Essential Information
- The TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 share a similar sleek and compact design, featuring a cylindrical form factor with a matte white finish.
- The X50 features a dual-band AC1300 Wi-Fi system, with speeds of up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 400 Mbps on the 2.
- The X50 is a solid choice for smaller homes or those with moderate usage, while the X55 is recommended for larger homes, multiple floors, or households with a high number of connected devices.
In the realm of home networking, TP-Link’s Deco series has established itself as a reliable and feature-packed solution for seamless Wi-Fi coverage. The Deco X50 and X55 models stand out as two compelling options, offering a range of capabilities to meet diverse user needs. This comprehensive review analyzes and compares the key features of these two devices to help you make an informed decision for your home network.
Design and Build
The TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 share a similar sleek and compact design, featuring a cylindrical form factor with a matte white finish. Both models are designed to blend seamlessly into any home décor. The X55, however, is slightly larger than the X50, measuring 4.8 inches in diameter and 2.6 inches in height compared to the X50’s 4.1 inches in diameter and 2.4 inches in height.
Wi-Fi Performance
The primary difference between the TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 lies in their Wi-Fi capabilities. The X50 features a dual-band AC1300 Wi-Fi system, with speeds of up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The X55, on the other hand, boasts a tri-band AX1800 Wi-Fi system, offering speeds of up to 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, and a dedicated 574 Mbps backhaul band.
This additional backhaul band on the X55 significantly enhances the stability and performance of the network, especially in environments with multiple devices connected.
Coverage and Capacity
The TP-Link Deco X50 is designed to cover up to 2,000 square feet, while the X55 extends this coverage to 3,000 square feet. Both models support Mesh Wi-Fi technology, allowing you to create a seamless network throughout your entire home. The X55’s increased coverage and capacity make it a suitable choice for larger homes or those with multiple floors.
Number of Devices Supported
The TP-Link Deco X50 can support up to 100 connected devices, while the X55 can handle up to 150 devices simultaneously. This increased capacity on the X55 is ideal for households with multiple IoT devices, streaming services, and smart home appliances.
Connectivity Options
Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 offer a range of connectivity options. They both feature two Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, as well as a USB 2.0 port for sharing files or connecting external storage devices. The X55, however, includes an additional 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, providing faster wired speeds for devices like gaming consoles or NAS drives.
Features
The TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 come with a suite of advanced features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. These features include:
- Parental Controls: Set limits on internet access, filter content, and pause the internet for specific devices.
- Guest Network: Create a separate network for visitors with limited access to your main network.
- QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize bandwidth allocation for specific devices or activities, such as gaming or video streaming.
- Roaming: Seamlessly switch between Deco units as you move around your home, maintaining a stable connection.
Ease of Use
Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 are designed for easy setup and management. They come with a dedicated mobile app that guides you through the installation process and provides ongoing network management. The app also offers remote access, allowing you to control your network from anywhere.
Verdict
The TP-Link Deco X50 and X55 are both excellent Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable and high-speed internet connectivity. The X50 is a solid choice for smaller homes or those with moderate usage, while the X55 is recommended for larger homes, multiple floors, or households with a high number of connected devices.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize coverage, capacity, and speed, the TP-Link Deco X55 is the superior option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable and compact solution, the TP-Link Deco X50 is still a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between the TP-Link Deco X50 and X55?
A1: The main difference between the Deco X50 and X55 is their Wi-Fi capabilities. The X50 features a dual-band AC1300 system, while the X55 offers a tri-band AX1800 system with a dedicated backhaul band. The X55 also has increased coverage, capacity, and connectivity options compared to the X50.
Q2: Which model is better for larger homes?
A2: The TP-Link Deco X55 is better suited for larger homes or those with multiple floors due to its increased coverage and capacity. It can cover up to 3,000 square feet and supports up to 150 connected devices.
Q3: Can I use the TP-Link Deco X50 or X55 with my existing modem?
A3: Yes, both the Deco X50 and X55 are compatible with most standard modems. You can connect them directly to your modem to create a Wi-Fi network.