Wireless routers

We've tested 12 store-bought routers and 10 ISP-supplied models to assess their WiFi performance and security, plus how easy they are to set up.

February 2019

ASUS

RT-AC58U

Price

$176

Score

Average

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This ASUS dual-band router is OK. Its WiFi performance on both bands (2.4 and 5GHz) is just OK. Its direct fibre speed is poor though.

Test results

50
WiFi performance
68
Ease of use and setup
70
Security

Good points

Easy to use.
Good for security.
Good fibre speed.
Very good for channel switching.

Bad points

Only OK WiFi performance.
Only OK 2.4GHz WiFi performance.
Only OK 5GHz WiFi performance.
Poor fibre speed.

Model

Avg price
$176

Speed test results

Fibre
3.5/10
WiFi performance 2.4GHz
4.5/10
WiFi performance 5GHz
5.5/10
Obstruction 2.4GHz
Noticeable interference from obstruction
Obstruction 5GHz
Noticeable interference from obstruction
Channel switching ability
Very good at channel switching

Specifications

Fibre
Yes
WiFi bands (GHz)
2.4 & 5
Antennas
4
Antenna placement
Two on rear, one on each side, can fold 90° and rotates 180°, unremovable
Dimensions (WxDxH) [mm]
207 x 149 x 36
Weight (g)
395

Features

Mesh
MIMO
Yes
Beamforming support
Ethernet LAN ports
4
USB ports
1
Media sharing via USB
DLNA
Installation wizard
Quality of Service
Parental controls
Parental control features
Time scheduling on devices. Web, app and keyword filtering available under firewall setup
Firewall
Guest network WiFi
Yes
WPS support
3G/4G passthrough
VOIP
Wall mountable