UniFiNanoHD vs. UniFi AC-Pro – Which is a faster Access Point?
When it comes to Wi-Fi technology, the UniFi Company has always produced quality products at affordable prices by combining central management,unlimited scalability and enterprise performance.This means that both the UniFi NanoHD and UniFi AC-Pro Access Points should be very close competitors.
We all want great internet connectivity with fast throughput speeds so that we are able to make the most of the best internet experience. However, when it comes to these two access points by UniFi, they are similar in a lot of ways and have few differences. The table below will give you a clear understanding of the differences between these two Access Points.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between UniFiNanoHD and UniFi AC-Pro?
Model |
UniFi NanoHD (Winner) |
UniFi AC-Pro |
Dimensions |
6.3 X 6.3 X 1.29 Inches |
7.74 X 7.74 X 1.38 Inches |
Number of antennas |
3 x dual band |
3x dual band |
Throughput speeds |
800 Mbps on 2.4 GHz; 1733 Mbps on 5GHz |
450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz; 1300 Mbps on 5 GHz |
Technology |
3X3 MU-MIMO |
2X2 SU-MIMO |
Availability |
UniFi NanoHD vs. UniFi AC-Pro – How do they compare?
Design
Beauty lies within the eyes of the beholder but you know what? There is not much of a difference when it comes to these two products in terms of outward appearance.However, we both have to accept that they have beendesigned for seamless integration.Both Access Points come with mounting kits that will allow for easy installation on the ceiling or wall of your home. When it comes to design, the UniFi NanoHD has its perks. You can choose from one out of an amazingsix skins that will blend well with your ceiling or wall. Be it camouflage, fabric, wood, black, marble or concrete. The AC Pro AP however, comes in white only. That’s just sad for some of us who prefer a variety of colours to choose from. In addition to that, the NanoHD Access Point has a more compact design with smaller dimensions as compared to the AC Pro AP and is therefore the better device to install in a home with tight spaces. The rule of thumb that every successor should be better than its predecessor has truly applied here. Without a doubt, the NanoHD has a better design than the AC Pro Access Point.
Performance and Speed
The NanoHD boasts better performance and speed than the AC Pro.The UniFi NanoHD Access Pointcanachieve speeds of upto 800 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz radio band and 1733 Mbps on the 5 GHz radio band. These speeds are quite high and will give you the best internet experience with no lag. You are able to binge watch, game and videostream seamlessly. But does this mean that the AC Pro won’t perform the same tasks equally as good? No, the AC Pro AP has good performance speeds of upto 450 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz radio band. The AC Pro however will never be as fast as the NanoHD in terms of download and upload speeds and will therefore accommodate less users as compared to its successor and it will take more time to upload and download files.
Technology
These two Access Points use different kind of technologies and here is where there main difference comes to light.The AC Pro Access Point uses the 802.11 ac Wave 1 SU-MIMO technology meaning it only allows the Access Point to communicate with one client at a go.The NanoHD Access Point, on the other hand,is equipped with the infamous802.11 ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology. This allows it to communicate with multiple users at a go and increases the multi user throughput significantly allowing for the best user experience.All conditions being the same, it is believed that the Wave 2 Access Point technology provides upto 75% performance improvement as compared to the Wave 1 Access Points. This improvement increases the overall internet speeds and allows more clients to use a single Access Point with same performance levels.Theoretically speaking, the AC Pro AP allows a maximum of 125 users whereas the NanoHD allows a maximum of 200 users. UniFi clearly did not compromise anything when creating the NanoHD AP and this Access Point is therefore the clear winner in this category.
UniFi NanoHD AP vs. UniFi AC Pro – A Comparison Overview
UniFi NanoHD
- Four stream 802.11AC Wave2 technology
- Supports 200+ concurrent users
This Access Point revolutionized internet connection big time. It has the futuristic MU-MIMO technology and uses WIFI 6 connectivity.If you want a future proof Access Point, this might be it. It will take you for years and you will not have to upgrade it for a very long time. The NanoHD is famously known for it various colours to choose from and the blue ring of light on its upper side. Regardless of its design,it also provides fast throughput speeds of upto 1733 Mbps on the 5GHz Radio channel. These are very impressive throughput speeds for an Access Point in its price range.I would like to call it beauty with brains. In addition, the NanoHD AP is user friendly. Ubiquiti focuses on SDNs so that this Access Point can be easily managed using the Unifi Network Controller. The best part about this controller is that it is compatible with various platforms such as Windows, MacOS and Linux. In addition, this access point operates both bands efficiently providing paths to the network to help ease congestion. This access point is the perfect solution for SMBs looking to get the best internet connection with minimal overhead costs.
Pros
- Has a good network topology that allows it to cover a wide area
- Uses the latest WIFI 6 MU-MIMO technology making it futureproof
- Comes with an Ubiquiti software that helps to manage devices
- Has a powerful unit controller which is user friendly
Cons
- Some software updates have bugs
UniFi AC Pro AP
- Ubiquiti Networks networks Unifi AP AC Pro 5-Pack
The Unifi AC Pro Access point has been designed for Optimal RF Performance and is equipped with spectral analysis, airtime fairness and band steering. If you like seating at your garden or compound to get some fresh air whilesurfing the internet, this might be the AP for you. It is made with weather proof material and is therefore suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.Its maximum speed surpasses the 1000Mbps mark.
Nevertheless, this WIFI system offers a simultaneous dual radio band and each band is equipped with 3X3 SU-MIMO technology. The Wave 1 technology may not be future proof in the long run but it will serve you for a long time regardless.
Pros
- Has fast throughput speeds of upto 1300 Mbps
- It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Equipped with a user friendly software
Cons
- Poor Customer Support
Conclusion
These two access points are both incredible when it comes to speed, reliability and durability with an exemplary user friendly software.
Final Verdict: So, which is better- UniFi NanoHD or the AC Pro?
The UniFi NanoHD is better as compared to The AC Pro Access point because its MU-MIMO technology allows multiple simultaneous usersto access the AP with minimal interference and at faster throughput speeds.
FAQs
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Does the UniFi AC Pro come with a POE power adapter?
Yes, this unit comes with a power adapter.
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Is the UniFi NanoHD future proof?
Yes it is. It is compatible with all futuristic devices that use Wi-Fi 6 technologies.