ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router Review – Pros and Cons

The ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router is a modern networking device that embraces the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standard, enhancing efficiency and throughput with MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology. It features a dual-core processor and four external antennas, ensuring robust performance and extensive coverage. The router supports 1024-QAM for ultra-fast wireless connections, significantly outpacing previous generations.

With five Gigabit ports, including one WAN and four LAN ports, the RT-AX1800S offers ten times the speed of traditional Ethernet, ensuring rapid data transfer and smooth streaming. It enhances network capacity and efficiency by supporting both MU-MIMO and OFDMA techniques, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple devices.

For security, the router is equipped with AiProtection Classic, powered by Trend Micro, providing commercial-grade protection for your home network. ASUS Instant Guard offers a secure VPN with just one click, ensuring safety even when you’re away from home. Additionally, the RT-AX1800S’s network can be easily extended by adding any AiMesh-compatible router, allowing for seamless roaming and advanced features throughout your home.

The ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router is a popular choice among users for its performance, features, and affordability. Below are some of the pros and cons based on user experiences:

Pros:

1. Customizable Settings for Gaming: Gamers appreciate the router’s customizable settings, which allow for fine-tuning the network to optimize gaming performance. This flexibility ensures a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.
2. Affordable High-Speed Support: Despite its affordability, the router supports high-speed internet connections, making it an excellent choice for users who want fast speeds without breaking the bank.
3. Intuitive Mobile App: The ASUS Router app is highly praised for its user-friendly design, allowing users to manage their network settings easily from their smartphones. This convenience is especially appreciated by users who prefer on-the-go control.
4. Straightforward Setup: Many users report that the router’s setup process is simple and hassle-free, even when integrating with existing systems like Spectrum cable modems. This ease of setup is a significant plus for users who want a quick and easy installation.
5. Extensive WiFi Coverage: The router provides robust WiFi signals across multiple levels of a house and even outdoors, making it suitable for large homes. Users appreciate the strong coverage that eliminates dead spots and ensures a reliable connection everywhere.
6. Stable Performance with Multiple Devices: Users commend the router for its stable performance, even when multiple devices are connected. This stability is crucial for households with many WiFi-enabled devices, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a seamless internet experience.
7. Effective Mesh Network Integration: The router works well as part of an AiMesh network, allowing users to eliminate dead spots and extend WiFi coverage throughout their homes. This feature is particularly appreciated by users with larger homes or challenging layouts.
8. Enhanced Security Features: The inclusion of Trend Micro AiProtection provides users with peace of mind, knowing that their network is protected against malicious websites and other online threats. This level of security is a significant advantage for users who prioritize the safety of their network.
9. Impressive Range and Connectivity: Users report excellent range and connectivity, with strong signals in areas like backyards and driveways. This extended range ensures that users can stay connected even when they’re not close to the router.
10. Great Value for a WiFi 6 Router: The router is considered a great budget option for a WiFi 6 router, offering impressive performance and features at an affordable price. This value proposition makes it an attractive choice for users looking to upgrade to WiFi 6 without spending a lot.

Cons:

1. Absence of Notification LEDs: The lack of notification LEDs on the router is a minor inconvenience for some users, who prefer visual indicators to monitor network activity.
2. Limited Number of Ethernet Ports: The router has a limited number of Ethernet ports, which may be insufficient for users with multiple wired devices. This limitation can be a drawback for users who prefer wired connections for their devices.
3. Underutilization for Some Users: Some users feel that they are not fully utilizing the router’s capabilities, either due to their current internet plans or the lack of WiFi 6 devices in their homes. This underutilization can be a consideration for users evaluating whether this router meets their current and future needs.

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In conclusion, the ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Router is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, feature-rich, and affordable router. Its strong performance, ease of use, and security features make it a popular choice among users. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as limited Ethernet ports and the need for technical knowledge for advanced setup, the overall user experience is positive.