ASUS TUF Gaming BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Router Review
Summary: The ASUS TUF Gaming BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Router is affordably and provides the speed when needed
4
Speed on par
The ASUS TUF Gaming BE3600 is positioned as an affordable entry point into the next generation of wireless networking with “Wi-Fi 7” and this router has been designed to appeal to gamers and everyday users who want the benefits of faster and more efficient connectivity without paying the premium prices of flagship models. The BE3600 has a suggested RRP of $199 AUD, however it can be found slightly cheaper by doing an online search. While it doesn’t showcase every feature of Wi-Fi 7, it aims to strike a balance between future-ready technology and practical value for households that need strong, consistent coverage.
Specifications & Features
- Model: TUF Gaming BE3600 (TUF-BE3600)
- Network Standards:
- IEEE 802.11a/b/g
- Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
- IPv4 / IPv6
- Product Segment: BE3600 ultimate BE performance (total up to 688 + 2882 Mbps)
Wireless Performance
- Wi-Fi Data Rates:
- Wi-Fi 7 (2.4 GHz): up to 688 Mbps
- Wi-Fi 7 (5 GHz): up to 2882 Mbps
- Wi-Fi 6 (5 GHz): up to 2402 Mbps
- Transmit / Receive:
- 2.4 GHz: 2×2
- 5 GHz: 2×2
- Antennas: 4 × external antennas
- Boosted Speed Technologies:
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access)
- Beamforming (standard-based & universal)
- 4096-QAM for higher throughput
- 20/40/80/160 MHz bandwidth support
Hardware
- Processor: 2.0 GHz quad-core CPU
- Memory: 1 GB RAM
- Flash Storage: 256 MB
Ports & Connectivity
- WAN/LAN Ports:
- 1 × 2.5G WAN/LAN
- 1 × 1G WAN/LAN
- 3 × 1G LAN
- USB: 1 × USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Buttons: WPS, Reset, Power
- LED Indicators: Power, WAN, LAN, Wi-Fi
Security & Features
- Operating Modes:
- Wireless Router Mode
- Access Point Mode
- Media Bridge Mode
- Security: WPA3, advanced encryption, firewall filters
- Durability: TUF Gaming design with enhanced cooling vents and aluminium heatsink for long-term stability
Unboxing
The design of the BE3600 follows ASUS’s TUF Gaming aesthetic, with angular lines, a matte black finish and a solid build that incorporates an aluminium heatsink to keep temperatures under control during heavy use. It is compact enough to sit unobtrusively on a desk or shelf but it feels robust and engineered to handle long-term operation. As mentioned, ASUS positions this model as an affordable entry into Wi-Fi 7 which it is, though it is important to clarify that it does not support the 6 GHz band. Instead, it relies on dual-band operation across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, while still offering Multi-Link Operation (MLO) to improve efficiency and reduce latency when multiple devices are active.
Setup is handled through the ASUS Router app or a web interface, both of which are intuitive and guide the user through the process in minutes. The app allows for quick configuration of SSIDs, parental controls and QoS settings, while more advanced users can dive into the browser interface for granular adjustments. Firmware updates are delivered automatically and ASUS includes its AiProtection security suite powered by Trend Micro, which adds a layer of reassurance for households with many connected devices.
In terms of performance, the BE3600 delivers strong results for its class. On the 5 GHz band, real-world speeds in close proximity to the router can reach around 1.2 to 1.4 Gbps on compatible Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 devices, while the 2.4 GHz band averages between 250 and 300 Mbps depending on interference. At a distance of 10–12 meters with walls in between, speeds typically hold steady at 600–700 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for gaming, 4K streaming and large file transfers. Latency is impressively low, often under 10ms on wired connections and only slightly higher on wireless, making it a reliable option for competitive online play. The router can comfortably handle dozens of devices simultaneously, though the limited number of LAN ports may be a drawback for users with multiple wired peripherals.
In everyday use, the router remains stable under heavy loads, whether that’s multiple 4K streams, large downloads or extended gaming sessions. The cooling system does its job well, and the unit runs quietly without noticeable heat buildup. While it lacks some of the premium features of higher-end ASUS models, such as tri-band support or multi-gig WAN/LAN ports, its price makes it an affordable option for those looking for performance and reliability.
When compared to similarly priced competitors, the BE3600 (RRP $199 AUD) holds its ground but shows its limitations. ASUS’s own RT-BE58U, for example, is slightly more expensive at $259 AUD and includes support for the 6 GHz band, which makes it a more “complete” Wi-Fi 7 experience for those with compatible devices. On the other hand, models like the TP-Link Archer BE550, which is more than double the price at $499 AUD, also offer tri-band setups with 6 GHz support, though they lack the same level of firmware polish, security features, and long-term update support that ASUS provides. With that said, the BE3600’s strength lies in its stability, gaming-focused optimizations, and AiProtection suite, but buyers who prioritize raw throughput and future-proofing may find better value in competitors that include 6 GHz radios at a similar cost. It’s an interesting dilemma, but it’s hard to argue with its price point!
Final thoughts?
The ASUS TUF Gaming BE3600 is a capable and well-built router that brings many of the benefits of Wi-Fi 7 into a more accessible price range. Its omission of the 6 GHz band means it is not a full showcase of the new standard, but for most users, the combination of strong 5 GHz performance, low latency and reliable stability will be more than enough. It is particularly well-suited to gamers and families who need a router that can handle multiple devices without faltering. Those seeking future-proofing with full tri-band Wi-Fi 7 support may want to look higher up the range, but as a practical and durable option, the BE3600 delivers solid value.
Recommended!
About the Author
Adrian Gunning Adrian lives in Melbourne Australia and has a huge passion for gaming, technology and pop culture. He recently finished his a Bachelor of Journalism and is currently focusing on games journalism. When not writing and playing video games, Adrian can be found in Comics 'R' Us debating the pros of the DC Universe and cons of the Marvel Universe.
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