Tp-Link Deco Vs Google Wi-Fi – Investing in the most innovative Wi-Fi device
The current Wi-Fi devices do feature some of the latest innovative technology that consolidates the device’s management features on a single application that can be easily installed on mobile phones.
The 21st era has seen a major shift with the introduction of the latest smart home technology devices. Well, who knew that Alexa would assist us in the management of our home Wi-Fi devices? And that’s not all, with the introduction of the mesh system people can now access long-range internet coverage with high speeds no matter the size of the home. Below we take an in-depth look at the functionalities of the Tp-Link Deco and the Google Wi-Fi.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Tp-Link Deco M5 and the Google Wi-Fi
Model |
Tp-Link Deco |
Google Wi-fi |
Coverage |
5,000 |
4,500 |
Speeds |
1200mbps-Upload Speeds
1800mbps-Download Speeds |
101.41mbps-Download speeds at 5GHz
96.72 Mbps-Upload Speeds at 2.4GHz |
Beamforming |
Yes |
Yes |
Warranty |
2 Years |
Hardware Limited Warranty |
Tp-Link Deco M5 vs. the Google Wi-Fi – how do they Compare?
Capacity and Range
Each Google Wi-Fi node caters to 18 connected devices, so when they are all consolidated, the nodes in coordination will comfortably handle about 54 connected devices; which is quite a good capacity for a small home setting or a place where there are not so many internet users or devices that are using the same network.
So while you will be able to cater to a considerable number of network users, you also have to consider the range. For example, if you have a home of up to 4,500 sq. ft. then you will have to install up to 3 nodes, but for those users that have a home of only 1,500 sq. ft. then one node should cater to your needs and 2 nodes for homes of up to 3,000 sq. ft.
When it comes to the Tp-Link Deco Wifi devices they all come with different ranges, for example, the Deco M9 plus offers up to 6,500 sq. ft. and accommodate 100 devices while the x60 can offer coverage of up to 7,000 sq. ft. while catering to 150 devices. The other remaining Tp-Link deco devices can handle the small areas of 2000 sq. ft. or less, so it all depends on the size of your home and the range that you want to be covered.
Positioning in relation to signal strength
Tp-Link users are to be wary of three things that will tamper with their signal strength, and these are the location of the Wi-Fi device, physical obstructions, and wireless interference. So which is the best position for your Tp Link Deco, if we say upstairs you might think that we are having an overactive imagination but this type of positioning works very well.
Remember that the Tp-Link is a wireless mesh Wi-Fi device best utilized at home, so the higher the positioning the better the signals that you will be able to achieve on the connected devices and obstructions also tend to be minimal. However, if your house does not extend to the upstairs then you could place it high on a bookshelf but not behind the books, or on top of a high cabinet.
The above also encourages seamless communication between the nodes and consequently strong Wi-Fi signals and long-range coverage. If you have a metal cabinet then better put your Wi-Fi device away from it because it will affect your signal strength, also, keep away from thick walls and any location that is close to the floor because the wireless signals will be interfered with.
Electrical devices are also your Wi-Fi’s enemy and best you keep the two at far distances. The above information applies to the Tp-Link Deco devices.
Getting the right position for your Google Wi-Fi device is going to be one of the hardest things that you will have to do, the reason being that they need to be in line to offer the best coverage. There are however other reasons that contribute to the logistics of setting up your Google Wi-Fi device, for example, the layout of your home.
The latter goes to show that your devices need to be positioned in such a way that they see each other, failure to which you will not be able to get good coverage. You will also have to place the nodes in the areas that devices are accessing the network and this is the one feature that puts Tp Link Deco above Google Wi-Fi.
With Tp-Link, all you need is a space to place the Wi-Fi device but with Google, you must achieve a straight line. Besides, you will also need to invest in more Wi-Fi points if you wish to get extended coverage.
Application and other support systems
For you to manage your Wi-Fi device you need an application either on the device complete with a responsive interface or a downloadable one like the ones used in the latest Wi-Fi devices. Tp-Link Deco does have an application that can be sourced from the app store, known as the Deco app. The application is mainly used in setting up the unit and for the overall management.
With the Phone application, users can tweak the Wi-fi device even when they are not in the exact location, they can enable control and monitor the number of devices in their network. The application also allows them to cut internet supply to some devices while giving priority to others in terms of bandwidth.
Google Wi-Fi also has an operational application but with different features from the Tp-Link Deco, for example, while using the Tp-Link users will be able to create a separate network for their guests, and if you have kids who use the internet then you will be able to lock out millions of adult websites. Other services that are at the convenience of your smartphone is the ability to run a speed check on your network speeds.
Structure and Design
Given the features that the Tp-link users can access and use over the Google Wi-Fi, the latter does come at a slightly steep price; that aside, Google Wi-Fi does feature a sophisticated design and has been equipped with the led light at the top to help with the control functions. The Ethernet port cables have been neatly tucked away at the underside of the unit complete with a USB port.
The simple design makes it easy for users to install the units anywhere for as long there is a flat surface with minimal obstructions. Upon purchase, users will be furnished with a USB charging adapter and an Ethernet cable. The nodes are to be placed two rooms away from each other and given their small sizes they are bound to be inconspicuous.
The Tp-link Wi-Fi deco devices come in assorted shapes and sizes, for example, the Deco x60 features a slightly elongated white cylindrical unit with the operational ports at the back. The Deco M9 Plus, on the other hand, features an almost similar design from the M5 with the operational ports neatly placed at the back to facilitate positioning and placement.
The Deco P9, S4, and M4 have the same design except for the height, the Deco M3 has two types of nodes two of the same square design and the other one an elongated cylindrical structure. Lastly, we have the décor M3W, which has a square-like structure with the ports located at the back of the unit.
The Tp Link Deco vs the Google Wi-Fi
The Tp Link Deco P9
- All the TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi can work together
- Powerline Backhaul: The Powerline Deco P9 adds a third lane for data to travel through, similar to a...
The Tp-Link deco P9 offers expansive coverage of up to 6,000 sq. ft. and with very high signal strengths, the unit is known to ensure that all the devices that have been connected to the network do not experience downtimes or buffering. The functionality features have completely obliterated the use of a router.
And just like the other Tp Link Deco devices, the P9 has incorporated an intelligent Wi-fi mesh network that will provide internet coverage in your household under one password and Wi-Fi name. Most Tp-Link devices are smart home enabled, therefore if you wish to digitize your home you can integrate the Tp-Link deco with Alexa and simply the management of the internet in the home.
Users also don’t need to worry about compatibility issues because the unit has been designed to be used by the various internet service providers. Also, if you have been using the Wi-Fi devices then you must be conversant with the interference problems caused by thick walls. Well, the power deco P9 has obliterated the interference problems caused by thick walls by adding a third lane through which data travels through.
The above, therefore, create stronger connections between the deco units and boosts the overall network performance.
Pros
- Setting up the Wi-Fi unit is pretty easy
- Offers coverage of up to 6,000 sq. ft.
- Has enabled the parental control feature
- Works with different ISP’s
Cons
- The unit is not completely reliable to offer network
- The unit offers slower download speeds
Google Wi-Fi
- A new type of connected system for seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home, helping eliminate dead...
- Replaces your current router, and works your modem and internet service. It’s compatible with major...
Google Wi-Fi is best for a slightly larger network of users, the unit will offer up to 1,500 sq. ft. of range while comfortably catering to 18 devices. Once you settle of the Google Wi-Fi get ready to take your router out because the unit can integrate with your modem and works with almost all the internet service providers.
And to ensure that your users don’t suffer from lack of internet, Google Wi-Fi is equipped with the Network assist technology that ensures all the devices in your network experience faster connections, simply because it selects the clearest channel and the fastest bands.
Google Wi-Fi has a myriad management options, but unless you download the application on the app store then you won’t be able to tweak the different settings. The app while being operated from your smart device will enable you to prioritize devices in your network, you will also be able to see who is on your network and effectively block any outsiders.
The sensitive family control feature has also been enabled for parents who want to monitor and control their kid’s devices.
Pros
- Covers up to 4,500 sq. ft.
- Network assist enables fast internet speeds
- The deco app enables prioritization of devices
- The unit eliminates dead zones and buffering
Cons
- Fails to work with AT and T
- Installation is not very easy
Conclusion
Tp-link deco has many devices that offer different Wi-Fi range and coverage, besides the number of devices that they can cater to also vary, as some can cater to 100 devices while others accommodate up to 250 devices. They come in different shapes and sizes so you have the liberty of choosing one that fits the layout of your house.
For individuals whose homes are made of thick walls, Tp-link provides you with the P9, the unit is not restricted by the walls because of the incorporated power line backhaul feature meant to create stronger connections. For the Google Wi-Fi, you only will have to increase the number of nodes for better coverage and it has also incorporated the network assist technology that encourages fast connection.
Verdict: so which one is better? The Tp Link Deco or the Google Wifi
The Tp-Link deco devices come in a wide variety thus offers users many options when compared to the Google Wi-Fi device. Even more interesting is that with the Tp-Link users don’t have to worry about the devices being in a straight line, rather they just have to place them on an elevated place. However, with Google Wi-Fi, you will have to ensure that your home layout will have the nodes in a row for easy communication and coverage. Tp-link deco, therefore, stacks up better than Google Wi-fi.
FAQs
-
How long will my Tp-Link serve me?
Most warranties don’t go past two years, so you should expect a good service for two years.
-
Is my Google Wi-Fi capable of boosting my signal
The Google Wi-Fi comprises a router and a firewall, complete with mesh connected access points meaning that they will provide you with an independent Wi-Fi network.
