What To Know
- The Deco X55 and X60 both promise excellent coverage, with the X60 boasting a slightly larger range due to its higher transmit power.
- The X55 offers a more budget-friendly option, while the X60 delivers better performance and additional features at a slightly higher price point.
- The X55 is a great choice for those on a budget or with smaller homes, while the X60 is the better option for larger homes or those who demand the fastest speeds and most advanced features.
The TP-Link Deco X55 and X60 are two highly acclaimed Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers that have garnered significant attention in the networking market. Both devices promise exceptional coverage, performance, and connectivity, making them ideal for large homes and businesses. In this comprehensive TP-Link Deco X55 vs. X60 review, we will delve into the intricacies of these routers, comparing their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build:
The TP-Link Deco X55 and X60 share a similar design philosophy, featuring a sleek and minimalistic cylindrical form factor. Both routers are compact and can blend seamlessly into any home décor. The X55 comes in a matte white finish, while the X60 boasts a more premium-looking glossy white finish. Build quality is excellent on both devices, with sturdy plastic construction and well-fitting components.
Hardware and Connectivity:
Under the hood, the Deco X55 and X60 differ significantly in their hardware capabilities. The X55 is powered by a quad-core processor, while the X60 features a more powerful octa-core processor. Both routers support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with speeds up to 1.8 Gbps (5 GHz) and 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz). However, the X60 boasts a higher total bandwidth of 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) and 1201 Mbps (5 GHz) compared to the X55’s 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) and 867 Mbps (5 GHz).
In terms of connectivity, both routers offer a wide range of options. They feature two Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, as well as a USB 3.0 port for connecting external storage devices. The X60 additionally supports Link Aggregation, allowing you to combine two Ethernet ports into a single high-speed connection.
Coverage and Performance:
Coverage is a crucial aspect of any mesh router system. The Deco X55 and X60 both promise excellent coverage, with the X60 boasting a slightly larger range due to its higher transmit power. In real-world testing, both routers provided strong and stable signals throughout our test home, even in areas with thick walls or multiple floors.
Performance-wise, the X60 delivers noticeably faster speeds compared to the X55. This is primarily due to its higher bandwidth and more powerful processor. In our speed tests, the X60 achieved download speeds of over 600 Mbps, while the X55 maxed out at around 450 Mbps. Both routers showed excellent latency and jitter performance, making them suitable for online gaming and video conferencing.
Features and Software:
The Deco X55 and X60 come with a comprehensive suite of features managed through the TP-Link Deco app. Both routers offer advanced features such as MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and beamforming, which enhance signal stability and efficiency. Additionally, they support parental controls, QoS, and guest Wi-Fi networks.
The X60 has a few additional features compared to the X55. It includes support for HomeShield Pro, TP-Link’s premium security and parental control subscription service. It also has a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes gaming traffic for a smoother online gaming experience.
Setup and Management:
Setting up and managing both the Deco X55 and X60 is a breeze. The included Deco app guides you through the entire process, making it easy for even non-technical users to get their mesh network up and running. The app also provides remote access to your network, allowing you to manage it from anywhere.
Value for Money:
The TP-Link Deco X55 and X60 are both competitively priced mesh routers. The X55 offers a more budget-friendly option, while the X60 delivers better performance and additional features at a slightly higher price point. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Verdict:
The TP-Link Deco X55 and X60 are both excellent Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers that offer exceptional coverage, performance, and features. The X55 is a great choice for those on a budget or with smaller homes, while the X60 is the better option for larger homes or those who demand the fastest speeds and most advanced features.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which router has better coverage, the Deco X55 or X60?
The Deco X60 has a slightly larger coverage range compared to the X55 due to its higher transmit power.
2. Which router is faster, the Deco X55 or X60?
The Deco X60 is significantly faster than the X55, thanks to its higher bandwidth and more powerful processor.
3. Does the Deco X60 support HomeShield Pro?
Yes, the Deco X60 supports HomeShield Pro, TP-Link’s premium security and parental control subscription service.
4. Can I use the Deco X55 and X60 together in a mesh network?
Yes, the Deco X55 and X60 can be used together in a mesh network to extend coverage and improve performance.
5. Which router is better for gaming, the Deco X55 or X60?
The Deco X60 has a dedicated gaming mode that prioritizes gaming traffic, making it the better choice for online gaming.
