What To Know
- The Deco S7 system, on the other hand, boasts a larger coverage area of up to 5,500 square feet with a three-pack configuration.
- The Deco S7 system, on the other hand, is priced around $200 for a two-pack configuration and $300 for a three-pack configuration.
- The Deco S7 covers a larger area of up to 5,500 square feet with a three-pack configuration, compared to 3,500 square feet for the Deco M5.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as the go-to solution for seamless and reliable internet coverage. Among the leading contenders, TP-Link’s Deco M5 and Deco S7 stand out as formidable options. This comprehensive comparison pits these two devices against each other, delving into their key features, performance, and suitability for various user needs.
Design and Build
Both the Deco M5 and Deco S7 feature a sleek and compact design that blends seamlessly into any home décor. The M5 units are slightly smaller and lighter, measuring 3.3 x 3.3 x 4.3 inches and weighing 0.6 pounds each. The S7 units, on the other hand, are larger and heavier, measuring 3.9 x 3.9 x 6.1 inches and weighing 1.1 pounds each.
Wi-Fi Performance
The Deco M5 and Deco S7 offer different levels of Wi-Fi performance. The M5 system utilizes the 802.11ac protocol, providing speeds of up to 1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The S7 system, on the other hand, leverages the latest 802.11ax protocol, also known as Wi-Fi 6, offering significantly faster speeds of up to 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
Coverage and Capacity
The Deco M5 system is designed to cover up to 3,500 square feet with a three-pack configuration. The Deco S7 system, on the other hand, boasts a larger coverage area of up to 5,500 square feet with a three-pack configuration. Both systems support mesh technology, allowing multiple units to work together to create a seamless and interconnected network.
Features and Functionality
The Deco M5 and Deco S7 offer a range of features and functionalities to enhance the user experience. Both systems include parental controls, which allow parents to manage their children’s online activities. The S7 system, however, offers more advanced features such as QoS (Quality of Service), which allows users to prioritize specific devices or applications for optimal performance.
Smart Home Integration
Both the Deco M5 and Deco S7 support smart home integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows users to control their mesh Wi-Fi network using voice commands. The S7 system, however, offers a more comprehensive smart home integration experience, including compatibility with IFTTT (If This Then That) and SmartThings.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Deco M5 system is typically priced around $150 for a two-pack configuration and $200 for a three-pack configuration. The Deco S7 system, on the other hand, is priced around $200 for a two-pack configuration and $300 for a three-pack configuration. The S7 system offers better performance, coverage, and features compared to the M5 system, but at a higher price point.
Final Thoughts
The TP-Link Deco M5 and Deco S7 are both excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable and seamless internet coverage. The M5 system is a budget-friendly option suitable for smaller homes or apartments. The S7 system, on the other hand, is a more premium option that offers faster speeds, wider coverage, and more advanced features. Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on the user’s specific needs and budget.
FAQ
Q: Which system has better Wi-Fi performance?
A: The Deco S7 offers better Wi-Fi performance with speeds up to 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, compared to 1200 Mbps on the Deco M5.
Q: Which system covers a larger area?
A: The Deco S7 covers a larger area of up to 5,500 square feet with a three-pack configuration, compared to 3,500 square feet for the Deco M5.
Q: Which system offers more features?
A: The Deco S7 offers more features such as QoS, smart home integration with IFTTT and SmartThings, and a dedicated mobile app.
