ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO First Quad-Band WiFi vs Linksys MR20EC | Dual-Band Mesh WIFI 6 Router |

Design and Build Quality

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO boasts a cutting-edge design tailored for gaming enthusiasts, while the Linksys MR20EC presents a sleek and functional aesthetic. The Rapture GT-BE98 PRO features a bold design with antennas that enhance signal strength and coverage. In contrast, the MR20EC's design is more understated, focusing on practicality without sacrificing performance. Both routers are designed to fit seamlessly into modern home environments, but the Rapture's gaming-focused design may appeal more to gamers looking for a router that stands out.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to speed, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO takes the lead with capabilities of up to 30 Gbps thanks to WiFi 7 technology. This router supports multi-link operation, ensuring stable connections even with multiple devices online. On the other hand, the Linksys MR20EC provides solid performance with speeds of up to 3.0 Gbps, facilitated by WiFi 6 technology. While the MR20EC is capable of handling most home internet tasks, the Rapture's advanced features make it more suitable for high-speed gaming and heavy streaming.

Connectivity Options

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO offers extensive connectivity with dual 10G ports and quad 2.5G ports, maximizing wired connections for high-performance gaming. This level of connectivity allows users to connect multiple devices without sacrificing speed. In comparison, the Linksys MR20EC supports over 25 devices and covers up to 2,000 sq ft, making it perfect for households with several smart devices. However, it lacks the same advanced wired options as the Rapture, which may be a deciding factor for gamers or heavy users who need robust connectivity.

Gaming Features

For gamers, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is designed with dedicated features like triple-level game acceleration and mobile game mode, which optimize traffic from your gaming device to the server for a smoother experience. It is evident that this router is tailored to enhance gaming performance specifically. The Linksys MR20EC, while it supports gaming, lacks specialized features that cater specifically to gamers, focusing instead on general performance and connectivity. If gaming is a priority, the Rapture clearly stands out as the superior choice.

Coverage Area

The Linksys MR20EC covers up to 2,000 sq ft, making it suitable for medium-sized homes and ensuring good connectivity throughout most living spaces. Its intelligent mesh technology helps eliminate dead zones, providing a stable signal in various areas of the home. Conversely, while the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO's exact coverage isn’t specified, its advanced antennas are designed to boost coverage significantly. For larger homes or users who require extensive coverage, the Rapture may offer an edge, but the MR20EC’s mesh capabilities are commendable for smaller spaces.

Price and Value

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is priced at $597.99, whereas the Linksys MR20EC is considerably cheaper at $163.99, making it about 73% less expensive. This price difference reflects the Rapture’s advanced gaming features and performance capabilities, which may justify the higher cost for dedicated gamers. However, for casual users or those on a budget, the MR20EC provides excellent value for its price, offering solid performance and coverage without breaking the bank.

User Experience and Setup

Setting up the Linksys MR20EC is straightforward, requiring just a few minutes with the free Linksys App, which allows users to manage their network easily. This ease of setup is a significant advantage for non-tech-savvy users. In comparison, while the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is also designed for ease of use, its advanced features may require a bit more technical knowledge to fully utilize. Gamers who invest the time in setup will benefit greatly, but casual users may appreciate the simpler approach of the Linksys router.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO and the Linksys MR20EC hinges on your specific needs. If you're a serious gamer looking for top-notch performance, advanced features, and superior speed, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is worth the investment. However, if you're seeking a reliable, budget-friendly router for everyday use that covers a decent area and supports multiple devices, the Linksys MR20EC is an excellent choice. Consider your usage scenarios and budget to make the best decision for your home network.