In this article, we will introduce the TP-Link Archer C1200 router. If you are choosing a new, powerful, modern router for your home or small office, then this article will most likely be useful to you. Below I will talk about the main characteristics, features, and make a small overview. Also, I will leave my review about TP-Link Archer C1200. Well, you leave your feedback in the comments if you are already using this router.
When I write about a router, I try to assign a "status" to each model. For example: "the most affordable router with a USB port" and something like that. This "status" of the device is always formed in the process of getting to know the router itself, while studying the characteristics, settings, etc. So, it seems to me that TP-Link Archer C1200 is the best option for a modern router that you can safely buy in 2017 ... And this router will be relevant for exactly 2-3 years. Maybe more. In an article with tips for choosing a router, in 2017 I advised buying a router with at least 1 USB port and support for the IEEE 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5GHz) standard. Of course, if there is such an opportunity, and the task is not to save as much as possible, and buy the cheapest router. The budget option will have neither a USB port nor support for IEEE 802.11ac.
Yes, there are routers that are half the price of TP-Link Archer C1200. The same Tp-Link Archer C20i, Xiaomi mini WiFi router (here, however, the trouble with the control panel), and other models from other manufacturers. Although they have weaker characteristics, they are very similar. But why is it so? In simple terms, the point is in the power of the router itself. In its hardware. It's not enough just to provide support for the new IEEE 802.11ac standard, you need everything to work stably. And when connecting a large number of devices, the router was able to hold them, and not "freeze", as is generally done by inexpensive models. When you have to constantly reboot the router.
Yes, if you have a couple of smartphones and a computer, then you can save money and take a cheaper router. But if you play online games, you have Smart TVs, game consoles, and many different devices, then it's better not to save money here. This applies not only to TP-Link routers, but also to devices from other manufacturers.
Specifications
You can always look at the full list of characteristics on the official website. I will only list the main characteristics and features.
- Supports IEEE 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5GHz) standard.
- Maximum Wi-Fi speed: for 2.4GHz frequency - up to 300 Mbps. And up to 867 Mbps for 5GHz frequency.
- 1 USB 2.0 port for connecting printers, USB drives, external hard drives. You can, for example, share files on a drive.
- WAN and LAN ports are gigabit. They can operate at 1000 Mbps.
- External Wi-Fi antennas in the amount of 3 pieces. Non-removable antennas. I saw on some sites that the antennas are removable.
- Guest Wi-Fi network (on each of the bands).
- New control panel.
- Controlling TP-Link Archer C1200 from a mobile device via the Tether app.
TP-Link Archer C1200 review
In a similar case, we have already reviewed several routers: TP-LINK Archer C7, TP-Link TL-WR942N, and TP-LINK TL-WR1045ND.
The router is made of black plastic. Glossy, which means it collects fingerprints very well. And the scratches on it are clearly visible. For some smartphone, this is of course a big disadvantage. For a router, this is a trifle.
On the front panel there are indicators (which, by the way, can be turned off in the control panel), the inscription "AC 1200", and the TP-Link company logo.
All ports and buttons are located at the back. Everything is standard there: 4 LAN, 1 WAN, and 1 USB port. A socket for connecting a power adapter, an On / Off button, a Reset button recessed into the body, and a WPS button, which is combined with the function of turning off the Wi-Fi network.
Standard equipment: router, power adapter, network cable, instructions.
As I wrote above, the antennas are non-removable. They add up, of course. It is possible to hang the router on the wall. But there are no rubber feet.
Opinions from the TP-Link Archer C1200
The router is new and there are very few reviews so far. So all hope is on you. If you already use this router, then leave an owl review of TP-Link Archer C1200 in the comments.
I did not notice any problems with the router at all. However, I don't have much experience with this model. A normal review can be written about a month after purchase. When I already checked the router in operation, with different tasks and devices. And so, this is more likely not a review, but first impressions of the device. And they are positive for me.
Good performance, beautiful body, clear control panel. Of the minuses, for me personally, this is the absence of rubber feet, and I would like the USB port to be standard 3.0. Better yet, 2 USB ports 🙂
