Linksys WRT1900AC vs WRT1900ACS – Which router model is better for home use?

Choosing the perfect high performance router to install in a high traffic home can be confusing. If you are confused about router to install in your home, take a look at this Linksys WRT1900AC vs WRT1900ACS comparison

Linksys is a reputable manufacturer with a large collection of highly effective devices. Among these, we have the Linksys WRT1900AC and Linksys WRT1900ACS routers which offer great connections for home use, even over multiple devices. Since the Linksys WRT1900ACS was designed to replace the WRT1900AC, they have quite a few similarities. However, there is different hardware specifications available over the newer model which allow the device even better performance compared to the older model.

What are the differences between Linksys WRT1900AC and Linksys WRT1900ACS?

Linksys WRT1900AC vs Linksys WRT1900ACS – How do they compare?

Speed

Both of these models are designed to offer peak performance speeds of up to 1900Mbps: 600Mbps over the 2.4GH band and 1300Mbps over the 5GHz band. Peak data rates aside, the WRT1900ACS offers better speeds when tested in real time. In fact, when operating over the 5GHz band, you can expect up to 500Mbps connection speeds. These speeds remain consistent even as you move away from the device. Additionally, the 2.4GHz channel featured 21Mbps speeds. In comparison, the WRT1900AC features a total 400Mbps on both channels. However, the router model comes with an amplifier to help boost signal strength and coverage.

There is a significant difference in speeds which makes the WRT1900ACS better than the WRT1900AC. The WRT1900ACS is better than the WRT1900AC since it offers faster performance speeds.

Performance

One of the major distinctions between the WRT1900AC and the WRT1900ACS lies in the hardware. The main differences are in the type of processor and RAM capabilities. These two components are important in providing and maintaining a stable internet connection. Basically, increase in RAM improves the routers’ capability to decongest the network, and ensure your network remains productive with great throughput.

With RAM of 512MB and a 1.6GHz dual core ARM based processor, the WRT1900ACS is capable of connecting multiple devices over high demand applications. In fact, many users can run connection hungry applications like streaming and gaming without issues with lag/ a drop in speed.

While the WRT1900AC comes with a reasonable 256MB RAM and 1.2GHz Dual core processor, which gets the job done, these specifications cannot sustain too many power hungry applications seamlessly. Compared to its predecessor, the WRT1900ACS router will do a better job to meet the internet demands of larger homes, with requirements for multiple user connections.

The WRT1900ACS features double the memory available on WRT1900AC; which means it offers better data rates and transfer speeds, making it the better router.

Design

The WRT1900AC and WRT1900ACS look pretty much the same with a similar build and exterior. In fact, both include 4 removable antennas with an almost identical number of ports.

Although it is by a minimal margin, the WRT1900AC is heavier than the WRT1900ACS model. It is on the bulkier side and will be more difficult to manage during set up.

 Linksys WRT1900AC vs WRT1900ACS comparison overview

Linksys WRT1900AC Overview

Linksys WRT1900AC Dual-Band+ Wi-Fi Wireless Router with Gigabit & USB 3.0 Ports and eSATA, Smart Wi-Fi Enabled to Control Your Network from Anywhere

• 4 High-performance Antennas For Maximum Coverage & Reliability
• 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Simultaneous Dual Wireless Bands For A Strong, Reliable Wi-Fi Signal That Eliminates Dead...

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The Linksys wrt1900ac is a high performance router equipped with a wide range of features. It is one of the more powerful routing devices developed in its time. Compared to other routers from Linksys, this model offers better hardware with higher RAM capacity and speeds.

On the outside, this router features various control buttons and connection ports suitable for wired and wireless connection of multiple devices. In fact, the device includes 2 USB ports with additional SATA ports. These allow for USB/SATA connections at a time.  Equipped with a 1.2 GHz dual core processor, you can expect great performance and connection speeds across your home.

The 4 adjustable and removable antennas, allow users to customize the signal to accommodate your home needs. Otherwise, the device has Ethernet ports for Gigabit Ethernet powered wired connections. Notably, the Gigabit ports offer faster connections compared to Fast Ethernet ports available on older generations of Linksys routers.

The device operates over 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, and can reach peak speeds of 600Mbps on 2.4GHz band and up to 1.3Gbps on the 5GHz band. This versatility allows users to utilize the WRT1900AC router for heavier applications on the 5GHz, with provisions for basic access on the 2.4 GHz band.

This model is known as a smart Wi-Fi router since it incorporates various features for easy router management. Since this device is wall mountable, it offers flexibility in set up. The included CD-less set up makes it even easier to set up. The device uses the same kind of security features as seen on the WRT1900AC, but an additional Open VPN support feature integrated an additional layer of security, allowing you to secure and share information within your home network.

Pros

• Allows flexible setup and management
• Great data rates
• Cool looking router
• Good range and overall performance

Cons

• Kind of expensive
• Heats up a little when running

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 Linksys WRT1900ACS Overview

LNKWRT1900ACS - Velop Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi System

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The WRT1900ACS model by Linksys was introduced as an upgrade to the WRT1900AC router model. It features a professional grade dual core 1.6GHz processor, which together with the 512MB RAM allows the device even faster throughout speeds compared to its predecessors.

Many other hardware and internal components are blended into the WRT1900ACS design to ensure exceptional performance even in high demand homes. Since this router is based on Wireless AC, it features even faster connections compared to N based technology. In fact, peak speeds over the 2.4GHz band reach 600Mbps, and go as far as 1300Mbps over the 5GHz band.

This device has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, for your wired internet access needs with 2 USB ports for connectivity. These coupled with the 4 adjustable, removable antennas allows great performance with good range. With these features, users can access connection from different locations in the home, on high speed

Many security features are integrated into the WRT1900ACS to ensure users will effectively safeguard their networks. For example, WPA/WPA2 encryptions with SPI firewall are some of the advanced security features available on this device.

Pros

• Great hardware features
• Multiple connectivity ports for flexibility in network
• High performance device
• Accompanying management tools
• Includes beam forming technology

Cons

• Built on the larger side

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Conclusion: So, which one is better: Linksys WRT1900AC or Linksys WRT1900ACS

The Linksys WRT1900ACS is clearly the better router compared to the WRT1900AC. Since the WRT1900ACS was developed as a replacement for WRT1900ACS, it includes different upgrades integrated into the design. This model features better hardware features which allow for more intensive use compared to the WRT1900AC router. It is a more preferable option for users with larger homes, and more intensive internet access and application demands.

FAQs

Can I wall-mount the Linksys WRT1900AC?

Yes, the WRT1900AC is wall mountable for easy and flexible set up. Linksys provides

Is the Linksys WRT1900ACS stackable?

Users may stack the WRT1900ACS on top of other devices. However, to preserve ventilation on this device and prevent blockages, you are advised not to stack other devices on top of this router.