What To Know
- In the realm of wireless networking, TP-Link has emerged as a formidable contender, offering a wide array of routers catering to diverse needs and budgets.
- Among its popular models, the Archer C6 AC1200 and Archer C80 AC1900 stand out as compelling options for home users seeking reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi.
- However, the Archer C80 offers a better balance of features, performance, and connectivity options, making it a more compelling value proposition for users seeking a high-performance and feature-rich router.
In the realm of wireless networking, TP-Link has emerged as a formidable contender, offering a wide array of routers catering to diverse needs and budgets. Among its popular models, the Archer C6 AC1200 and Archer C80 AC1900 stand out as compelling options for home users seeking reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two routers, analyzing their key features, performance capabilities, and overall value proposition.
Key Differences: TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 vs TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900
At a glance, the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and Archer C80 AC1900 share some common ground, but they also exhibit distinct differences that set them apart. Here’s a quick overview:
- Wi-Fi Standard: The Archer C6 supports the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, delivering speeds of up to 1200Mbps, while the Archer C80 supports the newer and faster 802.11ac Wave 2 standard, offering speeds of up to 1900Mbps.
- Number of Bands: The Archer C6 operates on a single 2.4GHz band, while the Archer C80 features a dual-band configuration with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
- Antenna Design: The Archer C6 comes with three external antennas, whereas the Archer C80 boasts four external antennas for enhanced signal strength and coverage.
- USB Ports: The Archer C6 lacks USB ports, while the Archer C80 offers one USB 2.0 port for connecting external storage devices or printers.
Design and Build Quality
Archer C6 AC1200: The Archer C6 sports a compact and minimalistic design, featuring a matte black finish and subtle curves. Its three external antennas are non-detachable and can be adjusted for optimal signal reception.
Archer C80 AC1900: The Archer C80 exudes a more premium aesthetic with its sleek, glossy black exterior and four external antennas. The antennas are also adjustable, allowing users to customize their Wi-Fi coverage.
Performance Comparison
Wi-Fi Speed and Range: The Archer C80 outperforms the Archer C6 in terms of both speed and range. Its support for the 802.11ac Wave 2 standard and dual-band configuration enables it to deliver faster and more stable Wi-Fi connections. The Archer C80’s four antennas also provide wider coverage, extending the reach of its Wi-Fi signal.
Multi-Device Handling: Both routers offer beamforming technology to improve signal strength and reduce interference when multiple devices are connected. However, the Archer C80’s superior hardware and faster Wi-Fi speeds make it better equipped to handle heavy traffic and multiple simultaneous connections.
Features and Functionality
Archer C6 AC1200: The Archer C6 offers basic router functionality, including parental controls, guest Wi-Fi, and MAC address filtering. It also supports the TP-Link Tether app for convenient remote management.
Archer C80 AC1900: The Archer C80 provides a more comprehensive feature set, including advanced parental controls, MU-MIMO technology for improved multi-device performance, and IPv6 support. It also features a built-in USB 2.0 port for connecting external storage or printers.
Setup and Configuration
Both the Archer C6 and Archer C80 come with user-friendly web interfaces that guide users through the setup process. The TP-Link Tether app also simplifies the configuration and management of both routers.
Price and Value
The Archer C6 AC1200 is generally more affordable than the Archer C80 AC1900. However, the Archer C80 offers a better balance of features, performance, and connectivity options, making it a more compelling value proposition for users seeking a high-performance and feature-rich router.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and Archer C80 AC1900 depends on your specific needs and budget.
Archer C6 AC1200: Ideal for small homes or apartments with basic Wi-Fi requirements and a limited budget.
Archer C80 AC1900: Recommended for larger homes, multiple-device households, and users who demand fast and reliable Wi-Fi connections with advanced features.
Summary: The Ultimate Choice
In the battle of the Wi-Fi routers, the TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 emerges as the clear winner. Its superior Wi-Fi performance, comprehensive feature set, and excellent value proposition make it an ideal choice for users seeking a high-quality and reliable home networking solution. While the Archer C6 AC1200 offers a more affordable option, its limited features and performance capabilities may not be sufficient for demanding users.
What You Need to Know
1. Which router has better parental controls?
The Archer C80 AC1900 offers more advanced parental controls, including website filtering, time limits, and device blocking.
2. Can I use the Archer C80 AC1900 as a range extender?
No, the Archer C80 AC1900 does not support range extender functionality.
3. Does the Archer C6 AC1200 support MU-MIMO?
No, the Archer C6 AC1200 does not support MU-MIMO technology.
4. How many devices can the Archer C80 AC1900 handle simultaneously?
The Archer C80 AC1900 can handle a large number of devices simultaneously, thanks to its MU-MIMO technology and high-performance hardware.
5. Can I connect a printer to the Archer C80 AC1900?
Yes, you can connect a printer to the Archer C80 AC1900 via its built-in USB 2.0 port.
