Archer VR400 features a 4×4 MIMO configuration, while the DSL-AC51 has a 3×3 MIMO configuration. In terms of speed, the Archer VR400 has a slight edge, offering up to 1750 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The DSL-AC51, on the other hand, offers speeds of up to 1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
Wired Connectivity
For wired connections, both routers offer a similar set of options. The Archer VR400 has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, while the DSL-AC51 has three Gigabit Ethernet ports. Additionally, the DSL-AC51 has a dedicated WAN port for connecting to your modem. Both routers also support the latest IPv6 protocol for future-proof connectivity.
Features and Functionality
The Archer VR400 and the DSL-AC51 come with a range of features to enhance your networking experience. The Archer VR400 features TP-Link’s OneMesh technology, which allows you to create a seamless mesh network with compatible TP-Link devices. It also supports MU-MIMO technology, which improves wireless performance for multiple devices connected simultaneously. The DSL-AC51, on the other hand, offers AiMesh support, which allows you to create a mesh network with compatible ASUS routers. It also features a built-in DSL modem, making it an ideal choice for DSL internet connections.
Security
Both routers provide robust security features to protect your network from malicious attacks. The Archer VR400 supports the latest WPA3 encryption protocol, while the DSL-AC51 supports both WPA2 and WPA3. Additionally, both routers offer parental controls to help you manage your children’s internet access.
Software and Management
The Archer VR400 and the DSL-AC51 offer user-friendly web interfaces for managing your router settings. The Archer VR400’s interface is simple and intuitive, while the DSL-AC51’s interface provides more advanced options for power users. Both routers also offer mobile apps that allow you to manage your network remotely.
Price and Availability
The TP-Link Archer VR400 is priced at around $100, while the ASUS DSL-AC51 is priced at around $150. Both routers are widely available from various online and retail stores.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Archer VR400 and the ASUS DSL-AC51 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a fast and reliable router with a sleek design and OneMesh support, the Archer VR400 is an excellent choice. If you need a router with a built-in DSL modem and advanced features like AiMesh support, the DSL-AC51 is a better option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which router has better wireless performance?
A: The Archer VR400 has a slight edge in terms of wireless performance, offering higher speeds on both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands.
Q: Which router has more security features?
A: Both routers offer robust security features, including WPA3 encryption and parental controls. However, the DSL-AC51 supports both WPA2 and WPA3, providing a wider range of encryption options.
Q: Which router is better for DSL internet connections?
A: The DSL-AC51 is the better choice for DSL internet connections as it has a built-in DSL modem.
Q: Which router is more affordable?
A: The Archer VR400 is the more affordable option, priced at around $100 compared to the DSL-AC51’s price of around $150.