ASUS RT-BE86U BE6800 Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router vs NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router - Router

Overview of the ASUS RT-BE86U and NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S

The ASUS RT-BE86U is priced at $219.99, making it about 63% cheaper than the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S, which retails for $599.99. Despite the price difference, both routers offer advanced features suitable for high-performance networking. The ASUS model is designed for gamers and enthusiasts, while the NETGEAR model focuses on speed and coverage for demanding applications such as 4K streaming and gaming.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, the ASUS RT-BE86U delivers combined wireless speeds of up to 6800 Mbps, significantly benefiting from WiFi 7 capabilities with Multi-Link Operation and 4096-QAM. On the other hand, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S boasts even higher speeds, reaching up to 19 Gbps, which is nearly 2.8 times faster than the ASUS router. This makes the NETGEAR a stronger candidate for households demanding ultra-fast internet, particularly for 4K and 8K streaming.

Coverage Area

The ASUS RT-BE86U provides coverage of up to 2750 sq. ft., which is sufficient for most medium to large homes. In contrast, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S covers a larger area of up to 3500 sq. ft., making it ideal for larger spaces or homes with multiple devices. This difference in coverage may be crucial for users with extensive home layouts or numerous connected devices.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the ASUS RT-BE86U features a vertical, space-saving form factor with a black aluminum heat sink for optimal cooling. This aesthetic may appeal to users looking for a stylish router that fits neatly into their home environment. The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S, while also sleek, emphasizes a smaller footprint with a 3D antenna design that leverages over 25 years of engineering expertise. Both routers exhibit quality build, but the choice may come down to personal preference in style.

Advanced Features

The ASUS RT-BE86U includes advanced features such as AI WAN detection, AiMesh for expanded coverage, and Guest Network Pro, allowing users to create up to five SSIDs for network segmentation. It also offers subscription-free security with AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro. In comparison, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S comes with NETGEAR Armor, providing a suite of security tools, but it requires a subscription after the first year. This makes the ASUS router potentially more attractive for users who value ongoing security without additional costs.

Wired Connectivity

The wired connectivity options differ significantly between the two routers. The ASUS RT-BE86U features one standard 10G WAN/LAN port and supports a total wired throughput of up to 20G, making it well-suited for high-demand applications. The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S provides a 10 Gig internet port and four 1 Gig LAN ports, which are excellent for connecting multiple devices but do not match the total throughput offered by the ASUS model. This aspect may be important for users who rely heavily on wired connections for activities like gaming and streaming.

Price and Value

At $219.99, the ASUS RT-BE86U presents a compelling value, especially given its advanced features and performance capabilities. In contrast, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S is significantly more expensive at $599.99. While it offers superior speeds and a larger coverage area, the price difference of about $380 may not justify the additional features for all users, particularly those with moderate networking needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS RT-BE86U and the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-performance router at a more accessible price, the ASUS model stands out with its robust features and lower cost. However, if maximum speed and coverage are your priorities, and you are willing to pay a premium, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS700S may be the better option. Consider your internet usage habits and the size of your home before making a final decision.