Tp Link Deco S7 Vs X20

In the realm of home networking, the TP-Link Deco S7 and X20 stand as two formidable contenders in the Wi-Fi 6 mesh system category. Both devices promise blazing-fast speeds, seamless coverage, and advanced features to enhance your connected life. But which one is the better choice for your specific needs? This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision.

Performance: Speed and Coverage

Wi-Fi 6 Performance:

• Both the Deco S7 and X20 support the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, providing significantly faster speeds and improved efficiency compared to previous Wi-Fi generations.

Speed Advantage:

• The Deco X20 boasts a slight edge in terms of raw speed, offering up to 1.8 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
• The Deco S7 offers slightly lower speeds of 1.3 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.

Coverage:

• The Deco S7 and X20 both provide excellent coverage, with each unit covering up to 2,000 square feet.
• The X20 has a slight advantage in larger homes, with a maximum coverage area of 6,000 square feet with three units.

Features: Advanced Functionality

HomeShield Pro:

• Both the S7 and X20 include a free one-year subscription to TP-Link’s HomeShield Pro service.
• This service provides advanced security features, parental controls, and network optimization tools.

AI-Driven Mesh:

• The Deco S7 and X20 utilize AI technology to optimize mesh performance.
• They automatically adjust channel selection, power levels, and backhaul connections to provide the best possible Wi-Fi experience.

Alexa and Google Assistant Support:

• Both devices support voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
• You can use voice commands to manage your network, set up guest networks, and more.

Design and Build Quality

Design:

• The Deco S7 features a sleek and compact design with a white matte finish.
• The Deco X20 has a similar design but with a slightly larger footprint and a glossy black finish.

Build Quality:

• Both devices are well-built and durable, with high-quality materials and sturdy construction.

Connectivity and Ports

Wired Connectivity:

• The Deco S7 and X20 both have two Gigabit Ethernet ports per unit.
• The X20 has an additional USB 3.0 port for connecting external storage devices.

Wireless Connectivity:

• Both devices support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standards (802.11ax).
• The Deco X20 offers wider channel bandwidth (160 MHz) on the 5 GHz band for faster speeds.

Setup and Management

Mobile App:

• The Deco S7 and X20 are both managed through the TP-Link Deco app.
• The app provides a user-friendly interface for setup, configuration, and network management.

Remote Access:

• Both devices allow for remote access and management from anywhere with an internet connection.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing:

• The Deco S7 is available in a 2-pack for around $150 and a 3-pack for around $200.
• The Deco X20 is available in a 2-pack for around $250 and a 3-pack for around $350.

Availability:

• Both the Deco S7 and X20 are widely available from online retailers and electronics stores.

The Verdict

The TP-Link Deco S7 and X20 are both excellent Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems that offer fast speeds, seamless coverage, and advanced features. The S7 is a more affordable option with slightly lower speeds, while the X20 provides faster speeds, wider coverage, and a USB port.

Best Choice for Most Users:

• If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 mesh system with solid performance and coverage, the Deco S7 is a great choice.

Best Choice for Large Homes or Demanding Applications:

• If you need maximum speed, coverage, and advanced features, the Deco X20 is the better option for larger homes or demanding applications like gaming and streaming.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which device has better parental controls?
A: Both the Deco S7 and X20 offer robust parental controls through the HomeShield Pro service.

Q: Can I use the Deco S7 or X20 as a wired backhaul?
A: Yes, both devices support wired backhaul connections for improved performance and stability.

Q: Is the Deco S7 compatible with older Wi-Fi devices?
A: Yes, the Deco S7 supports both Wi-Fi 6 and older Wi-Fi standards, ensuring compatibility with all your devices.

Q: How do I extend the coverage of my Deco mesh system?
A: You can add additional Deco units to your mesh network to extend the coverage and improve performance.

Q: What is the warranty period for the Deco S7 and X20?
A: Both devices come with a 2-year limited warranty from TP-Link.