Trying out the ASUS RT-AX89X AX6000 WiFi 6 Router with Dual 10G Ports (2024)

Understanding the nuances of 802.11ax technology, or Wi-Fi 6, has become increasingly essential as our homes and workplaces become even more laden with internet-dependent devices. This latest Wi-Fi standard aims to tackle issues that the previous incumbent, 802.11ac, could not efficiently resolve, particularly in high-density environments.

Here's the rundown on some of the perks and drawbacks I've observed:

• Increased Capacity: Wi-Fi 6 allows more devices to connect and operate seamlessly on a single network. This is great news for my smart home setup, which includes various gadgets, from smart speakers to IoT devices.

• Improved Efficiency: With OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies, data packets are handled more intelligently, reducing latency and increasing throughput. This is a game-changer for my online gaming sessions.

• Better Range: The use of Target Wake Time extends the reach of Wi-Fi signals and ensures that the connection is stable even at longer distances. As someone who's experienced dead zones in the past, this is a significant upgrade.

• Enhanced Battery Life: For devices like smartphones and tablets, the reduced need to constantly search for a signal means they hold a charge longer.

However, there are a few disadvantages to consider:

• Cost: Upgrading to devices that are compatible with 802.11ax technology can be pricier than sticking with older standards.

• Compatibility: Not all devices support this new standard yet, so I'm not always able to maximize the technology's full potential.

Personally, transitioning to a router like the ASUS RT-AX89X AX6000 that leverages 802.11ax has been mostly positive. I've noticed that video conferences are smoother and buffer-free, despite the number of devices connected to my network. The broader coverage has also meant I can move around my space without losing signal strength, which is critical for my mobile devices.

On the flip side, however, the financial outlay for such a sophisticated piece of equipment is not insignificant. And while my smartphone and laptop have benefited from 802.11ax, several of my older gadgets have not, rendering some of the router's advanced features moot.

In practical terms, the transition to 802.11ax feels like a future-proof investment, especially with the number of connected devices in my home constantly increasing. However, it's important to weigh the immediate benefits against the current limitations. For those with a tech-heavy and high-usage environment, upgrading to a device like the ASUS RT-AX89X that harnesses 802.11ax is a move towards a more robust, efficient network. But if you're running on a tight budget or your device ecosystem isn't demanding, waiting for the technology to mature and become more widespread might be the more practical choice.

When it comes to sheer performance and speed, the ASUS RT-AX89X AX6000 delivers commendably. Here's my breakdown, considering I've been using it extensively in a home filled with numerous devices:

• Ultrafast WiFi Speed: True to its claim, the router provides an impressive 12-stream connectivity, ensuring 6000Mbps speed which handles simultaneous device usage with ease. My experience streaming 4K content and transferring large files has been smooth, making it a solid choice for heavy bandwidth users.

• Cutting-Edge WiFi 6 Standard: Leveraging the 802.11ax standard, my devices enjoy enhanced efficiency and overall better network performance, a significant step up from previous WiFi generations.

• Robust Connectivity Options: Having Dual 10G ports is a game-changer for tasks requiring high data-transfer speeds, such as connecting to NAS or high-speed servers. This router supports both 10GBase-T and 10G SFP+ technologies, providing a flexibility not seen in many competitors.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. For one, the router's size and aesthetics might not appeal to everyone's taste or fit in seamlessly with all home decor styles. Also, despite the advanced features, some users have reported the need for frequent reboots to maintain optimal performance, though this has not been a significant issue in my personal use.

Here's a quick list of what stands out:

Pros:

• Exceptional WiFi performance with speeds that truly cater to busy networks.

• Forward-thinking with the inclusion of Dual 10G connectivity.

• Future-proof with WiFi 6 technology.

• Multi-device support is a breeze, thanks to the 8 antennas and MU-MIMO technology.

Cons:

• The physical design might be bulky for some scenarios.

• Initial firmware issues have been reported, but these are often resolved with updates.

To sum up from my personal vantage point, the ASUS RT-AX89X AX6000 is an investment in your network's future. It has lifted my home network performance considerably, especially for tasks that demand high-speed data transfer. While not perfect, its advantages substantially outweigh the occasional hiccup, particularly after keeping the firmware updated. The router's efficiency in handling a multitude of devices simultaneously is where it truly shines and stands out compared to other routers I've worked with.

If you're contemplating a router upgrade and your household is similar to mine in terms of device load and bandwidth demand, the RT-AX89X should definitely be on your shortlist. Despite its occasional quirks, it remains a powerhouse of a router that's hard to beat on speed and connectivity.

The ASUS RT-AX89X with its next-gen 802.11ax WiFi performance stands out primarily due to its impressive array of connectivity options. Here's a quick rundown:

• Dual 10G ports including a 10GBase-T and a 10G SFP+ port

• 8x gigabit LAN ports for extensive wired connectivity

• 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports for additional peripherals

This assortment essentially sets you up for a network that's ready to handle massive data throughput which is ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks like NAS systems, high-speed file transfers, and robust gaming setups. I have personally found the dual 10G ports something of a game-changer when it comes to moving data across my home network. The high-speed data-transfer rates are perfect for connecting my main computer to high-storage systems, offering speeds that leave regular gigabit connections in the dust.

On the downside, while these leading-edge features are tantalizing, they do come at a premium price point. Also, not every user may have the infrastructure to fully leverage these ports—many homes and devices still max out at gigabit speeds.

Here's a more detailed look at the connectivity options:

10G Ethernet ports:

• 10GBase-T: Offers compatibility with Cat6 or higher cables.
• 10G SFP+: Ideal for direct connection with other SFP+ supporting devices or longer runs via fiber.

USB ports:

• Facilitate printers, storage drives, or even cellular dongles for connection redundancy.

LAN ports:

• A total of 8 Ethernet ports provide ample connection capacity for a variety of devices without the need for an additional switch.

Admittedly, shifting my home network toward these specs took some thought and a bit of investment, as I had to factor in acquiring Cat6 cabling and considering future-proofing my other hardware. But, once set up, the RT-AX89X certainly delivered on its promise of a robust, high-speed network, supporting multiple devices without a hitch.

One notable thing that might be a drawback or a surplus, depending on your setup, is the sheer amount of space required for such a complex port array. For some, the multiple 10G ports may seem redundant if they don't plan to have such an advanced network setup, yet for others, this selection reflects necessary future-proofing.

Furthermore, it's worth mentioning that while having a wide range of ports provides flexibility, it could also complicate the setup and require a substantial knowledge of networking to properly manage and optimize the performance output from such a sophisticated device.

In essence, the ASUS RT-AX89X borrows from the corporate network playbook and presents itself as a comprehensive home networking solution, albeit with some potential overkill if your usage scenario won't exploit its full technical prowess. However, if you crave the cutting edge of home networking and desire a flexible, high-performance ecosystem, this router's connectivity suite is poised to meet those demands.

In considering the security and network management of the ASUS RT-AX89X AX6000, my thoughts naturally gravitate toward its built-in features that aim to protect and optimize a home network. AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, stands out as a robust safeguard against security threats. It's reassuring to know that all devices connected to the network are shielded by automatic, regularly updated security signatures.

However, it's important to weigh both the strengths and potential drawbacks:

Pros:

• AiProtection Pro offers real-time network monitoring, ensuring that threats are identified and neutralized efficiently.

• The advanced parental controls are a godsend for families, enabling the restriction of inappropriate content and management of online time.

• Lifetime free protection adds long-term value, sparing me from subscription fees.

Cons:

• While AiProtection Pro is a strong feature, I am aware that no security system is infallible. Users must remain vigilant and supplement router security with device-specific antivirus software.

• Some users might find the plethora of security settings to be overwhelming, requiring a certain level of technical knowledge to optimize.

Despite these considerations, the ASUS RT-AX89X’s ability to handle a complex array of devices with various demands impresses me most. The commercial-grade security feels robust, but it's the day-to-day management where I see the router shines, thanks largely to its easy-to-navigate UI and AiMesh compatibility.

Creating a seamless roaming experience is simply a matter of adding any AiMesh-compatible router, which is a huge plus for me. The idea of having a consistently strong WiFi signal, no matter where I am in my home, without the stress of manual network management, is very appealing.

The router's dual 10G ports are a forward-thinking feature that currently sits at the fringe of home networking needs. But for someone who may consider a more extensive home setup or small business use, this could be a decisive factor.

In conclusion, the ASUS RT-AX89X offers a combination of advanced features that cater both to networking enthusiasts and to users seeking an efficient and secure home network. Its security and network management capabilities hold up well under scrutiny, making it a prime candidate for anyone looking to invest in a high-performance, future-proof router. While there may be complexities in setup and ongoing management for some users, the pros distinctly outweigh the cons in my experience.