Overview
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with good performance and coverage, the Deco M4 is a solid choice.
- If you’re willing to spend more for faster speeds, better coverage, and a wider range of features, the Ubiquiti AmpliFi is the better option.
- The Deco M4 is a great choice for budget-conscious consumers, while the AmpliFi is the better option for those who demand the best possible performance and features.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as a game-changer, offering seamless connectivity and extended coverage throughout your living space. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the TP-Link Deco M4 and Ubiquiti. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each system to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
TP-Link Deco M4: The Deco M4 features a sleek and compact design with a matte white finish. Its small size and understated appearance make it easy to blend into any home décor. The units are made of durable plastic and feel well-built.
Ubiquiti: Ubiquiti’s mesh system, known as AmpliFi, takes a more unconventional approach. The mesh points are cylindrical in shape and come in a variety of colors, including black, white, and red. They are made of a combination of plastic and metal, giving them a more premium feel.
Performance and Coverage
TP-Link Deco M4: The Deco M4 delivers solid performance with speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. It uses a proprietary mesh technology called Adaptive Routing, which automatically optimizes the network for the best possible performance. The system provides coverage of up to 2,800 square feet with a 3-pack.
Ubiquiti: Ubiquiti AmpliFi boasts faster speeds with up to 450 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1,300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. It uses a more advanced mesh technology called MeshPro, which provides better coverage and stability. The system can cover up to 4,500 square feet with a 3-pack.
Features
TP-Link Deco M4: The Deco M4 offers a range of features, including parental controls, guest Wi-Fi, and a built-in antivirus. It also has an app that allows you to manage the system remotely.
Ubiquiti: Ubiquiti AmpliFi has a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in touchscreen display, advanced network management tools, and support for third-party applications. It also has a cloud-based management system that allows you to monitor and control the network from anywhere.
Price and Value
TP-Link Deco M4: The Deco M4 is a budget-friendly option, with a 2-pack starting at around $100. It offers good value for the price, providing solid performance and coverage.
Ubiquiti: Ubiquiti AmpliFi is a more expensive system, with a 3-pack starting at around $300. It offers faster speeds, better coverage, and a wider range of features.
Which System is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Deco M4 and Ubiquiti depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with good performance and coverage, the Deco M4 is a solid choice. If you’re willing to spend more for faster speeds, better coverage, and a wider range of features, the Ubiquiti AmpliFi is the better option.
Summary
Both the TP-Link Deco M4 and Ubiquiti AmpliFi are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable connectivity and extended coverage. The Deco M4 is a great choice for budget-conscious consumers, while the AmpliFi is the better option for those who demand the best possible performance and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which system has better parental controls?
A: Both systems offer parental controls, but Ubiquiti AmpliFi provides more advanced features, such as content filtering and time limits.
Q: Can these systems be used outdoors?
A: No, neither the TP-Link Deco M4 nor the Ubiquiti AmpliFi are designed for outdoor use.
Q: Can I use these systems with my existing router?
A: Yes, both systems can be used as an add-on to your existing router to extend coverage or improve performance.