Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router

Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router — image 1
Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router — image 2
Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router — image 3
Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router — image 4
83%
85%
Wi-Fi Performance
91%
Ease of Setup
78%
Coverage Range
88%
Parental Controls
81%
Streaming & Gaming Performance
83%
Build Quality
75%
Connectivity Stability
92%
Value for Money
80%
Design & Aesthetics
74%
Customer Support
76%
Firmware & Software Features
87%
Device Compatibility
More

Overview

The Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router offers a reliable, high-performance solution for home Wi-Fi. This dual-band router supports speeds of up to 1167 Mbps, ensuring fast and stable connections across multiple devices. Its compact design houses four external antennas that enhance coverage and provide stable performance throughout your home. With support for the 802.11ac standard, this router offers improved speed and efficiency compared to older Wi-Fi models. Additionally, it features Parental Controls for managing online safety, making it an excellent choice for family-oriented households.

Features & Benefits

This Asus router stands out with its ability to broadcast simultaneously on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, reducing interference and optimizing connection speeds. A USB 2.0 port allows for easy media sharing or connecting peripherals like printers. The inclusion of WPS means setting up new devices is effortless, while the four external antennas ensure multiple devices can be connected without sacrificing performance. With speeds up to 1167 Mbps, this router is ideal for homes with high-bandwidth needs like streaming or casual gaming.

Best For

The RT-AC1200 is perfect for small to medium-sized homes where reliable Wi-Fi coverage is essential. It's designed for users with several connected devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs. Families will appreciate the straightforward Parental Controls that allow easy management of internet access for children. It's also an excellent choice for those on a budget who want a router capable of supporting basic streaming and gaming without breaking the bank.

User Feedback

User reviews of this Asus router are generally positive, with many highlighting its easy setup and dependable performance. It’s praised for providing stable Wi-Fi even with multiple devices connected. However, some users have noted occasional connectivity issues at longer ranges, especially in larger homes. On the plus side, it performs well for streaming and light gaming, making it a good fit for users seeking solid performance without needing premium features. For its price, many find it a great value, though occasional interference can be an issue in certain setups.

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Pros

  • Dual-band functionality provides reliable performance with reduced interference.
  • Compact design with four external antennas ensures extended coverage across rooms.
  • Easy setup process, ideal for non-tech-savvy users.
  • Affordable price point for basic streaming and casual gaming needs.
  • Parental Controls feature makes it a good choice for families with children.
  • Supports multiple devices simultaneously without significant drops in speed.

Cons

  • Connectivity issues reported at longer distances or with thick walls.
  • Not suitable for large homes or multi-level spaces without additional equipment.
  • Occasional signal drops during high-demand tasks like 4K streaming.
  • Lacks advanced features for users needing fine-grained control over settings.
  • Limited USB port (USB 2.0) may not suffice for all types of media sharing.
  • Some users noted that performance can degrade with too many devices connected.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, we've distilled key insights about the Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router. Spam, incentivized, and low-quality feedback was filtered out to ensure accuracy. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, offering a well-rounded view based on authentic experiences from users across various regions.

Wi-Fi Performance
85%
Many users are pleased with the dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities of this router, which provides fast speeds and stable connections, especially when multiple devices are in use. The 1167 Mbps speed allows smooth streaming and web browsing without noticeable interruptions, making it a reliable option for homes with heavy internet usage.
However, some users report that the Wi-Fi performance drops off significantly at longer ranges. While the router offers good performance at short distances, the signal strength may weaken in larger homes or areas with many obstacles, requiring additional equipment to extend coverage.
Ease of Setup
91%
Several users highlight how quick and hassle-free the setup process is for this device. The intuitive interface, along with the option for one-touch WPS connection, makes it accessible even for those with limited technical experience. Many appreciate the ability to get the router up and running within minutes.
On the downside, a few users found the initial setup slightly tricky when trying to configure advanced settings. The lack of a more detailed user manual for non-technical users can also make it harder to troubleshoot more complex network issues.
Coverage Range
78%
22%
This router delivers solid coverage for medium-sized homes, ensuring reliable connectivity for most users in common living spaces. The four external antennas provide a noticeable boost to signal strength, which many appreciate for everyday tasks like browsing and streaming.
However, some buyers mentioned that the range can be inconsistent, especially in larger homes or buildings with thick walls. This could result in weaker signals in rooms further from the router, prompting users to consider adding a Wi-Fi extender for more comprehensive coverage.
Parental Controls
88%
Users with children or household members who want better control over online activity praise the router's built-in parental controls. The ability to block websites, set time limits, and monitor usage provides peace of mind for families looking to keep their internet experience safe and secure.
Despite its usefulness, some users find the parental control interface a bit too basic. They feel that more customization options or a more intuitive setup process would improve the overall experience, especially for those managing multiple devices.
Streaming & Gaming Performance
81%
19%
This router is considered sufficient for basic streaming and casual gaming, with many users reporting that it handles video streaming in HD and online gaming without significant lag. It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, offering a more stable connection for video calls or gaming sessions.
However, some gamers and streamers with more demanding setups experienced occasional lag or buffering, especially during peak usage times. While it performs well for light usage, users seeking high-performance gaming might need to look for a more advanced router with higher bandwidth support.
Build Quality
83%
The build quality of this router is generally praised for being sturdy yet lightweight. Its compact design fits easily into most home setups, and the four external antennas give it a premium feel. Many users appreciate the balance between performance and physical durability.
However, a few users have noted that while the router feels solid, its plastic construction might not be as durable as more expensive models. Some also report that the antennas feel a little flimsy when adjusting their position, though this does not seem to affect overall performance.
Connectivity Stability
75%
25%
The router offers solid connectivity for most home environments, especially for standard web browsing and media streaming. Several users find the connection to be stable during typical daily usage, which is ideal for non-demanding tasks like browsing social media or checking email.
Some users report occasional drop-offs in connectivity, particularly with multiple devices connected simultaneously. This can be frustrating for those relying on a stable connection for work or gaming, and some suggest that the router may not be optimal for very high-demand networks.
Value for Money
92%
For its price, this router offers exceptional value. It provides reliable dual-band Wi-Fi performance, decent coverage, and useful features like parental controls, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable yet effective router. Many users feel that it strikes a good balance between cost and functionality.
That said, some users feel that while the router delivers good value for most basic needs, it may not be the best choice for larger homes or high-demand users. Those seeking cutting-edge features or more robust performance might consider upgrading to a more premium option.
Design & Aesthetics
80%
20%
The sleek and compact design of this router is often appreciated by users who prefer minimalist, unobtrusive technology. Its small footprint means it can easily be placed out of sight without taking up too much space, and the external antennas add a modern touch.
Some users, however, feel that the design could be improved with a more modern or subtle aesthetic. The visible antennas might not appeal to those looking for a more seamless look, and a few mentioned that the router's appearance could be more discreet for a more polished home setup.
Customer Support
74%
26%
While many users find the router easy to use and maintain, customer support is often considered helpful for basic troubleshooting. Some users report a relatively quick response to technical inquiries, which is important when dealing with connectivity or configuration issues.
However, several customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the responsiveness and quality of customer support. They found the troubleshooting steps provided to be insufficient, and some have had difficulty getting timely responses when seeking help with more complex problems.
Firmware & Software Features
76%
24%
The software and firmware of this router provide essential features like parental controls, guest networks, and security settings. Many users find the interface to be simple and easy to navigate, with all necessary features for a standard home network.
However, some users feel that the router's firmware lacks some advanced features or customization options compared to higher-end models. The software can be somewhat limited, especially for users who want more granular control over their network settings.
Device Compatibility
87%
This router is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices. Many users appreciate that it works seamlessly with both older and newer devices, offering versatility for various household setups.
On the downside, a few users encountered occasional issues when connecting certain smart home devices. While the router supports a wide range of platforms, there are reports of minor compatibility quirks with more niche devices or specific configurations.

Suitable for:

The Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router is ideal for small to medium-sized homes where users need reliable and affordable Wi-Fi coverage. It suits families or individuals who have multiple devices such as smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs, and want a router that supports concurrent use on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This device is a great option for basic streaming, casual gaming, and daily internet browsing. Additionally, its built-in parental controls make it a good choice for households with children, providing extra peace of mind regarding online safety. Those on a budget but in need of dependable performance will find this router a good value for the price.

Not suitable for:

However, the Asus RT-AC1200 may not be the best option for larger homes or users with heavy internet demands. Its range can diminish at longer distances or in environments with many walls, making it less ideal for expansive or multi-level spaces without adding additional equipment like a Wi-Fi extender. Users who require top-tier performance for high-demand activities such as intensive online gaming, 4K streaming, or large-scale home office setups may find this router's capabilities limiting. Additionally, those looking for advanced network customization or more powerful hardware may want to consider a higher-end model.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Speed: Supports up to 1167 Mbps, with 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for reduced interference and optimized performance.
  • Wi-Fi Standard: Supports 802.11ac for improved performance and faster speeds compared to older Wi-Fi standards.
  • External Antennas: Equipped with 4 external 5dBi antennas for extended range and better signal coverage.
  • USB Port: Includes 1 USB 2.0 port for connecting external storage devices, printers, or media sharing.
  • WPS Support: Supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) for easy, secure device connection.
  • Parental Controls: Includes Parental Controls for managing online safety, screen time, and content access.
  • Coverage Area: Designed for extended Wi-Fi coverage in small to medium-sized homes.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, as well as smartphones and tablets.
  • Dimensions: Measures 1.94 x 2.98 x 0.46 inches, making it compact and easy to place in most environments.
  • Weight: Weighs 10.4 ounces, lightweight for easy handling and placement.
  • Voltage: Operates at 240 Volts for stable power supply.
  • Device Compatibility: Supports multiple devices simultaneously, including laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs.
  • Security Features: Offers WPA2 encryption for secure Wi-Fi connections and data protection.
  • QoS Support: Supports Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize bandwidth for important applications like streaming.
  • Beamforming: Features beamforming technology to improve signal strength and reliability by focusing the Wi-Fi signal towards devices.
  • Firmware Updates: Supports automatic firmware updates to ensure the router is running the latest features and security patches.
  • Operating Frequency: Operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies for optimal performance in different environments.

FAQ

Setting up this router is easy. Simply connect the device to your modem using the provided Ethernet cable, then plug it in. Access the router’s web interface through your browser by typing in the default IP address and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

The Asus RT-AC1200 Wireless Dual-Band Router supports Wi-Fi speeds up to 1167 Mbps. This includes up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, which helps deliver fast, reliable internet performance for a variety of devices.

Yes, this router is well-suited for light to moderate gaming and streaming, thanks to its dual-band capabilities. The 5 GHz band provides less interference, making it ideal for streaming HD content or casual gaming without significant lag or buffering.

The Asus RT-AC1200 includes built-in Parental Controls, which allow you to set up filtering to block inappropriate content, manage screen time, and even schedule Wi-Fi access for different devices. This feature is particularly useful for families with young children.

The router is compatible with most modern devices, including Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. It supports the 802.11ac standard, which ensures good compatibility with newer Wi-Fi-enabled devices.

Yes, you can connect external devices like printers or external hard drives using the USB 2.0 port on this router. This feature allows for easy media sharing across your home network or printing wirelessly from any compatible device.

The range of this router is extended thanks to its four external antennas. It provides good coverage for small to medium-sized homes, but the range may be limited in larger spaces or areas with thick walls. Some users have reported weaker connectivity at longer distances.

Some users have reported occasional connectivity drops, especially at longer ranges or through walls. While it performs well in close proximity, performance may degrade in larger homes or multi-story environments without additional equipment like a Wi-Fi extender.

This router supports multiple devices simultaneously without significant performance degradation. The dual-band functionality helps reduce interference, so you can connect laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs at the same time with relatively stable performance.

The Asus RT-AC1200 has a compact design with dimensions of 1.94 x 2.98 x 0.46 inches, making it easy to place on a shelf or desk without taking up too much space. It weighs just 10.4 ounces, so it’s lightweight and portable.