Upgrading from RT-AX56U

[Waycrush]

Hey guys. (3rd attempt at this post realizing its not in the correct forum haha)

I currently have an RT-AX56U which I want to upgrade pronto for obvious reasons.
I've been looking at routers available and, given my not very extensive knowledge in this area, the BE86U looks to be my closest choice as a lateral step within the latest offerings.
Ideally I don't want to buy something that is close to EOL as I have had this router for approx 4 years and it kinda sucks I need to replace it but I do understand these things don't last forever.

I would like it to have Merlin functionality, gaming modes and good parental control.
I was thinking of using the AX56U as a mesh node, but wasn't sure with it being EOL whether that's a good idea or not.

Routers are quite subjective to what the users needs are, but any help you can offer as a recommendation would be awesome.
My budget is around £200. I just missed the BE86U which was on offer for that, just my luck!

Cheers

Way

 

[Piotrek]

There's no need to replace RT-AX56U.
I have several installations with RT-AX56U and they work stably.
I'm not aware of any security bugs that require fixing.

 

[Waycrush]

There's no need to replace RT-AX56U.
I have several installations with RT-AX56U and they work stably.
I'm not aware of any security bugs that require fixing.

I just don't want to run the risk and I'm happy to upgrade so I have regular updates. but I appreciate the router isn't completely kaput which is why I was thinking of using it in the mesh, which I actually need to extend to my garden room.

 

[Piotrek]

Regular updates are required due to numerous bugs that require fixing in new firmware 3006.
I have GT-AX6000 running the same firmware (3004.388.8.4) as RT-AX56U to avoid issues with the 3006 firmware...
Of course, you can buy a new BE router – there's a chance for longer support.
The RT-AX56U can run as a AIMesh node with limited functionality.