TP-Link Archer AXE75 WiFi 6E Router review for seamless gaming and streaming

Description

Impressive Design and Build Quality

From the moment I unpacked the TP-Link AXE5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (Archer AXE75), I could tell this device was designed with both form and function in mind. The sleek black finish and angular design make it look modern and high-tech, a fitting centerpiece for any home office or entertainment setup. At just 1.52 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight, but don’t let that fool you—it feels sturdy enough to endure daily usage. The 12.91 x 10.43 x 4.72-inch dimensions make it compact yet large enough to house the powerful internals that this router boasts.

The layout of the antennas is smartly done. With six adjustable antennas, I was able to optimize them for better coverage around my home. The LED indicators on the front are subtle yet informative, offering quick insights into the router’s status without being distracting. It’s a small detail, but I appreciated the thoughtfulness behind it.

Performance That Lives Up to Expectations

The Archer AXE75 truly shines when it comes to performance. Supporting Tri-Band WiFi 6E, it delivers speeds up to 5400 Mbps (split across 6 GHz, 5 GHz, and 2.4 GHz bands). I tested this router in a household with multiple users streaming, gaming, and downloading all at once, and it didn’t break a sweat. Streaming 4K content on multiple devices felt effortless, and even during intense gaming sessions, the near-zero latency on the 6 GHz band made a noticeable difference.

The addition of OFDMA technology is a game-changer. It significantly boosts the router’s capacity, allowing it to handle connections from multiple devices simultaneously. In my home, where no fewer than 15 smart devices are connected at any time, this feature proved invaluable. The router’s 1.7 GHz Quad-Core CPU and 512 MB high-speed memory ensure smooth performance even under heavy load, which is not something I can say about all routers in this price range.

Favorable Aspects

• Blazing-fast speeds on all bands, especially the new 6 GHz band.
• The OFDMA technology ensures seamless connectivity for a large number of devices.
• Equipped with TP-Link HomeShield, offering advanced network and IoT security features.
• Supports VPN Server and Client functionality, a rare but highly appreciated feature.
• The OneMesh compatibility ensures whole-home coverage when paired with TP-Link extenders.

Security and Parental Controls

One standout feature of this router is the TP-Link HomeShield. With this premium security service, I felt confident that my network was protected from potential threats. The basic network security tools, like Security Scan and IoT Device Identification, worked well to identify and secure connected devices. For families, the Parental Controls are a lifesaver. I tested the feature by setting browsing limits for my kids’ devices, and it worked without a hitch. The Quality of Service (QoS) option allowed me to prioritize bandwidth for work-related tasks, which was a blessing during video calls.

While the free features are robust, there’s an option to upgrade to premium services. That said, the basic tools included should suffice for most households.

Areas for Improvement

• The setup process could be more intuitive for non-tech-savvy users. While the TP-Link Tether app simplifies some of it, the initial configuration might feel overwhelming for beginners.
• The coverage range, though decent, could fall short for very large homes or multi-story setups unless paired with a OneMesh extender.
• Advanced features like HomeShield Premium require a subscription, which may not sit well with all users.

Competing Products

In comparison to other premium routers like the Netgear Nighthawk AXE7800 or the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000, the Archer AXE75 holds its ground remarkably well. While the competitors might offer slightly higher speeds or more advanced gaming features, they come with a significantly higher price tag. The TP-Link router excels in providing a balanced combination of speed, features, and affordability. For users who don’t require ultra-high-end performance but still want excellent speeds and robust security, this router is a clear winner.

On the other hand, mid-range routers like the Google Nest WiFi fall short in terms of speed and advanced features. While Google’s offering may have a more user-friendly setup and better aesthetics, it can’t compete with the Archer AXE75’s tri-band capabilities and 6 GHz band.

Cost Efficiency

The price-performance ratio of this router is impressive. Given its cutting-edge features like the 6 GHz band, VPN capabilities, and OneMesh compatibility, I would argue it’s worth every penny. Compared to higher-end models that cost significantly more, this router offers nearly the same performance at a fraction of the price. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking a balance between affordability and top-tier features, making it a budget-friendly option for most households.

In my experience, spending a bit more on a router like this pays off in the long run. It not only improves internet speeds but also enhances the overall user experience with features like parental controls, advanced security, and seamless device management.

Additional information