The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 PRO isn’t just a router; it’s a statement. A bold declaration that you’re ready for the future of wireless networking. With WiFi 7 finally hitting its stride, this quad-band beast promises unparalleled speeds, reduced latency, and the ability to handle an ever-growing army of connected devices. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dissect this high-performance router and see if it’s worth the investment.

At the heart of the GT-BE98 PRO lies its quad-band architecture, splitting duties across one 2.4 GHz band, two 5 GHz bands, and the new 6 GHz band. This configuration, combined with WiFi 7 technologies like 4096-QAM and Multi-Link Operation (MLO), unlocks truly impressive throughput. In our testing, we saw sustained speeds easily exceeding gigabit speeds on compatible devices, even with multiple devices streaming 4K video and transferring large files simultaneously. The reduction in latency was also noticeable, particularly during online gaming sessions, providing a palpable edge in responsiveness. While older WiFi 6/6E devices benefit from the enhanced efficiency and stability, they won’t reach the peak speeds possible with WiFi 7.

The GT-BE98 PRO embraces the classic ROG design language: aggressive angles, prominent vents, and customizable RGB lighting. While some might find it a bit over-the-top, it certainly makes a statement on your desk or shelf. Build quality is exceptional, with robust materials and a feeling of premium craftsmanship. The large heatsink and vents ensure optimal cooling, even under heavy load, contributing to consistent performance. The eight external antennas are adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning signal direction and coverage.

Beyond raw speed, the GT-BE98 PRO is packed with features. ASUS’s AiProtection Pro provides comprehensive network security powered by Trend Micro, protecting against malware and intrusions. The intuitive web interface and mobile app offer granular control over every aspect of the router, from QoS settings to device prioritization. The guest network functionality is robust, and VPN Fusion allows you to run multiple VPN connections simultaneously. GamerFirst VI technology prioritizes gaming traffic, ensuring the lowest possible latency during crucial moments. Furthermore, the multiple ethernet ports (including a 10 Gbps port) provide ample wired connectivity options.