Ubiquiti UAP-AC-LITE vs. UAP-AC-PRO-Which makes a better access point?
When it comes to finding the best access point for your network, a value for the buck would be easy deployment, quality equipment and ability to comfortably manage your network. The Ubiquiti UAP-AC-Lite and the UAP AC Pro have been developed to deliver these three factors to your home.
An access point would be a great addition to your network. With just a port over Ethernet connection you are able to stabilize your network and you are assured of better Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. The UAP-AC Lite and the UAP-AC Pro have been developed your experience as you make use of the internet on your day to day activities. The table below shows their top features and highlights their differences.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Ubiquiti UAP-AC-LITE and UAP-AC-PRO?
Model |
UAP-AC-LITE |
UAP-AC-PRO (Winner) |
Wi-Fi technology |
802.11ac |
802.11ac |
Frequency band |
2.4 and 5 GHz (dual) |
2.4 and 5 GHz (dual) |
Throughput speed |
300 + 867 Mbps |
450 + 1300 Mbps |
Weatherproof |
Yes |
Yes |
Power supply |
24V, 0.5A Gigabit PoE Adapter |
Unifi Switch (PoE) |
Availability |
Ubiquiti UAP-AC-LITE vs. UAP-AC-PRO- How do they compare?
Design and Structure
The UAP-AC-LITE is a circular dual-radio access point with a diameter of 16 cm and a height of 3.1 cm. It is made of hard plastic with an LED ring at the center which shows you its current state and can be turned off when you desire so.If you manage many of such devices, you can use the LED indicator to identify any unit. At the back, you will find the LAN port and a reset button which you may need to use when you encounter connectivity issues. It comes with a mounting plate too which allows you to screw it on your wall or ceiling.
On the other hand, the UAP-AC-PRO measures 19 cm in diameter and 3.5 cm in height. It has a hard-plastic shell with an LED indicator in the middle. This access point features two LAN ports, a USB 2.0 port, and a reset button at the back housed by a rubber gasket which makes your device weather resistant. The USB port enables you to connect optional Unifi accessories. In the package, you will find mounting hardware for attaching it to your wall or ceiling.
In general, the UAP-AC-PRO has a finer design that gives room for more features.
Speed and Performance
When it comes to speed and performance, the UAP-AC-PRO is much better. It features dual-band 2.4 and 5 GHz radios with 3×3 MIMO and gives you 450 mbps transfer rates at 2.4 GHz and 1300 mbps at 5GHz. You also get a range of 400ft with this access point. The device can handle 250+ users. If you want to use it to its full potential, you will have to make two separate LAN connections.
The UAP-AC-LITE features dual-band 2.4 and 5 GHz radios with 2×2 MIMO, giving you 330 mbps transfer rates at 2.4 GHz and 867 mbps at 5GHz. This device has a range of up to 400 ft and allows connectivity of 250+ users.
Technology
Ubiquiti’s UAE-AC-LITE supports power-over-ethernet which means that you can power it either off a compatible networking device or using the POE injector included in the package. You will need the Unifi controller software to configure this device, which you can download on your computer or smartphone. This software allows you to monitor and control your access point.
Likewise, the UAE-AC-PRO supports power-over-ethernet. You will also need the Unifi controller software to monitor and control the unit.In terms of the technologies used, the two access points are similar.
UAP-AC-LITE vs. UAP-AC-PRO- A comparison overview
UAP-AC-LITE
- Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AC Lite AP Wi-Fi 802.22
- 2.4 GHz Speed : 300 Mbps, 5 GHz Speed : 867 Mbps
The UAP-AC-LITE has a simple design, with a body made of hard plastic to ensure that it is durable.It has a diameter of 16 cm and a height of 3.1 cm. The device features an LED ring that acts as an indicator incase you have many access points. The back has a LAN cable and a reset button. If you wish to mount it on your wall or ceiling, you can do so with the mounting hardware included in the package.
You can get to speeds of up to 300 mbps at 2.4 GHz and 867 mbps at 5 GHz, thanks to the dual-band radios with 2×2 MIMO. Moreover, this device can handle 250+ users at a range of 400 ft. It supports Power-over-ethernet which allows you to power it using the POE injector or other compatible networking devices. The Unifi controller software allows you to control and check the condition of your access point.
Pros
- Comes with mounting hardware
- Ultra-compact design
- Has POE technology
- Easy to control using software
Cons
- Does not include a network cable
- Complex GUI
UAP-AC-PRO
- Manage Your Networks from a Single Control Plane
- Intuitive and Robust Configuration, Control and Monitoring
If you are looking for a super-fast access point for your medium-sized office, you should consider the UAP-AC-PRO. The device measures 19 cm in diameter and 3.1 cm in height. It is made of hard plastic and has an LED indicator in the middle which is useful if you have several access points. At the back, you will find two LAN ports for your LAN cables and a single USB 2.0 port to connect Unifi accessories. These ports are enclosed by a rubber gasket to make your access point weather resistant. It also comes with mounting hardware so that you can attach it to the wall or ceiling.
In addition, this device has 2.4 and 5 GHz radios with 3×3 MIMO, giving you speeds of up to 450 mbps at 2.4 GHz and 1300 mbps at 5 GHz. It has a range of 400 ft and can handle 250+ users. You will need to connect two LAN cables to use this device to its full potential.
The UAP-AC-PRO supports Power-over-ethernet, enabling you to use just one cable for power and Wi-Fi signals. It also requires you to get the Unifi controller software to keep an eye on the status of your access point.
Pros
- Very fast
- Includes mounting hardware
- Supports POE
- Easy to control
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
Cons
- No network cable included
- Overheating
Conclusion
When choosing an access point, you should select one with the best range and speed. The UAP-AC-LITE is good for small office deployments while the UAP-AC-PRO best fits medium offices. Although the two are similar, one still beats the other.
Verdict: So, which is better, UAP-AC-LITE or UAP-AC-PRO?
The UAP-AC-PRO is better than the UAP-AC-LITE. This is mainly because it is faster and can be used both indoors and outdoors. It also enables you to use different Unifi accessories which you can connect to the USB port.Moreover, this device has 2.4 and 5 GHz radios with 3×3 MIMO, which is better than what the UAP-AC-LITE features.
FAQs
What is the recommended range coverage area of my UAP-AC pro access point?
The UAP-AC Pro access point has been designed to cover a range of up to 400 feet. Anything beyond this may affect the internet connection on your Wi-Fi devices.
Does my UAP-AC Pro come with mounting brackets?
Yes, it does. The UAP-AC Pro comes with an easy ceiling and wall mounting bracket that helps you with its deployment.
