Essential Information
- The Linksys Velop system features a sleek and modern design with cylindrical nodes that come in white or black.
- If you have a large home and require the best possible coverage, performance, and features, the Linksys Velop system is the ideal choice.
- However, if you have a smaller home and are looking for a more affordable option, Huawei Mesh is a solid choice.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as a game-changer, promising seamless and reliable connectivity throughout your entire home. Among the leading contenders in this arena are Linksys Velop and Huawei Mesh. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, performance, and user experience of these two mesh systems to help you make an informed decision for your home network.
Design and Build Quality
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system features a sleek and modern design with cylindrical nodes that come in white or black. The nodes are made of high-quality plastic and have a solid build.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh nodes have a more compact and unobtrusive design compared to the Velop. They are available in white and feature a rounded square shape. The nodes are made of a durable plastic material.
Coverage and Performance
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system offers excellent coverage, with each node covering up to 2,000 square feet. The tri-band technology ensures strong and stable connections even in large homes. The system supports MU-MIMO and beamforming for improved performance and reduced interference.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh also provides impressive coverage, with each node covering up to 1,500 square feet. The dual-band technology provides reliable connections in smaller homes, but may struggle in larger spaces. It supports MU-MIMO but lacks beamforming.
Features and Functionality
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system comes with a wide range of features, including parental controls, guest network access, and support for Alexa and Google Assistant. It also includes a built-in speed test and a mobile app for easy management.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh offers a simpler set of features, including parental controls and guest network access. It does not support voice assistants or a mobile app for management.
Speed and Latency
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system delivers impressive speeds, with the tri-band technology providing a dedicated backhaul for faster data transfer. Latency is also low, ensuring a responsive gaming and streaming experience.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh provides decent speeds, but it may fall short in larger homes due to the lack of a dedicated backhaul. Latency is acceptable but not as low as the Velop system.
User Experience
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system is easy to set up and manage. The mobile app provides a user-friendly interface for controlling the network and accessing features.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh is also relatively easy to set up, but it lacks a mobile app for management. The web-based interface is not as user-friendly as the Velop’s app.
Price and Value
Linksys Velop: The Linksys Velop system is priced at a premium, with a three-pack costing around $300. However, it offers a comprehensive set of features and excellent performance.
Huawei Mesh: Huawei Mesh is more budget-friendly, with a three-pack costing around $200. It provides basic features and decent performance, making it a good option for smaller homes on a budget.
Which Mesh System is Right for You?
The choice between Linksys Velop and Huawei Mesh depends on your specific needs and budget. If you have a large home and require the best possible coverage, performance, and features, the Linksys Velop system is the ideal choice. However, if you have a smaller home and are looking for a more affordable option, Huawei Mesh is a solid choice.
Alternatives to Consider
Nest Wifi: Nest Wifi is another popular mesh system that offers excellent coverage, performance, and features. It is similar to the Linksys Velop system in terms of price and capabilities.
Eero: Eero is a user-friendly mesh system that is known for its simple setup and management. It is a good option for those who prioritize ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which system has better coverage?
A: Linksys Velop offers better coverage, with each node covering up to 2,000 square feet compared to Huawei Mesh’s 1,500 square feet per node.
Q: Which system is faster?
A: Linksys Velop provides faster speeds due to its tri-band technology and dedicated backhaul.
Q: Which system is more user-friendly?
A: Both systems are easy to set up, but Linksys Velop has a more user-friendly mobile app for management.