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ASUS RT-AC86U vs ASUS RT-BE96U: Comparison
ASUS RT-AC86U and ASUS RT-BE96U differ on speed class: ASUS RT-AC86U at AC2900 (up to 2.9Gbps combined), ASUS RT-BE96U at BE19000, which puts ASUS RT-BE96U ahead on that measure.
Specs
| Specification |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 7 (802.11be) |
| Router Type | Standalone Router | Standalone Router |
| Band Configuration | Dual-Band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) | Tri-Band |
| Wired Ports | 4x Gigabit LAN, 1x Gigabit WAN, 1x USB 3.1, 1x USB 2.0 | 1x 10G WAN/LAN, 1x 1G WAN/LAN, 1x 10G LAN, 3x 1G LAN, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB 2.0 |
| Special Features | 1.8GHz dual-core CPU, WTFast gaming acceleration, AiProtection Pro security | RangeBoost Plus antennas, AiProtection Pro, dedicated 6GHz radio, dual 10G ports |
| Speed Class | AC2900 (up to 2.9Gbps combined) | BE19000 |
| MU-MIMO/OFDMA | MU-MIMO | Yes, 4x4 |
| Mesh Support | AiMesh compatible | AiMesh |
Verdict
ASUS RT-AC86U
7 / 10 Expert Rating
An aging but still-capable gaming router whose strong processor and AiMesh support keep it relevant well past most WiFi 5 routers' shelf life.
ASUS RT-BE96U
8.3 / 10 Expert Rating
A genuinely future-proof tri-band WiFi 7 router that justifies its price with real dual multi-gig ports and strong mesh expansion.