I'd go with the ASUS but that is just preference.
Yeah heading that way myself but not many places have stock, must be popular plus Covid problems i expect.
Try Scan computers less than £220 (inc delivery) and you can get it delivered tomorrow if ordered within the next hour.
Can't give you the direct link on the forum.
Sorry that's the RT-AC88U
The AX88U is due in on 22nd March.
That Asus offer support from Merlins branch of code and a few other bits and bobs but the chipset is one of the original ones.
if you search smallnetbuilders forum you can find lots of info on Asus and their different ax routers as well as other manufacturers.
Went for the tp link archer ax6000, its 230 and 70 quid cheaper than the asus, not sure the asus is 70 quid better, i will update the post whennits arrived and setup
I paid £156.99 from Amazon for the ASUS RT AC86U.
I use that router with the Merlin custom firmware.
It connects direct to my ONT and connection is brilliant... can recommend this router.