ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router vs TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router
We compare the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router and TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
Scored 9.5/10 in our testing
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
Best overall Wi-Fi 6 router — excellent range, gaming QoS, and AiProtection security for most homes
TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Best mid-range Wi-Fi 6 router — AX5400 with HomeShield security and easy TP-Link Tether app
Score Breakdown
| ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router | Category | TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router |
|---|---|---|
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Performance | 9/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Features | 9/10 |
| 9/10 | Ease of Use | ✓ 9.8/10 |
| 9.5/10 | Value | 9.5/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Overall | 9.3/10 |
Specs Comparison
| ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router | Spec | TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi 6 (AX5700) dual-band | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (AX5400) dual-band |
| Up to 5,700 Mbps combined | Speed | Up to 5,400 Mbps combined |
| 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN, 4x Gigabit LAN, USB 3.0 | Ports | 5x Gigabit ports (1 WAN + 4 LAN), USB 3.0 |
| ASUS Mobile Game Mode, Adaptive QoS, port priority | Gaming | TP-Link HomeShield with parental controls |
| AiProtection Pro with Trend Micro | Security | TP-Link Tether — user-friendly mobile app |
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
Pros
- + 2.5 Gbps WAN port for multi-gig internet plans
- + Adaptive QoS with Mobile Game Mode for low-latency gaming
- + AiProtection Pro security — commercial-grade threat protection included free
- + Excellent ASUS firmware support with regular security updates
Cons
- − Larger physical footprint than compact routers
- − Setup can be complex for non-technical users
- − Maximum 5 GHz speed lower than Wi-Fi 6E competitors
TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Pros
- + TP-Link Tether app — simplest setup experience in this guide
- + HomeShield parental controls included free
- + AX5400 handles 20+ device households
- + OFDMA and 4x4 MU-MIMO for efficient multi-device performance
Cons
- − 5 Gbps combined — lower ceiling than ASUS AX86U Pro
- − HomeShield Pro subscription required for advanced security features
- − No 2.5 Gbps ports for multi-gig internet plans
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router comes out on top with an overall score of 9.5/10. The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro is the best all-around Wi-Fi 6 router for homes that want excellent performance, gaming-grade features, and enterprise-level security without paying for the ROG premium. The 2.5 Gbps WAN port supports multi-gig internet plans. Adaptive QoS intelligently prioritizes gaming and streaming traffic. AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro provides real-time malware protection and parental controls. The ASUS router app is comprehensive and regularly updated with security patches. ASUS firmware support is among the best in the industry.
Buy the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router on AmazonRead the full Best Wi-Fi Routers of 2026: Fastest and Most Reliable Tested guide for complete reviews of all 8 products.