Asus RT-AC59U Review: A Budget Router with Impressive Performance

A strong and stable internet connection isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re working from home, gaming online, or streaming movies, you need a router that can keep up. A slow or inconsistent connection can disrupt everything from video calls to smart home devices, leaving you frustrated. The right router eliminates dead zones, speeds up downloads, and ensures your network runs smoothly even with multiple devices connected.

The Asus RT-AC59U is engineered to provide fast, stable, and secure WiFi at an affordable price. It’s not just another router—it’s designed to handle multiple devices, enhance network security, and offer easy customization. Whether you’re setting up a home office, running a gaming console, or streaming 4K content, this router promises consistent performance and strong wireless coverage.

What makes the RT-AC59U stand out? It’s the dual-band WiFi, MU-MIMO technology, and AiProtection security features that make this model an excellent choice. But is it the right fit for your needs? Let’s break down its design, features, and real-world performance to see how well it holds up.

Design and Build Quality

Compact and Sleek Aesthetics

The Asus RT-AC59U doesn’t just deliver solid performance—it also has a sleek, compact design that fits easily into any space. Measuring just 8.5 x 5.8 x 1.8 inches, it’s small enough to place on a desk, shelf, or even mount on a wall. Unlike bulky routers that take up too much space, this one blends effortlessly into your home setup.

The matte black finish gives it a modern, professional look while minimizing fingerprints and dust buildup. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional, making it a great addition to both homes and small offices.

Adjustable Antennas for Enhanced Coverage

One of the standout design features of the RT-AC59U is its four external antennas. Unlike routers with internal antennas that limit coverage, these can be adjusted to optimize signal distribution. If you’ve ever had WiFi dead zones in your home, these antennas help eliminate weak spots, ensuring you get a stable connection throughout your space.

Positioning them properly can significantly improve coverage in multi-room homes. Whether you live in an apartment or a two-story house, angling the antennas towards key areas can help extend the range of your wireless signal.

Sturdy Build for Longevity

Despite being lightweight, the RT-AC59U is built with durability in mind. It doesn’t feel flimsy or cheaply made. The high-quality plastic casing ensures that it can withstand daily wear and tear. Whether you place it in a home office, entertainment center, or shared workspace, it’s designed to hold up over time without performance issues.

The ventilation system also keeps the router cool under load, preventing overheating even during intensive tasks like gaming or HD streaming. Many budget routers struggle with heat buildup, but Asus has designed this model to stay cool and maintain efficiency even with multiple devices connected.

Key Features

Dual-Band Connectivity for Optimized Performance

One of the biggest strengths of the Asus RT-AC59U is its dual-band WiFi technology, which provides two separate frequency bands—2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. This feature allows users to balance their network traffic, ensuring that different types of devices get the appropriate bandwidth.

• The 2.4 GHz band is best suited for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and smart home device connectivity. It offers wider coverage but at a lower speed (up to 600 Mbps).
• The 5 GHz band is optimized for high-speed tasks like gaming, 4K video streaming, and large file downloads. It delivers speeds up to 867 Mbps and reduces congestion, making it perfect for data-heavy applications.

By distributing traffic across both bands, the RT-AC59U prevents bottlenecks, ensuring a lag-free and smooth experience. If multiple users are online at the same time, this feature helps maintain speed and stability without interference.

MU-MIMO Technology for Better Multi-Device Handling

The RT-AC59U is equipped with MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) technology, which allows it to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. This is a game-changer for households with multiple users, ensuring that everyone gets a fair share of bandwidth.

Traditional routers handle connections one at a time, meaning devices have to wait their turn for data. This often leads to slower speeds and buffering, especially when multiple devices are streaming or gaming.

With MU-MIMO, the RT-AC59U sends data to multiple devices at the same time, significantly improving network performance. Whether you have:

• Smart TVs streaming Netflix
• Laptops handling video calls
• Gaming consoles running online matches
• IoT devices like smart lights or cameras

Each device receives a steady, uninterrupted signal, reducing lag, buffering, and dropped connections.

AiProtection for Enhanced Network Security

Security is just as important as speed, and the RT-AC59U doesn’t disappoint. It features AiProtection, powered by Trend Micro, which acts as a built-in firewall to protect your network from cyber threats, malware, and unauthorized access.

Some key benefits include:

• Real-time threat detection: Blocks malicious websites before they can infect connected devices.
• Parental Controls: Allows parents to filter content, set time limits, and block inappropriate sites for children.
• Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Monitors incoming traffic and stops hacking attempts before they can compromise your network.

For households with smart devices, the extra security layer is a major plus. It keeps IoT devices safe from cyber threats, ensuring that smart cameras, voice assistants, and other connected gadgets remain protected.

The RT-AC59U also supports Guest Network access, allowing you to create a separate WiFi network for visitors. This prevents guests from accessing your primary network, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.

Hardware

Powerful Internal Components for Faster Processing

The RT-AC59U is powered by a dual-core processor, designed to handle multiple connections without lag. A strong processor ensures that the router can manage simultaneous activities like:

• Streaming on multiple devices
• Online gaming with low latency
• File downloads while browsing

With an optimized chipset, the RT-AC59U provides stable performance, even under heavy network loads. The router’s ability to prioritize and distribute bandwidth efficiently keeps everything running smoothly.

Gigabit LAN and WAN Ports for Stable Wired Connections

For users who prefer wired connections, the RT-AC59U includes:

• 4 Gigabit LAN ports for high-speed wired devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and PCs.
• 1 Gigabit WAN port for fiber, DSL, and cable internet connections.

Unlike traditional routers with 100 Mbps Ethernet ports, these Gigabit LAN ports allow for lightning-fast wired connections, reducing latency and improving reliability.

USB 2.0 Port for Basic Network Storage

The RT-AC59U comes with a USB 2.0 port, allowing users to:

• Connect an external hard drive for network-wide file sharing.
• Attach a printer for shared access.

While it would have been nice to have USB 3.0 for faster file transfers, the USB 2.0 port is still useful for basic storage and printing needs.

Setup and Configuration

ASUS Router App for Quick and Easy Installation

Setting up a router can sometimes feel complicated, but Asus makes it simple with the ASUS Router App. This app guides users step-by-step, ensuring that even non-tech-savvy individuals can get online within minutes.

The app allows users to:

• Set up WiFi networks and customize SSID names.
• Monitor connected devices and check for unusual activity.
• Perform network speed tests to optimize performance.

Whether you’re installing the RT-AC59U for the first time or tweaking its settings, the ASUS Router App provides a seamless user experience.

Web Interface for Advanced Customization

For users who prefer a deeper level of control, the web-based interface offers advanced customization. Through the router’s dashboard, users can:

• Configure firewall and security settings.
• Enable Quality of Service (QoS) settings for bandwidth prioritization.
• Set up VPN access for secure browsing.

The web interface is user-friendly yet powerful enough for experienced users looking to optimize their network settings.

Smart Setup Features for Hassle-Free Optimization

The RT-AC59U also supports:

• Automatic ISP detection, simplifying setup for different providers.
• Firmware updates with one-click installation, ensuring you always have the latest security patches.
• Traffic analyzer tools, providing insights into which devices use the most bandwidth.

The combination of app-based setup, a detailed web interface, and intelligent network optimization makes this router one of the easiest to set up and manage.

Performance and Speed

2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Band Speeds Explained

The Asus RT-AC59U is a dual-band router, meaning it operates on two different frequency bands—2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. This is a key feature that significantly improves the efficiency and stability of your network by separating high-bandwidth activities from basic internet usage.

• The 2.4 GHz band is designed for long-range connectivity but provides slower speeds (up to 600 Mbps). It works well for browsing the web, checking emails, or connecting smart home devices that don’t require much bandwidth.
• The 5 GHz band delivers higher speeds (up to 867 Mbps) but has a shorter range. It’s ideal for bandwidth-heavy tasks like gaming, 4K streaming, and downloading large files.

Having both bands available allows devices to connect intelligently based on their network needs. This ensures that your gaming console, laptop, and smart TV can all run smoothly without competing for bandwidth.

Real-World Performance for Streaming and Gaming

In real-world use, the RT-AC59U holds up well, especially in households with multiple devices. Performance tests show that it provides consistent speeds across different scenarios:

• 4K streaming on Netflix or YouTube runs smoothly with no noticeable buffering.
• Online gaming on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC remains lag-free, even during high-traffic hours.
• Multiple users can browse, stream, and work remotely without experiencing network slowdowns.

The MU-MIMO technology plays a big role here, ensuring that multiple devices can connect simultaneously without slowing each other down. Unlike traditional routers, which serve devices one at a time, MU-MIMO enables faster communication between multiple users.

Signal Strength and Range in Different Home Environments

One of the biggest concerns with any router is coverage range. Nobody wants WiFi dead zones in their home. The RT-AC59U, with its four external antennas and Beamforming technology, improves signal strength and distribution across multiple rooms.

• In a small to medium-sized home, the WiFi signal covers most areas without issue.
• In larger homes or multi-story buildings, signal strength may weaken in distant rooms, but this can be solved using WiFi extenders or mesh networks.

The Beamforming feature is particularly useful, as it directs WiFi signals towards connected devices rather than broadcasting equally in all directions. This ensures that users experience stronger signals and more stable connections, even in corners or behind walls.

Connectivity

Gigabit Ethernet Ports for Wired Stability

While WiFi is convenient, many users prefer wired connections for high-performance activities like gaming and video conferencing. The RT-AC59U includes:

• Four Gigabit LAN ports, providing ultra-fast, stable wired connections.
• One Gigabit WAN port, ensuring high-speed internet access from your fiber, cable, or DSL modem.

Why do Gigabit Ethernet ports matter?

• Lower latency: Essential for competitive gaming and real-time applications.
• Consistent speeds: Perfect for streaming in 4K or 8K without buffering.
• More reliable connection: Avoids interference from neighboring WiFi networks.

WiFi Capabilities for Multiple Smart Devices

With the rise of smart homes, routers need to support multiple connected devices at once. The RT-AC59U is designed to handle:

• Smart TVs and streaming devices (Roku, Apple TV, Firestick).
• Voice assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant).
• IoT devices (smart lights, thermostats, cameras).
• Laptops, smartphones, and gaming consoles.

The RT-AC59U ensures that all devices get stable, uninterrupted internet, making it a great choice for tech-heavy households.

Compatibility with Smart Homes and IoT Devices

If you’re building a smart home, you need a router that can support constant connectivity. The RT-AC59U works seamlessly with:

• Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
• Smart home security systems like Ring, Nest, and Arlo.
• WiFi-enabled appliances like smart refrigerators, lights, and thermostats.

Its dual-band technology and MU-MIMO support ensure that smart home devices stay connected without slowing down other activities.

User Interface and Controls

ASUS Router App Features for Network Management

Managing your home network has never been easier thanks to the ASUS Router App. With a simple, intuitive interface, the app allows users to:

• Monitor real-time network traffic.
• Set up and control guest WiFi access.
• Check which devices are connected and limit bandwidth usage.

Whether you’re a casual user or an advanced network admin, the app makes managing your home network effortless.

Parental Controls and Guest Networks for Customization

For parents looking to protect their kids online, the RT-AC59U offers built-in parental controls, allowing users to:

• Restrict internet access for certain devices.
• Block inappropriate websites and filter content.
• Set specific time limits for internet usage.

The guest network feature is also a great security addition, allowing visitors to use WiFi without accessing your private devices.

QoS (Quality of Service) Settings for Prioritizing Traffic

Ever had slow internet because someone was downloading huge files? The RT-AC59U lets you prioritize bandwidth usage using Quality of Service (QoS) settings.

This means you can prioritize gaming, streaming, or video conferencing to ensure that your most important activities run smoothly.

Asus RT-AC59U Specification

Here is a detailed specification table for the Asus RT-AC59U router, similar to the example you provided:

Category	Specification
General Information
Model	Asus RT-AC59U
Type	AC1500 Dual-Band Wireless Router
Wireless Standards	IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
Frequency Bands	Dual-Band: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Max Wireless Speeds	– 2.4 GHz: Up to 600 Mbps– 5 GHz: Up to 867 MbpsTotal: 1500 Mbps
Antenna Configuration	4 x External Fixed Antennas
Processor	Quad-Core Processor
RAM	128 MB
Flash Memory	128 MB
Wireless Features
Dual-Band Functionality	Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Operation
MU-MIMO Support	Yes
Beamforming	Yes (Improves Wireless Coverage and Stability)
Bandwidth Management	Adaptive QoS
Security Protocols	– WPA3, WPA2-PSK– NAT Firewall– SPI Firewall
Wireless Configuration	SSID Broadcast Control, Wireless Channel Selection
Wi-Fi Guest Network	Supported (Separate SSIDs for Guests)
Wired Connectivity
Ethernet Ports	– 4 x Gigabit Ethernet LAN Ports (10/100/1000 Mbps)– 1 x Gigabit WAN Port
Port Type	RJ-45
USB Ports	1 x USB 2.0 for File and Printer Sharing
VPN Passthrough	Supported for PPTP, L2TP, and OpenVPN
Performance
Coverage	Up to 2,500 sq. ft. (Optimal for Medium to Large Spaces)
Recommended Users	Up to 30 simultaneous devices
Max Device Connections	Up to 50 devices
Maximum Throughput	Combined wireless throughput of 1,500 Mbps
Physical Specifications
Dimensions	220 x 125 x 35 mm
Weight	395 g
Material	Durable Plastic Housing
Mounting Options	Desktop Placement
Indicators & LEDs
Power LED	Yes
WAN LED	Yes
LAN Activity LEDs	Yes (per LAN port)
Wireless Activity LEDs	– 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi– 5 GHz Wi-Fi
USB Activity LEDs	Yes
Power & Environmental
Power Adapter	External Power Adapter (Input: 100-240V AC, Output: 12V DC)
Power Consumption	Energy-Efficient Design
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
Storage Temperature	-20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
Operating Humidity	10% to 90% Non-Condensing
Storage Humidity	5% to 95% Non-Condensing
Advanced Features
IPv6 Support	Yes
Guest Networks	Yes (Supports Multiple SSIDs)
Parental Controls	Yes (Website Filtering and Time Scheduling)
Firewall Features	Built-In NAT Firewall, Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)
Port Forwarding	Yes
DMZ Support	Yes
USB File Sharing	Yes
Printer Sharing	Yes
VLAN Support	No
Load Balancing	No
Firmware Updates	Manual or Automatic Updates
Setup & Configuration
Configuration Interface	Browser-Based Interface (via IP Address Access)
Mobile App Support	Asus Router App
Quick Setup	Step-by-Step Installation Guide Included
SSID Customization	Yes
Password Management	Yes
Management Options	– QoS Management– Bandwidth Allocation– Port Forwarding
Compatibility
Supported Devices	– Laptops, Desktops, Tablets, Smartphones– Smart TVs, Gaming Consoles– IoT Devices
Supported Operating Systems	– Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP– macOS 10.6 or newer– Linux
Package Contents
In the Box	– Asus RT-AC59U Router– Quick Installation Guide– Power Adapter– 1 x Ethernet Cable
Certifications & Warranty
Certifications	– FCC– CE– RoHS
Warranty	2-Year Limited Warranty

Comparisons with Competitors

When choosing a router, it’s important to see how it stacks up against similar models. The Asus RT-AC59U competes with several popular routers in terms of performance, features, and pricing. Let’s compare it with six competitors to see where it excels and where it falls short.

1. TP-Link Archer A7

The TP-Link Archer A7 is a well-known budget router offering similar dual-band WiFi with speeds up to 1750 Mbps. While it has great affordability, it lacks MU-MIMO support, making it less efficient for multi-device households. The RT-AC59U wins in terms of multi-device performance, but the Archer A7 slightly edges out in maximum speed capacity.

2. NETGEAR R6350

The NETGEAR R6350 is another dual-band router that supports 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 450 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. It includes beamforming technology but lacks MU-MIMO and AiProtection security features. The Asus RT-AC59U offers a better balance of security, parental controls, and network stability, making it the better option for families.

3. Linksys EA7300

The Linksys EA7300 is a mid-range router that supports AC1750 speeds and MU-MIMO. While it delivers decent performance for gaming and streaming, its coverage area is slightly less than the RT-AC59U. Asus also provides better firmware updates and a more robust mobile app.

4. D-Link DIR-867

The D-Link DIR-867 offers AC1750 speeds and strong gaming performance, but it lacks a user-friendly mobile app and doesn’t include built-in security features. The RT-AC59U outshines it in ease of setup, security, and mobile management.

5. Tenda AC18

The Tenda AC18 provides 1900 Mbps speeds, making it slightly faster than the RT-AC59U. However, Tenda’s routers don’t have the same level of firmware updates, security, or user interface customization that Asus offers. If speed is your priority, Tenda AC18 may be a better pick, but the RT-AC59U is superior in long-term reliability and support.

6. ASUS RT-ACRH17

Another router from Asus, the RT-ACRH17, supports 1733 Mbps speeds and features MU-MIMO technology. While it’s faster than the RT-AC59U, it’s also more expensive. If you’re looking for budget-friendly performance, the RT-AC59U still provides the best value for money.

Pros and Cons

Advantages of the Asus RT-AC59U

• Fast and Reliable Dual-Band Speeds – With speeds up to 1500 Mbps, it supports smooth streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
• MU-MIMO Technology – Ensures multiple devices can connect simultaneously without reducing performance.
• Strong Security with AiProtection – Includes Trend Micro-powered security, protecting against malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.
• Parental Controls – Allows users to block inappropriate content, monitor browsing activity, and set usage limits for kids.
• Beamforming and Four External Antennas – Enhances WiFi coverage and signal strength, minimizing dead zones.
• Gigabit Ethernet Ports for Wired Connections – Offers four Gigabit LAN ports for high-speed wired connections for gaming consoles, PCs, and smart TVs.
• Easy Setup with ASUS Router App – Quick installation, firmware updates, and network monitoring all through an intuitive mobile app.
• Guest WiFi Network – Creates a separate network for visitors, keeping your primary network secure.
• QoS (Quality of Service) Settings – Allows users to prioritize bandwidth for gaming, streaming, or work applications.
• Affordable Price for Feature Set – Compared to similarly priced routers, it offers premium features at a budget-friendly cost.

Disadvantages of the Asus RT-AC59U

• USB 2.0 Instead of USB 3.0 – While USB 2.0 is useful for network storage and printer sharing, USB 3.0 would have offered faster file transfers.
• Limited Range for Large Homes – While great for small to medium-sized homes, larger spaces may require WiFi extenders or mesh networking for full coverage.
• No WiFi 6 Support – Although it’s fast and efficient, it lacks WiFi 6 (802.11ax) compatibility, which is the latest standard for improved speeds and device handling.

Use Cases and Recommendations

The Asus RT-AC59U is an excellent choice for various types of users, but it’s best suited for those looking for affordable yet high-performance networking.

• Families with multiple devices – If you have kids streaming YouTube, parents working remotely, and smart home devices all connected, the MU-MIMO technology ensures a smooth experience.
• Gamers and Streamers – The 5 GHz band provides low-latency connections, ideal for gaming and 4K streaming without interruptions.
• Smart Home Enthusiasts – Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IoT devices, making it perfect for smart home setups.
• Work-from-Home Professionals – The Gigabit LAN ports and QoS settings allow seamless video conferencing and file transfers.

If you have a larger home or require WiFi 6, consider an Asus AiMesh system or a WiFi 6 router. However, for most standard users, the RT-AC59U delivers excellent performance for the price.

Pricing and Availability

The Asus RT-AC59U is competitively priced in the budget to mid-range segment, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable and secure home router.

For the feature set it offers, the RT-AC59U provides a great balance of price and performance, making it one of the best budget-friendly routers.

Conclusion

The Asus RT-AC59U is a well-rounded router that combines fast speeds, strong security, and ease of use at a budget-friendly price. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, working, or managing smart home devices, this router delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank.

With MU-MIMO technology, dual-band connectivity, and AiProtection security, the RT-AC59U stands out from many competitors in its price range. The ASUS Router App makes setup and customization effortless, while features like Gigabit LAN ports and QoS settings enhance overall functionality.

If you need a high-quality router for small to medium-sized homes, this model is a fantastic investment. While it lacks WiFi 6 and USB 3.0, it still provides great speed, reliability, and network security. For users looking for an affordable, easy-to-use router with premium features, the Asus RT-AC59U is a top choice.