ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO | WiFi 7 Gaming Router

Category: Home Networking

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO First Quad-Band WiFi 7 Gaming Router

WiFi 7 (802.11be)
320MHz bandwidth
Dual 10G Ports
Quad 2.5G Ports
Triple-Level Game Acceleration
Mobile Game Mode
Subscription-Free Security
AiMesh Support
VPN Features

Overview and First Impressions

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is a high-performance gaming router designed for serious gamers. Its sleek, black design with RGB accents gives it a distinctive look that's sure to impress. The router feels solid and well-built, with a good weight to it. Out of the box, the setup process was straightforward and intuitive, even for users who are not particularly tech-savvy.

Design and Build Quality

The GT-BE98 PRO boasts an aggressive design language typical of ASUS's ROG lineup. It's a sizable router with external antennas that can be adjusted for optimal signal strength. The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy plastic chassis and well-placed ports. The inclusion of both 10G and 2.5G ports speaks to the router's commitment to high-speed connectivity.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the GT-BE98 PRO is relatively easy thanks to ASUS's intuitive web interface and mobile app. The router walked me through each step clearly, allowing for quick configuration of network settings, Wi-Fi passwords, and even advanced features like QoS. The user interface is well-organized and easy to navigate.

Performance Analysis

This router truly shines in performance tests. Its WiFi 7 capabilities deliver blazing-fast speeds, easily surpassing the limitations of older routers. In real-world gaming scenarios, I experienced minimal lag and stutter, even with multiple devices connected simultaneously. The multi-link operation feature ensures stable connections and efficient data transfers.

Features and Functionality

The GT-BE98 PRO is packed with features catering to both gamers and everyday users. Its Triple-Level Game Acceleration prioritizes gaming traffic, minimizing latency and ensuring smooth gameplay. The Mobile Game Mode optimizes settings for mobile gaming devices, while the subscription-free security suite provides robust protection against online threats.

Device Handling

The router handled a large number of connected devices without any noticeable slowdown. Its robust performance allows for seamless streaming, browsing, and gaming even with multiple users simultaneously accessing the network.

Security

ASUS equips the GT-BE98 PRO with a comprehensive security suite that includes features like firewall protection, intrusion prevention system (IPS), and WPA3 encryption. The subscription-free nature of this security makes it a compelling value proposition for users who want peace of mind knowing their network is well-protected.

Noise and Heat

Despite its high performance, the router remains relatively quiet during operation. While it does generate some heat, especially under heavy load, the design with integrated cooling vents effectively dissipates it.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:
Exceptional WiFi 7 performance
Dual 10G ports for high-speed wired connections
Triple-Level Game Acceleration for optimized gaming experience
Robust security features included without a subscription
Easy setup and user-friendly interface
Cons:
Can be relatively expensive compared to other routers
May not be necessary for all users, especially those without high bandwidth demands

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO is a premium gaming router that delivers exceptional performance, advanced features, and robust security. It's an excellent choice for serious gamers who demand the best possible network experience. While it may not be budget-friendly, its capabilities and performance justify the investment for demanding users.

Overall Rating

4.5 out of 5 stars