We have tested enough mesh network systems to declare that they offer improved Wi-Fi coverage in your homes. Most brands bundle their mesh systems in 3 units and single unit. ASUS Lyra Trio gives consumers the flexibility: it comes in packs on 1, 2 and 3.
The Lyra Trio is ASUS’ the latest mesh system. The earlier mesh model, simply called Lyra, has a combined 2200Mbps bandwidth in triple-band config. The Lyra Trio delivers a total 1750Mbps bandwidth in dual-band config. The difference is that the first Lyra runs in 2X2 MIMO while the Lyra Trio runs on 3X3 MIMO. The extra stream compensates for the fewer antennas compared to the first Lyra to support more devices connected to the mesh systems at sustained data speeds. The antennas are elevated at an angle from the base, which technically achieves better signal transmission in both distance and height. This is apparently better for multi-storey houses.
Once again, the Lyra Trio gets set up quickly without any hiccups. The screen-by-screen guide on the app ensures clarity in the set-up process. The reason for the ease of setup in Lyra Trio is the Bluetooth radio in each unit that connects to the smartphone, instead of using the home Wi-Fi which is unpredictable in behaviour. Once connected, the app allows owner to monitor the mesh system even when he is out of the house. The multi-colour LED indicator helps in determining the operating statuses. An additional advantage of Lyra Trio compared to many other mesh systems is that it also supports web browser access to manage advanced network settings.
The Lyra Trio also differs in the level of network security and parental controls. While all Lyra systems offers lifetime subscription to internet security updates, missing features compared to the Lyra are the intrusion prevention system, content filter, kid-safe preset, and internet activity dashboard. The latter is really useful in real-time and historical tracking the usage traffic activity for every device, so for parents who are looking for detailed usage monitoring, the Lyra Trio will be lacking in this area.
And despite a lower network specs, the Lyra Trio does not perform too far off in terms of connectivity and coverage. Over the period of review, the dozen connected devices run seamlessly without encountering any Wi-Fi dropouts. The average speed test achieved 200 Mbps, which is good enough for most purposes. When setting up using ethernet backhaul, that is connecting the Lyra Trio using network cables, the speed can even be higher.
Verdict
Rating 4/5
S$459 (3-pack)
If you are shopping for your next Wi-Fi solution, going for Mesh Wi-Fi is the better approach. Nothing beats placing multiple inter-connected Wi-Fi hubs across the entire house to ensure coverage than a single powerful router, or with signal repeaters. The ASUS Lyra Trio is simple to set up and offers various quantity options to cater to all home sizes. Given its potential total bandwidth of 1750 Mbps, the Lyra Trio is a great value to deliver sustained data speeds over multiple connected devices.
