Prior to the official release of Wifi 7, the AXE16000 represented the apex of network innovation, standing as the ultimate entrant into the market within the realm of the latest wifi 6E technology, epitomized by offerings like the TP-Link Archer AXE300 and the Asus ROG Rapture AXE16000. However, today’s landscape showcases the emergence of a handful of products infused with the latest wifi 7 technology from notable vendors like TP-Link, Netgear, and Asus. This begs the question: when faced with the choice, should one opt for the cutting-edge wifi 6E or plunge into the sphere of wifi 7 products?
In this article
- TP-Link Archer AXE300
- Archer AXE300 vs Archer BE800
- Archer AXE300 vs Asus Rog Rapture Gt-ax16000
Archer AXE300
The TP-Link Archer AXE300 stands tall as a significant player in the market, boasting formidable axe16000 wifi 6E capabilities. Positioned as the primary rival to the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 gaming router, which made its debut a few months ahead. However, the entrance of the Archer BE800 by TP-Link and the Asus RT-BE96U, both wielding the prowess of the latest wifi 7 technology, promises a shift in the landscape.
With this dynamic in mind, the crucial decision arises: should one gravitate towards the novel allure of wifi 7 products, or does the recent evolution of wifi 6E products presented by TP-Link and Asus hold the upper hand?
Archer AXE300 vs Archer BE800
Let’s delve into the distinctions between the recent Archer AXE300, based on the latest wifi 6E technology, and the new Archer BE800, heralding the advent of the next generation wifi 7. To fully appreciate these differences, a glance at the spec comparison table below, juxtaposing the two TP-Link Archer series, will provide clarity.
See also new Asus RT-BE96u BE19000 wifi 7 routers.
The Archer AXE300 resides one generation behind the Archer BE800. While the aggregated bandwidth exhibits a difference of approximately 3,000Mbps, it’s crucial to note that the Archer AXE300 stands as a quad-band wifi 6E router, whereas its counterpart, the Archer BE800, takes the form of a tri-band wifi 7 router. Both series do indeed embrace the 6GHz radio band; however, the BE800 boasts a double-channel bandwidth as opposed to the AXE300, leading to enhanced data throughput and reduced latency. An important point to consider is that this amplified channel bandwidth can only be harnessed when connecting to devices that also support the same 320MHz channel.
Ethernet Connectivity
Both series arrive equipped with two multi-Gig 10Gbps Ethernet ports, featuring one RJ45 port and another combo port that accommodates either an RJ45 or SFP+ fiber optic connection. Within this combo setup, the choice must be made between using the RJ45 or SFP+ port at a given time. Furthermore, all of these port types can be flexibly configured to serve as either LAN or WAN connections.
It’s worth noting that the new Archer BE800 no longer features 1.0Gbps Ethernet ports. Instead, the lowest Ethernet port now stands at 2.5Gbps, boasting a total of 4x 2.5Gbps ports for LAN connections, supporting an aggregated speed of 5Gbps. In contrast, the Archer AXE300 is equipped with 4x 1.0Gbps LAN ports, showcasing LAN aggregation capabilities as well.
Table 1 Archer AXE300 vs BE800
| Model | Archer AXE300 | Archer BE19000 |
| Wifi technology | Quad band Axe16000 wifi 6e router | BE19000 wifi 7 router |
| Signal rates | 6 GHz: 4804 Mbps 5 GHz-1: 4804 Mbps 5 GHz-2: 4804 Mbps 2.4 GHz: 1148 Mbps | 6GHz: 11,520Mbps 5GHz: 5,760Mbps 2.4GHz: 1,376Mbps |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 10Gbps RJ45/SFP+ Combo WAN/ LAN Port 1x 10 Gbps WAN/LAN Port, 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN Port 4x 1 Gbps LAN Ports (2 Gbps aggregate speed) | 4x 2.5 Gbps LAN Ports (5 Gbps Aggregation Speed) 10 Gbps WAN/LAN Port 10 Gbps SFP+ Fiber / RJ45 Ethernet Combo WAN/LAN Port |
| USB Ports | 1x USB 3.0 Port; | 1x USB 3.0 Port |
| Multi-Link Operations | N/A | YES |
| Channel Bandwidth | Up to 160 MHz | Up to 320 MHz |
MLO
The next generation of wifi 7 technology supports MLO (Multi Link Operation). The MLO is a feature introduced in wifi 7 technology to enhance the efficiency and performance of wireless networks. MLO allows a wifi 7 device, such as a router or access point, to simultaneously connect to multiple client devices across multiple radio bands. This feature can help distribute traffic and optimize data transfer, resulting in improved overall network performance.
In a wifi 7 network, there are typically multiple radio bands available, including traditional 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, as well as the new 6GHz band introduced in wifi 6E. With MLO, a wifi 7 device can establish connections with client devices on different bands simultaneously, aggregating their bandwidth to achieve higher data transfer rates. This is particularly beneficial in scenarios where there are multiple devices concurrently utilizing the network.
It’s important to note that for MLO to work effectively, both the wifi 7 device (router or access point) and the connected client devices need to support this feature. Additionally, not all wifi 7 devices may support MLO, so it’s advisable to check the specifications and capabilities of the specific device you’re interested in.
Archer AXE300 vs Asus Rog Rapture
Now, let’ see how Archer AXE300 perform with Asus Rog Rapture GT-axe16000. As a reference you can use table 2 below for spec comparison between Archer axe300 and Asus Gt-axe16000.
AXE16000
The AXE16000 stands as the current pinnacle in the world of wifi 6E routers, boasting the fastest network segment available in the market. Previously, we observed that leading vendors introduced top-tier wifi 6 and wifi 6E products centered around the AXE11000, exemplified by offerings like the Asus ZenWiFi ET12 AXE11000 mesh wifi 6E and the TP-Link Deco XE200. It appeared that the AXE11000 was the zenith of network tiers. However, both TP-Link and Asus have now unveiled AXE16000 wifi 6E routers, ascending to an unprecedented level of network sophistication.
This AXE16000 model seems to encapsulate the ultimate network tier achievable in wifi 6E routers before the imminent arrival of the 7th generation of wifi technology (wifi 7). We are well aware that wifi 7 is poised on the horizon. In fact, TP-Link has already showcased several products built upon this wifi-7 technology, including the Deco BE33000, TP-Link Archer BE24000 which have been already available on Amazon.
Huge bandwidth capacity
Amidst this technological evolution, the TP-Link Archer AXE300 AXE16000, serving as direct contenders to the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000, feature a quad radio band configuration. This design approach is reminiscent of the popular Orbi RBKE963, acclaimed as the first quad-band product on the market, underpinned by wifi 6E technology. The Archer AXE16000 employs a 4×4 MU-MIMO setup across each radio band, summing up to an impressive 16 data streams, all while ensuring a latency-free network experience—much like the Asus AXE16000.
Currently, the market offers a selection of pci-e wifi 6E adapters, compatible with 2×2 MU-MIMO. Should you have two desktop computers fitted with pci-e slots and these wifi 6E adapters, the router can concurrently deliver two data streams to each computer, facilitating seamless performance.
Mesh Wifi
If larger coverage is needed, no worries this archer axe300 features Onmesh technology you can add compliant onemesh devices such as tplink archer re715x to join and create whole home network. This is similar feature applied to asus gt axe16000 with its Aimesh technology to create mesh wifi network when you add compatible aimesh devices such as asus rp-ax56 ax1800 range extender.
Ultra High Speed Internet Support
TP-Link is immensely generous in equipping this archer axe300 with three options of multi-gig wan ports and the good thing is that each of this port can function either as wan or lan port:
- 1x 2.5Gbps wan / lan port
- 1x 10Gbps wan / lan port
- 1x 10Gbps Ethernet / fiber combo wan / lan port
Option 3 is the combo port that pairs 10Gbps RJ45 port and SPF+ optic port. You cannot use both 10Gbps RJ45 port and at the same time you use SPF+ port for optical port. You can only use either RJ45 port or SPF port at a time.
Default setting
Choosing one of the three WAN port options establishes its respective function for the device. If you designate a WAN port for connection to your modem, the remaining two port options automatically default to LAN ports. For an optimal configuration, it’s advised to employ the 10Gbps combo port as your designated WAN port to interface with the modem. This can be achieved through either an RJ45 cable modem connection or the utilization of the SPF port for fiber/optical modem connections.
From the perspective of ethernet ports, a comparison between the Archer AXE300 and the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 reveals that the key distinction lies in the 10Gbps combo port. While the Archer AXE300 boasts an integrated 10Gbps combo port, the Asus GT-AXE16000 does not incorporate this feature.
However, it’s important to note that the disparity doesn’t solely revolve around the combo port. Asus AXE16000, in fact, employs a default multi-gig 2.5Gbps port as its WAN port for modem connection. Should you require a multi-gig 10Gbps port for WAN connectivity, it’s necessary to initiate the Asus setup wizard and manually designate the 10GE port as the WAN connection.
Dual wan
Archer axe300 doesn’t give you option to use dual wan, but asus does. With dual wan feature, asus rog rapture gt axe16000 allows you to use two separate internet providers, and you can configure the router to work in load balance or failover. For example the primary wan connects to cable internet provider while the second wan connects to USB internet as the secondary internet. With failover mode, when the primary internet fails, the router failover to the secondary internet and fallback when the primary one is restored. Click here to learn more details dual wan failover or load balance configuration.
In terms of internet connection perspective, tplink archer axe300 axe16000 gives you more various wan connections including 2.5GE, 10GE or Optic, but it only connects to single wan connection. On the other hand, asus axe16000 supports dual wan connection that supports failover or load balance modes. In a critical business internet connection where a single hour of internet failure is not compromised, dual wan with failover failback mode is ideal solution that can only be done with asus axe16000 router.
Security Protection
While security protection against online threats is vital for both home and business networks, it often falls to the wayside in priority for many users. Recognizing this tendency, both TP-Link and Asus embed built-in network protection features into their premium wifi 6/6E products. The TP-Link Archer AXE300 comes equipped with Homeshield, offering a range of features including a home network scanner, parental control, and Quality of Service tools. This built-in software protection is offered as a standard, but for enhanced robustness, upgrading to Homeshield Pro is advised. This advanced version safeguards your network against DDoS attacks, provides IoT device protection, and offers advanced parental control features.
On the other hand, the Asus AXE16000 goes a step further by generously providing free lifetime Asus AiProtection Pro. This similar network protection is bolstered by Trend Micro, providing an added layer of defense for your network.
Game features
For gamers in mind, wifi router with game features to support smooth and fast online gaming experience is a preference. Archer axe16000 doesn’t come with specific game features; however you can give first priority to the game device by enabling QoS by device.
On the other hand, gt-axe16000 is one of Asus Republic of Game (ROG) rapture series which is designed for gamers in mind with its triple level of game accelerator that optimize from the game device, the packet traffic prioritization up to the shortest path selection of the game servers. For lower level of this gt-axe16000 you may also consider asus rog-rapture gt-axe11000, See also comparison between asus gt-axe11000 and Netgear axe11000 wifi 6e routers.
Take a look at the following spec and features comparison between tplink archer axe300 axe16000 and asus rog raoture gt-axe16000.
Table 1 TP-Link Archer Axe16000 vs Asus
| Axe16000 Model | TP-Link Archer AX300 Axe16000 | Asus Rog Rapture Gt-axe16000 |
| Quad band axe16000 | Yes, with OneMesh™ Supported and 16 streams | Yes, with AiMesh technology 16 streams |
| 6 GHz: 4804 Mbps 5 GHz: 4804 Mbps 5 GHz: 4804 Mbps 2.4GHz: 1148 Mbps | Yes | Yes |
| Antennas | 8x Fixed High-Performance dual band Antennas with beamforming | 8x External antenna (non-detachable) and 4x Internal antenna, and exclusive ASUS RangeBoost Plus for better signal coverage |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 10Gbps RJ45/SFP+ Combo WAN/ LAN Port 1x 10 Gbps WAN/LAN Port, 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN Port 4x 1 Gbps LAN Ports (2 Gbps aggregate speed) | 1 x 2.5 Gigabit WAN Port 2 x 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN Ports 4 x Gigabit LAN Ports |
| USB Ports | 1x USB 3.0 Port; Supported Functions: FTP Server Media Server Samba Server | 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port 1 x USB 2.0 Port Function: Media Server Time Machine Samba Server FTP Server |
| Gaming features | No specific gaming features, but QoS by device you can configure for your game console | Triple level game acceleration: 1. game devices prioritization 2. game packet prioritization 3. shortest path to the game server |
| Processors | 2.0 GHz 64-bit Quad-Core CPU | 2.0GHz 64-bit quad-core CPU |
| Memory | 1 GB RAM | 256MB NAND flash and 2GB DDR4 RAM |
| Security Protection | Basic TP-Link Home Shield, the pro version need paid subscription | Free lifetime Asus AiProtection Pro powered by Trend micro |
| Mode Operation | Wireless Router / Wireless AP mode | AiMesh Primary AiMesh router AiMesh node |
| Dimension | 9.1 in x 9.1 in x 2.7 in (232 mm x 232 mm x 68 mm) | 13.94 in x 13.94 in x 7.6 in (354 mm x 354 mm x 193 mm) |
| Weight | Shipping weight: 6.949 pounds (3.152 gram) | 5.346 pounds (2,425 grams) |
| Price | $599.99 | $699.99 |
Both archer axe300 and asus gt-axe16000 are premium products with huge bandwidth capacity. For best experience in online gaming, asus axe16000 is preference with its triple level game accelerator. Moreover, the capacity of ddr4 memory is huge enough for demanding gaming experience. Click the link below to learn more details each of the product; see the current price and get the best deals in Amazon (#ads).
Related products
For middle range wifi 6e network segment, you may consider best value Tenda rx27 pro axe5400 with affordable price. Or you may also consider mesh wifi 6e product offered by Amazon, the Google nest Pro 6e and deco xe75 pro.