Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro Review: Welcome to Wi-Fi 8
A high-performance gaming router offering early access to the evolving Wi-Fi 8 standard.
1Early Wi-Fi 8 Implementation
The Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro is a quad-band router based on the latest draft specifications for Wi-Fi 8. While the standard is not yet finalized, this device allows early adopters to experience next-generation wireless connectivity. It requires firmware updates as the official certification process progresses toward final industry standardization.
2Hardware and Design Specs
This massive router features eight adjustable antennas and a translucent window showcasing internal components. It houses a Broadcom BCM 6718 chip, a 2.6GHz quad-core processor, and 2 GB of DDR4 RAM. The thermal design utilizes multiple heatsinks and airflow channels, ensuring the device remains cool and silent without needing noisy fans.
3Connectivity and Port Array
The device offers extensive physical connectivity, including a 10Gbps WAN/LAN port, an additional 10Gbps LAN, and four 2.5Gbps ports. Users can utilize link aggregation on the 10Gbps ports to create a 20Gbps conduit. Additional utility is provided by USB 3.2 Gen1 and USB 2.0 ports for media streaming or mobile network tethering.
4Performance and Range Testing
Testing revealed impressive speeds, reaching up to 3 Gbps in the same room and maintaining 350 Mbps at long range. It outperformed the tri-band Wi-Fi 7 Asus RT-BE96U across all bands and distances. The inclusion of an extra 6 GHz band provides superior wireless backhaul capabilities for users building an AiMesh network.
5Gaming Optimization Features
The router prioritizes gaming traffic through adaptive Quality of Experience and device optimization. Features like Game Boost use AI to minimize latency, while GTNet optimizes server connections to reduce packet loss. These tools ensure stable performance even when multiple high-bandwidth devices, such as gaming PCs and consoles, are active simultaneously.
6Software and Subscription Value
Asus distinguishes itself by avoiding subscription models for core features. The router includes robust security software, parental controls, and a one-year NordVPN subscription. Users can configure multiple networks, such as IoT or Guest, via the Asus WRT6.0 firmware, which provides deep customization options through both a web interface and mobile app.
7Stability and Firmware Reliability
Unlike previous first-generation Wi-Fi 7 systems that required multiple updates for stability, this unit performs reliably out of the box. The firmware has proven stable during testing, with future improvements expected through upcoming Wi-Fi 8 spec finalizations and the rollout of Automated Frequency Coordination, which boosts power on the 6 GHz band.
8Investment and Market Context
Priced at $900, this router represents a significant early adopter tax. While cheaper Wi-Fi 7 alternatives exist, the GT-BN98 Pro offers superior current performance and better future-proofing. It is a worthwhile investment for dedicated gamers who prioritize long-term network capability and want to leverage the latest wireless advancements before widespread device adoption.
Original article: Wired — Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro Review: Welcome to Wi-Fi 8