Asus and TP-Link Showcase Upcoming Wi-Fi 8 Routers

Hardware manufacturers are preparing for the rollout of the Wi-Fi 8 standard, with several new routers recently showcased at major technology events. While previous Wi-Fi iterations primarily focused on raw speed increases, the new Wi-Fi 8 standard places its core objective on stability under heavy loads, long-distance reliability, improved performance for older or weaker networked devices, and better handling of congested airwaves.

Asus previously presented its hardware lineup at Computex in June, displaying both a high-end gaming model and a mainstream option. The premium gaming router, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 (also noted with Pro branding), features classic ROG aesthetics alongside game optimizations. It includes AI-powered Adaptive QoE technology to analyze packet content and behavior patterns in real time, automatically prioritizing gaming traffic and allocating network resources. The unit is equipped with dual 10Gbps ports—featuring preconfigured game optimization settings—as well as 2.5Gbps W/LAN ports. Alongside it, Asus showcased the more mainstream ZenWiFi BN12, designed as a standalone router or multi-node mesh system utilizing Multi-Link Operation (MLO) backhaul between nodes. Each node on the ZenWiFi BN12 includes dual-10Gbps and triple-2.5Gbps ports. Both Asus models incorporate network monitoring tools, VPN integration, multi-SSID operation, server functionality, and free triple-level network security with AiProtection and parental controls.

Meanwhile, TP-Link announced two new Wi-Fi 8 routers during IFA: the Archer 9 Ultra and the Deco 8 Ultra. TP-Link has indicated that availability for these models is expected later this year, though exact pricing and release dates remain unannounced. Similarly, Asus has not yet revealed official pricing or availability for its Computex lineup, though review samples for the ROG Rapture GT-BN98 are anticipated shortly.

Consumers evaluating an early upgrade should note that client devices supporting Wi-Fi 8—such as smartphones, laptops, and compatible PCIe or USB adapters—are expected to follow actual router availability by weeks or months. However, for users due for a network upgrade soon, transitioning to Wi-Fi 8 hardware offers future-proofing benefits by addressing real-world traffic congestion and device management challenges.