ASUS RT-AC86U vs TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
ASUS RT-AC86U
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
WINNER
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
The ASUS RT-AC86U and TP-Link Deco M9 Plus are both compelling options in the gaming-router category, but they cater to...
VS
psychology AI Verdict
The ASUS RT-AC86U and TP-Link Deco M9 Plus are both compelling options in the gaming-router category, but they cater to different needs. The RT-AC86U excels at delivering fast Wi-Fi speeds and prioritizing gaming traffic with its QoS feature, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who want a straightforward solution. On the other hand, the Deco M9 Plus offers advanced mesh technology, ensuring seamless coverage throughout larger spaces, which is particularly beneficial for those with expansive homes or multiple floors.
While both routers have their strengths, the Deco M9 Plus's superior performance and ease of use make it stand out in terms of overall value for money.
thumbs_up_down Pros & Cons
ASUS RT-AC86U
check_circle Pros
- Affordable price
- Fast Wi-Fi speeds
- QoS for gaming traffic
cancel Cons
- Limited mesh coverage
- Manual configuration required
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
check_circle Pros
- Advanced mesh technology
- Easy setup and management
- Consistent performance across large areas
cancel Cons
- Higher price point
- More expensive than the RT-AC86U for smaller spaces
compare Feature Comparison
| Feature | ASUS RT-AC86U | TP-Link Deco M9 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Speeds | Up to 1734 Mbps (2.4GHz + 1.06Gbps 5GHz) | Mesh system with up to 867 Mbps per node |
| QoS for Gaming | Yes, prioritizes gaming traffic | No dedicated gaming mode, but overall performance is optimized |
| Number of Antennas | 4x MIMO antennas (3x 5GHz + 1x 2.4GHz) | 8x MIMO antennas distributed across nodes |
| Mesh Nodes | N/A, single unit router | Up to 6 mesh nodes for larger coverage areas |
| Smart Wi-Fi Management | Basic management through web interface | Advanced app-based management with real-time performance monitoring |
| Compatibility | Compatible with various devices and operating systems | Mesh nodes are compatible, but single unit is also available for non-mesh setups |
payments Pricing
ASUS RT-AC86U
$199.99
Good Value
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
$249.99
Excellent Value
difference Key Differences
ASUS RT-AC86U
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
The ASUS RT-AC86U's primary strength lies in its fast Wi-Fi speeds and QoS feature, which ensures smooth gaming experiences by prioritizing traffic.
Core Strength
The TP-Link Deco M9 Plus excels at providing comprehensive mesh coverage, making it ideal for larger homes or those with multiple floors needing consistent internet access.
ASUS RT-AC86U offers high-speed Wi-Fi and robust gaming features but may struggle in environments where mesh technology is necessary.
Performance
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus provides superior performance across a larger area, ensuring consistent speeds throughout the home or office.
While affordable, the RT-AC86U may not offer the same level of mesh coverage and ease of use as the Deco M9 Plus, making it less valuable in larger spaces.
Value for Money
The Deco M9 Plus offers better value due to its comprehensive mesh system, which provides consistent performance across a wider area at a slightly higher price point.
Setting up and managing the RT-AC86U is straightforward but may require more manual configuration for optimal gaming performance.
Ease of Use
The Deco M9 Plus offers a seamless setup process with easy-to-use apps, making it ideal for users who want minimal hassle.
Budget-conscious gamers and small to medium households looking for basic gaming optimization.
Best For
Larger homes or multi-story buildings requiring consistent Wi-Fi coverage, as well as users who value ease of use over raw performance.
help When to Choose
ASUS RT-AC86U
- If you prioritize affordable pricing and basic gaming optimization.
- If you choose ASUS RT-AC86U if your home is small to medium in size with no need for extensive mesh coverage.
- If you choose ASUS RT-AC86U if budget constraints are a significant factor.
TP-Link Deco M9 Plus
- If you prioritize consistent performance across larger areas.
- If you choose TP-Link Deco M9 Plus if ease of use and advanced management features are important to you.
- If you choose TP-Link Deco M9 Plus if your home is multi-story or large in size.
description Overview
ASUS RT-AC86U
The ASUS RT-AC86U is an affordable gaming router that offers fast Wi-Fi speeds and QoS for prioritizing gaming traffic. It's a good choice for those looking to improve their internet experience without breaking the bank.
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