Question 1

Which is better, ASUS RT-AX86U Pro or Netgear Nighthawk XR1000?

Accepted Answer

Based on our testing, the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro scores higher overall at 9/10. The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro scored 9/10 and the Netgear Nighthawk XR1000 scored 8.7/10 in our Best Router for Gaming 2026 evaluation.

Question 2

Is the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro worth it over the Netgear Nighthawk XR1000?

Accepted Answer

The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro scores 9/10 while the Netgear Nighthawk XR1000 scores 8.7/10. The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro is our "Best Overall Gaming Router" pick in the Best Router for Gaming 2026 category.

ASUS RT-AX86U Pro vs Netgear Nighthawk XR1000: Which to Buy?