Overview

The ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Router offers a modern solution to home and small business networking needs. This router supports impressive speeds up to 1.8Gbps, ideal for high-bandwidth activities like gaming and streaming. With AiMesh compatibility, it enables seamless whole-home WiFi coverage, making it perfect for larger spaces. In addition, the integrated AiProtection security ensures a safe browsing experience with no ongoing subscription fees. For users looking for reliable, fast, and secure WiFi, this dual-band router offers a well-rounded package.

Features & Benefits

The ASUS RT-AX1800S router is powered by WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology, providing faster, more efficient connections for multiple devices. It supports MU-MIMO and OFDMA, which optimize network performance by allowing simultaneous communication with several devices without congestion. Additionally, this router features lifetime AiProtection security powered by Trend Micro, ensuring protection against cyber threats. It’s easy to set up, even for users new to networking, and includes robust parental controls to keep your home network safe and manageable.

Best For

This router is an excellent choice for home users who need reliable WiFi coverage throughout the house. It’s also a solid option for gamers and streamers who require consistent, high-speed connections without lag. Families will benefit from the advanced parental controls and built-in security features, while small businesses can rely on its stable network performance. Whether you’re browsing, working from home, or hosting a smart home, this router offers the flexibility to meet a variety of needs.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the ASUS RT-AX1800S for its easy setup and stable performance. Many reviews highlight its excellent range, making it a good fit for medium to large homes. However, some users have reported inconsistent speeds in larger homes with thick walls, which can impact the overall experience. While AiMesh is praised for improving coverage, some feedback suggests that the signal strength might be a bit weaker in certain areas. Overall, users love the security features and find it to be a reliable choice for most home networks.

Pros

  • Easy to set up, even for non-technical users, with intuitive installation steps.
  • Supports WiFi 6, providing faster and more efficient internet speeds for multiple devices.
  • AiMesh compatibility extends WiFi coverage, making it ideal for larger homes or multi-floor setups.
  • Built-in commercial-grade security with AiProtection offers lifetime protection without additional subscription fees.
  • Excellent value for money given the range of features and performance offered.
  • Offers strong performance for online gaming and HD streaming, with speeds up to 1.8Gbps.

Cons

  • Performance can be inconsistent in larger homes or spaces with thick walls, despite AiMesh support.
  • Some users report weak signal strength in certain areas, even with optimal placement.
  • Limited advanced customization options for experienced network users who need more control.
  • No tri-band support, which may limit performance when many devices are connected simultaneously.
  • The range is not always sufficient for very large properties or homes with multiple levels.
  • Although easy to set up, troubleshooting connection issues can be more complex for some users.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages worldwide, the scores for the ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Router reflect both the product's strengths and areas of concern. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure the results represent authentic user experiences. While the router is highly praised for its performance and ease of setup, some users reported occasional issues with range and signal strength, especially in larger homes. Below are the ratings based on the overall customer feedback across a wide range of sources.

WiFi Performance
88%
Many users highlight the stable and fast speeds provided by this WiFi 6 router. It handles streaming and gaming without interruptions, making it ideal for high-demand activities. The 1.8Gbps speed ensures smooth performance for multiple devices connected at once, which is a major benefit for households with multiple users.
However, some users experience a drop in speed when too many devices are connected, especially in larger homes. The WiFi range can also be inconsistent in certain areas, leading to weaker signals in rooms far from the router. This may be a concern for those seeking full coverage in bigger spaces.
Ease of Setup
94%
Setup is straightforward, with many buyers appreciating the quick and hassle-free installation process. The user-friendly app and step-by-step instructions guide users through the entire process, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. Additionally, the router’s automatic configuration minimizes the need for manual intervention.
While most found the setup easy, some users reported issues with the mobile app during initial configuration. There were occasional complaints about difficulty connecting the router to certain devices, particularly when trying to integrate with other smart home systems.
Range & Coverage
78%
22%
For smaller to medium-sized homes, this router provides solid coverage. Users in these spaces report consistent speeds throughout the house, especially in areas where previous routers failed to reach. The dual-band setup ensures a better experience in terms of connectivity and signal stability.
In larger homes or multi-story buildings, users have noted that the signal strength weakens over distance. Even though AiMesh support is available, some felt it didn’t resolve the issue of weak coverage in far rooms, leading to slower speeds or dead zones.
Security Features
91%
The integrated AiProtection security suite, powered by Trend Micro, offers robust protection against malware and intrusions. Many users appreciate the peace of mind it provides, with features like real-time network monitoring and automatic security updates. The lifetime subscription ensures no ongoing fees for security services.
A few users mentioned that the security features can be overbearing at times, with frequent notifications or alerts. Some also felt that certain advanced settings, like VPN support, were difficult to configure, especially for users with limited technical knowledge.
Value for Money
85%
This router delivers solid value considering its price point. With WiFi 6 capabilities, high-speed performance, and comprehensive security features, it provides excellent performance for users looking for a reliable router without breaking the bank. The added benefit of lifetime security with no subscription required makes it even more appealing.
While the router offers good value for most users, some feel that the performance could be better in larger homes or when handling a large number of devices. Additionally, some users have found comparable routers with similar features at a lower price, leading to mixed opinions about the cost-to-performance ratio.
AiMesh Compatibility
82%
18%
AiMesh allows users to extend their network seamlessly, especially for those who need more extensive coverage. Buyers with other ASUS routers have found this feature particularly useful for building a reliable whole-home WiFi network. It’s easy to integrate additional units, creating a smooth mesh system for consistent performance across the home.
However, users who tested AiMesh with non-ASUS routers or older devices reported challenges with setup and integration. Some also felt that AiMesh didn’t provide the promised improvement in signal strength in larger homes, with some areas still experiencing weak WiFi.
Customer Support
72%
28%
When customers were able to reach ASUS support, many were satisfied with the assistance provided. The team is knowledgeable and responsive in resolving issues related to setup, configuration, and technical problems.
However, several users expressed frustration with long wait times and unhelpful responses during support interactions. Some users had trouble getting the right solutions for their issues, particularly when dealing with firmware bugs or specific compatibility problems.
Parental Controls
89%
Parents particularly appreciate the robust parental control features, which include content filtering and time limits for device usage. Many found these features to be intuitive and effective, making it easy to manage kids’ internet activity. The ability to monitor and control devices remotely adds another layer of convenience.
Some users felt that the parental controls could be more flexible or detailed, especially in terms of customizing usage rules for specific apps or websites. A few also encountered issues with the functionality not being as reliable as expected, with occasional glitches or delays in the control features.
Build Quality
83%
The build quality of this router is generally regarded as solid, with a well-constructed plastic body that feels durable. The external antennas add to its stability, allowing for good signal strength across different bands. The compact design also makes it easy to place in any part of the home without taking up too much space.
Some users have noted that the plastic exterior feels somewhat cheap, especially when compared to premium models. While not a dealbreaker, a few reported that the router showed signs of wear over time, especially around the antenna areas, which could affect long-term durability.
Software/Firmware Updates
80%
20%
Software updates are relatively easy to install, and many users report that the router performs better after each update. These updates address minor bugs and security vulnerabilities, ensuring that the router remains secure and reliable over time. Many appreciate the automatic update feature that keeps the router up-to-date without much user intervention.
However, some users have experienced slow or delayed firmware updates, with occasional issues arising from incomplete installations. These problems sometimes require manual intervention, which can be frustrating for less tech-savvy users.
Network Speed Consistency
75%
25%
While the router provides impressive peak speeds, users generally enjoy a stable connection during everyday use, especially for casual browsing and video streaming. The network holds up well in typical usage scenarios, even with multiple devices connected.
That said, some users have noted inconsistent speeds during peak usage times or when heavy traffic is running through the network. In larger homes or with many devices connected, the performance may fluctuate, making the router less reliable for users with high-speed demands across several devices.
Long-Term Reliability
79%
21%
The router holds up well over time for most users, with many reporting stable performance for months after initial setup. Regular software updates help maintain its reliability, and it works as intended for day-to-day use in smaller households.
However, some long-term users have reported issues with the router’s stability after extended use, particularly regarding occasional reboots or dropouts. These problems seem to be more common in homes with heavy usage or many connected devices, impacting its overall reliability for long-term use.

Suitable for:

The ASUS RT-AX1800S Dual Band WiFi 6 Router is ideal for home users who need reliable, high-speed internet for multiple devices. With its WiFi 6 technology and speeds up to 1.8Gbps, it is especially beneficial for gamers, streamers, and families who require fast, stable connections for activities like HD streaming or online gaming. This device is also a great option for small businesses that require dependable, secure networking without the need for complex IT infrastructure. The easy setup process and robust parental controls make it a good choice for families with children, ensuring both security and ease of use.

Not suitable for:

However, the ASUS RT-AX1800S may not be the best choice for users in larger homes or spaces with complex layouts. Some buyers reported inconsistent speeds and weak signal strength in larger areas, even with AiMesh support. If you need seamless WiFi coverage across multiple floors or extensive coverage in large buildings, you may find this router's range lacking. Additionally, while the setup is straightforward for most, those with more advanced networking needs or seeking highly customizable options might feel limited by the router's feature set.

Specifications

  • WiFi Standard: Supports the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standard for faster speeds and better network efficiency.
  • Max Speed: Delivers a maximum data transfer rate of 1.8Gbps, suitable for high-speed activities like gaming and streaming.
  • Frequency Bands: Dual-band functionality with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, ensuring better coverage and reduced interference.
  • Antennas: Equipped with 4 external antennas to provide better signal strength and extended range.
  • Processor: Powered by a dual-core processor (4 VPE) for handling multiple devices and high-demand applications.
  • Ports: Includes 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, with 1 WAN and 4 LAN ports for wired connections.
  • Security: Integrated AiProtection powered by Trend Micro for advanced security features without additional subscriptions.
  • VPN Support: Supports built-in VPN functionality for secure internet browsing and remote access.
  • MU-MIMO: Supports MU-MIMO technology to efficiently handle multiple devices simultaneously without slowing down performance.
  • OFDMA Support: Features OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) for improved efficiency and lower latency on crowded networks.
  • AiMesh Compatibility: Supports AiMesh for creating a whole-home mesh network with compatible ASUS routers for extended WiFi coverage.
  • Parental Control: Offers robust parental control features to manage internet access, block inappropriate content, and set time limits.
  • Dimensions: Compact design with dimensions of 9.06 x 5.28 x 2.2 inches, allowing for flexible placement.
  • Weight: Weighs 13.1 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle during setup.
  • Power Supply: Requires a 12V/1.5A power supply for operation.
  • Form Factor: Standard desktop design that can be easily placed on a shelf or desktop.
  • Beamforming: Supports beamforming technology to focus WiFi signals towards connected devices, enhancing performance and range.
  • Software: Comes with the ASUS Router app for easy management, configuration, and remote monitoring.
  • Warranty: Includes a standard warranty, providing customer support and peace of mind.

FAQ

Setting up this router is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly interface. You can easily follow the step-by-step guide in the app or web browser to get your network running in no time, even if you're not tech-savvy.

AiMesh is ASUS's mesh networking technology that allows you to extend your WiFi coverage throughout your home by connecting compatible ASUS routers. This WiFi 6 router supports AiMesh, which is great for larger homes or areas with multiple levels, ensuring you have consistent signal strength across all rooms.

Yes, this device supports speeds up to 1.8Gbps, making it an excellent choice for high-speed gaming and HD streaming. With WiFi 6 technology, it handles heavy traffic and multiple devices seamlessly, ensuring stable connections during demanding activities.

Yes, this router is backward compatible with older WiFi standards, including WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and WiFi 4 (802.11n). While you'll get the best performance with WiFi 6 devices, it will work well with older devices too, although they won’t take full advantage of the latest features.

Yes, it comes with AiProtection powered by Trend Micro, offering commercial-grade security for your network. This includes protection against online threats, malicious sites, and hacking attempts, all without requiring a subscription.

With WiFi 6 technology and support for MU-MIMO and OFDMA, this router can efficiently handle multiple devices simultaneously. It’s well-suited for busy households or small offices with several devices connected at the same time, such as phones, computers, and smart devices.

Yes, you can use the ASUS Router app to manage your network remotely. The app allows you to monitor usage, set up parental controls, and adjust settings, providing convenient control from anywhere.

While this router offers AiMesh support to extend coverage, some users in larger homes report inconsistent speeds or weak signals in distant rooms. If you have a very large house, you may need additional mesh nodes or a more powerful router setup for optimal performance.

Yes, it includes robust parental controls that allow you to block inappropriate content, set time limits for internet access, and monitor the devices connected to your network. These features are very helpful for families with children.

If you experience a drop in speed, first try restarting your router. Ensure it’s placed in a central location for optimal coverage and avoid obstructions. If problems persist, check for firmware updates or contact ASUS support for further assistance.