The Asus ROG Strix GS-BE12000 single-unit Wi-Fi router has earned the highest rating from Consumer Reports, surpassing other brands like TP-Link and Netgear in the publication’s evaluations.
Performance and Features
Priced at $389.99, the BE12000 is designed to deliver robust network performance, supporting speeds of up to 12,000Mbps across 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6Hz bands. The router is equipped with seven 2.5Gbps LAN ports, intended for devices requiring a wired connection, such as game consoles and desktop computers. Consumer Reports noted that the BE12000 provides consistent throughput across various distances, from close to far ranges. The device also comes with a 36-month warranty and a USB 3.0 port.
The USB 3.0 port can be used for charging devices or connecting external hard drives for enhanced performance. Internally, the router features an 8-core processor running at 2.0GHz, 2GB of RAM, and eight internal antennas, which Asus claims can provide sufficient bandwidth for homes up to 3,000 square feet.
User Feedback and Considerations
Consumer Reports’ lab testing did not identify any significant drawbacks for the Asus BE12000. The router also holds a 4.4-star rating on Amazon, based on over 60 reviews. While most user feedback is positive, one 3-star review mentioned issues when attempting to configure the BE12000 as part of an Asus mesh system, despite praising its standalone performance.
Another user pointed out a limitation regarding wired Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs). The router does not allow manual creation of wired VLANs via a LAN port; instead, users must create a wireless guest network that supports VLANs. This may be a concern for users with numerous smart home devices. Additionally, the router’s height of 8.6 inches could pose placement challenges in some entertainment centers or equipment racks.
Cooling and Expandability
Asus incorporated a “Slash PCB” design to improve ventilation and heat dissipation, aiming to prevent performance issues like lag or dropped connections during demanding use. For users needing to extend Wi-Fi coverage, the BE12000 supports Asus’s Smart AiMesh feature, allowing it to be linked with compatible Asus mesh nodes.
Mitchell Landsberg is the senior reporter for News Raise and focuses on Technology. Mitchell regularly writes about social media platforms and how influencers, industry and general people use them to communicate and make money.
