What To Know
- However, if you are on a tighter budget and can compromise on some features, the AC1200 still offers a solid networking experience.
- In the battle of the Google WiFi AC-1304 vs AC1200, the AC-1304 emerges as the superior choice for those seeking the ultimate home networking experience.
- While the AC1200 remains a capable router, it falls short in terms of performance and features, making it more suitable for smaller homes and less demanding users.
The world of wireless networking is constantly evolving, with new devices and technologies emerging to enhance our connected experiences. Google WiFi, a leading name in home networking, has introduced two exceptional routers, the AC-1304 and AC1200, each boasting unique features and capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the depths of these two routers, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and which one reigns supreme for your home networking needs.
Specifications: A Closer Look
| Feature | Google WiFi AC-1304 | Google WiFi AC1200 |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11ac |
| Frequency Bands | 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz |
| Maximum Speed | 1300 Mbps | 1200 Mbps |
| Number of Ethernet Ports | 2 | 1 |
| Number of USB Ports | 1 | 0 |
| Beamforming | Yes | Yes |
| MU-MIMO | Yes | No |
| Parental Controls | Yes | Yes |
| App Control | Yes | Yes |
Performance: Speed and Coverage
In terms of performance, the Google WiFi AC-1304 outperforms the AC1200 with its faster maximum speed of 1300 Mbps compared to 1200 Mbps. This translates to noticeably quicker download and upload speeds, especially when streaming high-definition video or participating in online gaming.
Regarding coverage, both routers offer impressive range, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout most homes. However, the AC-1304 has a slight edge in this area, providing slightly better coverage in larger homes or homes with dense walls and obstructions.
Features: Connectivity and Control
The AC-1304 and AC1200 both offer a wide range of features to enhance your home networking experience. Both routers support beamforming, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly towards connected devices, improving signal strength and reducing interference.
The AC-1304 comes equipped with MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology, which allows it to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, significantly improving network efficiency and reducing congestion. The AC1200, on the other hand, does not support MU-MIMO.
Both routers offer robust parental controls, enabling parents to manage their children’s internet access, set time limits, and filter inappropriate content. They also feature intuitive companion apps that provide easy setup, remote management, and network monitoring.
Design and Aesthetics
The Google WiFi AC-1304 and AC1200 share a similar sleek and modern design. Both routers are compact and unobtrusive, making them easy to place anywhere in your home without compromising aesthetics. The AC-1304 comes in a white finish, while the AC1200 is available in both white and black.
Price and Value
The Google WiFi AC-1304 typically retails for a slightly higher price than the AC1200. However, this price difference is justified by the superior speed, coverage, and features offered by the AC-1304. If you prioritize performance and advanced features, the AC-1304 is the better value. If your budget is more constrained, the AC1200 still provides excellent home networking capabilities at a more affordable price.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Google WiFi AC-1304 and AC1200 depends on your individual needs and budget. If you demand the fastest possible speeds, widest coverage, and most advanced features, the AC-1304 is the clear winner. However, if you are on a tighter budget and can compromise on some features, the AC1200 still offers a solid networking experience.
Recommendations: The Verdict
In the battle of the Google WiFi AC-1304 vs AC1200, the AC-1304 emerges as the superior choice for those seeking the ultimate home networking experience. Its faster speeds, wider coverage, and advanced features, including MU-MIMO, make it an ideal choice for large homes, demanding applications, and households with multiple connected devices. While the AC1200 remains a capable router, it falls short in terms of performance and features, making it more suitable for smaller homes and less demanding users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both the AC-1304 and AC1200 offer robust parental controls, allowing you to manage your children’s internet access and filter inappropriate content.
Q: Can I use multiple AC-1304 or AC1200 routers to extend my network?
A: Yes, both routers support mesh networking, allowing you to add additional units to expand your Wi-Fi coverage and eliminate dead zones.
Q: How easy is it to set up and manage these routers?
A: Both the AC-1304 and AC1200 feature intuitive companion apps that make setup and management a breeze. You can easily configure your network, monitor connected devices, and perform various other tasks from your smartphone or tablet.
