What to know
- The Wi-Fi 6 market is teeming with options, and two of the most popular contenders are the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the Xiaomi AX6000.
- However, the Xiaomi AX6000 offers more features, including a quad-band design, higher maximum speeds, and a larger number of Gigabit LAN ports.
- The TP-Link Archer AX73 is a great choice for larger homes or areas with multiple floors, while the Xiaomi AX6000 is ideal for users who prioritize speed and connectivity.
The Wi-Fi 6 market is teeming with options, and two of the most popular contenders are the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the Xiaomi AX6000. Both routers promise blazing-fast speeds and extensive coverage, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features
TP-Link Archer AX73:
- Tri-band router (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 5 GHz)
- 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz), 1201 Mbps (5 GHz), 1201 Mbps (5 GHz)
- OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports, 1 Gigabit WAN port
- USB 3.0 port
Xiaomi AX6000:
- Quad-band router (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 5 GHz, 5 GHz)
- 1148 Mbps (2.4 GHz), 2402 Mbps (5 GHz), 2402 Mbps (5 GHz), 1201 Mbps (5 GHz)
- OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming
- 7 Gigabit LAN ports, 1 Gigabit WAN port
- USB 3.0 port
Performance
Speed:
On paper, the Xiaomi AX6000 has a clear advantage with its higher maximum speeds. However, real-world performance will vary depending on factors such as distance from the router, interference, and device capabilities. In general, both routers offer impressive speeds for gaming, streaming, and online activities.
Coverage:
The TP-Link Archer AX73 has a wider coverage area due to its three bands. This makes it a better choice for larger homes or areas with multiple floors. The Xiaomi AX6000, on the other hand, has a more focused signal that may provide better penetration through walls and obstacles.
Features
Wi-Fi 6:
Both routers support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which offers faster speeds, reduced latency, and improved efficiency.
OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming:
These technologies work together to improve network performance by allocating bandwidth more efficiently, reducing interference, and directing signals to specific devices.
Parental Controls:
The TP-Link Archer AX73 and Xiaomi AX6000 both offer robust parental control features, allowing you to set limits on internet usage, block inappropriate content, and monitor your children’s online activities.
Ports and Connectivity
The Xiaomi AX6000 has a significant advantage in terms of ports, offering seven Gigabit LAN ports compared to the Archer AX73’s four. This allows you to connect more devices directly to the router for wired connections. Both routers have a USB 3.0 port for file sharing and external storage.
Value
The TP-Link Archer AX73 is generally more affordable than the Xiaomi AX6000. However, the Xiaomi AX6000 offers more features, including a quad-band design, higher maximum speeds, and a larger number of Gigabit LAN ports. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Which One Should You Choose?
TP-Link Archer AX73:
- Ideal for larger homes or areas with multiple floors
- Wider coverage area
- More affordable
Xiaomi AX6000:
- Faster maximum speeds
- More Gigabit LAN ports
- Quad-band design for better performance in congested environments
The Verdict
Both the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the Xiaomi AX6000 are excellent Wi-Fi 6 routers that offer impressive performance and features. The TP-Link Archer AX73 is a great choice for larger homes or areas with multiple floors, while the Xiaomi AX6000 is ideal for users who prioritize speed and connectivity. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which router has better parental controls?
A: Both routers offer robust parental control features, so this is not a major differentiating factor.
Q: Can I expand the coverage of either router?
A: Yes, you can add mesh extenders to both the TP-Link Archer AX73 and the Xiaomi AX6000 to extend their coverage.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: Both routers offer low latency and fast speeds, making them suitable for gaming. However, the Xiaomi AX6000 has a slight edge in terms of maximum speeds.
Q: Can I use either router with a fiber internet connection?
A: Yes, both routers support fiber internet connections.
Q: Which router has better firmware support?
A: Both TP-Link and Xiaomi provide regular firmware updates for their routers, so this is not a major concern.