TPLink AC1200 WiFi Router (Archer A6) Review

Introduction

In today’s technology-driven world, a reliable and fast Wi-Fi connection is essential for seamless online experiences. While high-end routers can be costly, TP-Link’s Archer A6 AC1200 WiFi Router offers a compelling solution for budget-conscious users seeking a stable and efficient wireless network.

Performance and Features: Delivering a Smooth Online Experience

The TP-Link Archer A6 boasts dual-band connectivity, operating on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. This dual-band architecture provides flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of devices, ensuring optimal performance for both older and newer gadgets.

On the 2.4GHz band, the Archer A6 delivers up to 300Mbps of data transfer rates, catering to basic internet browsing, video streaming, and casual gaming. For more demanding tasks like HD video playback and online gaming, the 5GHz band kicks in, providing up to 867Mbps of blazing-fast speeds.

During my testing, the Archer A6 proved its worth in a 1,200 square feet apartment. Streaming HD videos, browsing the web, and enjoying online gaming were all accomplished without noticeable lag or buffering, thanks to the router’s consistent delivery of speeds around 500Mbps on the 5GHz band. While the 2.4GHz band offered slightly slower speeds, around 80Mbps, it proved sufficient for everyday tasks like email and basic internet browsing.

Unveiling the Coverage and Speed of the TP-Link Archer A6 AC1200

The Archer 1200 is designed to provide ample coverage for average-sized homes. Its four external antennas effectively distribute Wi-Fi signals throughout the house, reaching even the farthest corners. Additionally, the router’s Beamforming technology focuses wireless signals towards connected devices, further extending its reach and eliminating dead zones.

I positioned the Archer A6 centrally in my apartment(1,200 square feet), ensuring it had a clear line of sight to all corners of the dwelling. With the router strategically placed, I equipped my smartphone with the Wi-Fi Speedtest app and embarked on a journey to map the router’s coverage footprint.

Coverage Testing

Starting from the living room, where I typically spend most of my time, I measured the signal strength. The app indicated a strong signal, with readings consistently hovering between -50 dBm and -20 dBm. Satisfied with the results in the central area, I ventured towards the bedroom, the kitchen, and the bathroom, repeating the signal strength measurements. Read More : Who is Connected to Your WiFi Router?

• In the bedroom: the signal strength remained relatively consistent, with readings around -55 dBm to -35 dBm. This indicated a strong and reliable signal, capable of supporting everyday Wi-Fi activities like browsing the web, checking emails, and streaming music.
• Moving into the kitchen, the signal strength showed a slight dip, with readings ranging from -60 dBm to -40 dBm. While not quite as strong as in the living room, this was still an acceptable signal for most uses.
• The bathroom, being the farthest point from the router, exhibited the weakest signal, with readings between -65 dBm and -50 dBm. While not quite as strong as the other areas, this signal was still adequate for basic Wi-Fi tasks.

Signal Strength Change in Different Locations at 2.4GHz band-TP-Link Archer A6 (Ac1200)

Speed Test Validation

To further validate the coverage test results, I conducted speed tests using the fast.com web site. The results were consistent with the signal strength measurements. In the living room, I achieved download speeds of up to 84 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 32 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. These speeds were sufficient for streaming HD videos, playing online games, and downloading large files.

• In the bedroom, the speed tests yielded slightly lower results, with download speeds of around 70 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 34 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. This was still acceptable for most uses, and I was able to stream HD videos and browse the web without any buffering or lag.
• In the kitchen, the speed tests were also consistent with the signal strength readings. I measured download speeds of around 65 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 32 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. While not quite as fast as in the living room, these speeds were still sufficient for everyday Wi-Fi activities.
• In the bathroom, the speed tests further confirmed the slight signal degradation. I achieved download speeds of around 45 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 21 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. While not the fastest speeds, they were still adequate for basic Wi-Fi tasks.

Speed Test at 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands-TP-Link AC1200 (A6)

Simplicity and User-Friendliness

The TP-Link Archer A6 boasts a user-friendly setup process, making it even accessible to tech-savvy individuals. The Quick Setup Wizard guides you through the installation process in simple steps, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Once connected, the Archer A6’s intuitive web interface provides comprehensive control over various settings, allowing you to customize your network preferences. From adjusting network security to managing guest access, the web interface makes it easy to manage your network effectively.

Affordable Excellence

The TP-Link Archer A6 AC1200 WiFi Router stands out for its exceptional value proposition. Offering a balance of performance, features, and ease of use at an affordable price, it’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable and efficient wireless network.

Whether you’re a student in a dorm room, a working professional in an apartment, or a family with multiple devices in a small home, the Archer A6 delivers a seamless Wi-Fi experience without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Overall, the TP-Link Archer A6 AC1200 WiFi Router is a well-rounded router that offers a good balance of performance, features, and user-friendliness at an affordable price. I am awarding it a score of 7 out of 10, considering its strengths in speed, features, and ease of use. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly router that can handle your basic Wi-Fi needs, the TPLink Archer A6 is a solid option. However, if you have more demanding requirements or a larger home, you might want to consider a more expensive router with enhanced features and performance.