ASUS RT-AC66U B1 vs Netgear Nighthawk RAX40
Verdict: The Netgear Nighthawk RAX40 outperforms the ASUS RT‑AC66U B1 in raw speed (5.4 Gbps vs 1.75 Gbps per RTINGS) and offers newer Wi‑Fi 6 features, USB 3.0, and a stronger security suite (per Tom's Guide). However, the ASUS model remains a solid budget choice for users who don’t need Wi‑Fi 6 and prefer a lower entry price (per Wirecutter). Overall, the RAX40’s performance and feature set earn it the win.
Winner: Netgear Nighthawk RAX40
ASUS RT-AC66U B1: 6.5/10
Netgear Nighthawk RAX40: 8/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| ASUS RT-AC66U B1 | Netgear Nighthawk RAX40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac (Wi‑Fi 5) | 802.11ax (Wi‑Fi 6) |
| Max Throughput | 1.75 Gbps (450 Mbps 2.4 GHz + 1.3 Gbps 5 GHz) | 5.4 Gbps (600 Mbps 2.4 GHz + 4.8 Gbps 5 GHz) |
| LAN Ports | 4 × Gigabit Ethernet | 4 × Gigabit Ethernet |
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
ASUS RT-AC66U B1
What works
- Easy setup via ASUS Router app (per CNET)
- Solid 4‑port Gigabit LAN for wired devices (per Tom's Guide)
- Good range for a 2‑band AC router (per RTINGS)
What doesn't
- No Wi‑Fi 6 support (per RTINGS)
- USB 2.0 only, no USB‑C (per Tom's Guide)
Netgear Nighthawk RAX40
What works
- Wi‑Fi 6 delivers higher capacity and lower latency (per RTINGS)
- USB 3.0 for faster external storage (per CNET)
- Strong security suite with Netgear Armor (per Tom's Guide)
What doesn't
- Higher price than older AC models (per Wirecutter)
- No 2.5 GbE WAN port (per RTINGS)
Bottom line
Our pick: Netgear Nighthawk RAX40.
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