According to a detailed review by Tom's Guide, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro is the first consumer router built on the draft IEEE 802.11bn (Wi-Fi 8) specification, showcasing promising improvements in wireless speed, range, and stability. The router is currently a preview of what Wi-Fi 8 can deliver, as compatible client devices are expected to arrive only next year, meaning full capabilities remain out of reach for now.
- First Wi-Fi 8 router with top speeds over 30 Gbps
- Excels in range and multi-band performance for gaming
- High $900 price tags reflects early-adopter status
Product angle
The Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro represents the first commercially available router built around the emerging Wi-Fi 8 standard, delivering a sneak peek into next-generation wireless networking. According to the source review, it combines existing Wi-Fi 7 enhancements like 4K QAM and ultra-wide channels with new Wi-Fi 8 advancements such as improved modulation and enhanced channel access techniques. This hybrid approach boosts both throughput and signal reliability across its quad-band design, including two 6 GHz bands reserved for next-gen performance.
This router targets enthusiasts and gamers who want cutting-edge speed and exceptional Wi-Fi range, supported by a powerful quad-core processor and Broadcom BCM 6718 Wi-Fi chip. However, since client devices supporting Wi-Fi 8 are not yet widely available and expected in about six months, this product presently functions best as a future-facing gateway rather than a necessity for immediate performance gains.
Best for / avoid if
The GT-BN98 Pro is well suited to gamers and tech-savvy users eager to invest early in Wi-Fi 8 technology and benefit from superior wireless speeds and range within their home networks. It also appeals to users seeking top-tier tech with multi-gigabit wired ports and extensive configuration options. Those with predominantly Wi-Fi 7 or older devices can still see benefits in reliability, but the router's premium status is accentuated by its price and size.
Potential buyers should avoid this model if budget constraints are strict or if their devices do not support Wi-Fi 7 or 8, as the router’s advanced features may remain underutilized. Users looking for simpler, more cost-effective hardware or needing immediate improvements with existing devices might be better served by mature Wi-Fi 6E or high-end Wi-Fi 7 routers currently on the market.
Pricing and alternatives to check
Coming with a $900 price point, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BN98 Pro positions itself as a premium early-adopter router. This high cost reflects its pioneering Wi-Fi 8 support, extensive multi-gigabit port array, and gaming-optimized features. The annual electricity cost is estimated around $43, which is typical for advanced routers with powerful hardware.
Alternatives worth considering include established Wi-Fi 7 routers like the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 Pro and mesh systems based on Asus's ZenWiFi designs, which offer proven performance at lower price points. Buyers should also watch for future releases as Wi-Fi 8 devices become mainstream, potentially driving additional competitive options with similar capabilities at varied prices.