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ASUS RT-AC86U vs Ubiquiti Dream Router 7: Comparison
ASUS RT-AC86U and Ubiquiti Dream Router 7 differ on coverage area: ASUS RT-AC86U at 2500, Ubiquiti Dream Router 7 at 2000, which puts ASUS RT-AC86U ahead on that measure.
Specs
| Specification |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 7 (802.11be) |
| Router Type | Standalone Router | Gateway Router / UniFi OS Console |
| Band Configuration | Dual-Band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) | Dual-Band (5GHz + 6GHz) |
| Coverage Area | 2500 | 2000 |
| Wired Ports | 4x Gigabit LAN, 1x Gigabit WAN, 1x USB 3.1, 1x USB 2.0 | 1x 2.5G WAN, 4x Gigabit LAN (1 with 802.3af PoE out) |
| Special Features | 1.8GHz dual-core CPU, WTFast gaming acceleration, AiProtection Pro security | Built-in UniFi OS console for apps like Protect and Network, PoE output port, integrated switch |
| Speed Class | AC2900 (up to 2.9Gbps combined) | BE5100 |
| MU-MIMO/OFDMA | MU-MIMO | Yes |
| Mesh Support | AiMesh compatible | Compatible with additional UniFi access points |
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.
Ubiquiti Dream Router 7
8.1 / 10 Expert Rating
A compact, genuinely all-in-one UniFi console for prosumers who want the ecosystem without rack gear.