Is It Time to Upgrade Your Wi-Fi?

In Singapore, high-speed internet has never been more accessible, with 10Gbps plans now cheaper than the 1Gbps options from just a few years back. However, before making the leap, consider if your devices can even utilize that much bandwidth. For most users, the more economical choice of a 3Gbps plan might be smarter, especially with a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 7 mesh solution like the Asus ZenWiFi BT8.

Performance Without Compromise

While the Asus ZenWiFi BT10 boasts 10Gbps Ethernet ports, the ZenWiFi BT8 keeps it cost-effective with two 2.5Gbps ports. This makes it an ideal fit for those on a 3Gbps plan. Despite its lower price, this tri-band mesh system still features a fast 6GHz band, leaving behind the less capable dual-band routers of the past. Additionally, it inherits all the essential software features found in the premium BT10, but at nearly half the price—around S$700 for a two-pack compared to S$1,299 for the BT10.

Sleek Design Meets Functionality

The design of the Asus ZenWiFi BT8 mirrors that of its higher-end counterpart, featuring a stylish book-like shape adorned with cooling vents and a status LED. An extra 1Gbps Ethernet port at the back offers added convenience. During my usage, the device remained comfortably cool to the touch, and the setup process via the Asus Router app was refreshingly simple.

Coverage That Counts

Purchasing the two-pack means you’ll get coverage for spaces up to 548 square meters, ideal for multi-room homes. The units arrive pre-paired for easy setup, although you can choose which unit connects to your modem based on a helpful sticker guide.

Advanced Security Features - Free of Charge!

One of the standout features is AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, which offers robust cybersecurity to fend off malware and suspicious websites—completely free! Unlike many competitors, there’s no subscription fee for this premium protection.

Custom SSIDs for Better Management

The ZenWiFi BT8 allows the creation of up to three custom SSIDs through its Smart Home Master feature. Each SSID can be tailored for specific needs—think IoT devices, kids, or even a VPN. This makes it much easier to manage what devices can access the internet and when.

Smart Parental Controls

For parents, the Asus Router app offers an intuitive way to monitor and restrict internet usage for children's devices. You can create profiles linked to specific devices, set content restrictions based on age, and even get stats on app usage—all from your smartphone.

Impressive Real-World Performance

Although my home broadband maxed out at 1Gbps, I utilized the BT8’s 2.5Gbps Ethernet port with my Acer Predator Helios 18 AI laptop. Connecting wirelessly to another Acer laptop using Wi-Fi 7, I clocked transfers averaging 2.2Gbps—quite respectable! Even when testing from a distant room, speeds hovered around 600-700Mbps.

Conclusion: The Smart Buy in Wi-Fi 7

At approximately S$700 for two units, the Asus ZenWiFi BT8 offers tremendous value, especially considering its wealth of features without a subscription. While it may lack the 10Gbps ports of its pricier sibling, for those not ready to upgrade their internet plan just yet, the BT8 presents a dependable option. Stability and coverage were flawless during my tests, making the Asus ZenWiFi BT8 a worthy contender for anyone focused on quality without overspending. Ready to improve your home network? You can find it now on Lazada and Shopee!