Asus AC1900 RT-AC68U
Score: 77/100
TP-Link Archer AX21
Score: 74/100Rankings
The ASUS RT-AC68U is a dual-band Wi-Fi 5 router offering solid performance with AiMesh support and robust security features. It lacks MU-MIMO and modern Wi-Fi 6/7 capabilities, limiting future-proofing. Ideal for budget-conscious households seeking reliable range and parental controls.
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a budget-friendly dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router offering up to 1.8 Gbps combined speed and four high-gain antennas with beamforming. Its dual-core processor and lack of tri-band or faster wired ports limit performance under heavy loads. Ideal for small-to-medium homes seeking affordable Wi-Fi 6.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,900 Mbpsbest | 1,800 Mbps | |
3 | 4best | |
2best | 2best | |
0.256 GBbest | 0.256 GBbest | |
4best | 4best | |
0.128 GBbest | 0.016 GB | |
1best | 1best | |
2best | 1 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11ax |
Frequency Bands | Dual Band | dual-band |
Design(1) | ||
Antenna Count | 3 | 4 |
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Wireless Speed (Mbps) | 1900 Mbps | 1800 Mbps |
Processor | Dual-core Broadcom BCM4708C0 1.0 GHz | Dual-core |
Flash Storage (GB) | 0.128 GB | 0.016 GB |
Ports(1) | ||
USB Ports | 2 | 1 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the RT-AC68U for its enduring performance, noting its iconic design, strong real-world speeds, extensive configurability, and the addition of AiMesh and AiProtection Pro. However, they point out the absence of MU-MIMO, the underwhelming USB 3.0 performance, and the fact that it is built on the now-dated Wi-Fi 5 standard.
Everyday users appreciate the router's easy app-based setup, reliable range up to 45 feet, useful USB sharing and guest network features, and the peace of mind from built-in security. Recurring complaints focus on the sluggish USB 3.0 performance, the router's bulky footprint, and the lack of modern Wi-Fi 6 capabilities.
Professional reviewers commend the Archer AX21 for delivering solid Wi-Fi 6 performance at a very competitive price, highlighting its four antennas, OFDMA, and security suite. However, they note the dual-core CPU and single-band-per-device limitation as drawbacks, and point out the absence of advanced QoS, USB 3.0, and full-speed Ethernet as gaps compared with pricier models.
Everyday users appreciate the quick Tether app setup, stable 4K streaming, and the speed boost over older routers, especially in apartments and small homes. Common complaints revolve around weaker 2.4 GHz coverage in larger spaces, occasional firmware freezes, and the lack of tri-band or faster wired ports for heavy device loads.
“still pretty epic”
“amazing performance”
“smooth for home office and smart TVs”
