ASUS ZenWiFi AX XT8 Unboxing and Review
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- Опубліковано 7 сер 2024
- ASUS XT8 Unboxing and Review. This mesh WiFi 6 System is fast and has great range. Covering the following topics; mesh wifi explanation, speed tests, range tests, dual-band vs triband, usb network drive and more. This tri band ASUS wifi 6 ax6600 system works well in just about every category but did suffer from 2 drops initially.
Product Links
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ASUS ZenWiFI AX XT8 (AX6600): amzn.to/2QPMu6i
ASUS ZenWiFi AX Mini XD4 (AX1800): amzn.to/3czJ9Rl
16 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch: amzn.to/3frkSi8
8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch: amzn.to/3waDJDP
Network (Ethernet) Cables: amzn.to/3w9czNH
Cable Modem: amzn.to/3dmUnrg
Google Nest WiFi: amzn.to/39qSngO
TP-Link Deco X60 Mesh Wifi 6 System: amzn.to/3frgOOP
eero 6 + eero 6 Extender: amzn.to/3m3o8kZ
eero 6 (3-pack): amzn.to/3m6h5YY
eero Pro 6: amzn.to/3u7k06h
eero Pro 6 (3-pack): amzn.to/3m3cK8C
Netgear Orbi RBK752: amzn.to/2PBgulH
Video Links:
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Synology DS220Plus: • Synology DS220+ Unboxi...
Nest Wifi Review: • Nest WiFi Router | Lon...
TP-Link Deco X60 Review: • TP-Link Deco X60 Unbox...
eero 6 Review: • eero 6 Review | Unbox,...
eero Pro 6 Review: • eero Pro 6 Review | Un...
Netgear Orbi RBK752 Review: • Netgear Orbi Unbox and...
eero Pro 6 vs eero 6 Review : • eero 6 VS eero Pro 6 R...
eero Pro 6 vs Netgear Orbi: • Eero Pro 6 vs Netgear ...
eero Pro 6 vs Nest Wifi Review: • eero Pro 6 vs Nest Wif...
Nest Wifi Setup Video: • Google Nest WiFi | FAQ...
eero Pro 6 Setup Video: • eero Pro 6 Setup Guide...
eero 6 Setup Video: • eero 6 Setup Guide | F...
Gigabit Network Switch Review: • TP-Link 24 Port Gigabi...
Timeline
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0:00 - ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 Review
2:17 - Mesh Wifi vs Router
5:28 - ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 Unboxing
8:24 - ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 First Impressions
9:32 - ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 Speed Test
10:21 - Testing Environment
10:46 - Option #1 - ASUS XT8 Router
11:09 - Option #3 - ASUS XT8 Router + ASUS XT8 Router (via Ethernet Backhaul)
11:58 - Option #4 - ASUS XT8 Router + ASUS XT8 Router (via Wireless Backhaul)
13:19 - ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 Range Tests
15:18 - Network Drive on ASUS ZenWiFi
19:49 - AiProtection
20:45 - ASUS ZenWiFi Final Thoughts - Наука та технологія
This is exactly what I needed to see before taking the plunge and getting myself a mesh WiFi system. Thanks!
No problem!
How has it gone btw, assuming you got this asus?
You do a really good job reviewing this stuff, best I’ve seen. Keep up the great work!
Thanks! I appreciate it!
Sorry to be offtopic but does someone know a trick to get back into an Instagram account??
I was stupid forgot my login password. I love any tips you can offer me.
@Romeo Alaric instablaster ;)
Again another top notch WiFi review. You own this category. Keep up the great work! Thanks!!!
Thanks, will do!
I really appreciate that you showed & talked about the router's software. I've watched several hours of videos as I prepare to buy a new wifi 6 mesh system, and this video is the first to show & talk about a router's software. Thanks!
Thanks!
Brilliant product, works well where others did not, easy to setup. this is an unbiased accurate review 5 star .
Thanks! Appreciate the feedback!
The wireless backhaul explanation was great, thanks for that.
No problem
Thank you, I did a lot of research before I saw this video & purchased one already and now I know this was a good purchase thanks to your review. I feel much better about such a big price tag
Glad to hear it
Just got mine, such an upgrade from TP Powerlink. No outages and incredible speeds. Keep up the great work
Glad it’s worked out!
Amazing review, super thorough. Subscribed
Keep up the great work
Thank you!
Amazing in depth review man, thank you so much for this!
My pleasure!
As always, very informative review! Thanks very much 👍👍
No problem!
Best info by far on this system . Super good info and many questions answered. Appreciate your effort and knowledge and sharing with us. Thanks again.
Glad it was helpful! and thanks for the feedback!
I bought the AX6600 ZenWifi mostly off your recommendation. It arrived last night. Set-up was easy (
Glad to hear it. Asus has a ton of options, other companies like tp link have really good apps as well, maybe even better but with less options. Thanks for your input, I don't really go too much in the app thinking my video is long enough already.
Very thorough and tested product review. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Very informative and perfectly described, thank you! I’m looking for something to replace my old Apple AirPort Time Capsule with and since this have the USB port (which the Orbi doesn’t), it’s shaping up pretty well.
Thanks! Yes this is a good choice
I recently moved to a new house and the office is in a separate back building (a converted detached garage). It's not super far from the house, but it I think it will be a good use for mesh wifi. (It will be even better after I add a wired backhaul.) Thanks for this review (and the other mesh wifi reviews). This helps a lot!
Glad it helps, mesh WiFi should help your situation
Thanks for the review!
Np
Great technical review with fantastic content!
Thanks!
Thank you very much for the thorough review, mate. My Razer Sila 3-mesh system is finally taking a dump and it's time to upgrade. I just ordered 3 of these, so hopefully I don't have any problems; I've heard mixed things, but hopefully enough time has passed to fix the firmware issues people were talking about. Can't wait to set it up!
Hello mate, how are they? I'm thinking of buying but like you say the mixed reviews are putting me off a little...
Bumping the question 🙂
Got any updates about the product?
Had trouble getting mine to connect to the Internet (through a cable modem). Tech Support got me going and I'm impressed. Signal strength is impressive. Getting better speed than with the old Apple Airport Extreme system I had installed before. Plus I need fewer units to get WiFi throughout the house.
It's a great unit
Thank you for posting the video!
No problem!
Great review, thank you!
No problem!
Great video 👍
I have a couple of questions:
1) is there an option to torn off the led light? (fir better sleep and environment/power saving)
2) can you show anything about the app? Could be an idea for a router app comparison between brands/products
3) can you express measures in metric? At least in post as overlay?
Keep it up!
Thanks!
1 - yes you can turn them off
2 - App lets you control just about everything
3 - 161 x 160 x 75mm
Just a note to the creator; 5/5 video. Everything was explained perfectly for me to make a buying decision.
I have a Netgear Orbi RBK753 and have had nothing but multiple daily reboots from the main router.
Every piece of troubleshooting gone through, and now that it’s just out of warranty I am left with some expensive paperweights.
I won’t give Netgear any of my money again. Which leads me to this video, as I figured I’d look for some alternatives.
I’ve decided that the ASUS XT8 is what I’m changing to. Whilst many other videos were helpful, this one tipped me over to going for it.
Thanks for all the efforts you put in, and for making the test’s clear and visual, along with the advice you offered.
Great work! Thanks
Edit: The Netgear Orbi RBR750 may have a common RAM issue causing the reboots, but it isn’t a recognise issue with Netgear.
EDIT 2: Netgear provides a 1 year warranty whilst ASUS provides 3 years for this model. Well done ASUS 👍
Appreciate the feedback! Hopefully the XT8 works better for you, the ET8 is another good option as well and I experienced no drops in the months I used it. Granted I had the rbk752 and that was fine for me as well in the months I used it. Very good point on the warranty, I also like Asus actually includes parental controls for free among other features which Netgear and some others charge a subscription for.
@@landpet No problem, it’s clear you know your stuff and more importantly, how to share that knowledge in a way that allows universal understanding. Great stuff.
I hope so, XT8 is arriving today so I look forward to finishing the wired Ethernet runs around the house for the weekend.
Thanks for the info regarding the ET8. I see that it’s a 6E router which is great. Unfortunately these are fairly difficult to get hold of here in the UK, so I’ll run the XT8 for a while until I have enough devices to take advantage of newer tech.
Glad you had a good experience with the RBK752. I know my experience won’t be shared by all, it’s just a shame that there are many reports of defective RAM components that induce a reboot, same with the 850 series, too.
Yes, the warranty wasn’t something I considered too much until now. I’m usually not as complacent but will learn from this moving forward. Also great regarding parental controls with ASUS. It does feel like Netgear could be the EA of the router sector as they just want more money from you on an ongoing basis for things that should be included in the premium price of their products.
Thanks again for the reply. I’ll be back to watch more videos again soon!
@@landpet ASUS XT8’s installed. Absolutely annihilates the RBK753. I never knew it could be this good 👍
Very informative, thank you.
You're welcome
Just purchased it will look forward to setting it up
Great!
@landpet Thanks for all your vids. They are very informative. About 3 weeks ago I bought a 3 pack of the eero Pro 6. Eero just released firmware 6.5 and since then I’m really struggling with my HomeKit accessories and my HomePods.
My eero’s are still in the return window but these issues are making me consider the Asus XT8 or ET8. I know my mileage will vary but head to head which is better? I do like the simplicity of the eero app but I miss a web interface like a had with my Nighthawk R7000 and AX8.
Thanks! Well that sucks the eero Pro 6 hasn't been working out for you. I've had it for a year now and ran it for a few months and it's been fine. I recently retested it so I'll have a video next month on it. ET8 is going to give you more options and can deliver faster speeds if you have wifi 6e devices, it just depends which direction you want to go. I like them both.
Nice video, as usual! Can you use both devices as access point, e.g. one wired connected to a router and the second one being the satellite?
Thanks! If you're referring to using this entire XT8 (2 pack) as an access point to another router, the answer is yes. It's called Access Point mode, you can set it in the ASUS app or through the browser.
If you're referring to using 3 XT8's where one is the main router and you have 2 additional of which 1 is wired to the router and 1 is wirelessly connected, the answer is also yes. The difference between this and the above method is that you're not supposed to set the Router in access point mode since you actually have one of the three XT8's being the router.
Bro youre makin best reviews for routers great job!!! What do you think about asus ax 89x ? Gonna make review about it?
Thanks! I haven't played with the AX89X. It's not on my list to review as of now. Next one is the TP Link AX73
👍👍👍👍 great upload!!
Thanks!
Great review!! Bought this 2 pack based on your advice.. How do you determine best placement, and how do you see which device you are connected to?
Thanks! The app will tell you placement signal strength. About 30 to 50 feet away is optimal placement. The app will tell you which devices are connected to which node.
Thank you for making a truthful video about the ASUS ZenWifi AX XT8. They do drop off regularly and just die to a point I have gone through the manufacture in getting replacements three times with a year of purchase. However, I am now inclined not opened the new replacements because I would like to just sell them before I use them so I that I can use that money towards a different brand.
No problem. Interesting how that happened several times for you
Many thanks, I'll get these. I live in a concrete house with three floors and really hope it will save my life.
No problem
Thank you for the great review! I am going to be setting up a wired back haul, does this system have a dedicated wireless backhaul or would I be able to connect devices to the second 5 ghz channel? I was looking at eero pro 6 because it doesn’t have a dedicated channel.
From what I remember, you can connect to the second 5GHz channel if you’re on wired backhaul. You’re welcome!
Hey, nice video. Was your range test using just the single unit or was it using the second as a node?
Thanks, second as a mode connected via wired backhaul (option 3).
Thank you for doing these review. Which one would you recommend TP-Link Deco X60 or ASUS ZenWiFi AX XT8 and why?
Depends on your situation: I would recommend the following:
ASUS XT8 for Wireless Backhaul (tri band will deliver better speeds to the secondary nodes vs dual band)
Deco X60 for Wired Backhaul (amazing deal for what you get and wired performance is about the same as the XT8, so def worth saving money)
If you want the in between, check out the Deco X68 (ua-cam.com/video/-copWVogcvI/v-deo.html)
@@landpet thank you for the advise
Very helpful. Thanks. Question: do you think you could have a mix of wired and wireless Asus nodes to a single Asus router? Thanks.
Yes you can
Great review. How long does it take to power boot up from off state till your device can detect?
I can’t remember, don’t have it anymore but it should be under 2 minutes. Thanks!
Excellent review. I have a question I don't know if you can help me. I'm planning to buy this router. But since my ISP is also TV provider, I need to use the mesh router in bridge mode. I don't know which features Ill loose in bridge mode. Will have parenteral control, VPN ans other features? Or it will be just a "luxury wireless repeater"?
Thanks! I haven't tried that yet. I'm just guessing at this point but I believe it will be a luxury wireless repeater. The app does give you an option to run it in access point mode so it just expands the existing network.
Thanks for the review!!! Was considering buying an Orbi AX4200 as it seems like a lot of pro installers go for Orbi setups due to their reliability, but have since realised the AX AT8 is at the same price. Our house is 2.5 storey (L1 and L2 and also has a room on the ground floor) and a garden, so the coverage of the AX XT8 is tempting as well as the fact that it's AX6600. My concern on the back of your review is the reliability of the AX XT8 though...
Someone with a 3 storey house still had dead zones with the RBK 50 then with the AX XT8 and since got the Deco M4 * 3 units and it solved his problems at a much cheaper cost. Not sure what to do...
TP Link Deco X68 is my favorite tri band mesh wifi for the price/performance. It's not as fast as the Asus or Orbi but much cheaper. The TP Link Deco X60 is my favorite dual band .mesh wifi because of the price per performance again it's not as fast as the mesh WiFis in this video but it's really good considering it's price. I recently got the ASUS ET8 and it's the fastest mesh wifi I've tested.
If your main concern is coverage, then I would get a 3 pack Deco X60 and call it a day. A 3 pack eero Pro 6 would give you better speeds and about the same coverage but costs a lot more. ASUS ET8 would give you even better speeds and coverage but costs even more.
@@landpet Brilliant! Thank you SO much for such a detailed reply!!!👍👍 👍 Will definitely go ahead with one of the options you suggested. I'd seen your Best Mesh WiFi 6 Systems and checked out the eero Pro 6, only to find out has not been released in Aus yet.... (we're so far behind the rest of the World when it comes to anything internet related...). Yes coverage AND reliability are my main concerns, speed not so much as the speeds we get from our ISPs here are shocking outside of the big cities. Thanks again very much and congrats on the channel! Your vids are super informative!!!👍
@@landpet Just so happens that there is a sale on atm on the Deco X68 here in Australia (usd $370 for 3 unit pack) which makes it even cheaper than the Deco X60 3 units pack (c. usd$445) - Asus ET8 and Eero Pro 6 not avail for sale in Aus... - AX XT8 and Orbi AX4200 are at $usd 555)!!! Ordering the 3 pack Deco X68 now!!! Thanks A LOT for your help and recommendation!!!! Much appreciated
@@olic2581 Glad it worked out!
Great review. Maybe I missed this in your review but I was wondering if you can add additional XT8 router so that you have a total of three - I am trying to get my wifi to expand to my yard.
Thanks! Yes you can add another XT8
@@landpet Thanks for the quick response. Second question - can you connect a AX Mini with an XT8
@@randazzo_cucina6257 Yes, you can connect any ASUS router that supports AiMesh just as a heads up.
Fantastic review and I bought the product on the back of it so thank you. Just one question, I have a gigbit internet service connected to the 2.5gb port. If I add a third unit I can use the 2.5gb ports on each nodes to connect between them provide a 2.5gb lan?
Thanks! Well the router WAN port is being used for your LAN so stuff coming out of that is now capped at gigabit speeds. You could get an unmanaged switch and connect it and if devices connect to that switch, then it should be possible to make 2.5Gbps LAN just on that small portion of the LAN
That’s what I thought, I will give it a go. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my question
Thanks for an excellent review. How does it compare with Synology SRM? My key feature requirement is to connect my two houses in different countries together through vpn.
Thanks! I haven't played with SRM, so I can't say.
So I having issue with my second one just keeps rebooting. It works fine for about a week then goes into sync with router and stayed at that. So is there a setting somewhere to set? I'm using option 2 that you mention.
What weatherproof outdoor router / extender / AP would you recommend to add to this system to extend 0.5 acres into the backyard? And would I need a switch or can I just pipe directly into the main router for whatever you advise? Also, are you using CAT 7 Ethernet cable to hardwire the node to the main? Thanks in advance!
I haven’t played with any outdoor devices. Depending on the area, you may get away with placing one of those right by your back door. You don’t need a switch, it’s optional makes no difference to connect to the switch or to the router directly. I am using cat7 but anything cat5e and above should be fine for up to gigabit speeds. I try to use at least cat6 which is typically a good price be performance. Cat7 can support faster speeds but only if you need them. I just ram cat7 for future proofing.
Very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Great review! I’m wondering what would be recommended for my two story large home. I’m debating on either Asus Zen ET8 system or Asus Rog Rapture AX11000 in AiMesh mode with another router. It would all be wireless back haul.
Thanks! I have the ET8 and it works great. I haven’t played with the ROG Rapture but with a faster speed rating it may be better assuming the other ASUS router is also fast. Personal opinion, I typically prefer a dedicated mesh like the ET8 vs two random routers working together.
Are your tests based on pure wireless backhaul?
Hey, great video which lead me to purchasing a pair of xt8’s.
However, I am getting slow upload speeds and from my online research this seems to be a common issue! A lot of people have returned theirs for an Orbi because of it.
Any ideas on what I can do to resolve?
Thanks!
Thanks!
I haven't had an issue with the XT8 for upload speed drops more than normal for wifi devices (I did have some drops initially as I mentioned in the video). Well I should say when I do internet speed tests, on pretty much all the mesh wifi's I test, the upload speeds are much slower than what I'm paying for when I'm testing them on my wifi devices. This is not the case when I test it with ethernet. This started with my newer reviews starting with the ASUS ET8 when I got faster internet.
Try a restart, if it's bad you should probably swap them out
Just scored this on Amazon for $299 on Cyber Monday! Arriving ~Dec 8. Also bought the eero 6+ 3-Pk for my MiL for $194! Arriving Thursday!
Great deal for both!
pretty impressed with the wireless backhaul performance, but i think two might be overkill for me, so ill probably just buy one, you think one of these is enough for my 2500sqft two story home ? OR should i get a three pack of the deco x20? i know the asus is triband while deco is dual but is it that much of a difference ?
For wireless backhaul, yes, there is a noticeable difference between dual band and tri band. I don't think one xt8 is enough for a 2500sq ft house. Your best bet for performance/price is the deco xe75, I would get at least a 2 pack of those.
When you’re doing the wireless backhaul test, how far are the routers from each other? And how many walls between?Thx for the great review!
These were about 35 to 40 ft away from each other with a few walls (they are diagonal to each other so probably around 4 walls). No problem!
@@landpet thx for the quick reply!
I am searching for a router or mesh system that will handle tons of existing 2.4ghz devices with room to expand. Is there one particular mesh that stands out in this category for amount of devices and speed?. Currently I’m looking at the Xt8 as the et8 is not available in Canada at this time. Is this a good choice?
Can I create different VLANs? Say, MySSID and MySSID_IoT, not activating the Guest network.
On your video you show parents controls with an option to block "Adult" websites to a particular MAC address (20:20). Can it block "Adult" websites on the entire network?
I don't know, don't have this model anymore. I will say however the new Deco XE200 already has a separate IoT WiFi in addition to the main and guest networks, so does the Orbi RBK863S I'm about to post a review on.
Sorry I know this probably isn't the best place to ask this but Im not getting any answers from ASUS..
Hoping I can get some advice on the below issue I am facing..
I have an XT8 as the only router with around 20 devices connected to it
I am supposed to get 500mbps speeds through my ISP but I am consistently getting around the 200-220 mark across the entire property (2 floors) no matter where I stand. I find that when I use the Asus speed test it shows speeds around the 500 mark however if I used the downloaded speedtest app the speeds are 200-220
So I have 4 questions.
1. Should I replace my AImesh system with something else (I am thinking 2 AX92U'S) and if so, what is the best AImesh set up for a large property?
2. Any reason why my speeds are consistently lower than the 500 Mbps (even if I am directly above the XT8 thr speeds are still 200-220)?
3. Any idea why the Asus app is showing different speeds compared to that of the speedtest app?
4. The router speeds tend to fluctuate quite a bit and some time drops (although it drops very infrequently/briefly).
Not sure If you mentioned it or not but how far apart was your satellite node from your router node? Great informative video thank you!
About 40ft away. Thanks
@@landpet Wow these are definitely a powerful mesh setup! Thanks again!
Hi gr8 job on the video but there is 1 question I'll like to ask. How many devices can this Zenwifi AX6600 handle? I have about 40 devices in my home and my current wifi route isn't handling it well so am looking for an upgrade.
Thanks! This should handle 40 devices. So should the eero Pro 6 and Netgear Orbi. But important to note, they’re all still sharing your internet connection. So let’s say if your internet speeds are 400Mbps, if several devices are being used to watch UA-cam and game as an example, that’s all using that shared 400Mbps speeds which may cause lag on some devices. This mesh WiFi can handle 40 devices with ease though but again it’s limited by your internet speeds assuming your devices are using the internet at the same time.
Did you do a wireless or wired backhaul between the two routers? Is there a significant advantage with wired or wireless works plenty fine?
The faster your internet, the more difference between wired and wireless backhaul. Wired is preferred but wireless isn’t bad especially for the newer XT9
Hi, which one do you think its better, eero pro 6 or this one ? And this one has Ad blocking like the eero secure ? And would be interesting to see a comparison against eero pro 6 cause of the price of both pack
Assuming there are no drops, this is better. Eero Pro 6 is really good as well
Can you do a video on best mesh wifi for parents.....eero pro 6 vs xt8 or any others you might recommend?
That’s a good idea. I prefer the XT8 or the TP Link X68 cause they have free options for parental controls. I can probably do a video on the tplink x68 parental settings in the future.
Very informative! Question: some reviews say it is a con that there is no 3 node option. I assume they mean it is only possible to buy these in a pair or as a single. BUT, since it is AiMesh, it is still possible to connect 3 XT8 routers right? I have concrete walls and will start with 2 pcs XT8 but will probably need a 3rd node. Can I buy any ASUS AiMesh compatible router?
Thanks! Yes you can connect 3 to each other.
@@landpet How about 4? Or more? I've got the official "3 pack" on order (huge house), but they're sending it as a regular 2-pack plus a separate single (?). They're all the same. Question is, how many can you have before degradation & inanity? Could these extend all over say Buckingham Palace and/or Versailles without degradation, wired or unwired as the specific cases might require? With a single SSID (using just 1 cable modem or otherwise single internet connection)?
I got the same "3 pack" about 3 weeks ago. Awesome system, covers a ~ 7000 square foot, 4 story house! Only thing lacking from ASUS with these is quality support, but that's true with Netgear & other big names too. Anyone know of a for-pay quality support option for these? Anyway, this mesh system rocks, blows my nephew's Orbi system out of the water, and none of us even have any WiFi 6 devices, just WiFi 5.
As to Buckingham Palace or Versailles, hooking up say 25 of these all using the same SSID, you'll probably need to hire some pretty high-level engineers. :) I do see they say wired (ethernet) connections should not exceed 100 meters in lenght...
@11:14 is what I needed to know how to wire the back haul. Thanks.
Glad I could help
So how does the wireless backhaul work? I saw that 5ghz has 2 nodes. One that goes up to 4800 mbps, and one that goes around 1200. Do you use both, or pick one and dedicate the other to the wireless backhaul?
It's automatic in terms of the wireless backhaul. Assuming you want to dedicate it for wireless backhaul which by default it's enabled.
Hey, you should also include in the review the little brother for this: AX1800 XD4 just like you did for eero and eero pro.
Yup, coming up soon enough
Please could you try and answer a question for me?
If I bought ASUS GT-AX11000 ROG Rapture 802.11ax Tri-Band Gaming Router would it work well with ASUS ZenWiFi AX Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System(XT8)? Specifically, would I still need to plug one of the zen wifi 6 nodes into the gaming router and leave it next to it with a wired connection?
Do you think this is a good combination in general? I am into PC gaming, the gaming router would be hard wired into my PC. I'm kind of sold by some of the techy gaming stuff the gaming router claims to have. Do you think it would be a waste of money and I should just get a cheaper ASUS router?
I think your reviews are really good, thanks.
That’s fine to get that ROG router and connect it with the XT8. But don’t put the XT8 next to it cause they’re both routers even though in this case the XT8 is acting like a node, put the XT8 a couple rooms away.
Just a heads up, that ROG router doesn’t really have many gaming benefits when you’re using Ethernet. Ethernet is already fast and you are probably getting really low ping and really good speeds anyways. The main advantage of the ROG router is when you can’t hook up or choose not to hook up Ethernet and game wirelessly. They’re basically trying to get you Ethernet speeds via wireless. In my opinion, Ethernet tends to be better. So a hardwired connection like you mentioned is ideal.
I personally don’t think there will be much of a difference between the XT8 and the ROG when you have a hard wired connection. You could just use the XT8 and return the ROG. The XT8 is designed to replace routers cause the XT8 is a router. Now with that said, you can just keep the ROG and connect the XT8 to it a couple rooms away to have good WiFi coverage throughout your place.
@@landpet Thanks bud, that's helped me.
@@williamwilkinson6905 keep in mind you can add one of these (or two depending on if you bought the two pack like in this video) to the GT-AX11000 as a node to the built in AIMesh system and just expand your wifi coverage in your home.
Hi landpet, I need things spelled out cause I'm dumb, but when you say you restarted both devices does that mean that you just turned them off and then on again? Thanks in advance.
Yes, that's exactly what I did
Does this device give you distinguishable SSIDs for the different bands? I ask because I've had issues with smart devices that can only connect to 2.4 Ghz bands. Thank you.
Yes you can set it up that way
HI so I need some help, I just got the ASUS xt8 and am trying to set it up, I got both blue lights to become solid but when I try to do the setup in the app it checks my internet and simply says the wan isn’t detected and I can’t proceed forward, I’ve switch cables restarted my modem and really am not sure what to do. I’ve also tested my modem with my old router and the internet works fine. What can I do?
Try powering off your modem and your XT8. Wait 2 minutes. Power on just your modem until it is fully on. Now power on your main XT8 that is connected to your modem via Ethernet to the WAN port of the XT8. Follow the instructions on your Asus router app. It should then direct you to add your other XT8 unit(s). Try following these directions, don’t forget to wait the full 2 minutes and the order of turning it on.
Hi, I want a third on to act as another satellite to extend coverage. If I buy 2 of these packages, can I use 1 where my modem goes to which still acts as a router too and then place the other 3 around the house?
Yes, you can buy a 2 of these 2 packs. Connect one to your modem and the other three, place around the house.
Thanks for this honest review. As for the disconnects, did you still have any issues now we’re three months later?
I’m on the fence getting this router. Either this one or the Orbi 752.
You’re welcome! I don’t have this XT8 anymore, I didn’t run into it anymore for the month or so I had it. I do have the Orbi and it’s still good.
@@landpet Was there a reason you got rid of the XT8? I'm about to purchase a set for my new home.
So when using the 2 pack in mesh mode with one as a node or AP. When I update the firmware on the MAIN router does this also update the second node firmware as well or do I have to manually update each node's firmware? Thanks for the great video in plain language.
As long as they are powered on, it will update all the nodes on the network. No worries!
@@landpet Awesome. I appreciate your help. Trying to get a proper answer from Asus can be frustrating so once again A big thanks to you and also for your straight forward reviews. Stay safe and keep them coming for I too am a Asus fan.
I havent watched the whole video so you mightve answered this but do i need both of them? Whats the benefit of having two?
You only need 1, but the point of getting mesh WiFi is to get more than 1. Both together work together as one to expand your WiFi coverage, that’s mesh WiFi
I have this system. It was very easy to set up download the set up app on your phone or tablet and just follow the instructions. If you need to dig further than the set up app (for example to force it to use wired backhaul) there is a web browser based log in system which enables you get into the settings - here it really helps if you have some experience with this from another asus router, it is not user friendly.
I have never suffered any drop outs with this system. I may have been lucky, but I do try to keep the hardware up to date.
Thanks for posting your experience
Do you have any issues with device switching? I.e as you move around the house does you phone seamlessly jump to the closest node
@@thisishoose I have never tested it but I do wander round the house with phone in my hand and have never noticed an issue.
@@thisishoose When I used it, I thought it was fine, didn't notice much of an issue with it switching.
Just bought the Asus XT8 (2pk). Main router will be upstairs in my office and 2nd wireless node will be downstairs by my tv which has the new Fire Stick 4K Max with Wifi--6. Should I connect the 2nd node to this Fire Stick via ethernet or keep the connection between the Fire Stick and Node wireless to take advantage of Fire Stick's Wifi-6 capabilities?
I think wifi 6 is fine, that's what I use
Is it possible to connect 4 of these puppies? Or is there a 2 unit limit? I will do wired back haul.
You can do 4 for sure
Which would you recommend. Orbi RBK753S (3pk) vs this one? Consider: 1,600 sf home. 1 story, multiple smart bulbs, tablets, tvs, pcs connected.
Assuming you don't have super thick walls, a two pack should be fine for you. They're both good and you can't go wrong either way but I would think the XT8 would perform better. The Asus ET8 might do even better, I've done a video on that one as well.
Comparing this to getting 2x Asus RT-AX86U and connect them through AiMesh. What would you recommend?
This would be more ideal. To go go step further, the Asus ET8 is the successor to the XT8
what's the best way to flush mount this thing to the wall? or any other way to mount it neatly...Wall mount - closer to ceiling. i need to mount 3
I have one on a shelf, that’s about it for me
I already have a decent router can I use these two devices as extenders? And how would I initially set up?
Yes, if your router is an Asus and supports AiMesh, you just add these in the app.
If you have a non Asus router, then you need to set these up in access point mode which is something you'll see in the Asus app
hello, thanks for the review . i have one question . can one device work good if i have around 35 wifi devices (smart home) without any disconnecting them .
No problem. Yes 35 devices are no problem for this system even if they are all connecting to just one of them. I have more than 35 devices.
@@landpet thanks for the reply, i just bought two.. hope it's not too much..
Just found your videos, excellent. Question..condo owner here, about 1400 sq. Ft., Present router is in bedroom but everything else is in the furthest room, 2 walls divided Eero pro 6 or this Asus. I have no need for parental controls as mine are grown and out. Thanks!
Either one should be fine, they are both good. I will say that I am about to review the new Asus ET8, I’m curious how that will do.
@@landpet thank you!
If I want to connect the satellite to a desktop compter via ethernet cable do I connect using the blue colored port or one of the yellow ones? By doing so will other nearby devices still be able to connect to the satellite wirelessly? I guess what Im asking is if I connect a device via ethernet to the satellite does it cut off the wireless signal to the satellite so nothing else can connect to it?
You can connect it to one of the yellow ports. The satellite will still have wifi capabilities regardless if it's connected via ethernet or not. So there is no issue connecting your desktop to it for any other wifi devices.
@landpet - hoping you might be able to help me understand something? I just ordered one of these ASUS XT8 systems. I'll be setting this up in my home where I have lots of Smart IoT devices, *some* of which are obviously 2.4 GHz only. Some Iot Users groups recommend splitting SSIDs for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.... BUT This causes me some confusion with regards to usability of systems (namely: SONOS) that may span both bands.
Example. The Sonos speakers themselves are 2.4 GHz only, but they require the use of the mobile App. In all likelihood, the phones in our house should be connected to the 5 Ghz SSID. Will the 5Ghz-connected devices be able to see the 2.4 GHz devices? I hear that on some routers the bands/SSIDs are isolated, while on others devices can communicate across the bands/SSIDs?
I personally don't like isolating the bands because you can lose range by doing this. For example, with the range tests, after I walk a certain distance away. My phone automatically switches to the 2.4GHz to stay connected. Where if I had two separate bands, I would get disconnected then I would have to jump to the 2.4GHz SSID. The ASUS let's you split them but it's also smart and capable enough to handle most home smart home devices. I let the ASUS do all the background work so I can just be connected to wifi whether it's my phone or my smart device. I have plenty smart devices and I've never had any issue with this or many other routers/mesh wifi's I've tested with a single SSID for both bands.
To answer your question, yes the 5GHz devices will see your 2.4GHz devices so as long as you're on the main network and not on a guest network. Same concept as my computer that's connected via Ethernet sees my wifi connected laptop. But to be fair, I haven't tested this concept of talking from 2.4 to 5GHz because I typically don't separate the bands, I do think they will work though
@@landpet thank you!
Is there any disadvantage to creating separate SSIDs for 2.4 and 5Ghz for the purposes of getting some smart devices to connect correctly? I’ve read that some devices won’t know to automatically connect to the 2.4 when both are broadcast under the same SSID. I definitely have some devices that will only connect to 2.4 so that’s problematic. Does separating them defeat the purpose of the mesh system?
No, separating is fine. It doesn't defeat the purpose of the mesh system since the mesh system still expands your wifi coverage and if you're connected to either band, you can still walk around your place and your wifi device will still go from one asus node to the other to optimize your wifi coverage.
Fyi for my Google mesh (which I aim to replace) to connect my 2.4 items like WeMo I just walked away from my house til phone switched from 5 to 2.4 then stopped walking and finished the setup. Try that workaround if needed.
How is this with any type of gaming? Would it help the internet handle heavy games well?
Should be fine, you can always prioritize the devices that game as well. However there are newer options now, like the ASUS ET8 among others.
@@landpet I see, i'll take a look at them. Thank you for replying as fast as you did.
Hi. I live in and in-law house which is similar to a duplex. I have my current router on my side of the house and on my parents side they do not get the best wifi. Can I connect each of these to my modem in the cellar and have it all on the same network? Or would I just connect mine and connect to theirs wirelessly? I'm looking for a good XB7 modem for Xfinity to use in conjunction with the Asus Zenfi do you have any suggestions?
Great video ty
Yes you can connect them to the same WiFi. Ask your ISP what modem is on there approved list.
@@landpet I believe that I'm going with the Arris T25 because it has the voice built into it. I think that I'm going with the Asus ZenWifi
@@christopherd7922 Good choice, pay attention to see if you get any drops from the ZenWiFi, if not, it's literally the best I've tested.
Between this and eero pro 6, which one would you recommend?
Specs wise this is better for sure (and has extra security features included unlike the eero) but I've had the eero Pro 6 for several months now and it's very reliable. I want to say get this Asus and try it out, if you don't see drops you made the right decision. If not, get the eero. Honestly can't go wrong with either one.
Question: if I have 10 devices in my house, should I connect 5 to the 2.4 GHz and the other 5 to the 5.0 GHz band for best speed/connection? Would my connection slow if everyone is connected to the 2.4GHz band?
10 devices are so little that it doesn’t matter. 5GHz provides better speeds, 2.4GHz works better through walls but slower speeds. I would prioritize the 5GHz connections, if they get choppy, connect them that certain device to the 2.4GHz. Obviously your internet speeds are being shared no matter the band you’re connected to. So if one person is gaming and the other is watching Netflix, they’re both sharing the internet speeds so it will cause some slowdowns
@@landpet makes sense, Thank you!!!
Hi,
I have a router/modem from my internet provider and the router function can not disable,
can i hook up these xt 8 2 pack mesh wifi 6 on it as ap?
Yes
Now that you have tested both the Asus and Orbi ax4200, which do you recommend and why?
Asus is better (assuming it doesn't drop connection). Speed wise it's the same as the Orbi (for my internet speeds) whether on wired or wireless, range wise it's better, features wise it's more rich and has more options with more free security features. Also has more ports and USB ports.
@@landpet Thank you very much
Can you hook up a printer to that USB port for printer sharing in the network? If yes, which protocol does it use? What about AirPrint?
How do they perform with gaming ? How do they compare to the raptor gaming router ? Thank you!
This thing can go as fast as my internet goes. For gaming I personally prefer gaming on ethernet to get the best possible signal, lowest ping and highest speeds.
Rapture is designed to have a dedicated gaming band (but this is only if you're on Wi-Fi) if you're on ethernet, then it doesn't matter. Rapture also prioritizes gaming but then again so does this. When I game I do it when others aren't using the internet as much either.
Bottom line: gaming lag free is dependent mostly on your internet speeds and being connected via ethernet, in that case not much of a difference. In wifi mode, you may notice a little more priority for gaming on the rapture (assuming your close to the router) but if no one's using the internet, it's fine either way. You can always adjust the QoS as well.
@@landpet thank you! I was very hesitant between many brands; i dont change my wifi setup often, so the next system is going to stick for the next 4-5 years !! specially if its gonna be this expensive. i think im gonna go for this model ( orbi support has negiative feedback here in my region ( Dubai) ).. only point is that wifi6e is coming soon and im not sure where that fits in asus roadmap ... thanks allot for your review and reply !
question, can i connect both directly to the ISP modem? is it still a single wifi mesh network?
No, that will not work. One of them has to take the role of a router, the other must connect to the router to be a node
I’m confused between ET8 and XT8.. I have a 3 story home. Can you do a comparison video between them pls ty
ET8 supports wifi 6E, XT8 doesn't. XT8 may be able to do better over wireless backhaul if the routers are farther from each other, if the routers are closer to each other the ET8 should be able to do better because it's using the faster 6GHz band. I personally prefer the ET8 over the XT8. I don't have the XT8 anymore so can't do a comparison but I will be comparing the ET8 vs ET12 this month.
Hi. Do you know how many of these you can use together? I'm thinking of using 6 of them. Thanks.
With wireless backhaul, performance will decrease if you use that many. I don't know what the limit is but I wouldn't go more than that.
@@landpet thanks
I'd like to know what's happened to Wi-Fi 6E, it's on most new smartphones and tablets this year and even last year, it provides even more channels....
I've done a few more router videos that I need to edit and post. I'll do some research on one or more popular Wi-Fi 6E router(s) and do a video on it down the line.
Hi Landpet, does the Asus allow for IP reservations and Mac Address filtering?
Asus has the most options from what I've seen, Yes it does offer static IP and Mac address filtering and a whole lot more. You can check out the ASUS ET8 as well, it's the wifi 6E variant of this. I did a video on that also.
@@landpet Thanks, Landpet! I"ll check out that video too!
Thanks for the review. As many have said your explanations and information is very helpful. I’m gonna give this system a shot. I bought the Orbi RBK753 from Costco and it keeps losing connection to my Xfinity modem/router. I like Orbi’s but it has lost connections too many times for me to keep trying (in bridge mode and not bridge mode). Hopefully the Asus will perform better.
Thanks! Hopefully it does work well
Is it worth running a cable from the router to the node?
It is better to do it that way, up to you
How far can I separate each router from each other. I wanted to put one upstairs and one downstairs. Range between is about 15-20 feet.
Depends on the number of walls between them. 15 to 20 ft seem fine. Mine was closer to 40ft away
Can you link up your Synology to these Mesh systems? I have a Synology DS218+. Would be great if you could advice please.
Yes
I have the ds220+ and the ds214play and they work fine
If I use wired backhaul, will this mean that the 3. Band will not be used?
Band 3 can be used to accommodate more WiFi devices in the case of wired backhaul