Linksys ac1900 vs. Netgear ac1900- Which is the better Wi-Fi networking router?
A good Wi-Fi networking router ensures stable and fast internet connections to multiple devices on your local network. Linksys ac1900 and Netgear ac1900 are some of the best performing routers available on the market today.
Other than the device’s size and design, there are several factors that come into play when buying a Wi-Fi networking router. It is essential to get a router that supports high-speed and stable connections, and one with enough ports to ensure the connection of all your devices. Linksys and Netgear are two giants in the home networking industry. They consistently deliver high-quality wireless routers that bring digital home entertainment to all your connected devices. In this review, we compare Linksys ac1900 and Netgear ac1900 to find out why these two routers are at the top of many consumer lists.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Linksys ac1900 and Netgear ac1900?
Model name |
Linksys ac1900 |
Netgear ac1900 (Winner) |
Processor |
800MHz dual-core ARM Cortex A9 CPU |
1GHz dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor |
Devices |
Up to 50 user devices |
Up to 30 user devices |
Weight |
1.2 pounds |
1.7 pounds |
Speed |
600Mbps-2.4GHz
1300Mbps-5GHz |
600Mbps-2.4GHz
1300Mbps-5GHz |
Linksys ac1900 vs. Netgear ac1900- How do they compare?
Hardware and installation
Linksys ac1900 is a decent router that runs on an 800MHz dual-core processor and has a memory of128MB as well as 256MB DDR3 RAM. It also houses the Broadcomm BCM4708A that comes with ‘Turbo QAM,’ which is an advanced proprietary technology that boosts the theoretical 802.11n speeds to 600Mbps from a previous 450Mbps. Its top-quality chipset, along with its decent processor, increases the router’s wireless signal to all connected devices.
On the other hand, Netgear ac1900 also comes with the same Broadcomm chipset as the Linksys ac1900, which boosts overall performance to allow it to work at a maximum speed of 1900Mbps. This router also has 128MB of native flash memory, 256MB RAM and 1GHz dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor. It processes 1billion bits of information simultaneously without compromising the stability of its connection. It has an easy plug-and-play setup as it comes with a preset password and name printed on the device’s label.
Netgear ac1900, therefore, has a more powerful processor than the Linksys ac1900.
Design
The critical difference between Linksys ac1900 and Netgear ac1900 is their size and shape. Linksys ac1900 Wi-Fi router has a nice-looking design, which features a glossy-finish top and a shape similar to that of a UFO. It also has three detachable antennas that come from its back and measurements of 10.1 by7.3 by 1.6 inches, making it quite a compact router. The router can either lay flat on a surface or opt to mount it on a wall.
Alternatively, Netgear ac1900 comes in a much larger shape with dimensions of 11.2 by 7.3 by 2.0 inches. Due to its extra bulky design, you can only use this router while laying down flat on a surface as it cannot stand vertically. However, it is wall-mountable and has three detachable antennas. The router consists of a plastic enclosure that is solid and sturdy, and its skin does not attract any fingerprints.
Linksys ac1900 is, therefore, a better-looking router due to its compact and lightweight design.
Devices
One of the factors that determine the efficiency and versatility of a router is the number of connected devices it can handle simultaneously. Routers that can handle multiple user connections without compromising the strength and stability of their internet signal are far superior to those that cannot.
Linksys ac1900 can handle a maximum of 50 users at the same time without lagging or buffering issues. Its three external antennas and beamforming technology allows all the connected devices to experience excellent connection. It also comes with 4 Gigabit ports that support wired devices.
Netgear ac1900 supports up to 30 devices between its dual bands, ensuring that they all experience minimized interruptions while maximizing their internet speeds. The router also has four Gigabit ports for fast wired connections and two USB ports to connect a printer or a storage device across your local network.
Linksys ac1900 is more reliable and versatile as it connects up to 50 users at a time.
Linksys ac1900 vs. Netgear ac1900-A comparison overview
Linksys ac1900 (EA6900)
- Up to N600 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + AC1300 Mbps (5.0 GHz) speeds with Simultaneous Dual Band
- Platform Compatibility : Windows XP, Windows Vista 32/64, Windows 7 32/64, Windows 8 32/64, Mac 10.5.8...
If you are looking for a router that offers uncompromised wireless performance, Linksys ac1900 is the ideal option. With its sleek and modern design, this dual-band router offers blistering n-band speeds of 600Mbps on its 2.4GHz frequency and 1300Mbps on its 5GHz frequency, giving a combined throughput of 1900Mbps.
The ac1900 from Linksys features QoS (quality of service) settings, which allow you to prioritize tasks that are more important on your network. It also has three adjustable external antennas for directing and focusing your Wi-Fi signal. These antennas have high-powered amplifiers that transmit signals to multi-story buildings or homes.
Another impressive feature of this router is that it utilizes Wireless AC technology, which allows it to take advantage of its beamforming technology. As a result, the router can strengthen and improve the speed of the signal to a specific device, instead of scattering a broad-based signal. It also minimizes the interference and ensures the signal is stable for all your connected devices.
Linksys ac1900 offers you several ports for your wired devices. In addition to its two USB ports (USB 2.0 and 3.0), this device also houses four Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it quite simple to share data to external devices across your local network. The router also comes with a convenient Smart Wi-Fi app that allows you to monitor and control it right from your phone. For instance, you can setup new guest passwords, manage your network’s performance and even configuration parental controls directly from the palm of your hand.
Pros
- Easy to use and install
- Incredible wireless performance
- Stylish and compact design
- It comes with the latest chipsets available
Cons
- Unstable 5GHz frequency
Netgear ac1900 (r7000)
- Fast wifi performance: Get up to 1800 square feet wireless coverage with AC1900 speed (Dual band up to...
- Recommended for up to 30 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect...
The Netgear Nighthawk ac1900 (r7000) is one of the most popular and reliable Wi-Fi routers available on the market today. It features a powerful 1GHz dual-core processor, with 128MB flash memory and 256MB storage, all of which translates to overall speed of 1900Mbps. The router is pre-loaded with stock firmware and has a reasonably intuitive installation process.
One of the features that make this device an excellent buy is its dynamic QoS feature. With this feature, you can prioritize the network traffic to your local network to ensure stable and uninterrupted internet signals for online gaming or HD video streaming. This device also has three external antennas that come with beamforming+ technology that improves the mobile speeds of your network exponentially b sending targeted Wi-Fi signals.
It also has two USB ports (USB 2.0 and USB 3.0) that allow you to connect your printer and external hard drive simultaneously. With its Nighthawk app, this router is easy to set up and manage from one reliable source. The device also features a ReadyCLOUD app that allows you to access photos and files from any location.
Pros
- It comes with intuitive and advanced configuration options
- Uses dynamic QoS
- Comes with parental controls from Circle with Disney
- Offers ReadyCLOUD app for easy and secure file storage
- Excellent performance on its 5GHz band
Cons
- Quite bulky
Conclusion
There are numerous Wi-Fi router brands available on the market, making it challenging to pick one without adequately considering its features and your connectivity needs. Similarly, both the Linksys ac1900 and the Netgear ac1900 are premium quality routers with an impressive list of features. However, one is better than the other.
Final verdict: So, which is the better router between Linksys ac1900 and Netgear ac1900?
Despite its huge size, the Netgear ac1900 is a better Wi-Fi networking router than Linksys ac1900. This router offers you advanced configuration settings and looks more elegant compared to Linksys ac1900. However, if you prefer a router that has plug-and-play functionality, you should go for Linksys ac1900.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Ethernet cable that comes in Linksys ac1900’s (ea6900) package box?
The router comes with a 3 feet cable, but you can purchase a 12 feet long cable at an additional cost.
Does the Netgear ac1900 come with USB ports?
Yes, you should see two USB ports at the back and front parts of the router.
