Netgear R7000 vs Asus AC-68U

[AndrewJacob]

Hi guys!

I currently have a D-link DIR-655 and have enjoyed it for many years.
I feel it's about time to change.
Among other things, my Chromecast lags a lot (Chromecast only uses 2.4Ghz) and I would also like a 5Ghz band because a lot of other devices at home and neighbours' signals interfere.
I'm willing to buy a new router that is somewhat futureproof so I'm thinking about a powerful AC router.
I need a strong 2.4Ghz signal, and I need solid range (holds a steady signal at a distance), as well as a great 5Ghz signal.
My main computer will be connected by CAT6 to my router.
Many devices including 2 laptops, 2 iphone 5s and 2 android phones will be regularly connected.
Any suggestions between the Netgear R7000 and the Asus AC-68U?
I am someone who will maintain and update the router firmware, but I also do not want to constantly be fiddling with router settings for it to work reliably (I don't want a router I'll have to constantly reset).

I'm in Canada and these 2 routers are quite expensive (200$) so I want to make sure to make a decision I won't regret. Any recommendations and/or insights would be greatly appreciated! I've read so many reviews and I'm not sure which way to go yet...

 

[Deepcuts]

If AC68U is $ 200 in Canada, then I think I should emigrate there
I bought mine for almost $290

 

[AndrewJacob]

thanks!
so how long have you had the AC68U and is there anything that you don't like about it? i know that it's a pretty amazing router so maybe it's hard to find problems with it

 

[Deepcuts]

I think I had it for almost one year.
The only problem i have with it: weird DNS cache.(if using the router's private IP as DNS server for LAN machines)
Meaning one domain changes IP.
After the domain TTL value expires, I expect my router to refresh the value.
But mine does not play nice It takes a long time for a refresh. Even a reboot does not help.
Of course, using google DNS from a computer behind the router resolves the right value for the domain.(same DNS setup for the WAN link on the router)
Weird problem which will not bother but a handful of users.

Very good WAN>LAN speed.
Decent WiFi speed.
Decent WiFi coverage.
Stable. Never crashed.(UPS on it of course)
Can disable all lights on it.
Zero noise.