| Linksys EA9200 | TPLink Archer AC3200 | NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
 |
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| WiFi Performance | AC3200 WiFi (600 + 1300 + 1300 Mbps) | AC3200 WiFi (600 + 1300 + 1300 Mbps) | AC3200 WiFi (600 + 1300 + 1300 Mbps) |
| WiFi Band | 2.4GHz & 5GHz & 5GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz & 5GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz & 5GHz |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 Gigabit LAN port 1 Gigabit WAN port |
4 Gigabit LAN port 1 Gigabit WAN port |
4 Gigabit LAN port 1 Gigabit WAN port |
| USB Ports | 1 USB 3.0 port 1 USB 2.0 port |
1 USB 3.0 port 1 USB 2.0 port |
1 USB 3.0 port |
| Processor | 1GHz dual-core | 1GHz dual-core | 1GHz dual-core |
| RAM | 256 MB | 512 MB | 256 MB |
| Flash Memory | 128MB | 128MB | 128 MB |
| Antennas | 3 internal, 3 external | 6 external | 6 external |
| MSRP | $299.99 | $259.99 | $299.99 |
The Linksys EA9200 scores top points for its ultra-fast Internet speed, dedicated and powerful signal strength, and a compact design that fits just about any place. Priced higher than some of its counterparts, it is perfect for any site where multiple connections need to be managed.
Design
The Linksys EA9200 is quite compact and saves ample space. The black router has up to 6 antennas. Of the 6 antennas, three are fitted internally and the remaining three, externally.
Features
It is one of the few tri-band routers available on the market. It comes with the standard dual-band network frequencies, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. However, the 5Ghz band contains a Broadcom 5G XStream Wi-Fi chip that incorporates an extra 5Ghz band. Unlike the standard dual-band routers, the tri-band router offers one 2.4 Ghz band and two 5Ghz bands simultaneously. The 2.4 GHz network is capable of transferring data at speed up to 600 Mbps while the 5 GHz offers support for up to 1300Mbps of data transfer. Combine the two frequencies and you get a blazing-fast speed of up to 3200 Mbps, making it the ideal choice for anyone with high Internet connection need.
Owing to the 6 antennas found in Linksys EA9200, there are 6 simultaneous data streams, which allows for a vast number of devices to be connected to the router, with every connected user receiving powerful resources to stay connected and transfer data without impacting the activities of other connected users. Individual speed and performance remains undeterred, irrespective of the amount of data actually transferred.
1 GHz dual-core processor ensures that the routing device delivers efficient performance and manages connected devices across USB ports, Wi-Fi and Ethernet seamlessly. In fact, the router actually comes equipped with three other processors in addition to 1 GHz dual-core processor, making it practically a penta-core processor with high reliability and seamless performance.
Four gigabit Ethernet ports and two USB devices allow users to connect multiple devices, such as laptops, tablets, scanners, printers and external storage devices. Of the two USB ports featured in Linksys EA9200, one is USB 2.0 port while the other is USB 3.0 port. The USB 3.0 port is up to 10 times faster than the 2.0 version. Data can be easily shared across connected devices via any of the two ports.
The beamforming feature is also present on the router, which enables it to direct signals to a connected device rather than simply transmitting signals in all directions. Once a device is connected to the Linksys EA9200, it immediately locates the device and sends out focused signals in order to boost signal strength and enhance the user’s experience.
Setup
You can complete the setup online using a Web browser. Another option is to use the software CD that comes with the router. The administrator can manage networks, access data and change parental controls remotely. Restrictions can be placed on certain devices. You can also use the guest networks to limit access and privileges to certain users.
The Linksys EA9200 is a wonderful option for homeowners with high connectivity needs. It is also a handy device for connecting multiple devices to the Internet. While some users may be put off with the high price tag, the router makes up for it in terms of impressive bandwidth speeds.
