Main points
- The TP-Link Archer C20 and C24 are two popular budget-friendly options that offer a good balance of features and performance.
- The Archer C24 is likely to provide better range and more stable connections in larger homes or areas with multiple walls and obstacles.
- However, the Archer C24 has a few additional features that the Archer C20 lacks, such as.
When it comes to affordable and reliable Wi-Fi routers, TP-Link’s Archer series has consistently delivered. The TP-Link Archer C20 and C24 are two popular budget-friendly options that offer a good balance of features and performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the similarities and differences between these two routers to help you make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.
Performance and Speed
Both the Archer C20 and C24 support the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard, which provides a maximum theoretical speed of 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. While this may not be the fastest speed available, it’s sufficient for basic internet activities such as browsing, email, and social media.
Coverage and Signal Strength
The Archer C20 features two external antennas, while the Archer C24 has four. This difference in antenna count can have a noticeable impact on coverage and signal strength. The Archer C24 is likely to provide better range and more stable connections in larger homes or areas with multiple walls and obstacles.
Features
The Archer C20 and C24 offer a similar set of features, including:
- Parental controls
- Guest network
- QoS (Quality of Service)
- IPv6 support
However, the Archer C24 has a few additional features that the Archer C20 lacks, such as:
- MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output)
- Beamforming
- Smart Connect
MU-MIMO and Beamforming
MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, improving overall performance and reducing latency. Beamforming focuses the router’s signal towards specific devices, enhancing signal strength and stability.
Smart Connect
Smart Connect is a feature that automatically assigns devices to the best available Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). This can simplify connectivity and ensure optimal performance for all connected devices.
Setup and Ease of Use
Both the Archer C20 and C24 are designed to be easy to set up and use. They come with a web-based interface that allows you to configure the router’s settings and manage your network. The Archer C24 also has a mobile app that provides convenient access to some of the router’s features.
Security
Both the Archer C20 and C24 offer a range of security features, including:
- WPA2/WPA3 encryption
- Firewall
- Denial-of-Service (DoS) protection
Comparison Table
| Feature | Archer C20 | Archer C24 |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11n | 802.11n |
| Maximum Speed | 300 Mbps | 300 Mbps |
| Number of Antennas | 2 | 4 |
| MU-MIMO | No | Yes |
| Beamforming | No | Yes |
| Smart Connect | No | Yes |
| Setup | Web-based interface | Web-based interface, mobile app |
Which Router is Right for You?
The TP-Link Archer C20 is a budget-friendly option that provides basic Wi-Fi connectivity for small homes and apartments. The Archer C24 offers better coverage and signal strength, as well as additional features such as MU-MIMO and Beamforming. If you have a larger home or require more advanced features, the Archer C24 is the better choice.
Beyond the Comparison
In addition to the features discussed above, here are some other factors to consider when choosing between the Archer C20 and C24:
- Price: The Archer C20 is typically priced lower than the Archer C24.
- Warranty: Both routers come with a one-year warranty.
- Support: TP-Link offers technical support for both routers via phone, email, and live chat.
Alternatives to Consider
If neither the Archer C20 nor C24 meets your specific needs, here are a few alternatives to consider:
- TP-Link Archer A6: A more affordable option with similar features to the Archer C20.
- TP-Link Archer C4000: A higher-end option with faster speeds and more advanced features.
- ASUS RT-AC68U: A popular router with excellent performance and a user-friendly interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which router has better coverage?
The Archer C24 has better coverage than the Archer C20 due to its four antennas.
2. Which router is faster?
Both routers have the same maximum speed of 300 Mbps.
3. Which router has more features?
The Archer C24 has more features than the Archer C20, including MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and Smart Connect.
4. Which router is easier to set up?
Both routers are easy to set up using their web-based interfaces.
5. Which router is better for gaming?
The Archer C24 is better for gaming due to its lower latency and more stable connections.