Main points
- The D-Link COVR units have a sleek and modern design, with a glossy white finish and a subtle LED indicator.
- The TP-Link Deco units, on the other hand, are more compact and unobtrusive, with a matte white finish and a single LED indicator.
- If you are on a budget or do not require the absolute fastest speeds, the TP-Link Deco system is an excellent value.
In the realm of home networking, Wi-Fi mesh systems have emerged as the go-to solution for eliminating dead zones and ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the house. Among the leading contenders in this space are D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco. This comprehensive guide delves into a detailed comparison of these two mesh systems, analyzing their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision for your home network.
Features and Specifications
D-Link COVR
- Tri-band mesh system with dedicated backhaul
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard
- Speeds up to 2.2 Gbps (867 Mbps on 5 GHz-1, 867 Mbps on 5 GHz-2, and 400 Mbps on 2.4 GHz)
- Smart Steering and Band Steering for optimal device placement
- Parental controls and guest network support
TP-Link Deco
- Dual-band mesh system
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard
- Speeds up to 1.2 Gbps (867 Mbps on 5 GHz and 300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz)
- Adaptive Path Selection for improved signal quality
- Parental controls and guest network support
Performance
Coverage
Both D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco offer impressive coverage, with the COVR system providing slightly better range thanks to its dedicated backhaul band. However, the difference in coverage is likely to be negligible for most homes.
Speed
The D-Link COVR system boasts faster speeds than the TP-Link Deco, with its tri-band design providing a significant advantage in terms of data throughput. This difference in speed will be particularly noticeable for bandwidth-intensive applications such as 4K video streaming and online gaming.
Reliability
Both mesh systems offer reliable connections, with minimal dropouts or interruptions. However, the COVR system‘s dedicated backhaul band provides an added layer of stability, ensuring consistent performance even in congested environments.
Design and Ease of Use
Design
The D-Link COVR units have a sleek and modern design, with a glossy white finish and a subtle LED indicator. The TP-Link Deco units, on the other hand, are more compact and unobtrusive, with a matte white finish and a single LED indicator.
Ease of Use
Both mesh systems are easy to set up and manage using their respective mobile apps. The apps provide a user-friendly interface for configuring the network, monitoring devices, and adjusting settings.
Which Mesh System is Right for You?
The choice between D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco depends on your specific needs and budget.
D-Link COVR
If you prioritize speed, coverage, and reliability, the D-Link COVR system is the better choice. Its tri-band design and dedicated backhaul band provide a significant advantage in terms of performance.
TP-Link Deco
If you are on a budget or do not require the absolute fastest speeds, the TP-Link Deco system is an excellent value. Its dual-band design still provides good coverage and reliable connections, and its compact size makes it easy to blend into any home décor.
Wrap-Up: The Best Mesh System for Your Home
Ultimately, both D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that can significantly improve the connectivity in your home. The D-Link COVR system offers superior performance and coverage, while the TP-Link Deco system is more affordable and easier to use. Consider your specific needs and budget to determine which mesh system is the right fit for your home network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mesh system has better parental controls?
Both D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco offer parental controls, but the COVR system provides more advanced features, such as time limits, website filtering, and device blocking.
Can I use the mesh system to extend my existing Wi-Fi network?
Yes, both mesh systems can be used to extend the range of your existing Wi-Fi network. Simply connect one of the mesh units to your existing router and place the other units throughout your home to create a seamless network.
How many devices can I connect to the mesh system?
The number of devices you can connect to the mesh system depends on the model and your internet speed. However, both D-Link COVR and TP-Link Deco systems can support multiple devices simultaneously without significant performance degradation.