The MikroTik hAP ax² has been one of the most popular WiFi 6 routers for home networks thanks to its reliability, compact design, and attractive price point. The newer MikroTik hAP ax S introduces hardware changes, improved wireless performance on 5 GHz, and additional connectivity options such as an SFP port.
If you’re deciding between the hAP ax² and the hAP ax S, this comparison will help you understand what has changed and which model is better suited for your needs.
🔧 Hardware Comparison
| Feature | hAP ax² | hAP ax S |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 864 MHz IPQ-6010 | Dual-Core EN7562CT 950 MHz |
| Architecture | ARM 64-bit | ARM 64-bit |
| RAM | 1 GB | 512 MB |
| Storage | 128 MB NAND | 128 MB NAND |
| Ethernet Ports | 5× Gigabit | 5 × Gigabit |
| PoE-In |
Passive PoE |
Passive PoE |
| PoE-Out |
Passive PoE |
Passive PoE |
| SFP Port | No | 1× 1.25G SFP |
| WiFi (2.4 GHz) | 2.4 GHz 802.11ax dual-chain | 2.4 GHz 802.11ax dual-chain |
| WiFi (5 GHz) | 5 GHz 802.11ax dual-chain | 5 GHz 802.11ax triple-chain |
| Antenna Gain |
2.4 GHz (4.5 dBi), 5 GHz (4 dBi) |
2.4 GHz (5.5 dBi), 5 GHz (6.5 dBi) |
| RouterOS License | Level 4 | Level 4 |
📡 Wi-Fi Differences
The most important wireless upgrade is found in the 5 GHz band:
- hAP ax²: 5 GHz 802.11ax dual-chain (2×2 MIMO)
- hAP ax S: 5 GHz 802.11ax triple-chain (3×3 MIMO)
The hAP ax S offers:
- Higher overall WiFi throughput
- Better WiFi coverage
- More stable connections under heavy load
- Improved performance with multiple clients
⚡ PoE Support
Both routers support passive PoE for power input and output (power passthrough). This means they can be powered using 18–28V passive PoE injectors or passive PoE switches. Both routers do not support any form of Active PoE (no 802.3af, no 802.3at, no 48V).
🚀 Performance & Real-World Use
Despite having only a dual-core CPU and less RAM than the ax², the hAP ax S benefits from newer chipset architecture and improved wireless design. For typical home users, both devices offer excellent performance, but the hAP ax S provides advantages in wireless stability and flexibility.
You may notice improved performance with the hAP ax S when using:
- Multiple WiFi clients
- Large open spaces or multi-floor homes
- High-speed 5 GHz traffic
- SFP uplinks or fiber setups
🔌 Use Cases
Choose the hAP ax² if:
- You need a quad-core CPU to achieve the best VPN performance
- You need 1 GB RAM for heavy RouterOS configurations
- Your network does not require SFP
- You want strong WiFi 6 with dual-chain radios
Choose the hAP ax S if:
- You need an SFP port for fiber, uplinks or NAS.
- You want better 5 GHz performance (triple-chain)
- You want improved coverage and wireless strength
- You want to save a few euros
✅ Final Verdict
The hAP ax² is excellent for home users and those who prefer more RAM for advanced RouterOS configurations.
The hAP ax S is better for users who need stronger 5 GHz WiFi or SFP connectivity.
📦 Available at NASSTORE
Both models are available with fast EU shipping: