What To Know
- Both devices use three external antennas to provide a wide coverage area, but the Archer C6’s more powerful antennas give it a slight advantage in penetrating walls and extending the signal to far corners of your home.
- The Archer C6 features a sleek and modern look with a black matte finish, while the DIR-842 has a more traditional and bulky design.
- While the DIR-842 is a solid option for basic Wi-Fi needs, the Archer C6 is the better choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performing router at an affordable price.
When it comes to choosing a budget-friendly Wi-Fi router, the TP-Link Archer C6 and D-Link DIR-842 are two popular contenders. Both devices offer a solid combination of features and affordability, but which one emerges as the superior choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the TP-Link Archer C6 vs D-Link DIR-842, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Speed
Both the Archer C6 and DIR-842 support the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, offering theoretical speeds of up to 1200Mbps. However, the Archer C6 has a slight edge in real-world performance, thanks to its use of a faster processor and more powerful antennas. In testing, the Archer C6 delivered faster download and upload speeds, especially at longer distances from the router.
Range and Coverage
The Archer C6 and DIR-842 have similar range and coverage capabilities. Both devices use three external antennas to provide a wide coverage area, but the Archer C6’s more powerful antennas give it a slight advantage in penetrating walls and extending the signal to far corners of your home.
Features and Connectivity
The Archer C6 and DIR-842 offer comparable features, including dual-band connectivity (2.4GHz and 5GHz), a built-in firewall, and parental controls. However, the Archer C6 has a few additional perks, such as support for beamforming technology, which directs the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices, improving performance.
Design and Aesthetics
The Archer C6 and DIR-842 have distinct designs. The Archer C6 features a sleek and modern look with a black matte finish, while the DIR-842 has a more traditional and bulky design. The Archer C6’s compact size makes it easier to place in smaller spaces, while the DIR-842’s larger size and external antennas may be more suitable for larger homes.
Setup and Configuration
Both the Archer C6 and DIR-842 are easy to set up and configure. They come with user-friendly web interfaces and mobile apps that guide you through the process. The Archer C6’s mobile app offers a few additional features, such as remote management and parental controls, making it slightly more convenient to use.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer C6 and D-Link DIR-842 are both budget-friendly routers, but the Archer C6 typically retails for a slightly higher price. However, considering its overall performance and feature set, the Archer C6 offers better value for money.
The Verdict: Archer C6 Emerges Victorious
After comparing the TP-Link Archer C6 vs D-Link DIR-842, the Archer C6 emerges as the superior choice. It offers faster performance, better range and coverage, more features, and a more user-friendly interface. While the DIR-842 is a solid option for basic Wi-Fi needs, the Archer C6 is the better choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performing router at an affordable price.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both the Archer C6 and DIR-842 offer parental controls, but the Archer C6’s mobile app provides more granular control and monitoring options.
Q: Can I use the routers with a mesh Wi-Fi system?
A: No, neither the Archer C6 nor the DIR-842 supports mesh Wi-Fi technology.
Q: Which router has a longer warranty?
A: Both the Archer C6 and DIR-842 come with a one-year limited warranty.
