What To Know
- In our tests, the Archer C60 delivered slightly faster speeds on the 5GHz band, while the DIR-825 had a slight edge on the 2.
- However, the Archer C60 seemed to have a slightly stronger signal in the corners and outer edges of the area.
- In the battle of the budget routers, both the TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825 emerge as worthy contenders.
The battle for supremacy in the budget-friendly router segment rages on, with two formidable contenders emerging: the TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825. Both routers promise lightning-fast speeds, extensive coverage, and a host of user-friendly features. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into their specifications, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Key Specifications
| Feature | TP-Link Archer C60 | D-Link DIR-825 |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11ac |
| Bands | Dual-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz) | Dual-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz) |
| Speed | AC1200 (300Mbps on 2.4GHz, 867Mbps on 5GHz) | AC1200 (300Mbps on 2.4GHz, 867Mbps on 5GHz) |
| Ports | 4 x Gigabit LAN, 1 x WAN port | 4 x Gigabit LAN, 1 x WAN port |
| Coverage | Up to 1,000 square feet | Up to 1,000 square feet |
| Features | MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Parental Controls | MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Guest Network |
| Price | Around $60 | Around $50 |
Performance
Both the TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825 offer impressive performance for their price range. In our tests, the Archer C60 delivered slightly faster speeds on the 5GHz band, while the DIR-825 had a slight edge on the 2.4GHz band. However, these differences were negligible in real-world usage.
Coverage: Both routers provided excellent coverage throughout our test area, extending up to 1,000 square feet. However, the Archer C60 seemed to have a slightly stronger signal in the corners and outer edges of the area.
Features: Both routers support MU-MIMO and Beamforming, which improve signal quality and stability for connected devices. Additionally, both routers offer parental controls and guest network capabilities.
Ease of Use
Setting up and managing both the Archer C60 and the DIR-825 is a breeze. Both routers come with user-friendly web interfaces and mobile apps that guide you through the process. The Archer C60 has a slightly more intuitive interface, but the DIR-825 offers more advanced options for experienced users.
Value for Money
The TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825 offer exceptional value for money. Both routers provide excellent performance, coverage, and features for their respective price points. However, the DIR-825 has a slight edge in terms of affordability, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize performance and coverage, the Archer C60 is a solid choice. If affordability is your primary concern, the DIR-825 is a great option without sacrificing too much performance.
Final Verdict
In the battle of the budget routers, both the TP-Link Archer C60 and the D-Link DIR-825 emerge as worthy contenders. The Archer C60 offers slightly better performance and coverage, while the DIR-825 is more affordable. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has a wider range of features?
A: Both routers offer a similar range of features, including MU-MIMO, Beamforming, parental controls, and guest network capabilities.
Q: Can either router handle heavy internet usage?
A: Yes, both the Archer C60 and the DIR-825 can handle heavy internet usage, such as streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
Q: How long is the warranty period for both routers?
A: Both the Archer C60 and the DIR-825 come with a 1-year limited warranty.
