Overview
- In the realm of networking, TP-Link has established itself as a formidable player, offering a plethora of high-performance routers for home and office environments.
- 5GHz quad-core CPU and a dedicated Wi-Fi 6 chip, the AX72 Pro delivers theoretical speeds of up to 1800Mbps (574Mbps on the 2.
- When it comes to connectivity and security features, the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 offer a comprehensive suite of options.
In the realm of networking, TP-Link has established itself as a formidable player, offering a plethora of high-performance routers for home and office environments. Among its latest offerings, the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 stand out as compelling options for those seeking blazing-fast Wi-Fi speeds and robust network capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two routers, exploring their key features, performance, and value proposition to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Speed and Stability
Both the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 boast impressive performance capabilities, utilizing the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard. However, the AX73 takes a slight edge in terms of raw speed.
- Archer AX72 Pro: Equipped with a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU and a dedicated Wi-Fi 6 chip, the AX72 Pro delivers theoretical speeds of up to 1800Mbps (574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band).
- Archer AX73: Featuring a more powerful 1.8GHz quad-core CPU and an upgraded Wi-Fi 6 chip, the AX73 boasts theoretical speeds of up to 2402Mbps (574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1828Mbps on the 5GHz band).
In real-world testing, both routers provide excellent speeds and stability. However, the AX73 consistently outperforms the AX72 Pro in both close-range and long-range scenarios.
Features: Connectivity and Security
When it comes to connectivity and security features, the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 offer a comprehensive suite of options.
- Ports and Connectivity: Both routers feature a similar array of ports, including four Gigabit LAN ports, a Gigabit WAN port, and a USB 3.0 port for external storage devices.
- Security: The AX72 Pro and AX73 support advanced security protocols such as WPA3, WPA2-PSK, and WPA2-Enterprise. They also include a built-in firewall, parental controls, and an intrusion prevention system (IPS) to protect your network from cyber threats.
- Additional Features: The AX73 offers a few additional features, including support for MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output), which allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without experiencing performance degradation. It also includes a dedicated Game Mode that prioritizes gaming traffic for smoother gameplay.
Design and Aesthetics
The Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 share a similar sleek and modern design. Both routers feature a black matte finish and a low-profile form factor that blends seamlessly into any home or office environment.
- Archer AX72 Pro: Measuring 9.6 x 6.5 x 2.6 inches, the AX72 Pro is slightly smaller than the AX73. It features four external antennas that can be adjusted for optimal signal coverage.
- Archer AX73: With dimensions of 10.6 x 7.3 x 2.6 inches, the AX73 is slightly larger than the AX72 Pro. It boasts six external antennas, providing even more coverage and stability.
Setup and Management
Setting up and managing both the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 is a breeze. The routers can be configured using the web-based interface or the TP-Link Tether mobile app.
- Web-Based Interface: The web-based interface provides a comprehensive range of options for customizing and managing your network. It is suitable for advanced users who prefer granular control over their router settings.
- TP-Link Tether App: The Tether app offers a simplified and user-friendly interface for basic setup and management. It is ideal for those who prefer a more streamlined and convenient approach.
Value Proposition
The Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 offer excellent value for money, considering their performance and feature set. However, the AX73 is slightly more expensive than the AX72 Pro.
- Archer AX72 Pro: Priced around $120, the AX72 Pro is an excellent budget-friendly option for those seeking a high-performance router with essential features.
- Archer AX73: While more expensive at around $150, the AX73 offers a better overall value proposition with its superior performance, additional features, and improved coverage.
Which Router is Right for You?
Choosing between the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance and essential features, the AX72 Pro is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize speed, coverage, and advanced features, the AX73 is the better investment.
Final Verdict: The Winner is…
Based on our comprehensive analysis, the TP-Link Archer AX73 emerges as the clear winner. Its superior performance, additional features, and improved coverage make it the better choice for most users. However, if you are on a tight budget, the Archer AX72 Pro remains a solid option with its own set of strengths.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 offer comprehensive parental controls through the TP-Link Tether app.
2. Can I connect a VPN to either router?
Yes, both routers support VPN connections via the OpenVPN and IPSec protocols.
3. Which router has a longer warranty?
Both the Archer AX72 Pro and AX73 come with a standard 2-year limited warranty.