Eero vs. TP-link deco: Which mesh router is more reliable?
There are numerous mesh networking systems available on the market. As a result, it is confusing to choose which router and range extender is most suitable for your connectivity needs. Let us look at Eero and TP-link Deco and determine which reigns supreme.
In this era of connectivity, the competition between mesh networking systems is very tight as different products offer an extensive range of features. Whether you want the best user experience while playing online games or streaming high-quality videos, or building a smart home, having a high-quality and reliable wireless router is a vital element in tech life. A mesh network aids in blanketing your home with coverage, eliminating any dead spots within your home.
Eero and TP-link Deco M5 are two solid mesh systems that provide a speedy and consistent wireless network. In this comparison review, we shall look into the similarities and differences between Eero and TP-link Deco wireless routers.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Eero and TP-link Deco M5?
Model |
Eero mesh router |
TP-link Deco M5 (Winner) |
Dimensions |
of 3.8 by 3.8 by 2.36 inches |
4.72 by 4.72 by 1.34 inches |
Speed and performance |
2.4 GHz – 300Mbps
5 GHz – 600Mbps |
2.4GHz-400Mbps
5GHz-867Mbps |
Coverage |
5000 square feet |
Up to 5500 square feet |
Devices connected |
Up to 128 connected devices |
Up to 100 devices |
Eero vs. TP-link Deco M5 – How do they compare?
Product dimensions
The Eero Wi-Fi router features a simple and modern design with a glossy white finish and soft round corners. Its compact nature allows it to complement any background without occupying a lot of space or attracting plenty of attention. Furthermore, the Eero mesh system comes with one primary node and two beacon nodes, which are inserted through an electrical outlet. It measures 3.8 by 3.8 by 2.36 inches and weighs 7.2 ounces.
Alternatively, the TP-link Deco M5 is a simple yet stylish device with a single LED light that serves as the system and Wi-Fi indicator of the current status. It features a disk shape that measures 4.72 by 4.72 by 1.34 inches and has a mass weight of 1.02 pounds (16.32 ounces). More so, this low profile device has a white matte finish that allows it to blend with any décor easily.
Eero is, therefore, more lightweight and compact than the TP-link Deco M5.
Performance and speed
Eero Mesh router features a theoretical 400 Mbps on its 2.4 GHz channel and 866 Mbps on the 5 GHz channel. In a real-world environment, it had a speed of 199Mbps at 30 feet, and when tested with an internet service provider of 80 Mbps, it featured an upload speed of 4.42Mbps and a download speed of 77.Mbps at a distance of 13 feet.
On the other hand, TP-link Deco M5 id a dual-band device with a total theoretical speed of 1300Mbps as it offers 867Mbps on its 5 GHz band and 400Mbps on its 2.4GHz band. When tested in a real-world environment, it provided a speed of 249Mbps at a distance of 30 feet and 444Mbps in the close-proximity (same room) test. However, both devices have 2*2 MU-MIMO technologies and come with 2 Gigabit ports each.
TP-link Deco M5 is, therefore, a faster router than Eero mesh router due to its speedy performance.
Coverage
Mesh networking systems offer users multiple access points that distribute traffic evenly, ascertaining fast, secure, and reliable connections. Generally, TP-link Deco M5 offers better coverage than Eero Mesh router with network coverage of up to 5500 sq. Ft. compared to Eero’s 5000 sq. Ft. As a result, connected devices can enjoy uninterrupted internet connections from their backyard to their bedroom.
Devices connected
One of the crucial factors to consider when buying a wireless router is the number of devices it can handle. As a general rule of thumb, the number of devices a router can cater to determine the extent of its functionality comfortably.
The Eero mesh router can connect up to 128 users. However, if its connected devices are performing demanding processes that require substantial internet bandwidth, like streaming high-quality videos, it is best to connect a maximum of 30 devices. It also has two additional LAN ports, which increases the number of devices connected to it, making it the perfect router for a small office or a medium-sized home.
On the other hand, TP-link Deco M5 offers enough bandwidth for up to 100 connected devices. It also comes with 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, adding to the number of connected wired devices it can handle.
Eero mesh router is, therefore, a more reliable router as it can connect more devices than TP-link Deco M5.
Eero vs. TP-link Deco – A comparison review
Eero mesh router
- WHOLE-HOME COVERAGE - The eero mesh WiFi system brings up to 4,500 sq. ft. of fast, reliable WiFi to your...
- WORKS WITH ALEXA- With eero and an Alexa device (not included), you can easily manage wifi access for...
Back in 2016, Eero mesh router was among the first mesh routers that eliminated dead zones within homes. Its functional yet affordable nature made it quite popular among consumers. The router is available with an additional two or three beacons plus the router. All the devices in the package are white, compact and feature a sleek and compact design that allows it to comfortably fit within the palm of your hand. The router has a small LED light at the top center that serves as a status indicator with different colors representing different configurations or issues. Furthermore, it is quite easy to configure and use this mesh systems as it involves using one of the units to connect to your preexisting modem or router using an Ethernet cable while the other nodes are positioned at or near dead zones.
Each beacon node provides a network range of 1500 sq. Feet, meaning all the three nodes will offer you a maximum network range of about 5000 square feet, perfect for medium to large-sized homes with two or three bedrooms. Other distinctive features of this router is its Secure Plus plan, a robust parental control system, which requires a payment plan before you can use it.
Pros
- Simple and sleek design
- Users can use an unlimited number of beacons
- easy to set up and install
- It is wall mountable
- Compatible with Alexa
Cons
- Expensive due to the subscription fee for its inbuilt security
TP-link Deco M5
- If you're looking to ditch your traditional router extender setup for a whole Home Wi-Fi system, put the...
- Better coverage than traditional Wi-Fi routers: Deco M5 uses 3 units working seamlessly to create a mesh...
As one of the most reputable brands that provide premium quality wireless routers, TP-link produced its Deco line as its first mesh networking kit, designed to improve the coverage in your home by using multiple boxes to distribute the signal from one end of your home to another.
TP-link Deco M5 features a sleek and attractive disk shape design with a status LED at its top. It comes with two Gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB Type-C power port, and a Reset button. The device offers up to 5500 square feet of coverage, and a maximum speed of 1300Mbps with its 2.4GHz channel providing 400Mbps and its 5GHz band providing 867Mpbs.
Furthermore, this dual-band mesh router supports MU-MIMO and beamforming technology and also comes with malware and virus protection for all connected devices. With TP-Link’s Adaptive Routing Technology (ART), the router can choose the best possible bandwidth for optimal throughput speeds for its connected devices. Likewise, it is easy to use and install due to its user-friendly TP-link Deco mobile app for Android and iOS.
It is also worthy to note that this router comes with a 638MHz quad-core processor, 256MB RAM, and 32MB NOR flash memory. The router is also equipped with a Bluetooth 4.2 Bluecore chip. It also boasts of robust parental controls, which are easily accessible on its mobile app.
Pros
- Impressive throughput speed
- Attractive design
- Easy to install
- Efficient and easy to use parental controls
- In-built malware and virus protection
- User0friendly mobile app
Cons
- No dedicated backhaul band control
Conclusion
A good mesh network should feature a perfect combination of performance, speed, and extensive coverage to ensure secure and fast network connectivity. Both Eero mesh router and TP-link Deco m5 are high-quality wireless routers packed with exceptional features.
Final verdict: So which is better, Eero or TP-link Deco?
After considering all factors, TP-link Deco M5 emerged as the better choice due to its affordable price and speedy yet consistent performance compared to Eero. It also has better coverage, and it is easy to install.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to connect this router with its other devices in the mesh system?
Yes, you can hardwire the devices together and use the wired Ethernet as the dedicated backhaul band control.
Does Eero mesh router support USB connectivity?
Eero Mesh router has no USB ports as it only comes with two Ethernet ports.
