TP-Link Unveils Trio of Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Routers and Gaming-Focused Archer Series
Deco Lineup: Good, Better, Best
TP-Link’s Deco lineup welcomes three new mesh Wi-Fi routers built on the latest Wi-Fi 6 (IEEE 802.11ax) standard. While these devices lack the integrated Zigbee smart home hub present in the Deco M9 Plus, they boast impressive connectivity options.
TP-Link Deco X90: Flagship Mesh Router
Leading the pack is the Deco X90, a tri-band router that promises astonishing wireless throughput:
- 574Mbps on its 2.4GHz network
- 1,201Mbps on its first 5GHz network
- A staggering 4,804Mbps on its second 5GHz network
The router utilizes a dynamic backhaul feature that can distribute data traffic across all three networks for optimal performance. TP-Link estimates that a two-pack, priced at $450, can blanket up to 6,000 square feet with Wi-Fi coverage when it becomes available in April.
Despite its impressive specs, the Deco X90 has a single WAN and LAN port, limiting its wired connectivity options. For homes with extensive wired infrastructure, a network switch will be necessary.
TP-Link Deco X60: Mid-Tier Mesh Router
For less demanding environments, TP-Link offers the Deco X60, a dual-band mesh Wi-Fi router capable of delivering:
- 574Mbps on its 2.4GHz network
- 2,402Mbps on its 5GHz network
A two-pack, priced at $270, is expected to support up to 150 devices simultaneously and cover an area of about 5,000 square feet.
TP-Link Deco X20: Entry-Level Mesh Router
The Deco X20 represents TP-Link’s entry-level offering. While it has the same 574Mbps throughput on its 2.4GHz network, its 5GHz network is slightly slower at 1,201Mbps.
A two-pack will cost $190, while a three-pack will set you back $270. It is expected to ship in March.
HomeCare Pro: Enhanced Security and Controls
TP-Link continues its partnership with Avira to provide HomeCare Pro on its mesh routers. This service offers:
- Optimized security for IoT devices to prevent unauthorized access
- Customizable parental controls
After a free trial period, HomeCare Pro will require a subscription of $5.99 per month or $54.99 per year.
Archer Series: Gaming Routers
For gaming enthusiasts, TP-Link introduces the Archer series of Wi-Fi 6 gaming routers.
TP-Link Archer GX90: Top-Tier Gaming Router
The Archer GX90 is a tri-band model that delivers:
- 574Mbps on its 2.4GHz network
- 1,201Mbps on its first 5GHz network
- 4,804Mbps on its second 5GHz network dedicated to gaming
It features a 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN port, a 1Gbps WAN/LAN port, and a three-port gigabit LAN switch. Additionally, it has USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports for expanded connectivity.
The Archer GX90’s Gaming Accelerator feature prioritizes gaming traffic to ensure optimal performance during online play. TP-Link anticipates it will be available in late Q2 for $330.
TP-Link Archer AX90: Non-Gaming Variant
For those seeking a powerful router without gaming optimizations, the Archer AX90 is the ideal choice. It offers the same features as the GX90 but lacks the gaming-specific enhancements. It will ship in April for $300.
TP-Link CPE710: Directional Wi-Fi Antenna
While not explicitly marketed to home users, TP-Link’s CPE710 directional Wi-Fi antenna is an intriguing device. It allows users to create two Wi-Fi networks over a long distance using a single broadband source:
- Mount one CPE710 outside the building with the router
- Install a second CPE710 at the receiving location
- Connect the second CPE710 to a Wi-Fi access point to create a second network
This setup eliminates the need for a separate ISP connection at the second location. The antenna is expected to cost less than $150 each, providing a cost-effective solution for extending Wi-Fi coverage over vast distances.
