Overview
- However, the AX72 Pro boasts a higher maximum theoretical speed of 1800 Mbps (1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 600 Mbps on the 2.
- The AX72 has a compact and unobtrusive form factor, while the AX72 Pro has a more angular and aggressive appearance with its eight antennas.
- The AX72 Pro emerges as the winner in terms of raw speed and performance, while the AX72 offers a wider coverage area and a more budget-friendly price point.
The world of Wi-Fi routers has evolved rapidly, with new technologies and standards emerging to meet the ever-increasing demand for faster and more reliable internet connectivity. Among the latest advancements, TP-Link’s Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro stand out as formidable contenders in the market. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two high-speed routers to help you make an informed decision.
Features and Specifications
Wi-Fi Standard and Speed
Both the Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro support the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, offering significantly faster speeds and improved efficiency compared to their predecessors. However, the AX72 Pro boasts a higher maximum theoretical speed of 1800 Mbps (1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band) compared to the AX72’s 1500 Mbps (1200 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band).
Processor and Memory
Under the hood, the AX72 Pro features a more powerful 1.5 GHz quad-core processor and 512 MB of RAM, while the AX72 has a 1.3 GHz dual-core processor and 256 MB of RAM. This difference in processing power and memory capacity translates to improved performance, especially when handling multiple devices and demanding applications.
Antenna Design
The AX72 Pro comes equipped with eight external antennas, while the AX72 has six. The additional antennas on the AX72 Pro enhance signal coverage and reduce interference, ensuring a more stable and consistent Wi-Fi connection throughout your home.
Ports and Connectivity
Both routers offer a comprehensive range of ports and connectivity options, including four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, one Gigabit Ethernet WAN port, and one USB 3.0 port. However, the AX72 Pro has an additional USB 2.0 port, providing more flexibility for connecting external storage or other peripherals.
Performance and Features
MU-MIMO and OFDMA
The Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro support both MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) and OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) technologies. MU-MIMO allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, improving efficiency and reducing latency. OFDMA further enhances performance by dividing the Wi-Fi channels into smaller sub-channels, allowing for more efficient data transmission.
Beamforming
Both routers utilize beamforming technology, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices, resulting in improved signal strength and reduced interference.
Parental Controls and Security
The Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro offer robust parental control features, including website filtering, time limits, and device blocking. Additionally, both routers support WPA3 encryption, the latest security standard, to protect your network from unauthorized access.
App Control
TP-Link’s Tether app provides convenient remote management capabilities for both routers, allowing you to configure settings, monitor network traffic, and perform firmware updates from your smartphone or tablet.
Design and Aesthetics
The Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro feature sleek and modern designs. The AX72 has a compact and unobtrusive form factor, while the AX72 Pro has a more angular and aggressive appearance with its eight antennas. Both routers are available in black, making them suitable for a wide range of home décor styles.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require the fastest possible Wi-Fi speeds, the AX72 Pro is the better option, thanks to its higher maximum theoretical speed and more powerful processor. However, if you prioritize a wider signal coverage and additional USB ports, the AX72 Pro is a more suitable choice.
Final Verdict: Speed vs. Coverage
The TP-Link Archer AX72 and AX72 Pro are both excellent Wi-Fi routers that offer high speeds, reliable connections, and a range of advanced features. The AX72 Pro emerges as the winner in terms of raw speed and performance, while the AX72 offers a wider coverage area and a more budget-friendly price point. Ultimately, the best router for you depends on your individual requirements and preferences.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which router has a higher maximum theoretical speed?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX72 Pro has a higher maximum theoretical speed of 1800 Mbps compared to the AX72’s 1500 Mbps.
Q: Which router has more antennas?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX72 Pro has eight external antennas, while the AX72 has six.
Q: Which router has more RAM?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX72 Pro has 512 MB of RAM, while the AX72 has 256 MB of RAM.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX72 Pro is a better choice for gaming due to its faster speeds and lower latency.
Q: Which router is more suitable for large homes?
A: The TP-Link Archer AX72 Pro has a wider coverage area and more antennas, making it more suitable for large homes.