Need to replace my RT-AC68P router...suggestions please?

[ukiltmybrutha]

I have owned this router for 10 years and I have tried every method out there that I know of to reset it but I cannot connect to the router via WI-FI or rj45 port.

What is a great spiritual replacement for this? Wifi signal strength/distance is a priority and I want to be able to use Merlin with it.

Thanks!

 

[Tech9]

If you want to continue with Asuswrt-Merlin on the new 3006 base - the lowest priced model is RT-BE86U.

Home | Asuswrt-Merlin

www.asuswrt-merlin.net

Almost guaranteed no new router will have 10+ years of support. RT-AC68U and variants were an exception.

 

[dlandiss]

Wifi signal strength/distance is a priority and I want to be able to use Merlin with it.

On this forum's close sibling the ASUS RT-AX86U scores the best range.

 

[Tech9]

RT-AX86U

RT-AX86U is two generations old hardware now, locked on 3004 firmware and perhaps 1-2 years before EoL.

 

[ukiltmybrutha]

Thanks all. I ended up going with the RT-AX86U as you all posted. Hope it works for me. Decent sales price anyways.

 

[Tech9]

RT-AX86U as you all posted

My suggestion was RT-BE86U. RT-AX86U is a 4-years old model.

 

[ukiltmybrutha]

My suggestion was RT-BE86U. RT-AX86U is a 4-years old model.

Never said otherwise. I purchased it while you all posted. Thanks for the information though.

 

[ducky124]

It's kind of hard to give an answer to your question. There are so many different variables to consider

• Internet Speed: Ensure the new router supports the user's internet plan speeds.
• Connected Devices: Consider how many devices will connect simultaneously.
• Wi-Fi Standards: Opt for routers supporting Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E for better performance.
• Coverage Area: Assess if the home requires a router with better range or a mesh system.
• Security Features: Look for up-to-date security to protect the network.
• Budget: Balance features with what they're willing to spend.

You need to specify some of the in order to get a better answer to your question. A router is not a one size fits all item.

After posting this I saw you already made a purchase. Personally I would have opted for a newer model or possibly one of the "pro" models. But since you are coming from a 10 year old router you will be happy with your purchase.

 

[ukiltmybrutha]

It's kind of hard to give an answer to your question. There are so many different variables to consider

• Internet Speed: Ensure the new router supports the user's internet plan speeds.
• Connected Devices: Consider how many devices will connect simultaneously.
• Wi-Fi Standards: Opt for routers supporting Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E for better performance.
• Coverage Area: Assess if the home requires a router with better range or a mesh system.
• Security Features: Look for up-to-date security to protect the network.
• Budget: Balance features with what they're willing to spend.

You need to specify some of the in order to get a better answer to your question. A router is not a one size fits all item.

After posting this I saw you already made a purchase. Personally I would have opted for a newer model or possibly one of the "pro" models. But since you are coming from a 10 year old router you will be happy with your purchase.

Actually I purchased a RT-AX86U Pro model. I am not sure whether or not there was a non-pro model. Great information in your post. It was all about budget first for me and getting the best value for that budget.

I am in the boonies and run off of a WISP (Firstnet) so this router works perfect for me.

Thanks again.

 

[tallytr]

RT-AX86U Pro

 

[Tech9]

Actually I purchased a RT-AX86U Pro model.

Better, but still locked on 3004 Asuswrt-Merlin with 3006 stock Asuswrt available.

 

[stilessm]

My suggestion was RT-BE86U. RT-AX86U is a 4-years old model.

FWIW I just purchased and returned a BE86U as an AI mesh node on my base BE98Pro. The thing took forever to boot, dropped devices and ended up shutting down on the slightest vibration. Turned out to be a loose power cable. Sure, I may have gotten a lemon but the "straight" vs "90deg" plug for power seems to be much cheaper than the older units. Plugged my trusty AX86U back in until I find something else.

While we're on the topic, does ANYONE know if the AX86U Pro has a 90deg power plug (into the back of the router)? Turns out to be important if you have it on a wall stand.

 

[bennor]

does ANYONE know if the AX86U Pro has a 90deg power plug (into the back of the router)?

My RT-AX86U Pro (US market) does not have a 90 degree power plug. Its straight into the back of the router.