Yeah, the ASUS RT-BE96U is definitely on the expensive side, but it packs some of the newest tech that could make it worth it if you're wanting to stay ahead.
It supports WiFi 7 (802.11be), which means it can handle faster speeds and lower latency, especially with its tri-band setup that includes a 6GHz band. The manufacturer says it can push a 320MHz bandwidth and 4096-QAM modulation, which basically means it can move a lot of data quickly.
From what we've seen, professional reviewers are pretty impressed with how it performs. Dong Knows Tech mentioned it's one of the first true WiFi 7 routers out there and highlights its new 2x2 connection for a big performance boost.
RTINGS and Tom's Guide also note that it uses the 6GHz band well for great speeds and overall performance.
That said, WiFi 7 is still pretty new, so the full benefits might not be obvious until more devices support it. Also, some feedback from our research suggests there might be some firmware bugs, so it could be worth waiting for more stable updates to get the most out of it.
All in all, if you're looking to future-proof your network and don't mind the investment, the ASUS RT-BE96U could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind you might run into some early adoption quirks.
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Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
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Alternatives to Consider
If the ASUS RT-BE96U WiFi 7 Router doesn't quite fit your needs, here are some other options to consider:
Asus RT-AX86U Pro
The Asus RT-AX86U Pro offers high-speed performance with a user-friendly interface. It's packed with features like robust security, excellent customization options, and sufficient port availability, which can make management easier for those who may find the RT-BE96U's advanced capabilities a bit overwhelming.
Eero 6
The Eero 6 is great for those seeking an easy, plug-and-play solution for home networking. It effectively covers multiple devices and provides a seamless experience for browsing, streaming, and gaming. Ideal for less tech-savvy folks who prefer simplicity over complex setups.
