Walmart has
Netgear Nighthawk AX4 AX3000 Wireless 4-Stream Router (RAX35-100NAS) on sale for
$49.
Shipping is free.
Thanks to community member
micmic37 for sharing this deal.
Features: - 1,500 square feet of WiFi 6 coverage
- Connect 40 plus devices at once
- 3 Gbps WiFi speeds for buffer-free 4K streaming on all your devices
- Number of ethernet ports: five (5) 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit ethernet ports (1 WAN & 4 LAN)
- Processor: dual-core processor
- Security: standards-based WiFi security (802.11i, 128-bit AES encryption with PSK)
- Automatic firmware update delivers latest security patches to the router
- Guest network access-separate & secure
- VPN support - secure access to your home network away from home
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The original ones were intel Lantiq, but that platform is dead/unsupported as intel sold off their router hardware division (they still make client chips). Only other manufacturer to use it was TPLINK.
The second gen V2 is the typical BCM6750 + BCM43684 in 5G disabled down to 2x2 mode. (Only way its getting 160mhz support on a 2x2, well besides LantiQ) This platform is identical to routers like the AX58U/GS-AX3000 etc.
If you get a v2, I can't really fault it at $50 bucks. Yeah its only 2x2, but its 1/3 the cost of anything remotely decent on sale in terms of "good" AX hardware. It's not going to beat top end AC or AX routers with 4x4 Radios, but, again, its 50 bucks..
If you happen to get a v1, just return it.. my 2c.
Edit: RAX40 is the main platform and RAX35 is the Walmart specific model without a USB port to clarify. Both were updated to BCM hardware somewhere around Q4 2020/Q1 2021.
https://dd-wrt.com/support/other-...-r49467%2F
Also you might want to start swaying away from DD-WRT as their development is getting smaller and smaller each month. If you still want to use WiFi 5, DD-WRT is great. Once you get into WiFi 6, you're going to be very limited on options. Most DD-WRT WiFi 6 support is still very buggy and very beta.
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The only reason it isn't rated for AX11000 is because the teamed radios don't support 160mhz mode and will disable one of the teamed radios (down to 4x4) if you use 160mhz completely nullifying the benefits of the QCA 8x8 teamed design.
And those are made by DELTA for Netgear. The Broadcom stuff is foxconn.
Any issues you're having with the RAX40 v2 are firmware based. ASUS variations are pretty solid with the same HW setup. People like to blame broadcom, but Id rather shift blame to rushed firmware/SW.
What would you recommend for up to $200, not counting any sales or deal pricing?
I'm looking to replace a 7-year old Asus AC that got 4-5 years of updates, has served remarkably well, but has recently started to glitch. Given that, and the recent vulnerabilities, it's due for a replacement.
I'm inclined to stay with Asus for those reasons, plus Merlin, but have also considered Netgear and TP-Link.
One thing I've never liked about Netgear is their support policies, even if never needed, nor expected to be good in general. Not gonna pay you if I have to contact you on the 91st day, though firmware support periods are decent.
TP-L made its name on value, but the impression I have is their their firmware support periods aren't as good as either of the other two.
Rightly or wrongly, another impression is that while Asus does play games with marketing segments to the nth degree, and their stripped down variant models (like the AX86S), that's at least easier to discern than the hardware version revision games others play, while keeping the same model numbers. Having to download and check version specific manuals to make sure a desired feature hasn't been removed is rotten game to force users to play.
Given my crappy service, and modest mix of clients, a spendy router would be overkill, but I don't want junk, either; just something solidly functional. Not a networking or router enthusiast who regularly tinkers or upgrades to the newest hot model.
Have also been tempted to pick up a couple venerable AC-68U/1900Ps and link them via AiMesh, but they're dated, and their remarkable streak of support is probably going to end sooner rather than later. Even great ones like those, and the WRT-54G reach a practical end of life.
The original ones were intel Lantiq, but that platform is dead/unsupported as intel sold off their router hardware division (they still make client chips). Only other manufacturer to use it was TPLINK.
The second gen V2 is the typical BCM6750 + BCM43684 in 5G disabled down to 2x2 mode. (Only way its getting 160mhz support on a 2x2, well besides LantiQ) This platform is identical to routers like the AX58U/GS-AX3000 etc.
If you get a v2, I can't really fault it at $50 bucks. Yeah its only 2x2, but its 1/3 the cost of anything remotely decent on sale in terms of "good" AX hardware. It's not going to beat top end AC or AX routers with 4x4 Radios, but, again, its 50 bucks..
If you happen to get a v1, just return it.. my 2c.
Edit: RAX40 is the main platform and RAX35 is the Walmart specific model without a USB port to clarify. Both were updated to BCM hardware somewhere around Q4 2020/Q1 2021.
What would you recommend for up to $200, not counting any sales or deal pricing?
I'm looking to replace a 7-year old Asus AC that got 4-5 years of updates, has served remarkably well, but has recently started to glitch. Given that, and the recent vulnerabilities, it's due for a replacement.
I'm inclined to stay with Asus for those reasons, plus Merlin, but have also considered Netgear and TP-Link.
One thing I've never liked about Netgear is their support policies, even if never needed, nor expected to be good in general. Not gonna pay you if I have to contact you on the 91st day, though firmware support periods are decent.
TP-L made its name on value, but the impression I have is their their firmware support periods aren't as good as either of the other two.
Rightly or wrongly, another impression is that while Asus does play games with marketing segments to the nth degree, and their stripped down variant models (like the AX86S), that's at least easier to discern than the hardware version revision games others play, while keeping the same model numbers. Having to download and check version specific manuals to make sure a desired feature hasn't been removed is rotten game to force users to play.
Given my crappy service, and modest mix of clients, a spendy router would be overkill, but I don't want junk, either; just something solidly functional. Not a networking or router enthusiast who regularly tinkers or upgrades to the newest hot model.
Have also been tempted to pick up a couple venerable AC-68U/1900Ps and link them via AiMesh, but they're dated, and their remarkable streak of support is probably going to end sooner rather than later. Even great ones like those, and the WRT-54G reach a practical end of life.
I'll say this.. the consumer is finally in a position to find decent hardware for relatively good price.. ASUS is simply abusing marketshare RN, but yes I prefer ASUS too.
AX86S is a good router but everything is relative to price point. Don't be discouraged to buy it over AX86U if the pricing makes sense to you.
The CPU/RAM won't really impact most users as its the same processor with 2 cores disabled. The biggest benefit of having the better/first variant is if you plan on using the 2.5G port and or use NAS. If the AX86S happens to go down to 170, thats tempting enough for me if I don't need 2.5G. Make sense?
ASUS in general has heavily inflated MSRPs that I'm not a fan of, but so does everyone else.
I would say the AC68U is fine, but also dated. Again price is relative. 2 of those in a wired backhaul can have an advantage over a top end router for example.. It just depends.. Sorry WIFI is one those things where its highly variable, but makes more sense from a subjective perspective in terms of what "you need".
the GT-AX6000 for example was one of the first routers with 2nd gen BCM AX hardware and the MSRP is $400.
I think $250 is more of a fair price point if we speak relatively.. $200 if the platform has been out for 2+ years.. :|
There ARE diminishing returns and there are advantages to having an ASUS router with consistantly updated firmware over a different brand that refuses to update for 2+ years.
Theres an RAX120 posted here for 225.. (8x8 5G) and no one seems to care, but I think it's super cheap.. I'm just not a fan of Netgears SW/FW and have no faith in the model being updated due to lack of sales..
Ironically one of the best platforms for range performance, but cucked by the industry due to marketing numbers.đŸ˜‚
It's hard to really say... In general I like stuff with higher end hardware, but not overboard.
4x4 5G radio config with decent main CPU. I guess? I know that's hard to understand but again, pricing is relative.
I don't see an issue with this AX3000 router for 50 bucks (ignoring FW/SW), but I would NOT recommend it in the MSRP range.. AX58U for example is very overpriced at 150+ USD. Always has been, but covid put a den't into the market :|
Sorry it's prob easier to ask me about specific routers.. or relative to X product.
I'll say this.. the consumer is finally in a position to find decent hardware for relatively good price.. ASUS is simply abusing marketshare RN, but yes I prefer ASUS too.
AX86S is a good router but everything is relative to price point. Don't be discouraged to buy it over AX86U if the pricing makes sense to you.
The CPU/RAM won't really impact most users as its the same processor with 2 cores disabled. The biggest benefit of having the better/first variant is if you plan on using the 2.5G port and or use NAS. If the AX86S happens to go down to 170, thats tempting enough for me if I don't need 2.5G. Make sense?
ASUS in general has heavily inflated MSRPs that I'm not a fan of, but so does everyone else.
I would say the 68U is fine, but also dated. Again price is relative. 2 of those in a wired backhaul can have an advantage over a top end router for example.. It just depends.. Sorry WIFI is one those things where its highly variable, but makes more sense from a subjective perspective in terms of what "you need".
the GT-AX6000 for example was one of the first routers with 2nd gen BCM AX hardware and the MSRP is $400.
I think $250 is more of a fair price point if we speak relatively.. $200 if the platform has been out for 2+ years.. :|
There ARE diminishing returns and there are advantages to having an ASUS router with consistantly updated firmware over a different brand that refuses to update for 2+ years.
Theres an RAX120 posted here for 225.. (8x8 5G) and no one seems to care, but I think it's super cheap.. I'm just not a fan of Netgears SW/FW and have no faith in the model being updated due to lack of sales..
Ironically one of the best platforms for range performance, but cucked by the industry due to marketing numbers.đŸ˜‚
I have connections to industry. Don't work in it.
It's hard to really say... In general I like stuff with higher end hardware, but not overboard.
4x4 5G radio config with decent main CPU. I guess? I know that's hard to understand but again, pricing is relative.
I don't see an issue with this AX3000 router for 50 bucks (ignoring FW/SW), but I would NOT recommend it in the MSRP range.. AX58U for example is very overpriced at 150+ USD. Always has been, but covid put a den't into the market :|
Sorry it's prob easier to ask me about specific routers.. or relative to X product.
Any idea which if these I should keep as they all cost me about the same. I probably have ~15 devices attached. No gaming just lots of video cameras and video for work meetings.
I installed Untangle NGFW and went with TP-Link Jetstream 8-port switch with PoE+, OC200 Omada cloud controller, 2x EAP660HD AP's and got a EAP235-Wall for a separate AP for a dedicated IoT port. To round out the configuration, I also setup AdGuard Home DNS on a Rpi 4B with NextDNS.
I now no longer have to play the ever-changing router hardware game. Now if I want to upgrade, I just get new AP's and its much easier to determine hardware on these as its openly advertised in most cases.
While this is a bit much for most, you can start with a mini-PC/Firewall box like a Protectli, then install a free firewall OS like PFSense, OpenSense, Untangle NGFW or Sophos Home.
You can then get a single EAP660 HD AP, which comes with an onboard controller, so no other hardware is required.
You will now have a solid setup with excellent security as each of those firewalls support Intrusion Detection/Prevention.
You can then expand if you feel fit with a dedicated cloud controller, an extra AP for mesh or switch with PoE.
All devices work with the Omada platform so I have a single management window and all of the business-grade equipment has a limited-lifetime warranty. While TP-Link support generally isnt great, it is better on their business-grade stuff and they are trying really hard to make a good name for themselves in that market.
I'll say this.. the consumer is finally in a position to find decent hardware for relatively good price.. ASUS is simply abusing marketshare RN, but yes I prefer ASUS too.
AX86S is a good router but everything is relative to price point. Don't be discouraged to buy it over AX86U if the pricing makes sense to you.
The CPU/RAM won't really impact most users as its the same processor with 2 cores disabled. The biggest benefit of having the better/first variant is if you plan on using the 2.5G port and or use NAS. If the AX86S happens to go down to 170, thats tempting enough for me if I don't need 2.5G. Make sense?
ASUS in general has heavily inflated MSRPs that I'm not a fan of, but so does everyone else.
I would say the 68U is fine, but also dated. Again price is relative. 2 of those in a wired backhaul can have an advantage over a top end router for example.. It just depends.. Sorry WIFI is one those things where its highly variable, but makes more sense from a subjective perspective in terms of what "you need".
the GT-AX6000 for example was one of the first routers with 2nd gen BCM AX hardware and the MSRP is $400.
I think $250 is more of a fair price point if we speak relatively.. $200 if the platform has been out for 2+ years.. :|
There ARE diminishing returns and there are advantages to having an ASUS router with consistantly updated firmware over a different brand that refuses to update for 2+ years.
Theres an RAX120 posted here for 225.. (8x8 5G) and no one seems to care, but I think it's super cheap.. I'm just not a fan of Netgears SW/FW and have no faith in the model being updated due to lack of sales..
Ironically one of the best platforms for range performance, but cucked by the industry due to marketing numbers.
Yep, no doubt the value proportion isn't one of the arguments for Asus, for the AX56/58U or in general. Truthfully, they would be perfectly suitable for my needs, but I don't want to settle until I've gotten the whole picture.
The AX86S is naturally poo-poohed by those who favor the AX86U, and while I understand the differences, I don't think they'd make any difference given my lousy connection speed and modest file serving needs. I don't run a NAS, but do make use of the USB port with a flash drive for media file playback, short term and not in a library sense. The 86U would be overkill, but the 86S might be a nice step up from the 56/58U. Only potential headache is the finicky Ring doorbell, which thankfully has played well with the current Asus AC56. It got mixed reviews, but really turned out to be a solid, no-hassle performer that never gave any trouble, as the little brother to the AC68U. Perhaps there's a parallel to that with the 86S/U.
My understanding is that the AX68U is older than both, and may be discontinued.
The obvious goal is a good, well-supported model with long service life, which means that some of the other cheaper models with more niche platforms are off the table, no matter if coming from Asus, Netgear or TP-L.
Another factor is the next-gen chipsets, which I've seen allusions to being branded "Pro" models, at least in Asus-speak. How far off are they?
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I installed Untangle NGFW and went with TP-Link Jetstream 8-port switch with PoE+, OC200 Omada cloud controller, 2x EAP660HD AP's and got a EAP235-Wall for a separate AP for a dedicated IoT port. To round out the configuration, I also setup AdGuard Home DNS on a Rpi 4B with NextDNS.
I now no longer have to play the ever-changing router hardware game. Now if I want to upgrade, I just get new AP's and its much easier to determine hardware on these as its openly advertised in most cases.
While this is a bit much for most, you can start with a mini-PC/Firewall box like a Protectli, then install a free firewall OS like PFSense, OpenSense, Untangle NGFW or Sophos Home.
You can then get a single EAP660 HD AP, which comes with an onboard controller, so no other hardware is required.
You will now have a solid setup with excellent security as each of those firewalls support Intrusion Detection/Prevention.
You can then expand if you feel fit with a dedicated cloud controller, an extra AP for mesh or switch with PoE.
All devices work with the Omada platform so I have a single management window and all of the business-grade equipment has a limited-lifetime warranty. While TP-Link support generally isnt great, it is better on their business-grade stuff and they are trying really hard to make a good name for themselves in that market.
Any idea which if these I should keep as they all cost me about the same. I probably have ~15 devices attached. No gaming just lots of video cameras and video for work meetings.:
AC1900P is the oldest platform here and has Wave 1 3x3 radios with weaker output. I don't recommend as a single point router. Main cpu is a dual core A9 @ 1.4ghz
RAX35 has more common and modern router hardware. CPU is actually a dual core and not a triple core (misleading marketing from Broadcom which trickles down to manufacturer). A7 @ 1.5ghz.. Decent power output on radios. 2x2 design.
Archer AX50 is an older Lantiq platform (discontinued) and has relatively weaker HW to everything else you have listed. Power output is decent. 2x2 design.
Strongest router is the C4000 (based on CPU and radio config) unless your environment doesn't play well. WIFI is very subjective. Try them all.
Yep, no doubt the value proportion isn't one of the arguments for Asus, for the AX56/58U or in general. Truthfully, they would be perfectly suitable for my needs, but I don't want to settle until I've gotten the whole picture.
The AX86S is naturally poo-poohed by those who favor the AX86U, and while I understand the differences, I don't think they'd make any difference given my lousy connection speed and modest file serving needs. I don't run a NAS, but do make use of the USB port with a flash drive for media file playback, short term and not in a library sense. The 86U would be overkill, but the 86S might be a nice step up from the 56/58U. Only potential headache is the finicky Ring doorbell, which thankfully has played well with the current Asus AC56. It got mixed reviews, but really turned out to be a solid, no-hassle performer that never gave any trouble, as the little brother to the AC68U. Perhaps there's a parallel to that with the 86S/U.
My understanding is that the AX68U is older than both, and may be discontinued.
The obvious goal is a good, well-supported model with long service life, which means that some of the other cheaper models with more niche platforms are off the table, no matter if coming from Asus, Netgear or TP-L.
Another factor is the next-gen chipsets, which I've seen allusions to being branded "Pro" models, at least in Asus-speak. How far off are they?
AX68U was released after AX86U, but before AX86S. I don't think it will be discontinued unless its interfering with pricing gaps.. Maybe the 86S takes over. I don't know.
The AX68U is basically AX86S without a 4x4 main radio and slightly different tuning on power output. That's it. The 3x3 5G main radio is weaker than the 4x4 (Range) and doesn't support 160mhz. (no big deal).
GT-AX6000 has the same hardware (4912 + 6715) as the upcoming AX-11000 "Pro". This is gen 2 AX hardware and has throughput improvements over pretty much everything on the market. Wifi 6 clients tend to perform a lot better at distance. The MSRP/Current price on the model is a joke. Should be $250~300, but they want to abuse first to market scenarios.
The current hardware for AX10000, AXE11000, AX86U, AX88U etc.. will eventually phase out. The 4908/4906 main CPU is from 2016. Was flagship for Broadcom routers.
tl;dr I'm biased but anything using at least the 4906 cpu has a good basis on ASUS end. So my preferences starts here..at least until next gen hardware is cheaper.
I don't like the SoC stuff (like this RAX35) but its $50 bucks.. hard to complain.. In fact even 100 USD would be fair..(assuming no glaring issues with firmware or overheating)
The only reason it isn't rated for AX11000 is because the teamed radios don't support 160mhz mode and will disable one of the teamed radios (down to 4x4) if you use 160mhz completely nullifying the benefits of the QCA 8x8 teamed design.
And those are made by DELTA for Netgear. The Broadcom stuff is foxconn.
Any issues you're having with the RAX40 v2 are firmware based. ASUS variations are pretty solid with the same HW setup. People like to blame broadcom, but Id rather shift blame to rushed firmware/SW.
Thanks.
I bought a Netgear Nighthawk R7000 in 2018 that is now dropping connections so often it's useless. After reading all of the issues people have had with Netgear updates (including me), I don't see myself ever buying another one.
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