It’s got a dual-core 1.8ghz CPU and 512MB of RAM, with plenty of power for all but the most demanding uses. So if you’re planning to flash an open-source firmware, you should look elsewhere. However, I personally haven’t ever felt the need, since the AX86U has full ASUSWRT-Merlin support. This model is one of ASUS’s all-time bestsellers, thanks to the build quality and bang-for-your-buck value. In fact, I link download doubt you could find more performance per dollar in ASUS’ router lineup.

• This tutorial is based on the official ASUS unlock tool that only works under stock Android L. Migrations from stock M are know to have issues with both sim cards not being detected.
• SSH is also added as a login option for secure command-line management of the router.
• On the other hand, Merlin is the third-party firmware available only to certain Asus routers.
• From within Titanium, you can surf through the long list of apps and click on any you don’t want.

It’s completely stock, the only change being that it is pre-rooted. If minimalism is what you’re looking for then Arrow OS is right up your alley.

A Wi-Fi broadcaster might use one of its bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, or 6GHz) or a network port for the uplink. I test mesh systems’ routers and satellites separately, all via wireless backing. I tested these Wi-Fi machines using each of their band individually. The scores are of the latest firmware available at the time of the reviews. Purpose-built is the keyword since all Asus standalone routers can work as part of an AiMesh system, and all Zenwifi routers can work as standalone routers. If you have questions like “What’s the best Asus router / Zenwifi mesh system? It includes everything you’d need to know about Asus Wi-Fi hardware.

If you plan to build for several devices that do not share the same kernel source, aim for 75GB-100GB.