OEM Asus Routers Worth It?

Etheral Point on 31/03/2020 - 20:39

so after having some crappy internet recently what with everyone working from home, I've signed up with ABB to transfer to the NBN.

I was planning to get a new router when I got the NBN so I've been looking and was thinking the ASUS RT-AC86U would be nice, seems to go on sale reasonably frequently so I thought I could wait a bit since I expect the install to take a while given the current situation.

I haven't got the install date yet but they have apparently sent the modem already so I was thinking I might need to order sooner rather than later, found an OEM on on Ebay for under $250 that will delivery next week!

So I wanted to know anyone's experience with OEM's and any pitfalls I should be aware of?

Internet

Comments

  • kusama on 31/03/2020 - 20:53

    I linked to a $249 ebay link I bought.

    The install was in Chinese.
    I used an iPhone app for ASUS routers to help the install.
    Merlin firmware install was easy.
    Came with AU Plug

  • MagicMushroom on 31/03/2020 - 20:56

    Look for used router on ebay, facebook and gumtree. Something $200 brand new can be had for $20-$50.

  • netsurfer on 31/03/2020 - 22:27

    You can use your own router and RT-AC86U is a capable router. The disadvantages are (1) RT-AC86U does not have VOIP FXO ports so if you want a VOIP phone line with your ABB plan, you will need to buy a VOIP ATA device. (2) ABB's NF18ACV is an VDSL2/ADSL2+ modem router (more on that later).

    Using ABB with Asus router is fine if your NBN is going to be HFC. If your NBN is going to be FTTN/FTTB/FTTP/FTTC, you will still need a VDSL2 modem. However, you mentioned:

    but they have apparently sent the modem

    Did you pick Yes on the question Do you need a modem? My understanding is that the modem router is not free. ABB used to have an option where you get the modem router free (but you still need to pay the delivery fee) but you need to sign up to a 24 months plan. Not sure whether they still have that.

    If you have already been charged or paid for the modem router, you need to decide whether you still want to get your own Asus router.

    • berserkk on 01/04/2020 - 00:21
      +1

      fttc comes with an nbn device so you dont need a vdsl modem

      make sure the asus routers are supported by asus australia warranty, they have had some failures.

      harvey norman used to have exclusive on these routers but no longer, so deals may be more regular

    • Twix on 01/04/2020 - 12:19
      +2

      A VDSL2 modem is not required for FTTP and FTTC. NBN supply the NTD for FTTP and NCD for FTTC.

      ABB NBN plans are month to month and don't have contracts anymore.

  • Twix on 01/04/2020 - 12:15

    Buyer beware.

    The OEM version is based on overseas regulations.
    The 5Ghz wifi transmit power is lower than the Australian version.
    Is not covered by ASUS 3 year Australian warranty.
    1 year eBay warranty.
    If the eBay seller closes ASUS won't cover your warranty.

    If you don't care about these things buy the OEM version.

    • skid on 01/04/2020 - 13:06

      Can the transmit power be increased by software (e.g firmware update or region change)?

      • Twix on 01/04/2020 - 14:46

        Google tells me you can with firmware. I don't have the OEM version to test.

  • casho on 02/04/2020 - 21:45

    Asus are amazingly reliable. I've used them for the last 10 years (just two units in that time, only upgraded to get the new 802.11AC). Previous brands which claim to be super fast and have every gadget in the world need to be rebooted every week or few and are a pile of sh*t. Asus you power on, configure, and then that is it for years, never touch it again

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