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Netgear 6100 Review

NETGEAR R6100 Linksys EA6300
WiFi Performance AC1200 WiFi (300 + 867 Mbps) AC1200 WiFi (300 + 867 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz
Ethernet Ports 4 Fast Ethernet LAN port
1 Fast Ethernet WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port
USB Ports 1 USB 2.0 port 1 USB 3.0 port
Security WPA/WPA2 – PSK and WEP WEP
WPA Personal
WPA Enterprise
WPA2 Personal
WPA2 Enterprise
WPA2/WPA Mixed Personal
WPA2/WPA Mixed Enterprise
Antennas Internal Five Galtronics bent-metal internal antennas:
three for the 5 GHz and two for the 2.4 GHz
Firewall Features Network Address Translation (NAT)
Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)
DOS Prevention		 Advanced Network Protection (WPA/WPA2 encryption and SPI firewall)
MSRP $99.99 $99.99

Netgear R6100 is a dual band router that supports AC1200 standard. The nominal data rates for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz band are 300 and 867 Mbps respectively. The router comes with DoS attack prevention, as well as NAT and SPI support in the firewall. It has 1 10/100M WAN port and 4 10/100M LAN ports. It comes with USB 2.0 for network accessible storage. The wireless adapter is not included.

Netgear routers are known for their sleek and compact design and when you look at R6100, you would mistake it for one of the costlier models by Netgear. As compared to R6300, the previous model, the size is almost half but the features are no different – no option for wall mounting, internal antenna and vertical placement. You will find the network ports on the back of the router. It is an easy Plug and Play design which most users would like. The setup of R6100 is pretty easy and straightforward. The router can be connected using WPS or you can type the password and the browser would be opened for you automatically to start the Setup Wizard. The default login and password is ‘admin’ and you will be prompted to change both of these.

The performance of the R6100 has been a cause of many complaints. This is mostly because of lack of Gigabit Ethernet support. For the 5GHz band, the speeds of Wi-Fi for both 802.11AC and 802.11N are the same. For short distances, about 15 feet, the speed is around 89Mbps and when this distance is increased to 100 feet, the speed drops to 80Mbps. For the 2.4GHz band, short range speed is around 60Mbps and long range is around 22Mbps. The design and setup of the router might be good but when it comes to performance, it falls flat. The R6100 is a good choice for those users whose home broadband is not superfast.

Netgear Nighthawk X6 Review

ASUS RT-AC87U NETGEAR Nighthawk X6
WiFi Performance AC2400 WiFi (600 + 1734 Mbps) AC3200 WiFi (600 + 1300 + 1300 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz & 5GHz
Ethernet Ports 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port
USB Ports 1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port		 1 USB 3.0 port
Processor 1GHz dual-core 1GHz dual-core
RAM 256MB DDR3 256 MB
Flash Memory 128MB 128 MB
MSRP $279.99 $299.99

The Netgear Nighthawk X6 is a tri-band gigabit wireless router that comes with a powerful set of features. Its hardware components are worthy of praise, and the router also acts as an impressive NAS server when connected to an external hard drive. The Wi-Fi data rates on the 5Ghz band are also excellent, though the 2.4Ghz performance is slower than other competitor routers.

While Netgear created a lot of hype prior to the release of the Nighthawk X6, it didn’t live up to the expectations of some. While a sophisticated router by all means, it simply doesn’t justify the high price tag for the product.

Released after the R7000 model which shook the router industry with its powerful features, the R8000 promised even superior functions. It did receive a number of upgrades and new features. For instance, it has an innovative design and is the first tri-band router that delivers up to 3200Mbps of Wi-Fi bandwidth. However, the performance didn’t exceed that of the predecessor. In fact, it didn’t fare well against many AC1900 routers. It also has a relatively short Wi-Fi range and suffers on the 2.4Ghz band.

Design

Slightly larger in size compared to the R7000, the R8000 comes in black color. It has 6 antennas that are collapsible. The antennas can completely be folded out of the way. For maximum range though, you will have to open the antennas. It resembles its predecessor in many features, including a Gigabit WAN port, four Gigabit LAN ports, and two USB ports. These ports are located towards the rear of the device. It has a vibrant set of LED lights on the top of the device, running from the front to back. The LED lights indicate the status of router (on or off), Wi-Fi networks, and active ports. The lights can also be switched off if you find them too bright. The Wi-Fi on/off button and the Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) button is positioned below the lights. WPS allows you to connect a Wi-Fi client that supports WPS to the router in an easy way without having to manually type the password.

It is powered by a dual-core 1,000 Mhz processor that is similar to that found in R7000. It also complies with the latest Wi-Fi standards, delivering up to 600Mbps Wi-Fi speed on the 2.4Ghz band and up to 1300Mbps speed on the 5Ghz band. The tri-band wireless router offers two separate access points for the 5Ghz band and one access point for the 2.4Ghz frequency band. As the first tri-band router available on the market, the X6 offers a net potential bandwidth of 3200Mbps, hence introduced as the AC3200.

Software

Its software didn’t receive any upgrades. It employs the same connectivity methods via the same Genie user interface that is used on most Netgear routers. It allows network management via a Web browser or a dedicated mobile app.

Performance

If you’re switching from another high performance router, it won’t take you by surprise. While the second 5GHz access point is a plus, it hardly makes any notable difference in performance. To truly benefit from the duo access points on the 5Ghz frequency band, you need to be connected via a score of 802.11ac clients to the router, which can hardly be achieved for the average user.

Overall, the AC3200 Nighthawk X6 comes highly recommended. The feature suite is extensive and includes everything that you could want in a router, from secure connections and high WiFi speeds to parental controls and DLNA. Though there are a couple of downsides, such as initial difficulty with locating the settings, the Nighthawk X6 is one of the very best routers on the market today.

Netgear Nighthawk X4 Review

ASUS RT-AC87U NETGEAR Nighthawk X4
WiFi Performance AC2400 WiFi (600 + 1734 Mbps) AC2400 WiFi (600 + 1734 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz
Ethernet Ports 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port
USB Ports 1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port		 2 USB 3.0 ports
Processor 1GHz dual-core 1.4GHz dual core
RAM 256MB DDR3 256 MB
Flash Memory 128MB 128 MB
MSRP $279.99 $279.99

The Netgear Nighthawk X4 provides features that have thus far been lacking in other high-end routers, so it’s a worthwhile option for anyone who wants superior range, fast speeds and, in particular, to enjoy the best of the best when hosting external hard drives.

Hardware and Features

The Nighthawk X4 is a quad-stream, or 4X4, 802.11ac router. Its 2.4 GHz frequency band, which is capable of Wi-Fi speeds of up to 600Mbps, is powered by a Qualcomm 1.4 GHz dual-core main processor, which is currently the fastest available on the market. Its 5 GHz frequency band, on the other hand, is powered by the Quantenna QT3840BC, a dedicated, dual-core, 500 MHz chip. This band is capable of Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1,733Mbps. Therefore, the total bandwidth of the Nighthawk X4 is 2,333Mbps.

In addition to boasting the first quad-stream 802.11ac chip on the market, the Nighthawk X4 is the first router to have two USB 3.0 ports. There are also the standard four Gigabit LAN ports, a Gigabit WAN port, a power port, an on/off button and a recessed reset button that restores the router’s default settings. Near the front and top of the device, there’s the usual array of LED lights, a Wi-Fi Protected Setup, or WPS, button and a Wi-Fi on/off button. The four detachable antennas must be plugged into the corresponding slots to work properly.

Interface and Speed

Conveniently, the Netgear Nighthawk X4 works right out of the box with its default settings. Advanced users who want to customize the router, however, may find it difficult. To customize this router’s settings, you must use the web interface, which is decidedly clunky and overcrowded with options and features. To make matters worse, the web interface is often slow to react. After making changes, it’s usually necessary to restart the router, which takes a minute or two as well. In terms of convenience, then, this router doesn’t quite make the grade. The Netgear Genie app can be used in some instances, but it’s not terribly intuitive, either.

This router has a slick Quality of Control, or QoS, feature called Dynamic QoS, which automatically prioritizes the use of the bandwidth based on the types of devices that are involved. This feature can cleverly distinguish between gaming, streaming, file sharing and other processes, and it allocates bandwidth accordingly.

Despite its impressive hardware and Dynamic QoS, the Nighthawk X4 fails to deliver the kind of speed one would expect. In 4X4 tests, it registered at 205Mbps at a close range and 147Mbps at a long range. In 3X3 tests, it registered at 382Mbps at a close range and 242Mbps at a long range, which is slightly better.

The Bottom Line

Although the speed tests for the Nighthawk X4 had somewhat disappointing results, the fact of the matter is that this is one of the fastest, most powerful routers around, and it’s a great choice for anyone with demanding home networking needs.

Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 Review

Linksys WRT1900AC ASUS RT-AC68U NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000
WiFi Performance AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 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 eSATA/USB 2.0 port		 1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port		 2 USB ports
1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port
Processor 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM-based Dual Core Arm Cortex A9 clocked at 800MHz 1GHz dual-core
RAM 256MB DDR3 256MB DDR3 256 MB
Flash Memory 128MB 128MB 128 MB
MSRP $249.99 $199.99 $199.99

The Nighthawk is one of the latest 802.11ac routers available from Netgear. The Nighthawk, which has been given the model name R7000, offers fast data transfer speeds thanks in part to its 5GHz band technology, as well as its built in Quality-of-Service, or QoS, enhancements. Those and other features place the Nighthawk above nearly all the other 802.11ac routers that are now available to consumers on the market.

Size wise, the R7000 is somewhat large. The measurements of the router are 1.97 inches high by 11.22 inches wide and 7.26 inches deep. It also not a lightweight. The router weighs in at 1.6 pounds. The base of the R7000is quite wide, and it features rubber feet to make sure that the router won’t be able to slide around no matter where it’s placed.

The size and weight aren’t the only things about the router that are on the large end of things. The Nighthawk comes equipped with a quite fast 1GHz dual-core processor. This enables the Nighthawk to be one of the fastest and highest end consumer routers available. Due to the high end specs, the R7000 can offer 600Mbps to 2.4GHz frequency devices and 1300Mbps for those on the higher 5GHz band. Three external antennas that are attached on the back panel of the router to enable a wide area of coverage.

Touted by Netgear, the QoS has been designed to optimize video streaming and other important tasks. QoS is not turned on by default, and anyone wishing to use it will have to open up the routers interface to configure a few settings. The feature works by looking at all the traffic going through the router and giving video, audio or gaming data priority over any other traffic.

When enabled, the QoS several pre-set rules. These rules set traffic going upstream from an Xbox or other gaming platform to a “High” priority. Data coming downstream, such as from any of the video sites would also included in the “High” priority group.

There are routers faster than the R7000 on the market, but its ability to keep up a high throughput over a large distance is impressive to say the least. This ability due to a new feature Netgear calls Beamforming +. Beamforming is a technology that has been around for a while, and it allows routers to send a more direct signal to wireless devices. Netgear’s has labeled their enhancements to the technology Beamforming +. Currently the enhancement is only available on the R7000′s 5GHz band.

Netgear has announced that they are working on and are planning to release an update to the firmware on the router that will enable their enhanced beamforming on the router’s 2.4GHz band as well. However, until it is released, the speeds available over the 2.4 GHz spectrum used by the R7000 will be somewhere in the middle of the road.

The R7000 Nighthawk router from Netgear is an excellent consumer router. While the 2.4 GHz speeds may be nothing to write home about, the stellar performance over the routers 5 GHz band is extremely impressive. Those looking for an excellent router at a decent price need look no further than the R7000.

MBps vs Mbps

t’s common to see acronyms used when referring to technology, particularly when discussing the internet. As broadband speeds increase and ISPs promote their services as the best and the fastest, you’ve probably seen the term MBps at least once. Maybe you’ve also seen Mbps. Despite the fact that just one capital letter differentiates the two, there’s actually a big difference between MBps and Mbps. The two cannot be used interchangeable. So, what does each acronym stand for and what does these terms mean when you’re accessing the internet?

What is Mbps?

Mbps stands for “megabits per second.” Mbps refers to upload and download speeds. So, as you have probably guessed, this is a measurement for how many megabits can be uploaded or downloaded per second.

Eight bits is equivalent to one byte. This is important to remember when you are trying to estimate the time that it will take for you to download something such as a song, document, video, or other file. It’s also relevant to the amount of time it would take for you to open a webpage.

What is MBps?

MBps stands for “megabytes per second.” This refers to the amount of data transferred. Put another way, this references the file size. For example, an audio file that is three megabytes could be transferred in three seconds. As previously mentioned, one megabyte is made up of eight bits.

How Are MBps and Mbps Related?

Both Mbps and MBps are important if you want to know how fast you can transfer a file, whether you are uploading or downloading. If, for example, you want to transfer a 2 MB file in just one second, you would need a transfer speed of 16 Mbps. Speeds that fall below 16 Mbps would result in a longer transfer time, while speeds that exceed 16Mbps would result in a shorter download or upload time. Remember, eight bits create a byte. The two are not equivalent or interchangeable.

Mbps vs. MBps and Your ISP

Some people get confused when they see a flyer or TV advertisement from ISPs that promote their speeds. This is when knowing the difference between Mbps and MBps can really come in handy, ensuring that you make the right choice when it comes to selecting your internet provider.

If you see an advertisement for 20 Mbps and 20 MBps, remember – these are not the same! You will not be able to upload or download a 20 MB file in one second if the speed you’re promised is 20 Mbps. The actual transfer speed would be 2.5 seconds, which more than doubles the time you originally expected. Without this understanding, it’s entirely possible that you purchase an internet service plan that’s much slower than expected.

It’s also important to note that a variety of factors may impact your internet speed. Maybe your hardware is outdated, there could be a technical issue, and other factors come into play when it comes to the speed of your internet. You will not typically have the same speed all of the time, which is why you’ll usually see “speeds up to…” in fine print on ISP advertisements.

Calculating the Speed of Transfer for Your Files

This is an important step if you upload and download lots of files, and particularly if you’re signing up for high-speed internet service for the first time or simply shopping around for improved service. Knowing common file sizes and understanding Mbps and MBps will ensure that you’re making the right purchase for your internet service. The chart below outlines some common file sizes, as well as popular speeds to give you an idea of what type of service best fits your needs.

File Type File Size 3 Mbps 10 Mbps 25 Mbps 50 Mbps
Webpage 1 MB 3 seconds <1 second <1 second <1 second
MP3 Audio 5 MB 13 seconds 4 seconds 1.5 seconds <1 second
5 minute video 20 MB 53 seconds 16 seconds 6.5 seconds 3 seconds
1 hour video 1 GB 44 minutes 14 minutes 5 minutes 2.5 minutes
1080p HD Movie 12 GB 9 hours 2.5 hours 1 hour 32 minutes

While this chart is just a guideline, it provides a good idea of what to expect from your internet service. As you can see, someone who downloads lots of videos and movies will be dissatisfied with slower internet service, while someone who simply browses the web on occasion may be perfectly fine with an inexpensive but slower plan.

What Type of Internet Offers the Fastest Speeds?

If you live in an urban area, you’ll likely have more choices when it comes to the type of internet you have available, as well as the providers. With so many different choices, it may be hard to make a decision – especially when providers offer new customer packages at very competitive prices.

If you have your choice of internet, there are a few things to take into consideration. Satellite internet is typically the slowest, with top speeds averaging around 2 Mbps. If you’re a light internet user, don’t upload or download large files, or live in a rural area, this may be the right choice for you. However, any user who expects to get blazing fast speeds will find satellite internet to be quite disappointing.

DSL is another option, and this one tends to be on the affordable side, depending on the provider. However, it is also one of the slowest, with top speeds usually not exceeding 9 Mbps. However, this could be a great choice for someone who isn’t interested in downloading or uploading videos or other large files.

Cable is a very popular choice, and it has speeds typically ranging between 20 and 38 Mbps. This is a common choice for many internet users, as these packages offer high speeds sufficient for regular use, while also typically being discounted when bundled with cable TV, home phone service, and other services.

Finally, fiber provides the fastest internet speeds and is recommended for anyone who wants blazing fast uploads and downloads of even the largest files. Typically, fiber is the most expensive but monthly pricing varies by provider.

Final Thoughts

When selecting internet service for the first time or upgrading your existing service, remember the difference between Mbps and MBps. Take into consideration what you’ll be using the internet for and calculate the speeds that you should purchase to best fit your needs. When all else fails, there are also calculators found online through a quick web search that will help you best calculate what speeds are best for you. With this information, you’ll be able to find the right service for your home or business.

Resources

Linksys WRT1900AC Review

Linksys WRT1900AC ASUS RT-AC68U NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000
WiFi Performance AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 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 eSATA/USB 2.0 port		 1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port		 2 USB ports
1 USB 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port
Processor 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM-based Dual Core Arm Cortex A9 clocked at 800MHz 1GHz dual-core
RAM 256MB DDR3 256MB DDR3 256 MB
Flash Memory 128MB 128MB 128 MB
MSRP $249.99 $199.99 $199.99

Consumers who are looking for a powerful router that has a very large Wi-Fi range should look no further than the Linksys WRT1900AC. This particular model performs great and allows for a surprising amount of add-ons and adjustments for advanced home users to use in order to maximize their experience. Compared to other products it is higher priced, but if you are looking for a router that will stand head and shoulders above the competition, it is worth the investment.

At first glance, you will immediately see a departure from the trend of creating small and slick looking routers. Linksys has gone retro with the WRT1900AC, bringing back the classic blue-and-black color scheme of a decade ago and going with the bulk required to include a strong fan to prevent over-heating and a unique-looking antenna set-up that features four big antenna. Designed to support even the most active households with multiple Wi-Fi connections to stream movies, play online games, download music files and more, all without lags or drops, you will quickly overlook the retro appearance and find a place for this big router in your home.

If performance is what you desire, the WRT1900AC delivers. This Dual Band Wi-Fi router features a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor that works great in multistory buildings and provides more thorough coverage to stop dead spots in their tracks. The unique four antenna configuration takes full advantage of the dual 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands to achieve better, more consistent connections throughout your home. There are four Gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 port and a dual eSATA/USB 2.0 port that allows you to connect directly to the router for even faster file transfers and downloads. Advanced users will appreciate the ability to customize the firmware through its open source ready options for total home networking control and management.

In addition to all of the power and opportunity that the WRT1900AC provides, there are also other unique options that give homeowners more control than ever before. The Linksys SMART Wi-Fi software is also included with this model, giving you access to industry-leading software that allows you to control and monitor your home network via your smartphone no matter where you are located.

Parents have the ability to restrict Internet access when they are home, and you can give guests a unique Wi-Fi password when they visit. Monitor the devices that are connected to your home network: check Internet speeds for uploads and downloads, monitor the amount of time that each device is online and give priority to some devices over others to prevent lag or buffering on important devices.

Home users that require a range extender or a wireless bridge to add range to large properties or areas that have a difficulty maintaining a strong and consistent connection can double-up on the WRT1900AC and add a second unit to create the most powerful wireless signal available via the SMART Wi-Fi interface. This option allows you to extend the signal for both of the dual bands in Wireless Repeater Mode, or choose one of the bands to extend in Wireless Bridge Mode, to increase range and speed throughout your property.

If you are looking for a powerful router that is easy to set-up, yet allows for endless custom adjustments, add-ons and opportunities to maximize your connections throughout your home, the Linksys WRT1900AC is probably exactly what you need. While priced higher than other routers in the same class, you will quickly see that it is worth the investment by the improved connectivity and ability to monitor and control your network.

Linksys WRT AC1200 Review

Belkin AC1200 D-Link AC1200 Linksys WRT AC1200
WiFi Performance AC1200 WiFi (300 + 867 Mbps) AC1200 WiFi (300 + 867 Mbps) AC1200 WiFi (300 + 867 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz
Ethernet Ports 4 Fast Ethernet LAN port
1 Fast Ethernet WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port
USB Ports 2 USB ports 1 USB 2.0 port 1 USB 3.0 port
1 USB 2.0/eSata port
Encryption 128-bit WEP
256-bit WPA
256-bit WPA2		 Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2)
WPS		 WEP
WPA Personal
WPA Enterprise
WPA2 Personal
WPA2 Enterprise
WPA2/WPA Mixed Personal
WPA2/WPA Mixed Enterprise
Antennas Internal Internal Smart Antennas 2 detachable external antennas
Firewall Features Network Address Translation (NAT)
Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)		 Network Address Translation (NAT)
Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)		 Advanced Network Protection (WPA/WPA2 encryption and SPI firewall)
MSRP $99.99 $99.99 $149.99

The Linksys WRT AC1200 provides N400 and AC867Mbps dual-band throughput. The beamforming technology makes the router more reliable since it gives the router, improved range, minimal interference from other devices, fast network speeds, and stable Wi-Fi connection. The WRT 1200AC has the color, size and shape similar to that of WRT1900AC and the number of peripheral ports is also alike in the two routers. WRT 1200AC is equipped with two detachable antennas. With this kind of design, the device mixes well with other stackable devices such as the WRT Switch that helps you organize your space. The peripheral ports are at the back of the router and there are white LEDs that show you the status of all the ports at the front.

Remote Management

With the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi connection, you are in a position to control your network from wherever you are. You can manage your home network remotely through the internet. To enjoy this feature you need a linksyssmartwifi.com account, and then log on the website using a computer connected to the router. The first time you do this, you are prompted to enter admin password for the router and from then on, you can manage your home or office network from anywhere in the world once you log in. The feature is quite helpful, however there are privacy concerns since the vendor has access to all the online activities.

Usability and Additional Features

You can use your WRT1200AC immediately you remove it from its box. The manufacturer has printed all the default settings at the base of the device. It is possible to change and customize names of the Wi-Fi networks or other features of the router through the web interface since the interface is similar to previous Linksys Smart Wi-Fi routers. There is an interactive map feature that allows a user to view all devices connected, and you can interact with any device by just a single click on its icon. It is also possible to carry out a quick speed test from within the interface.

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Linksys EA9200 Review

Linksys EA9200 TPLink Archer AC3200 NETGEAR Nighthawk X6
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.

Linksys EA8500 Review

TP-Link Archer AC2600 Linksys EA8500
WiFi Performance AC2600 WiFi (800 + 1733 Mbps) AC2600 WiFi (800 + 1733 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz
Ethernet Ports 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port		 4 Gigabit LAN port
1 Gigabit WAN port
USB Ports 2 USB 3.0 Ports 1 USB 3.0 port
1 USB 2.0/eSata port
CPU 1.4 GHz dual-core processor 1.4 GHz dual-core processor
Memory 512MB 512MB
Antennas 4 Detachable antennas 4 external adjustable antennas
MU-MIMO Support Yes Yes
MSRP $249.99 $279.99

The Linksys EA8500 Max-Stream AC2600 MU-MIMO Smart Wi-Fi router is the first router to use Qualcomm’s MU/EFX Wi-Fi technology, which is supposed to have better performance for a crowded Wi-Fi network, which is becoming a common issue in households these days.

The EA8500 has a theoretical maximum throughput of 2.53Gbps and can output up to four streams of data. Testing shows it has strong performance in the 5GHz bands, and was able to transmit data to each connected client at its top speed. The flexible antennae also mean it has excellent coverage and stability. It is also very fast when interfacing with external hard drives, with speeds that can match a dedicated NAS unit. However, the EA8500 was slower than expected on the 2.4GHz bands.

Hardware

The main selling point of the Linksys EA8500 is the Qualcomm MU/EFX 802.11AC Wi-Fi chip, which supports what is known MU-MIMO, or Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output, which is designed to handle Wi-Fi bandwidth efficiently when interfacing with multiple clients, allowing it to deliver a better data rate to multiple connected clients at a time, which traditionally has been a bane of Wi-Fi routers.

Routers with MU-MIMO such as the EA8500 are superior over existing routers using the original MIMO technology, because MIMO treats all connected Wi-Fi clients identically, although some clients have a much greater data transmission capacity. This means that a multi-stream router will use all streams to connect with any device, even if the other device can only utilize one or two streams of data at a time. This means that the other streams are wasting their data rate.

With MU-MIMO, different transmissions can be simultaneously sent on different Wi-Fi streams can be sent to multiple devices, allowing the router to send data to multiple clients simultaneously at the maximum speed each client can receive it.

Besides supporting MU-MIMO, the EA8500 itself is an extremely powerful router that can support a total of 2.53Gbps, 1733Mbps on the 5Ghz bands and up to 800Mbps on the 2.4GHz bands, though note that most clients can only use up to 300Mbps on 2.4GHz. The EA8500 contains a 1.4GHz dual-core processor with 128MB of flash storage and 512MB of memory, which is some of the most powerful hardware in any router on the market. It has four Gigabit LAN ports, one Gigabit WAN input port, a USB 3.0 port, and a combination USB 2.0/eSATA port.

In terms of exterior design, the EA8500 strongly resembles the EA8350, with four detachable antennae. However, the antennae on the EA8500 are much larger and longer for a stronger signal. Other than a single LED indicating the router is on, the EA8500 lacks any indicator lights. Although most people won’t care, it does mean you can’t troubleshoot the network with indicator lights on the router. The router is designed to lay flat on a surface, but in can also be mounted on the wall if desired, though you’ll have to supply your own mounting screws.

Features and Management

You can access the router locally by connecting to its IP address, which is 192.168.1.1 by default. When you log in, the router will give you the option to log into Linksys’ Smart Wi-Fi remote management. To do this, you will need to log into an existing Smart Wi-Fi account and then link the router with this account by typing in the router’s admin password. After linking it to your LinkSys Smart Wi-Fi account, you can access the router by going to linksysmartwifi.com and logging in with your account, which allows you to access and manage your router remotely from the internet.

Linksys EA6900 Review

Linksys EA6900 NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 Buffalo Airstation AC1900
WiFi Performance AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps) AC1900 WiFi (600 + 1300 Mbps)
WiFi Band 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 5GHz 2.4GHz & 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 2.0 port
1 USB 3.0 port		 1 USB 3.0 port
1 USB 2.0 port
Processor 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A9 Dual-Core 1GHz Dual-Core 1GHz Dual-Core
RAM 256MB 256 MB 512 MB
Flash Memory 128MB 128 MB 128 MB
MSRP $199.99 $199.99 $149.99

The Linksys EA 6900 router was designed to handle multiple simultaneous connections with dual-band capability that ensures users get uninterrupted streaming. The unit is perfect for larger homes needing connectivity for various types of equipment. Gone are the days of Wi-Fi dead spots with a device that provides strong signal even in multiple floor scenarios.

The EA 6900 supports 1,300 Mbps transfer rates on a 5GHz band and 600 Mbps on the 2.4GHz one using three internal and three external antennas. In addition to offering dual-band wireless connectivity, the unit features four Gigabit LAN ports. Two USB ports enable the user to connect Network-Attached Storage devices and make storing or sharing data easy and fast. The Quality of Service feature allows to prioritize traffic from different sources.

The EA6900 features the ability to create up to 10 password protected guest networks. Parental controls enable adults to block websites or limit Internet connectivity for their kids. Restrictions may also apply to specific times of day. The Stateful Packet Inspection firewall tracks network connections and recognizes suspicious patterns of packets. The router supports WEP and WPA encryption in both 64 and 128-bit versions. The Media Access Control address filtering technology additionally offers control concerning which devices may or may not have network access.

An easy to use interface makes the Linksys EA6900 suitable for novice users. Despite a stellar performance, the MSRP of about $200 may put some off.