Wireless Performance - Profile Comparison
So much for averages, let's look at detailed performance! I included the NETGEAR R8000 and two AC1900 class routers, the ASUS RT-AC68U and Linksys WRT1900AC, in the throughput vs. attenuation plot comparison with the RT-AC87.
The 2.4 GHz downlink profile shows the AC87 does indeed have higher throughput under strong to medium signal levels. At 42 dB of attenuation, however, it joins the rest of the crowd for the trip down to 63 dB. Note the NETGEAR R8000 is the only one of the group to not complete the test at 63 dB.
2.4 GHz Downlink Throughput vs. Attenuation
The 2.4 GHz uplink plot shows the AC87 again with higher throughput than the other routers out to the same point. At 45 dB, it joins the RT-AC68U for the rest of the plot.
2.4 GHz Uplink Throughput vs. Attenuation
The 5 GHz downlink profile shows the 87U starting out with the highest throughput—509 Mbps—at 0 dB attenuation. But after that, its line ducks under the others with a sharper slope that causes it to disconnect for the 42 and 45 dB tests. Note the other ASUS disconnecting earliest, at 39 dB.
5 GHz Downlink Throughput vs. Attenuation
For 5 GHz uplink, this time the AC87 turns in the lowest throughput at 0 dB (390 Mbps). It then tracks tightly with the RT-AC68U for the rest of the plot, with both staying under the R8000. Disconnect for the AC87 is again at 42 dB.