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ASUS RT-AX86U Pro vs TP-Link Archer AX21

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Product A: ASUS

RT-AX86U Pro

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B

Product B: TP-Link

Archer AX21

45 of 90 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AASUS RT-AX86U Pro

BTP-Link Archer AX21

General

4 of 9 differ

Series

Not available

Archer1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

RT-AX86U Pro1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026The tech spec page lists Model RT-AX86U Pro. The manual and the quick start guide use the same name.

Archer AX21 V51Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The page is for hardware version V5 (support page: Archer AX21(US) V5.6). The maker's US pages also carry V3 and V4. V3 has a USB 2.0 port, 12 V 2 A power and 260.2 x 135.0 x 38.6 mm, and is end of life. V4 lists 260.2 x 135.0 x 38.6 mm. This entry covers V5 only, the version Amazon sells.

GTIN / EAN

19555376889414Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BQ417K47Read 23 October 2026Amazon US listing, ASUS RT-AX86U Pro (AX5700) Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Gaming Router: UPC 195553768894. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1,292 global ratings when read.

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AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

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Status

Available2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The US product page is live with a Where to buy link. The CDW listing says the item was discontinued on 18 June 2026 and no ASUS page says it is discontinued, so the entry stays available.13Retailer pagecdw.com/product/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wireless-router-wi-fi-6-desktop/7636255Read 23 October 2026CDW product page, Mfg # RT-AX86UPRO: This item was discontinued on June 18, 2026. This is a retailer catalog line and not a maker notice. ASUS has no end-of-sale notice, its US page is live with a Where to buy link, and the Amazon US listing exists, so the entry stays available. Several shops outside the US show the router out of stock.

Available1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The V5 page has a Buy Now button and the support page lists firmware 1.1.2 built 2025-08-14. The maker's US end-of-sale list (V9) gives an end-of-sale notice date of 2026-08-18 and an end-of-sale date of 2027-02-14 for versions 4.6 and 5.6, so it is still sold.6Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260921/US%20EOS_List_Home%20-%20V9.pdfRead 14 October 2026Archer AX21 versions 4.6 and 5.6 (US): end-of-sale notice 2026-08-18, end of sale 2027-02-14. Versions 1.20, 1.26, 2.0, 2.6 and 3.6 had end-of-sale dates from 2024-05-29 to 2024-11-30. Stored as available until the end-of-sale date passes.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

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SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

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Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$25012Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Hardware table, US Launch Price: 250 USD for the RT-AX86U Pro, printed as $250. Tax excluded. The author says to check street prices.

Not available

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026US market date and price.

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ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Welcome section: strikingly designed black chassis with gaming-inspired red accents. The page gives no colour name, so it is stored as Black.

Black1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The product photos show a black unit. The page gives no colour name.

Form factoriMesh system is a product line sold in packs of mesh units, e.g. eero, Deco and Orbi. A standalone router that can join a mesh as an option is a router. A travel router is a pocket-size router sold for travel.

Router2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Standalone router that works as the primary AiMesh router or as an AiMesh node.

Router1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Standalone router, compatible with TP-Link OneMesh extenders and EasyMesh.

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ROG is Gaming and ASUS ExpertWiFi is Business. It is not assigned from price or features.

Gaming2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The page description reads AX5700 Dual Band WiFi 6 Gaming Router, with Mobile Game Mode, Gaming Port, Game Boost and a gaming product page title. ASUS lists it under ASUS Gaming Routers on its global and US gaming path and under ASUS WiFi Routers on the other US path. It is not a ROG or TUF model. Stored as gaming from the maker's own product title.

Home1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Listed under the maker's WiFi routers for homes.

Wi-Fi

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Wi-FiiThe newest Wi-Fi generation the product supports.

Wi-Fi 61Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Network Standard lists WiFi 6 (802.11ax) with WiFi 5, 4, g, b and a.

Wi-Fi 61Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Standards and protocols: Wi-Fi 6, IEEE 802.11ax/ac/n/a on 5 GHz and 802.11ax/n/b/g on 2.4 GHz.

Wi-Fi speed classiThe maker's class name, e.g. BE19000 or AXE11000. It adds up the top link rates of all radios. No single device reaches it. A Wi-Fi 6E class starts with AXE, also when the maker writes AX, so eero's AX5400 is AXE5400. The class is not the model number, so GL.iNet's GL-AXT1800 is AX1800.

AX57001Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Product Segment: AX5700 ultimate AX performance, 861+4804 Mbps.

AX18001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026WiFi Speeds: AX1800, 5 GHz 1201 Mbps and 2.4 GHz 574 Mbps (802.11ax).

Wi-Fi radiosiOne row per radio in one unit. A quad-band unit with two 5 GHz radios has two 5 GHz rows.

AASUS RT-AX86U Pro

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	40	861	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	4	160	4,804	No

Source1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026WiFi Data Rate: WiFi 6 5 GHz up to 4804 Mbps and 2.4 GHz up to 861 Mbps. Transmit / Receive: 5 GHz 4x4 and 2.4 GHz 3x3. Boosts Speed lists 20/40/80/160 MHz bandwidth. 5 GHz is stored at 160 MHz, which fits 4 streams and 4804 Mbps. 2.4 GHz is stored at 40 MHz, since 861 Mbps is the 3x3 rate at 40 MHz and Dong Knows Tech lists 20/40 MHz for that band. There is no 6 GHz radio and no dedicated backhaul band.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Hardware table: 2.4 GHz 3x3 AX up to 861 Mbps (20/40 MHz) and 5 GHz 4x4 AX up to 4804 Mbps (20/40/80/160 MHz). The author did not test the router himself.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026The teardown names a 3x3:3 2.4 GHz radio and a 4x4:4 5 GHz radio, which fit the maker's 3x3 and 4x4.

BTP-Link Archer AX21

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	2	40	574
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	2	80	1,201

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The overview shows Wi-Fi 6 2.4 GHz at 40 MHz, 2x2, 574 Mbps and Wi-Fi 6 5 GHz at 80 MHz, 2x2, 1201 Mbps. WiFi Capacity lists 4 streams in total.

Radio bandsiRadios that work at the same time in one unit. Tri-band is 3 and quad-band is 4, also when two radios use the same frequency band.

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6 GHz band

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Combined Wi-Fi link rateiSum of the top link rates of all radios in one unit. It is close to the number in the speed class. No single device reaches it.

5,665Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

1,775Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi streamsiSpatial streams of all radios in one unit, e.g. 12 for a tri-band router with 4x4 on each band.

7=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

4=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel of any radio, e.g. 320 on the 6 GHz band.

160MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

80MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi featuresiFeatures the maker names for the product. Band steering puts all bands under one network name and moves devices between them, e.g. Smart Connect. Band steering over only some of the bands, such as 2.4 and 5 GHz on a tri-band router, counts. AFC is Automated Frequency Coordination, which allows standard power on 6 GHz. Support that needs a later firmware counts, and the firmware goes in the source note.

OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Boosts Speed: OFDMA, standard-based and universal beamforming. Wireless row: MU-MIMO, Universal Beamforming and Explicit Beamforming.2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026WiFi 6 benefits listed: lower latency, faster speeds, energy efficient, longer range. OFDMA and beamforming are on the spec page.9Maker product pageasus.com/us/support/faq/1012132Read 23 October 2026Smart Connect FAQ: the supported model list includes RT-AX86U Pro. With Smart Connect on, all WiFi bands share one network name and password, and Smart Connect Rules steer devices between the bands. Stored as band steering.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026The review lists OFDMA, MU-MIMO and beamforming. OFDMA is off by default.

OFDMA, Beamforming, Target Wake Time, Band steering1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026WiFi Capacity: OFDMA and Airtime Fairness. The overview lists Beamforming and Target Wake Time. Smart Connect is in the datasheet. MU-MIMO is not listed and is not stored.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Smart Connect assigns each device to the best available band, stored as band_steering. Target Wake Time and OFDMA are listed in the highlights.

External antennasiAntennas outside the case, as the maker counts them.

31Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Antenna: External antenna x 3.

41Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026WiFi Range: 4x Fixed High-Performance Antennas.

Internal antennasiAntennas inside the case, as the maker counts them.

11Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Antenna: Internal PCB antenna x 1.

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Detachable antennasiThe external antennas screw off and can be replaced. Fixed antennas that only fold or turn do not count.

Yes2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Product page shows three external antennas. MBReviews says they are removable.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026The review says there are three removable antennas.

No1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The page calls the four antennas fixed.

Coverage of one unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area that one unit covers. A square feet claim is converted exactly and rounded to a whole m². A claim for a whole pack is stored separately. An area that a trusted review quotes from the maker counts, and the source note names the review.

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Connected devices per unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed maximum number of devices one unit serves. A claim for a whole mesh pack is not stored here.

Not available

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Ports and modem

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PortsiData ports on the main unit. The power input is not a port. A combo port takes an RJ45 cable or an SFP+ module and is counted once. WAN or LAN means the maker says the port can be either, including auto-sensing ports.

AASUS RT-AX86U Pro

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	1	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	1	Not available
RJ45	1	WAN or LAN	2.5	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.2 Gen 1
USB-A	1	Not available	0.48	USB 2.0

Source1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026I/O Ports: RJ45 10/100/1000 for WAN x 1, RJ45 10/100/1000 for LAN x 4, one 2.5G/1Gbps multi-Gig port (configurable, WAN/LAN), USB 3.2 Gen1 x1 and 2.0 x1. The 2.5G port is stored as WAN/LAN at 2.5 Gbps. USB 3.2 Gen 1 is stored at 5 Gbps and USB 2.0 at 0.48 Gbps, the standard rates. The connector of the USB ports is not named and Type-A is assumed, as on other ASUS routers.4Maker spec sheet (PDF)dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E21180_RT-AX86U_Pro_one-page_QSG_V2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Hardware explanations: DCIN port, USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, USB 2.0 port, 2.5G port, WAN port and LAN ports 1-4.

BTP-Link Archer AX21

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)
RJ45	1	WAN	1
RJ45	4	LAN	1

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Ethernet Ports: 1x Gigabit WAN Port and 4x Gigabit LAN Ports. The V5 page lists no USB port.

Ethernet portsiRJ45 ports of all roles, WAN and LAN.

6=CalculatedFrom Ports

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

Multi-gig portsiWired network ports of 2.5 Gbps or faster, RJ45 or fiber.

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest WAN portiThe fastest port that can take the internet connection.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest LAN portiThe fastest port for wired devices. A port that can be WAN or LAN counts here too.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

USB ports

2=CalculatedFrom Ports

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

SFP+ portiA slot for a 10 Gbps fiber or DAC module.

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Built-in modemiModems inside the router. A port for an external modem does not count. A fiber slot counts only when the fiber module is in the box.

Not available

Not available

Modem standardsiStandards of the built-in modem as published, e.g. DOCSIS 3.1, VDSL2 35b, GPON or 5G NR.

Not available

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Mesh

2 of 7 differ

Mesh technologiesiMesh systems the unit can join, by the maker's name, e.g. AiMesh, EasyMesh or TP-Link OneMesh.

AiMesh1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026AiMesh: Primary AiMesh Router and AiMesh Node.

EasyMesh, TP-Link OneMesh1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The overview says to add EasyMesh-compatible devices. The specifications list OneMesh as supported. The datasheet says it is compatible with EasyMesh but has no Wi-Fi EasyMesh certification.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026EasyMesh: Supported. The footnote says it is compatible with standardized EasyMesh but has not obtained the Wi-Fi EasyMesh certification.

Units per packiUnits in the box. The base lists every pack size sold. Each pack variant holds its own. A standalone router is 1.

11Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026One router is sold.

11Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026One router is sold.

Coverage of the pack (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area for a whole pack. Each pack variant holds its own claim. The claims of single units are never added up.

Not available

Not available

Identical unitsiEvery unit in a pack is the same model, so any unit can be the router. Not true for systems with a separate satellite model, such as NETGEAR Orbi.

Not available

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Satellite modeliModel number of the satellite when it differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Satellite portsiData ports on one satellite. Only when the satellite differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Ethernet backhauliMesh units can link to each other over an Ethernet cable.

Yes2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The page describes AiMesh with central control and seamless roaming. Wired backhaul is covered by the ASUS AiMesh FAQ and by Dong Knows Tech.10Maker product pageasus.com/us/support/faq/1035140Read 23 October 2026ASUS FAQ step 1: plug one end of the cable into the LAN port of the AiMesh router and the other end into the WAN port of the AiMesh node. The FAQ names no models, and the maker lists the RT-AX86U Pro as an AiMesh router and node.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The author says all three routers can be used in an AiMesh setup, and that a wired home gives the best performance.

Not available

Software

5 of 7 differ

ManagementiWays to set up and manage the router. A web interface is a full settings page in a browser on the local network. A status page alone does not count.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026User interface: the manual describes the web GUI and ASUS Router app. The product page names the ASUS Router app.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026The manual describes the web GUI (Quick Internet Setup at asusrouter.com, then Advanced Settings) and the ASUS router app, for example for Mobile Game Mode in section 3.7.2.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Management Features: Tether App and Webpage.

Online account requirediSetup and management need an online account with the maker, with no local way around it.

No3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Section 2.2 Quick Internet Setup runs in a browser at asusrouter.com. It asks for the ISP details, the network names and a router login password, and it names no ASUS account.

No3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/47481Read 14 October 2026Archer AX21(US) V5.60 Quick Installation Guide: method two sets the router up in a web browser at tplinkwifi.net and asks only for a login password. The TP-Link ID is optional for more cloud service.

Operating modesiModes the maker lists. Media bridge connects wired devices to another router over Wi-Fi. Extender, range extender and WDS modes count as repeater.

Router, Access point, Mesh node, Repeater, Media bridge1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Operating Mode: Wireless router mode, Access point mode, Media bridge mode, Repeater mode and AiMesh node mode.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Section 3.3.1 Operation Mode: wireless router mode, access point mode, repeater mode, media bridge and AiMesh node.

Router, Access point1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Working Modes: Router Mode and Access Point Mode.

Network featuresiFeatures the maker lists that work without a paid subscription. An IoT network is a separate network for smart home devices. Dual WAN uses a second internet connection as a backup or to share the load. Only features the maker clearly says are free. Parental controls counts when a free feature pauses or schedules internet access per person or device, such as eero Profiles, even when content filters need a subscription. When the maker's pages contradict each other, leave the feature out.

Guest network, VLAN, IPTV, Dual WAN, WAN aggregation, LAN aggregation, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Guest Network (3 per band), IPTV with IGMP Snooping, Dual WAN, WAN Aggregation, LAN Link Aggregation, DDNS, Parental Control, Adaptive QoS and Traditional QoS are listed. VLAN is not on the spec page and comes from ASUS's VLAN FAQ and Dong Knows Tech. The page says AiProtection Pro and Parental Controls have no subscription fee. No IoT network is listed, so it is not stored.2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The page says Advanced Parental Controls and AiProtection Pro are lifetime free, and adds Adaptive QoS, a dedicated gaming port and Guest WiFi.8Maker product pageasus.com/support/faq/1049415Read 23 October 2026VLAN FAQ: VLAN supported models include RT-AX86U Pro. Guest Network Pro creates a VLAN as well. This supports the vlan option.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The table lists VLAN with the latest firmware. Link aggregation (LAN and WAN) and dual-WAN: yes. QoS and parental control: yes. The text adds a game port.

Guest network, IPTV, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Guest Network: 1x 5 GHz and 1x 2.4 GHz. IPTV lists IGMP Proxy, IGMP Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN, so VLAN is not stored. QoS by Device, DDNS (TP-Link, NO-IP, DynDNS) and Parental Controls (URL Filtering, Time Controls) are listed. The router has no paid service and the page names no subscription.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Parental Controls: URL Filtering, Time Controls. Quality of Service: QoS by Device. Guest Network: 1x 5 GHz and 1x 2.4 GHz.

VPN serveriProtocols the router can serve, to reach the home network from outside. A paid VPN service is not a VPN server.

WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPsec, PPTP1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026VPN: VPN Server IPSec, Open VPN, PPTP and WireGuard.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026VPN Server: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, Wireguard VPN Server. The V5 product page lists only OpenVPN and PPTP servers. The datasheet is newer and is used, and the V5 firmware notes mention L2TP/IPSec VPN and a VPN kill switch.

VPN clientiProtocols the router can use to connect to an outside VPN server.

WireGuard, OpenVPN, L2TP, PPTP1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026VPN: VPN Client L2TP, Open VPN, PPTP and WireGuard.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026VPN Client: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, Wireguard VPN Client. The V5 product page lists no VPN client row.

USB applicationsiWhat the USB port can be used for. Cellular modem is a USB 4G or 5G modem used as an internet connection or backup.

File server, Media server, Time Machine, Printer server, Cellular modem1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026USB application: AiCloud, Download Master, AiDisk, Media Server, Time Machine, Samba Server and FTP Server. WAN lists a 3G / 4G LTE dongle. The manual describes printer sharing (section 4.3), which is the printer server.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Section 3.13 USB Application with AiDisk, Servers Center and 3G/4G, and section 4.3 printer server (ASUS EZ Printer Sharing and LPR).

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Security

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Wi-Fi securityiEnhanced Open encrypts an open network without a password.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Security: WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Personal, WPA-Personal, WPA-Enterprise and WPA2-Enterprise. No WPA3-Enterprise and no OWE are listed. The page footnote says WPA/WPA2 Enterprise is only available on a single router, not under AiMesh.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3 and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3, WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).

Security serviceiThe maker's built-in security service by name, e.g. AiProtection Pro, HomeShield, NETGEAR Armor or eero Plus.

AiProtection Pro1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026AiProtection row: router security assessment, malicious site blocking, two-way IPS and infected device prevention and blocking.

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Security service costiWhat the service costs after any free trial. Basic free means the basic features are free and the full set needs a subscription. When the free and paid tiers share one name, such as HomeShield, it is basic free. NETGEAR Armor has no free tier after its trial, so it is paid. When the paid tier is a separate add-on, such as eero Plus, it is paid.

Free2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026RT-AX86U Pro includes lifetime free AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro. The page says No Subscription Fee.

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Automatic firmware updatesiThe router can install firmware updates by itself.

Yes1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Administration: Auto Firmware Update.

Yes1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade and OTA Firmware Upgrade.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade, TP-Link ID, DDNS.

Security updates untiliPublished end date of security updates for this model. It is not calculated from a number of years. A published minimum date, such as "at least through" or "or later", counts as the stated date. The source note says it is a minimum and names the region.

27 March 20286Maker product pageasus.com/support/faq/1051375Read 23 October 2026The Singapore FAQ (Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme) lists RT-AX86U Pro with end of support 27 March 2028 and says extended support may be provided after the date, so it is a minimum. The UK FAQ lists it with a shorter 4 years, until 31 December 2026. The later Singapore date is stored. No US statement.7Maker product pageasus.com/support/faq/1051929Read 23 October 2026The UK FAQ (Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act) lists RT-AX86U Pro with a product security update period of 4 years, until 31 December 2026, and says extended support may be provided. It is earlier than the Singapore date, which is stored.

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Smart home

None of 5 known

Thread border router

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Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

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Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

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BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio in the router, often used for setup.

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Smart home platformsiSmart home and voice platforms the router works with, e.g. Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

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Hardware

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System on chipiMain chip or platform as published, e.g. Broadcom BCM4916 or Qualcomm Networking Pro 620. A chip maker name alone, such as Broadcom, is not stored.

Broadcom BCM491215Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026Teardown table, RT-AX86U Pro column: CPU quad-core 2.0 GHz Broadcom BCM4912. The reviewer says it is the same processor as the RT-AX88U Pro and the GT-AX6000. 5 GHz radio Broadcom BCM6715 4x4:4 and 2.4 GHz radio Broadcom BCM6710 3x3:3.

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CPU cores

41Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Processor: 2.0GHz quad-core processor.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Processing power: 2 GHz quad-core CPU, 256 MB flash, 1 GB RAM.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026Quad-core 2.0 GHz Broadcom BCM4912.

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CPU clockiHighest published processor clock.

2GHz1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Processor: 2.0GHz quad-core processor.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Processing power: 2 GHz quad-core CPU.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026Quad-core 2.0 GHz Broadcom BCM4912.

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RAMiRouter RAM in GB. When any trusted source prints a GB figure, use it, e.g. 1 GB rather than 1024 MB converted. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB only when MB is the only figure, e.g. 512 MB is 0.512, and keep the original figure in the source note. Same rule as streaming devices.

1GB1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Memory: 256 MB Flash and 1 GB RAM.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Processing power: 1 GB RAM.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026Teardown table: 1 GB RAM (2x Samsung SEC 234 K4A4G165WF). The maker prints 1 GB as well.

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Flash storageiBuilt-in flash memory for the firmware in GB. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB, as for RAM. A memory card or USB drive does not count.

256MB1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Memory: 256 MB Flash. Stored as 0.256 GB.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Processing power: 256 MB flash.15Reviewmbreviews.com/asus-rt-ax86u-pro-wifi-6-router-reviewRead 23 October 2026Teardown table: 256 MB MXIC MX30LF2G28AD-TI. Stored as 0.256 GB.

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Cooling faniA fan inside the unit. Passive cooling does not count.

Yes2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Dust-resistant fan design, with a footnote saying the feature is only available on the RT-AX86U Pro.

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Power

2 of 5 differ

Power supplyiHow the main unit gets power. USB is a USB-C power adapter. PoE is power over an Ethernet cable.

External DC adapter1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Power Supply lists adapter ratings and Package Content lists a power adapter.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026The page lists a power adapter in the package.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating as published, in volts and amps.

12 V, 3 A / 19.5 V, 2.31 A1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Power Supply: 19 V with max. 2.37 A or 19.5 V with max. 2.31 A, or 12 V with max. 3 A or 19.5 V with max. 2.31 A. The quick start guide gives 12 V with 3 A and 19.5 V with 2.31 A. Both are stored as published. The pages do not say which adapter ships in which market, so no adapter output is stored.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Section 1.3 notes, specifications: DC power adapter DC output +12 V with 3 A and DC output +19.5 V with 2.31 A.4Maker spec sheet (PDF)dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E21180_RT-AX86U_Pro_one-page_QSG_V2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Specifications: DC power adapter DC output +12 V with 3.0 A current and +19.5 V with 2.31 A current.

12 V, 1.5 A1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Power: 12 V, 1.5 A.

Included adapter outputiRated output of the power adapter in the box. This is not power use.

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18W1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 202612 V times 1.5 A is 18 W. Package Content lists a power adapter.

Power use (typical, claimed)iThe maker's typical or average power use of one unit. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out.

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Power use (max, claimed)iThe maker's maximum power use of one unit. Power given out over PoE is not included. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out. A figure measured with the power adapter counts.

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Measured

None of 6 known

Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iTom's Guide throughput, one row per test position. Tool, client, direction and walls are in the source note. Other reviewers' results go in source notes only.

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Fastest Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iHighest measured row with the client connected to the main unit. Compare only results from the same reviewer.

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Wi-Fi throughput through a wall (measured)iTom's Guide throughput at 25 ft through one wall, with the client on the main unit.

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Range (measured)iDistance at which the reviewer's client lost its connection to the main unit.

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Power use under load (measured)iWall power of the main unit during the reviewer's throughput or saturation test.

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Energy use per day (measured)iEnergy the router used over 24 hours of the reviewer's test use. This is not the power at one moment.

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Dimensions and weight

4 of 4 differ

DimensionsiOne unit in its normal position, with antennas folded flat or removed. Height is bottom to top. For a round unit, width and depth are both the diameter. A size the maker prints with antennas up goes in Dimensions with antennas.

Width242Height164Depth100mm(9.5 × 6.5 × 3.9 in)1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Product Dimensions: 242 x 100 x 164 without antenna. Stored as width 242, depth 100 and height 164, as Dong Knows Tech prints 9.52 x 3.93 x 6.45 in (242 x 100 x 164 mm).12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Without antennas: 9.52 x 3.93 x 6.45 in (242 x 100 x 164 mm).

Width261.1Height41Depth134.5mm(10.3 × 1.6 × 5.3 in)1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026Dimensions (W x D x H): 10.3 x 5.3 x 1.6 in (261.1 x 134.5 x 41 mm). Stored as width, depth and height. The page does not say whether the antennas are folded.

Dimensions with antennasiOne unit with its external antennas up, as the maker prints it.

Width242Height325Depth100mm(9.5 × 12.8 × 3.9 in)1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Product Dimensions: 242 x 100 x 325 with antenna, so the antennas are up at 325 mm height.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026With antennas: 9.52 x 3.93 x 12.79 in (242 x 100 x 325 mm).

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WeightiOne unit without power adapter and cables.

814.5g(1.8 lb)1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Product Weight (g): 814.5 g.12Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rt-ax86s-vs-rt-ax86u-vs-rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026Hardware table: 1.8 lbs (814.5 g).14Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BQ417K47Read 23 October 2026The listing says item weight 1.8 pounds, which agrees with the maker's 814.5 g. The maker's figure is stored.

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Wall mountableiThe maker says the unit can be mounted on a wall.

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Yes3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/47481Read 14 October 2026Q5 says to keep the antennas upright when the router is hanging on a wall. No bracket is named.

Certifications

1 of 1 differ

Wi-Fi Alliance certification IDiCertificate ID in the Wi-Fi Alliance product finder.

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FCC IDiFCC ID of the main unit.

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Other certifications

FCC, IC1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026The page footnote says products certified by the Federal Communications Commission and Industry Canada are distributed in the United States and Canada. The quick start guide carries the FCC statement and the ISED number 3568A-RTAXI600.4Maker spec sheet (PDF)dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E21180_RT-AX86U_Pro_one-page_QSG_V2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Regulatory notices: FCC Part 15 statement and the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada approval number 3568A-RTAXI600. No FCC ID is printed, so none is stored.

FCC, CE, RoHS2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Certifications: FCC, CE, RoHS.

In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the boxiItems as the maker lists them for the exact pack.

RT-AX86U Pro WiFi router, RJ-45 cable, Power adapter, Quick Start Guide, Warranty card1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026Package Content: RT-AX86U Pro WiFi router, RJ-45 cable, power adapter, Quick Start Guide and warranty card.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026Section 1.2 Package contents: router, network cable (RJ-45), power adapter, Quick Start Guide and warranty card.

Wi-Fi Router Archer AX21, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Package Contents: Wi-Fi Router Archer AX21, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide.

Links

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Product page

www.asus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro2Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-ax86u-proRead 23 October 2026The maker lists the router under ASUS WiFi Routers on the US store path and under ASUS Gaming Routers on the global path. Both pages are the same product page.

www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v51Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax21/v5Read 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

www.asus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspec1Maker product pageasus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-wifi-routers/rt-ax86u-pro/techspecRead 23 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/1073552Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/107355Read 14 October 2026Datasheet Archer AX21(US) V5.6.

Manual

dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdf3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AX86U_Pro/E23427_RT-AX86U_PRO_UM_v2_WEB.pdfRead 23 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/1091824Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/109182Read 14 October 2026Archer AX21 Installation and User Guide, listed on the V5 support page. The viewer page is linked and the guide text was not read.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

3years5Maker product pageasus.com/support/api/product.asmx/GetPDWarrantyRead 23 October 2026ASUS US support text, Wireless Warranty Policy: the general warranty is 3 years, but it may vary depending on the place of purchase. US site.

2years5Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/support/replacement-warrantyRead 14 October 2026US warranty page: Wi-Fi routers bought on or after 2023-09-01 have a 2 year warranty.

Both are also in the API. Back to all routers.