What To Know
- Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 are tri-band routers, offering a dedicated 5 GHz band for high-speed devices and two additional 5 GHz bands for wider coverage.
- Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offer low latency, with the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 having a slight edge in this area.
- The TP-Link Deco X50 comes in a two-pack, providing coverage of up to 4,000 square feet, while the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is available in a three-pack, covering up to 6,000 square feet.
In the ever-evolving landscape of home networking, Wi-Fi 6 has emerged as the latest standard, promising blazing-fast speeds, reduced latency, and improved coverage. With a plethora of Wi-Fi 6 routers available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Two standout options in this category are the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two routers, examining their performance, features, and value proposition.
Performance:
Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 are tri-band routers, offering a dedicated 5 GHz band for high-speed devices and two additional 5 GHz bands for wider coverage. However, there are some notable differences in their performance capabilities.
Speed:
The TP-Link Deco X50 boasts a maximum theoretical speed of 3 Gbps, while the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offers a slightly higher theoretical speed of 5.4 Gbps. In real-world testing, both routers deliver impressive speeds, with the TP-Link Deco X50 averaging around 600 Mbps and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 achieving speeds of up to 900 Mbps.
Latency:
Latency, a measure of the delay in data transmission, is crucial for online gaming and video conferencing. Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offer low latency, with the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 having a slight edge in this area.
Coverage:
The TP-Link Deco X50 comes in a two-pack, providing coverage of up to 4,000 square feet, while the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is available in a three-pack, covering up to 6,000 square feet. Both routers offer mesh networking capabilities, allowing you to add additional units to expand coverage as needed.
Features:
Beyond their performance capabilities, the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offer a range of features to enhance your home networking experience.
Parental Controls:
Both routers provide robust parental control features, allowing you to set limits on internet usage, block inappropriate content, and monitor online activity.
Guest Network:
Both routers offer the ability to create a dedicated guest network, providing secure access to the internet for visitors.
Smart Home Integration:
The TP-Link Deco X50 supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant integration, enabling you to control your router using voice commands. The Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offers compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Security:
Both routers offer advanced security features, including WPA3 encryption and a built-in firewall. The Linksys Atlas Pro 6 has an additional layer of protection with Cisco Secure, providing real-time threat detection and prevention.
Value Proposition:
The TP-Link Deco X50 is typically priced lower than the Linksys Atlas Pro 6, making it a more affordable option. However, the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 offers a slightly higher performance ceiling and a more extensive range of features, including Cisco Secure.
Which Router Is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Deco X50 and the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance and a good range of features, the TP-Link Deco X50 is an excellent choice. If you’re willing to spend a bit more for top-tier performance and advanced features, the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is a better choice.
Pros and Cons:
TP-Link Deco X50:
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to set up
- Good performance
- Mesh networking capabilities
Cons:
- Lower maximum speed
- Fewer features
Linksys Atlas Pro 6:
Pros:
- Higher maximum speed
- More features
- Cisco Secure protection
- Wider coverage
Cons:
- More expensive
- More complex setup
Recommendation:
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable Wi-Fi 6 router, the TP-Link Deco X50 is a great choice. It offers solid performance, a good range of features, and a user-friendly interface. However, if you demand the best possible performance and the most advanced features, the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is the better option.
Beyond the Comparison:
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Number of devices: If you have a large number of devices connected to your network, you may need a router with a higher capacity.
- Home layout: The layout of your home can impact the coverage and performance of your router. Consider the size and shape of your home when choosing a router.
- Budget: Wi-Fi 6 routers can vary significantly in price. Determine your budget before making a purchase.
Information You Need to Know
1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both routers offer robust parental control features, but the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 has a slight edge with its additional features, such as device time limits and content filtering.
2. Can I use either router with my existing modem?
Yes, both routers are compatible with most cable and DSL modems.
3. What is the maximum number of devices I can connect to each router?
The TP-Link Deco X50 can support up to 150 devices, while the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 can handle up to 250 devices.
