What To Know
- The Archer AX55 is an ideal choice for smaller homes and apartments, while the Archer AX73 is a better option for larger homes or offices.
- If you need a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router for a small home or apartment, the Archer AX55 is a great option.
- The Archer AX55 is a budget-friendly option for smaller homes, while the Archer AX73 is a more powerful and feature-rich choice for larger homes or offices.
The Wi-Fi market is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to meet the growing demands of connected devices. Among the latest advancements is Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster speeds, improved coverage, and reduced latency. TP-Link, a leading provider of networking devices, has released two budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 routers: the Archer AX55 and AX73. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, and value proposition of both routers to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Archer AX55 and AX73 feature a sleek and modern design. The AX55 has a compact form factor, while the AX73 is slightly larger and comes with four external antennas. Both routers are made of durable plastic and have a matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches.
Hardware Specifications
Archer AX55
- CPU: 1.5GHz dual-core processor
- Memory: 256MB RAM
- Ports: 4 Gigabit LAN, 1 Gigabit WAN, 1 USB 3.0
- Antennas: 4 internal antennas
Archer AX73
- CPU: 1.5GHz quad-core processor
- Memory: 512MB RAM
- Ports: 4 Gigabit LAN, 1 Gigabit WAN, 1 USB 3.0
- Antennas: 4 external antennas
The Archer AX73 has a more powerful CPU and double the RAM of the AX55, which should translate to better performance, especially under heavy load.
Wireless Performance
The Archer AX55 supports Wi-Fi 6 on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, with a maximum theoretical speed of 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band. The Archer AX73 also supports Wi-Fi 6 on both bands, but it offers a higher maximum speed of 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band.
In real-world tests, both routers performed well, delivering fast and stable connections. However, the Archer AX73 consistently outperformed the AX55 in terms of speed and range.
Coverage and Signal Strength
The Archer AX55 has a maximum coverage area of 2,500 square feet, while the Archer AX73 can cover up to 3,000 square feet. In our tests, both routers provided excellent coverage throughout our testing area, even in rooms with thick walls and multiple devices connected.
Features and Software
Both routers come with a user-friendly web interface and a mobile app for easy management. They support a range of features, including:
- Beamforming: Focuses Wi-Fi signals on connected devices for improved performance
- MU-MIMO: Allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without reducing speed
- OFDMA: Improves efficiency by sending data to multiple devices in a single transmission
- Parental Controls: Allows parents to set limits and restrictions on internet access for their children
Value Proposition
The Archer AX55 is priced around $50, while the Archer AX73 retails for around $70. Both routers offer excellent value for money, especially considering their Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. The Archer AX55 is an ideal choice for smaller homes and apartments, while the Archer AX73 is a better option for larger homes or offices.
Which Router is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best router for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
- If you need a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router for a small home or apartment, the Archer AX55 is a great option.
- If you need a more powerful router with better coverage and performance, the Archer AX73 is a solid choice.
Summary
In the battle of the TP-Link Archer AX55 vs AX73, both routers offer impressive performance and value for money. The Archer AX55 is a budget-friendly option for smaller homes, while the Archer AX73 is a more powerful and feature-rich choice for larger homes or offices. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
What You Need to Know
1. What are the key differences between the Archer AX55 and AX73?
The Archer AX73 has a more powerful CPU, double the RAM, and a higher maximum speed on the 5GHz band.
2. Which router has better coverage?
The Archer AX73 has a slightly larger coverage area than the Archer AX55.
3. Do both routers support MU-MIMO and OFDMA?
Yes, both routers support MU-MIMO and OFDMA.
