Modified on 6 June 2024
The world of home networking is constantly evolving, and choosing the right mesh system can be a daunting task. TP-Link offers two compelling options: the Deco XE200 boasting the latest WiFi 6E standard, and the Deco BE65 featuring the cutting-edge WiFi 7 technology. But which one is right for you? Let’s break down the key differences and help you decide.
WiFi 6E vs. WiFi 7: A Brief Comparison
WiFi 6E is an extension of WiFi 6, introducing the 6 GHz frequency band. This addition significantly expands available bandwidth, reduces congestion, and offers higher speeds. WiFi 6E boasts improved speed and reduced latency compared to its predecessors, making it ideal for environments with many connected devices.
WiFi 7 is the next leap in wireless technology, promising even faster speeds and lower latency than WiFi 6E. WiFi 7 introduces features such as Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and 320 MHz channel bandwidth, effectively doubling the maximum bandwidth of WiFi 6E. This translates to unparalleled performance, particularly in demanding scenarios like 8K video streaming and virtual reality gaming.
Key Differences: Speed, Latency, Range, and Penetration
- Speed: WiFi 7 is expected to deliver peak speeds up to 46 Gbps, while WiFi 6E maxes out around 9.6 Gbps. This makes WiFi 7 nearly five times faster.
- Latency: WiFi 7 significantly reduces latency with its advanced multi-link operation and efficient spectrum usage, making it superior for real-time applications such as online gaming and video conferencing.
- Range and Penetration: Both WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 use the 6 GHz band, which offers less interference and higher capacity but slightly reduced range compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. However, WiFi 7’s advanced technologies may slightly enhance range and penetration within the same frequency band.
Similarities Between the Deco XE200 and Deco BE65:
Despite the generational gap, both mesh systems share several features:
- Mesh Networking: Both Deco units seamlessly create a blanket of WiFi coverage throughout your home, eliminating dead zones.
- Easy Setup: Setting up either system is a breeze using the TP-Link Deco app.
- Parental Controls: Keep your family safe online with built-in parental controls.
- Guest Network: Provide a separate network for guests to access your internet without compromising your main network.
- Security: Both units offer WPA3. Learn why that is important in our article on Keeping Your Wi-Fi Safe: From WPA2 to WPA3
Key Differences
| Feature | Deco XE200 (WiFi 6E) | Deco BE65 (WiFi 7) |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ax (WiFi 6E) | 802.11be (WiFi 7) |
| Wi-Fi Speed | AXE11000 6 GHz: 4804 Mbps (802.11ax, HE160) 5 GHz: 4804 Mbps (802.11ax, HE160) 2.4 GHz: 1148 Mbps (802.11ax) | BE9300 6 GHz: 5760 Mbps (802.11be) 5 GHz: 2880 Mbps (802.11be) 2.4 GHz: 574 Mbps (802.11ax) |
| Latency | Lower | Significantly Lower |
| Ports | 1× 10 Gbps Port + 2× 1 Gigabit Ports | 4× 2.5 Gbps |
| Wi-Fi Capacity | 8×8 MU-MIMO 16 Streams | 2×2 MU-MIMO 6 Streams |
| Price | More Expensive | Less Expensive |
So even though WiFi 7 is theoretically faster than WiFi 6E, with these two specific units the WiFi 6E unit (XE200) is faster. Also take note that the WiFi 7 unit (BE 65) is faster on the 6Ghz frequency than on the 5Ghz. So if you predominantly have 5Ghz clients, the XE200 will give a faster connection to them. The fact that the XE200 has 8×8 MU-MIMU means you can connect to 4 seperate 2×2 clients (smartphone / computer / TV etc).
Use Cases:
- Deco XE200: Ideal for future-proofing your network and maximizing speeds for bandwidth-hungry activities like downloading large files and 4K streaming. Well-suited for gamers who prioritize low latency but may not need the absolute fastest speeds.
- Deco BE65: Perfect for budget-conscious users who want to experience the cutting-edge benefits of WiFi 7, especially the significant reduction in latency. Great for homes with many connected devices that require a responsive network.
The Takeaway: Invest in Your Future Connection
Whether you choose the Deco XE200 or Deco BE65, you’re investing in a robust and future-oriented home network. With either option, you’ll experience faster speeds, smoother connections, and a more enjoyable online experience. So, go forth and conquer the world of WiFi, one strong signal at a time!
