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MSI RadiX
The RadiX's Web interface looks incredibly simple, but the initial screen focuses on what is MSI's proudest feature – the Modes. On the AXE6600, you can also switch between these using the physical button disguised as a logo on the device itself. On the AX6600 you must use the software interface.
The modes are preset Quality of Service (QoS) configurations that will prioritise different types of traffic. Each one comes with a colour scheme that on the AXE6600 is reflected in the colouring of the antennae lighting and MSI logo button.
The default AI auto mode optimises the router for a balance of usage types. Gaming optimises for gaming, and Streaming for streaming video such as Netflix. WFH optimises for online meetings and conference calls. The Traditional QoS options let you preset your own values and limits so no client device or application hogs all the bandwidth.
Beneath these preset modes is a wealth of configuration. For a more detailed overview of the MSI RadiX AXE6600 and AX6600's software capabilities, read our full review of the AXE6600.
The RadiX routers can also be managed via a smartphone app.
BT Smart Hub
You don't really need to do anything to the Smart Hub to set it up – just plug it into your BT broadband and wired devices. A wizard will confirm Internet connectivity, but then you're ready to go. It will also work just fine as a local router without Internet connectivity.
There's a much more attractive menu presented by the admin interface than some previous BT Home Hubs. This is a fully fledged router, so there are advanced options for firewall, access control, and so on. But the extent of its features is far behind those of the MSI RadiX devices, and there are no QoS presets or custom options. There is also no smartphone router management app for the BT Smart Hub.
