Asus has introduced two new gaming router models featuring Wi-Fi 7 technology and high-speed ports. We examine the capabilities of the flagship ROG STRIX GS-BE18000 and the more affordable TUF-BE9400.
G. Ostrov
Taiwanese company Asus has expanded its gaming networking equipment lineup with two new routers supporting the Wi-Fi 7 standard. The flagship ROG STRIX GS-BE18000 and mid-range TUF-BE9400 target gamers and enthusiasts demanding maximum network performance.
ROG STRIX GS-BE18000: Technical Features
The flagship router attracts attention with its unconventional cube-shaped housing featuring built-in antennas. The device is based on a quad-core processor running at 2.0 GHz, supplemented by 2 GB of DDR4 RAM.
The model's key feature is the use of two separate chipsets: the first processes signals from 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, while the second specializes exclusively in 6 GHz operation. This architecture enables achieving up to 18 Gbps total throughput.
Asus engineers implemented Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) technology, optimizing 6 GHz band utilization. The chipsets are protected against electromagnetic interference and work in conjunction with powerful signal amplifiers, ensuring stable coverage.
Connectivity and Gaming Features
The GS-BE18000's rear panel houses eight 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports: one WAN port for internet connection and seven LAN ports. Two LAN ports are pre-configured as gaming ports with traffic prioritization, critical for reducing latency in online gaming.
TUF-BE9400: Price and Function Balance
The more affordable TUF-BE9400 model maintains Wi-Fi 7 support but uses a 2×2 configuration, providing speeds up to 9400 Mbps. The router features four 2.5 Gbps ports (one WAN, three LAN) and six external antennas in traditional design.
The device supports Multi-Link Operation (MLO) technology, enabling simultaneous use of different frequency channels to improve connection stability. However, AFC functionality is absent in this model.
Availability and Pricing
The ROG STRIX GS-BE18000 is already available in the US for $449. Information about TUF-BE9400's sales launch and pricing has not yet been disclosed by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
The new Asus routers demonstrate a serious approach to the gaming networking equipment segment. The GS-BE18000 contends for the title of one of the year's most powerful gaming routers, despite lacking 10-gigabit ports. The TUF-BE9400 offers a sensible compromise between functionality and price.