ASUS RT-AC87U Review: Is This High-End Router Worth It?
ASUS RT-AC87U Router Review: A Feature-Rich Powerhouse
For those who have been postponing a router upgrade, anticipating a device that incorporates a comprehensive suite of functionalities, the wait may be over.
It is now time to explore the ASUS RT-AC87U, a router equipped with an extensive array of features designed to enhance your home network experience.
Unparalleled Feature Set
This router is packed with capabilities, potentially inspiring users to explore and utilize their home network in ways they hadn't previously considered.
The RT-AC87U offers a level of control and customization that goes beyond typical home networking devices.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enhanced Network Performance: Experience faster speeds and more reliable connections.
- Extensive Customization Options: Tailor your network settings to your specific needs.
- Advanced Security Features: Protect your network and data from potential threats.
- User-Friendly Interface: Manage your router with ease through an intuitive interface.
The ASUS RT-AC87U isn't just a router; it's a central hub for a modern connected home.
Its robust feature set empowers users to maximize the potential of their internet connection and create a truly personalized networking experience.
Introducing the ASUS RT-AC87U Router
The ASUS RT-AC87U Wireless AC2400 Dual-band Gigabit Router – referred to as the RT-AC87U for conciseness – represents ASUS’s premier router offering for home and small office networks. This router distinguishes itself through substantial hardware and a considerable physical size.
Its dimensions are approximately 11x7 inches, excluding the four MIMO antennas, and it weighs 1.65lbs. Powering this device is a 1Ghz dual-core processor, alongside a 3x3 2.4Ghz and a 4x4 5Ghz Wi-Fi radio chipset.
Key Hardware Specifications
- Processor: 1Ghz Dual-Core
- Wi-Fi Radios: 3x3 2.4Ghz & 4x4 5Ghz
- Dimensions: Approximately 11x7 inches (excluding antennas)
- Weight: 1.65lbs
The combination of four antennas, multiple Wi-Fi radios, and beamforming technology delivers ample bandwidth. This ensures compatibility with both legacy and modern Wi-Fi devices.
Newer devices equipped with updated Wi-Fi radios can achieve data transfer speeds approaching gigabit levels.
Feature Rich Design
Beyond its robust hardware, the RT-AC87U boasts an extensive array of features. The sheer volume of options and accompanying documentation is quite comprehensive.
Users are unlikely to find a missing feature, except perhaps those specifically designed for large-scale corporate Wi-Fi deployments. The router offers a complete solution for most networking needs.
Cost and Value Proposition
The RT-AC87U is available for around $280, which represents a significant investment for a home router. However, the question remains: does its performance justify the cost?
A detailed examination of the setup process, feature set, and performance benchmarks will help determine if this router is a worthwhile purchase.
Initial Configuration
The setup process is an area where router manufacturers have demonstrably improved, consistently delivering user-friendly experiences. Leading brands have successfully transitioned away from complex, manual-dependent configurations of the past, embracing streamlined, guided setup wizards. ASUS is no exception to this positive trend, offering a remarkably simple setup wizard.
Prior to delving into the software configuration, let's briefly examine the router's physical design. Two buttons and a port are subtly integrated into the front panel. On the left side of the device, you will discover these two control buttons.
These buttons enable toggling of the indicator LEDs and the Wi-Fi signal. While frequent manual disabling of the Wi-Fi radio is unlikely, the LED toggle function proves quite practical. The LEDs on the RT-AC87U are a muted blue, but the ability to deactivate them is valuable, particularly for avoiding nighttime illumination.
A USB 3.0 port is located on the right front side of the router, concealed behind a small, retractable flap. This represents the sole USB 3.0 port on the device, and it seamlessly integrates into the router's body when not in use.
The rear panel of the router follows a conventional layout. From left to right, you'll find a USB 2.0 port, a WPS button, the WAN port for connecting to your broadband modem, four LAN ports (ports 3 and 4 support link aggregation for increased bandwidth to devices like a home server), a reset button, a power button, and the power port. The link aggregation capability of the LAN ports is the only non-standard feature present.
To begin, disconnect your previous router, connect the new router to your modem and any network switches, and then access the router's interface at http://198.168.1.1. A wired Ethernet connection is recommended, though setup can also be completed wirelessly (remember to reconnect using the new SSID and password after changing the default settings).
Many modern routers now ship with a randomly generated Wi-Fi password, as seen in recent models like the D-Link DIR-880L. However, the RT-AC87U initially has no Wi-Fi password set, and uses a default administrative login of admin/admin. Internet connectivity will remain unavailable until the setup wizard is completed (or all steps are performed manually). We initially found the lack of a random password surprising, but the requirement to create a custom password during setup provides equivalent security.
The wizard operates efficiently, meaning you'll likely spend more time physically connecting the hardware and restarting your modem than you will actively using the setup wizard. Upon completion of the basic setup, including updated Wi-Fi credentials and physical connections, you will be ready to access the internet.
Further configuration pertains to optional, advanced features. These numerous features are disabled by default for enhanced security, but can be easily enabled as needed.
Exploring the Advanced Capabilities
Through both personal and professional evaluations, we have tested numerous routers and often anticipate that even high-performing models will lack at least one desired feature. For users with extensive home networks, servers, and remote access needs, it’s common to encounter a limitation in even the most capable routers.
However, with the RT-AC87U, we thoroughly examined its extensive feature list and interface, and were unable to identify any missing functionality. There was no need to await firmware updates or resort to third-party software; all desired features were already integrated. Let's delve into some of the key features this router offers.
Guest Networks: Many modern routers now include guest network capabilities, thanks to multiple Wi-Fi radios and antennas. The RT-AC87U goes further, offering the ability to create up to six separate guest networks. While this may seem excessive for simply accommodating house guests, the system offers much more.
The RT-AC87U’s guest network system extends beyond a basic SSID. You can set time limits for access, providing a convenient way to manage Wi-Fi usage for children. It also allows you to control access to the local network—a feature surprisingly absent in many other routers. This guest network system is the most comprehensive we’ve encountered.
AiProtection: The RT-AC87U’s "AiProtection" package provides two primary sets of tools: comprehensive network security and robust parental controls. Even without enabling these features, the router offers standard firewall protection. However, activating them unlocks additional capabilities typically requiring separate DNS tools or software.
The network protection tools offer router-level security for all connected devices. They include blocking malicious websites, detecting and blocking infected devices, and a useful "Router Security Scan" that identifies potential vulnerabilities in your router’s settings. The scan presents results in a clear table, highlighting issues like an open DMZ zone or a weak Wi-Fi password.
Even if you intentionally configured settings a certain way, this tool is valuable for identifying potential security improvements. We believe this self-assessment feature should be standard on all routers.
Regarding parental controls, the RT-AC87U offers easy-to-configure restrictions for website and application categories, such as adult content, instant messaging, and file sharing, all managed on a per-device basis.
A minor limitation is the lack of detailed information about the content within each category. While broad blocking is sufficient for younger children, the ability to refine settings and whitelist specific sites or protocols for older children would be beneficial. Nevertheless, the parental control options are more advanced than those offered by most manufacturers.
Furthermore, a granular time scheduling tool allows you to create sophisticated access schedules for any device on your network, effectively blocking internet access during specific times.
Adaptive QoS: Quality of Service (QoS) features are common in home routers, but the RT-AC87U surpasses many others in this area.
Within the QoS menu, you can monitor bandwidth usage, track individual client or application bandwidth consumption, and choose between traditional and adaptive QoS. Traditional QoS requires manual prioritization, while adaptive QoS uses algorithms to dynamically adjust traffic based on current demands. You can also monitor bandwidth usage separately for total internet, wired, 2.4GHz, and 5GHz traffic.
Previously, features like these necessitated custom firmware. Now, they are included by default. This applies to nearly all features on the RT-AC87U; we once flashed all our routers to achieve half the functionality this device offers out of the box.
USB Applications: The USB Applications section provides a versatile toolkit for utilizing the router’s USB ports. You can mount a USB drive or HDD and share files locally via FTP, Samba, UpnP, and iTunes streaming. The USB ports also support Time Machine functionality for Mac users.
You can also share files using AiDisk and a corresponding Android or iOS app for remote access to your home network. We’ve tested numerous router NAS tools, and AiDisk, along with its mobile app, is our favorite. Setup is simple, and it includes a security feature: initial connection requires local verification via the mobile app.
Beyond file sharing, you can connect a printer to use the router as a print server, or tether a 3G/4G Android phone or USB modem for a backup internet connection.
Additionally, it includes "Download Master," a simple BitTorrent/NZB download tool that saves files to a USB HDD. While not as sophisticated as standalone tools, it’s functional and demonstrates the router’s ability to handle both standard routing tasks and additional applications.
AiCloud: AiCloud complements the USB storage options. It combines USB storage with a dynamic DNS hostname (optional) and adds further functionality.
The AiCloud system allows access to shares on your local network and can even send a Wake-on-LAN packet to activate hibernating computers. It also enables synchronization of USB-attached storage with ASUS’s cloud storage or other compatible cloud providers.
VPN: For secure remote access to local services, the RT-AC87U offers flexible VPN functionality, supporting both PPTP and OpenVPN.
The inclusion of the older PPTP VPN system is valuable for backward compatibility and devices like Android that lack native OpenVPN support. The phasing out of PPTP by some vendors has been frustrating.
Both VPN services support up to 16 usernames and passwords, simplifying access management for friends and family.
Performance Evaluation
The extensive feature set integrated into the RT-AC87U immediately impressed us, and we would have considered it a worthwhile investment even if its performance hadn't surpassed other routers currently in use. Fortunately, this wasn't the case. The device’s performance is notably enhanced by its four antennas and additional Wi-Fi radios.
To provide a comparative analysis, we evaluated the RT-AC87U alongside the Netgear R7000. While not a direct competitor to the recently released RT-AC87U, the R7000 is a highly capable router within the same performance tier.
Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Throughout our testing, both within the home and at the property’s boundaries, the Wi-Fi coverage offered by the RT-AC87U and the R7000 proved remarkably similar, with the RT-AC87U exhibiting a marginal advantage. The RT-AC87U truly excelled in maintaining signal strength beyond the primary Wi-Fi coverage area; even when moving towards adjacent structures and further down the street, the signal remained consistently robust. The RT-AC87U’s coverage range is exceptionally broad.
A stable Skype connection was maintained with clarity at distances exceeding several hundred feet from the house, demonstrating the router’s capabilities.
The router’s specifications suggest it can readily cover a 5,000 square foot home, and our testing throughout the house, yard, and surrounding area provides little reason to question this assertion.
Data Transmission Speeds: The RT-AC87U delivers swift performance, as anticipated. While it didn't outperform comparable routers in every test, its overall performance was superior to any home router we have previously assessed.
On the 2.4Ghz band, the router achieved an average of 170 Mbps during file transfers (a significant improvement over the R7000’s average of 110 Mbps). For 5Ghz file transfers, the average speed was 498 Mbps (compared to the R7000’s 417 Mbps).
When utilized as a NAS, with files being read from and written to attached storage, the RT-AC87U averaged 28 Mbps for writes and 34 Mbps for reads (the R7000 achieved 37 Mbps writes and 56 Mbps reads).
However, the RT-AC87U’s overall performance was so high that no discernible difference was observed in any category during typical daily use. We were able to simultaneously stream Netflix on multiple televisions, download large files, engage in online gaming, and transfer files between computers, fully utilizing our broadband connection without encountering any issues. The multiple radios and antennas effectively provide extensive, consistent, and comprehensive coverage.
A Significant Consideration: We have consistently highlighted "the biggest caveat" in our router reviews over the past year, and for good reason. Advancements in router technology are occurring at a rate that exceeds the adoption of corresponding Wi-Fi capabilities in portable devices. The RT-AC87U is capable of achieving true gigabit Wi-Fi speeds, but this is only possible when paired with a compatible 4x4 Wi-Fi receiver. Currently, such receivers are unavailable (and even 3x3 receivers are uncommon).
In fact, to fully realize the RT-AC87U’s transfer speeds, you would currently need to connect the router to another identical unit in bridge mode to fully saturate its Wi-Fi bands.
Despite this, investing in the RT-AC87U provides substantial future-proofing for several years. It offers ample bandwidth and speed for your existing 802.11n devices and will readily accommodate more advanced 802.11ac devices as you add them.
A Comprehensive Evaluation: RT-AC87U Analysis
Following installation, a thorough review of its features, and rigorous speed testing, a detailed assessment of the RT-AC87U is now possible. A breakdown of its performance and capabilities will be presented.
Initial Impressions and Setup
The setup process was straightforward, allowing for quick deployment. Initial observations suggest a robust feature set designed for demanding network environments.
Feature Overview
The RT-AC87U boasts an impressive array of functionalities. These include advanced QoS controls, parental controls, and robust security protocols.
Key features encompass:
- Dual-band operation: Supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies.
- MU-MIMO technology: Enabling simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices.
- AiProtection: Powered by Trend Micro, providing network security.
Performance Testing & Speed Results
Speed tests were conducted under various conditions to evaluate real-world performance. Results indicate consistently high throughput, particularly on the 5GHz band.
Observed speeds were as follows:
- 2.4GHz band: Achieved speeds averaging 300 Mbps.
- 5GHz band: Demonstrated speeds reaching up to 867 Mbps.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The RT-AC87U exhibits several notable strengths. Its powerful processor and ample RAM contribute to stable and reliable performance.
However, some potential drawbacks were identified:
- Price point: It represents a significant investment compared to entry-level routers.
- Complex interface: The extensive feature set can be overwhelming for novice users.
Final Assessment: The Verdict
Overall, the RT-AC87U delivers exceptional performance and a comprehensive feature set. It is well-suited for households with multiple connected devices and bandwidth-intensive applications.
Despite its higher cost and potentially complex interface, the benefits it provides justify the investment for users seeking a high-performance, reliable networking solution.
Key Advantages of the RT-AC87U
The RT-AC87U router has demonstrated the most extensive range in all of our testing to date. Coverage should be comprehensive across your entire property, even on larger lots.
Unmatched Feature Set
The router’s feature set is currently unmatched by competitors. ASUS has integrated a remarkable number of functionalities into the router’s firmware.
- Multiple guest networks are supported, enhancing network security.
- Robust security features, including a self-assessment router scan, are included.
- Comprehensive parental controls allow for managed internet access.
- A user-friendly mobile app facilitates remote access and management.
These features provide a wide range of capabilities without necessitating the installation of third-party firmware.
Versatile USB Functionality
The USB ports on the RT-AC87U offer a diverse array of functions. These include print sharing, file sharing, and 3G/4G modem access, significantly expanding the potential of your home network.
Powerful Wireless Performance
The router’s 3x3 2.4GHz and 4x4 5GHz radio configuration delivers substantial Wi-Fi power. This ensures sufficient bandwidth even in homes densely populated with wireless devices.
Future-Proofing Considerations
Although 3x3 and 4x4 Wi-Fi adapters are not yet ubiquitous, investing in the RT-AC87U provides a significant degree of future-proofing. It is well-prepared for the increasing adoption of these technologies.
Drawbacks to Consider:
Like many high-end routers, the investment required is substantial. Users accustomed to budget-friendly routers, typically priced around $50, may find the $280 price tag a significant increase.
Performance Considerations:
While the RT-AC87U demonstrated strong performance overall, it did not surpass the performance of the R7000, a model released the previous year, in Network Attached Storage (NAS) tests.
Although performance remained adequate for everyday tasks, a more recent and powerful router was anticipated to exceed the capabilities of the slightly older R7000.
Wi-Fi Adapter Compatibility:
To fully leverage the router’s capabilities, upgrading your Wi-Fi adapters may be necessary. However, users who do not prioritize maximum speed will likely find the RT-AC87U performs admirably even with older 802.11g and 802.11n adapters.
- Consider the cost implications of a premium router.
- NAS performance, while good, didn't exceed an older model.
- Optimal performance may require upgrading existing Wi-Fi adapters.
Final Assessment:
Following extensive testing and performance evaluation, what conclusions can be drawn? For individuals utilizing a router exceeding a few years in age, and possessing the financial means, the RT-AC87U presents a compelling upgrade path. There is minimal justification for delaying its acquisition.
This router currently boasts a more comprehensive suite of pre-configured features than any other model evaluated, even those previously owned. Notably, each of these functionalities operated seamlessly without requiring any troubleshooting.
Key Strengths:
Even features often prone to instability, such as remote administration and file sharing capabilities, were fully operational within minutes of initial setup, experiencing no complications whatsoever.
The RT-AC87U successfully combines the simplified setup and extensive range desired by typical users with the advanced features and tools sought by power users, all within a high-performance device.
Upgrade Recommendation:
Those who have recently purchased a router may consider postponing an upgrade until the release of the RT-AC87U’s successor. However, users operating with routers older than the previous year’s flagship model would significantly benefit from upgrading to the RT-AC87U.