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ASUS RT-AC86U vs Google Wifi: Comparison
ASUS RT-AC86U and Google Wifi differ on coverage area: ASUS RT-AC86U at 2500, Google Wifi at 4500, which puts Google Wifi ahead on that measure. They match on wifi standard and band configuration.
Specs
| Specification |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Router Type | Standalone Router | Mesh System |
| Band Configuration | Dual-Band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) | Dual-Band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Coverage Area | 2500 | 4500 |
| Wired Ports | 4x Gigabit LAN, 1x Gigabit WAN, 1x USB 3.1, 1x USB 2.0 | 2x Gigabit per unit |
| Special Features | 1.8GHz dual-core CPU, WTFast gaming acceleration, AiProtection Pro security | Google Home app management, simple network-wide device prioritization |
| Speed Class | AC2900 (up to 2.9Gbps combined) | AC1200 (up to 1.2Gbps combined) |
| MU-MIMO/OFDMA | MU-MIMO | Basic MU-MIMO |
| Mesh Support | AiMesh compatible | Native Google Wifi mesh |
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.
Google Wifi
6 / 10 Expert Rating
A historically important mesh system that's now outpaced on speed by nearly every current WiFi 6 mesh kit.