Today we take a look at the TP-Link Archer A6. A new router model from TP-Link, which will be of interest to those who are looking for a modern and efficient router for a good price. I have already unpacked it, configured it, and I want to share my impression with you. Consider the technical characteristics of TP-Link Archer A6, appearance, and at the end of the review I will leave my review about this router.
TP-Link Archer A6 is made in almost the same case as the younger model TP-Link Archer A5. Only in black. It differs from the younger model in the presence of gigabit ports and more productive hardware. Well, my copy already has a new web interface.
I propose to go straight to the most interesting - the technical characteristics and features of this device. On the TP-Link website, and on the box with the router it says: "AC1200 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi Gigabit Router". I agree, a little confusing and not entirely clear. Let's find out what's what:
- AC1200 is the maximum wireless speed indicator. AC means the router supports 802.11ac standard. 1200 (meaning Mbps) is the total speed of Wi-Fi in two bands. The Archer A6 delivers up to 450 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and up to 867 Mbps in the 5 GHz band.
- MU-MIMO - the router has support for MU-MIMO technology. This technology increases the speed and performance of your wireless network. Due to the fact that the router can simultaneously exchange data with several Wi-Fi clients (if they also have MU-MIMO support).
- gigabit router - the router is equipped with gigabit WAN / LAN ports. The data transfer speed over LAN (within the home network) and WAN (connection to the Internet) can reach up to 1 Gbps.
Based on TP-Link Archer A6, you can create a fast and efficient network. The speed and performance of this network will be enough for watching videos in 4k quality, playing online games, downloading torrents at high speed, etc. In addition, due to the support of the 802.11ac standard and gigabit ports, you can easily stream movies in 4k to your TV on DLAN technology. I recommend connecting only the TV and the device from which the broadcast will go to the router either via cable or via Wi-Fi in the 5 GHz range.
In addition, powerful antennas (four external and one internal) are installed on the Archer A6, due to which the router provides a good Wi-Fi network coverage. Very good Wi-Fi range in the 2.4 GHz band judging by the reviews. Network coverage in the 5 GHz band will not be as great, but this is a feature of this frequency, and not a problem with the router. There is support for Beamforming technology (directs the Wi-Fi signal towards the device).
As for the software part, everything is very good here. TP-Link Archer A6 comes with new web interface firmware. It is possible to select the language of the web interface (Russian, Ukrainian and English). Well, the control panel itself is very simple and pleasant to look at.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the support for cloud functions. This means that this router can be controlled from a phone or tablet via the TP-LINK Tether app not only from the home network, but also via the Internet (the connection goes through the TP-Link cloud). You do not need a permanent, white, external IP address, complex remote access settings, etc. It is enough to bind the router to your TP-Link ID.
In the settings, in just a few steps, you can change the operating mode of the router and switch it to the access point mode. This feature is useful when connecting TP-Link Archer A6 to another router, modem, hotel wired network, etc.
Packaging, equipment, appearance
Acquaintance with technology begins with packaging. In the case of TP-Link Archer A6, this is a stylish box on which you can find almost all the necessary information about the router. Not only technical specifications, but also a description of the main functions and features.
In terms of configuration, everything is standard: a router, a power adapter, a network cable and documentation. Everything is packed very securely.
The main upper part of the router is made of glossy plastic. And on the black glossy plastic, dust, fingerprints and scratches are very noticeable. But it looks very cool and stylish. The interesting structure of the top cover makes it sparkle like a diamond. It is a pity that the photo does not convey this.
The silver logo on a black background looks great. Below the logo are indicators that are green. Not bright, at night they will definitely not interfere.
The antennas and the bottom of the router are made of matte plastic.
On the sides and bottom there are grilles for air circulation and cooling the router. There is also a sticker on the bottom with the necessary information about the device (including the factory network name, Wi-Fi password, administrator login / password, address for entering the settings). The router can be hung on the wall with the necessary holes.
The back of the router is filled with ports and buttons. There are 4 LAN ports and 1 WAN port. Power connector, On / Off button, Reset button and WPS / Wi-Fi On / Off button.
It's good, of course, that there is a button to turn off the Wi-Fi network. But I believe that the buttons should be made separate. And then many have problems with this. Someone wants to turn off the Wi-Fi network, but activates WPS. And someone, on the contrary, wants to activate WPS, but turns off the Wi-Fi network. Not very convenient and a little confusing for ordinary users.
Conclusions
TP-Link Archer A6 is a router that has nothing superfluous (which would significantly increase its cost), but at the same time it has everything you need to create a fast, efficient and stable home network. The best option for a modern router. Without the extra hardware and software features that usually cost a lot.
The only drawback is that TP-Link Archer A6 does not have a USB port. If you need a USB router, this model is not suitable for you. If not needed, you can buy.
As for the configuration and management (an important point for many), everything is simple and clear. There are even pre-configured ISP settings. You can configure the router from your phone through a proprietary application and even manage it via the Internet (via the TP-Link cloud). I use this function myself, it's very convenient.
Leave your feedback on TP-Link Archer A6 in the comments!
