Modern-day tasks and applications require the ultimate performance from routers. Today, our ASUS RT-BE88U Review will feature a WiFi7-powered product that will meet your network needs. It is the successor of the reputable RT-AX88U, one of the best high-end routers from ASUS.
The RT-BE88U offers up to 7200 Mbps and a 34 Gigabit combined capacity. With superior features and enhancements, it can ensure future-proofing for your network.
Our ASUS RT-BE88U Review will discuss the essential details of this product, including its design, features, functions, and performance.
ASUS RT-BE88U Review – Design and Functionality
When we unboxed the ASUS RT-BE88U for our review, its design immediately reminded us of its predecessors in the 88U series, maintaining a familiar look but with refined touches.
The router sports a broad, wedge-shaped body that feels substantial and solid. Its black and bronze color scheme adds a modern, sophisticated aesthetic that fits well in any home or office environment. This combination of sleek, understated colors gives it a premium feel without drawing unnecessary attention, making it suitable for both tech enthusiasts and general users who prefer minimalist designs.
On top of the router, you’ll find a series of indicator lights and a vent grille. The indicator lights clearly display the status of different functions, such as internet connection, WiFi bands, and the power status, making it easy to monitor the device at a glance.
The vent is cleverly integrated into the design to ensure optimal airflow and heat dissipation, which is especially important during long hours of heavy use. Additionally, the RT-BE88U comes with four detachable antennas that connect to the sides and rear of the router.
These antennas are not only visually striking but also practical, as they can rotate 360° and open up to 90° outward, allowing users to adjust them for the best possible signal reception and coverage.
One standout feature of the RT-BE88U is its ability to operate without WiFi when needed. Through the web interface, you can easily switch off the WiFi function, transforming it into a wired-only router.
For those who prefer to minimize wireless signal use or only require wired connections, this is a convenient option. Additionally, the detachable antennas can be removed when not in use, giving the router a cleaner look and reducing unnecessary hardware when WiFi is disabled.
Upon closer inspection, we were impressed by the wide range of ports available on the RT-BE88U. Notably, it includes an SFP+ port, a feature rarely seen in consumer-grade routers.
This port provides a hot-swappable network interface, allowing connections like copper wire or fiber optics via a modular connector, making the router highly adaptable for different types of network setups. Located next to the SFP+ port is a 10Gb Ethernet WAN port, enabling ultra-fast internet speeds for users with high-speed broadband connections.
Beyond these, the RT-BE88U includes four 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connections and four standard Gigabit ports, making it a versatile hub for wired networks.
These ports make it ideal for users who rely heavily on wired connections for devices like gaming consoles, desktop PCs, NAS units, or high-speed workstations. Overall, the comprehensive connectivity options make the RT-BE88U a powerful central unit for any modern, high-performance network setup.
Key Features of the ASUS RT-BE88U
ASUS has packed the RT-BE88U with a range of innovative features that provide superior performance, making it an excellent choice for demanding tasks like gaming, streaming, and managing smart home devices.
Before making a purchasing decision, it’s essential to consider the cutting-edge technology and benefits this router has to offer.
Revolutionary WiFi 7
The RT-BE88U is equipped with WiFi 7, the latest wireless standard that brings major improvements over its predecessors. WiFi 7 provides faster speeds, lower latency, and enhanced reliability, which are crucial for modern applications.
Whether you’re streaming 4K or 8K content, gaming online, or connecting multiple smart home devices, WiFi 7 ensures optimal performance. In addition to these advancements, it retains the benefits of WiFi 6, such as improved energy efficiency and enhanced multi-device handling.
This makes the RT-BE88U future-proof, ensuring it will handle the increasing demands of tomorrow’s internet-connected world.
4G and 5G Mobile Tethering
Imagine you’re in the middle of a crucial video call or managing customers at your small business when, out of nowhere, your internet goes down. It’s a frustrating situation that can bring everything to a standstill.
But if you are using the ASUS RT-BE88U router, there’s a simple way to avoid this disruption.
With the ASUS exclusive 4G/5G Auto Mobile Tethering feature, you can turn your phone’s mobile data into a backup for your home or business internet. This means even when your main internet connection fails, you’ll still be online without missing a beat.
The primary advantage of this feature is its ability to keep you connected no matter what.
Whether you’re in a remote work session, enjoying online entertainment, or handling business operations, the tethering function automatically shifts your network to your phone’s data when your usual internet goes down.
This quick switch allows you to stay productive or entertained without interruption.
What makes this feature even more appealing is how easy it is to set up. It doesn’t require any technical know-how—just activate USB tethering on your smartphone and connect it to your ASUS router.
No complicated steps, no special configurations. It’s a straightforward solution that anyone can implement, whether you’re at home or running a small operation.
In addition to being simple to use, 4G/5G Auto Mobile Tethering offers a significant speed boost compared to older options like USB dongles.
Thanks to modern smartphones’ compatibility with the RNDIS protocol, you’ll experience faster internet speeds, ensuring a smooth, reliable connection that’s far better than the typical backup options.
This way, even during an outage, your network performance remains strong.
Unparalleled Throughput
One of the most impressive features of the RT-BE88U is its ability to deliver wireless speeds of up to 7200 Mbps, making it ideal for bandwidth-heavy tasks.
This ensures smooth performance during online gaming, high-definition video streaming, and large file transfers. Whether you’re attending a virtual meeting, collaborating on cloud-based projects, or simply watching your favorite show, the RT-BE88U guarantees fast, reliable internet with minimal lag.
The sheer speed and stability of this router make it a standout choice for homes and offices that rely on high-speed internet.
4K-QAM Data Transmission
The inclusion of 4K-QAM technology in the RT-BE88U further enhances its data transmission capabilities. By increasing the density of the data signals, 4K-QAM allows the router to transmit up to 20% more data within the same bandwidth compared to WiFi 6.
This results in faster uploads, downloads, and overall improved network performance. Whether you’re streaming high-quality video, downloading large files, or engaging in data-intensive tasks, 4K-QAM ensures that your network can handle the load with ease.
Dual-Band Multi-Link Operation
The RT-BE88U’s Dual-Band Multi-Link Operation is a feature that optimizes network performance by dynamically managing traffic between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
This means the router can allocate data to the most appropriate band, helping to reduce congestion and maximize throughput. As a result, you experience smoother, more stable connections, with reduced latency even in busy network environments.
This feature is especially useful for households with multiple connected devices, as it ensures that each device receives optimal bandwidth for its specific needs.
Extreme Wired Performance
For users who prefer wired connections, the RT-BE88U excels in this area as well. It offers dual 10 Gigabit ports and four 2.5 Gigabit ports, providing exceptional flexibility and speed for wired networks.
These high-speed ports are perfect for connecting devices that require maximum bandwidth, such as gaming consoles, NAS devices, and desktop computers. In total, the router offers a combined WAN and LAN capacity of up to 34 Gigabits, making it a robust hub for any network.
Additionally, the router supports WAN and LAN aggregation, allowing you to combine multiple connections for even greater bandwidth, which is essential for taking full advantage of ultra-high-speed internet services.
Robust Hardware Powering WiFi 7
The heart of the RT-BE88U is its powerful processor, specifically designed to unlock the full potential of WiFi 7. This cutting-edge processor ensures smooth handling of all advanced networking features, from high-speed data transmission to intelligent traffic management.
The router’s hardware is further supported by an enlarged heatsink that maintains low temperatures, ensuring consistent, reliable performance even during heavy use. With robust hardware under the hood, the RT-BE88U delivers on its promise of future-proof, high-performance networking.
Convenient Network Segmentation with Guest Network Pro
Network management is simplified with the Guest Network Pro feature, which offers the ability to set up separate networks for different purposes.
Whether you’re isolating IoT devices, creating a secure VPN connection, or designating a space for children with custom controls, Guest Network Pro provides tailored security and performance.
This feature also allows for enhanced security by creating custom access portals, ensuring that guests or specific devices only have access to designated parts of the network without compromising your primary connection.
AiProtection Pro for Enhanced Security
In today’s digital age, security is a top concern, and the RT-BE88U addresses this with AiProtection Pro, ASUS’s commercial-grade network security system.
AiProtection Pro protects your network from evolving online threats such as phishing, ransomware, and webcam hacking. By offering constant protection, it ensures your privacy and finances are secure.
The advanced security features also include malicious site blocking, two-way IPS, and infected device detection, ensuring comprehensive protection for all connected devices on your network.
Optimized Gaming Experience
For gamers, the RT-BE88U offers a suite of features designed to enhance the online gaming experience. The router’s adaptive Quality of Service (QoS) prioritizes game packets, ensuring smoother online gameplay with reduced latency and ping times.
Additionally, the dedicated gaming port allows you to automatically prioritize gaming traffic from any device connected to it. This means that your gaming experience remains uninterrupted, even when other devices on the network are streaming or downloading large files.
The RT-BE88U is specifically designed to handle the intense demands of online gaming, ensuring an edge over the competition.
Specifications
Network Standard
- IEEE 802.11a/b/g
- WiFi 4 (802.11n)
- WiFi 5 (802.11ac)
- WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
- WiFi 7 (802.11be)
- Supports IPv4 and IPv6
Product Segment
- BE7200 (ultimate BE performance): 1376+5764 Mbps
WiFi Data Rate
- WiFi 7 (802.11be)
- 2.4GHz: up to 1376 Mbps
- 5GHz: up to 5764 Mbps
Antenna
- 4 external antennas
Transmit / Receive
- 2.4GHz 4×4
- 5GHz 4×4
Processor
- 2.6GHz quad-core
Memory
- 256MB Flash
- 2GB RAM
Boosts Speed
- OFDMA, Beamforming
- 4096-QAM
- 20/40/80/160 MHz bandwidth
Operating Frequency
- 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
Operating Modes
- Wireless Router
- AiMesh Node
- Access Point
- Media Bridge
- Repeater
I/O Ports
- 1 x 10Gbps for WAN/LAN
- 1 x 10Gbps SFP+ for WAN
- 1 x 2.5Gbps for WAN/LAN
- 3 x 2.5Gbps for LAN
- 4 x RJ45 (10/100/1000Mbps) for LAN
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 x1
Buttons
- WPS, Reset, Power Switch
LED Indicators
- WAN, 10G WAN, 10G SFP+, LAN, USB 3.2, 2.4GHz, 5GHz, Power
Power Supply
- AC Input: 110V-240V (50/60Hz)
- DC Output: 19V with max 2.37A / 19.5V with max 2.31A
Package Content
- RT-BE88U router
- RJ-45 cable
- Power adapter
- Quick Start Guide
- Warranty card
Weight & Dimensions
- Weight: 1060g
- Dimensions: 300 x 188 x 60.5mm
AiMesh
- AiMesh Router or Node
Gaming Features
- WTFast
- Mobile Game Mode
- Gear Accelerator
- OpenNAT (Game Profile)
- Gaming Port
Parental Control
- Web & App Filters
- Time Scheduling
- Safe Browsing
- Max Profiles: 64
- Max Content Filter Rules: 64
Guest Network
- Max Rules: 2.4GHz + 5GHz = 5
- Encryption: Open, WPA/WPA2/WPA3
Security
- AiProtection, VPN
- WPA3/WPA2/WPA
- DNS-over-TLS, SSH, Firewall
- Security Scan
VPN Support
- VPN Fusion, Surfshark
- Instant Guard, OpenVPN, WireGuard
Traffic Control
- Adaptive QoS, Traffic Monitor, Traffic Analyzer
- Max Bandwidth Limiter Rules: 32
WAN
- Supports PPPoE, PPTP, L2TP, Static IP, and more
- Dual WAN, WAN Aggregation
LAN
- DHCP Server, IGMP Snooping, IPTV
- Max Manually Assigned IP Rules: 128
Wireless
- MU-MIMO, Beamforming
- Max MAC Filters: 64
USB Application
- Supports HFS+, NTFS, vFAT, ext2/3/4
- AiCloud, Download Master, Media Server
- And More
User Interface
- Web: ASUSWRT
- App: ASUS Router
Administration
- Config Backup/Restore
- Auto Firmware Update
- And More
Hands-on with the ASUS RT-BE88U
Setting up the RT-BE88U router is a simple and user-friendly process. Once you’ve attached the antennas and plugged in the router, you can easily access its settings through the ASUS Router app or via the web browser.
By scanning the QR code located on the router’s base, you’ll automatically join its WiFi network, making the initial setup even more seamless.
Once connected, the router can automatically detect your internet settings if you’re plugging it in directly. If needed, you can also set it to DHCP mode through the advanced settings, turning it into an access point to extend your existing network coverage.
For more advanced configurations, you can log into the web interface, which provides a wide range of customization options.
Here, you can split the 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks to optimize performance for different devices, fine-tune security settings, and set up parental controls to manage internet access for younger users.
One of the standout features of the RT-BE88U is its compatibility with the ASUS AI Mesh system. This allows you to connect multiple ASUS routers together to create a larger, more robust WiFi network that can cover your entire home or office.
Additionally, the router offers a dedicated SSID specifically for IoT devices, keeping your smart home devices and gaming equipment on separate networks for improved performance and security.
You can also create a guest network to provide internet access to visitors without giving them access to your main network.
In our tests, the RT-BE88U delivered impressive network performance. With support for advanced technologies like 4K-QAM and dual-band Multi-Link Operation (MLO), we noticed a significant increase in throughput and overall network speed.
The router’s multi-gigabit port provided incredibly fast and sustained wired performance, while its WiFi coverage was strong and reliable, delivering stable connections across multiple devices.
Although the router doesn’t support the 6GHz band, its wireless performance was still exceptional, offering high speeds that easily meet the demands of a typical household.
The Gig+ functionality ensured consistently high speeds during our tests, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming 4K content or gaming.
During a week-long stress test, the RT-BE88U performed flawlessly without any disconnections. We were able to enjoy smooth gaming sessions and streaming with minimal latency, even when multiple devices were connected and active.
The router does warm up slightly during extended use, but the temperature remained within safe limits throughout our testing. Overall, the RT-BE88U combines excellent performance, easy setup, and robust features, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their home or office network.
ASUS RT-BE88U Review Summary
The ASUS RT-BE88U stands out as a powerful and feature-rich router that delivers exceptional performance for modern networking needs.
With its WiFi 7 capability, dual 10-Gigabit ports, and advanced features like 4K-QAM and Dual-Band Multi-Link Operation, this router is designed to handle high-bandwidth activities such as gaming, streaming, and smart home connectivity with ease.
The setup process is straightforward, whether using the ASUS Router app or accessing the web interface for more advanced configurations.
The ability to integrate with the ASUS AI Mesh system adds flexibility, allowing users to create a larger, seamless WiFi network for broader coverage across homes or offices. Its dedicated SSID for IoT devices and customizable guest networks further enhance security and performance.
During our tests, the RT-BE88U excelled in both wired and wireless performance, providing fast and stable connections even under heavy usage.
Although it lacks the 6GHz band, its WiFi 7 support and Gig+ functionality more than compensate, making it a future-proof option for households and businesses alike.
The RT-BE88U impresses with its solid hardware, ease of use, and robust performance, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a high-end router with cutting-edge features and reliable operation.
