Key points
- Both the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 come equipped with a range of features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience.
- If you have a small to medium-sized home and are on a tight budget, the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 is a great option.
- If you have a larger home or require faster speeds and more robust coverage, the TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 is a better choice.
In the realm of budget-friendly Wi-Fi routers, the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 stand out as two formidable contenders. Boasting impressive features and affordable price tags, these routers offer a compelling choice for home and small office users seeking reliable and fast internet connectivity. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 sports a compact and sleek design with a matte black finish. Its three external antennas are adjustable, allowing for optimal signal reception in different room configurations. The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900, on the other hand, features a larger and more angular design with four non-adjustable antennas. Both routers come with wall-mount options, making it easy to install them in convenient locations.
Wireless Performance
The TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 supports the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard and offers a combined speed of up to 1200 Mbps (300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band). The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900, however, boasts a faster combined speed of up to 1900 Mbps (600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band). This makes it a better choice for households with multiple devices streaming high-definition content or engaging in online gaming.
Features and Functionality
Both the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 come equipped with a range of features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. These include:
- Parental Controls: Protect your children from inappropriate content and limit their internet usage.
- Guest Network: Create a separate Wi-Fi network for guests, keeping your main network private.
- QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or applications, ensuring optimal performance for activities such as gaming or video streaming.
- TP-Link Tether App: Manage your router remotely from your smartphone or tablet.
Security
The TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 both offer robust security features to protect your home network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. These features include:
- WPA2-PSK and WPA3-PSK Encryption: Advanced encryption standards to safeguard your data and prevent unauthorized access.
- Firewall: Blocks malicious traffic and protects your devices from cyber threats.
- DoS Protection: Prevents denial-of-service attacks that can disrupt your internet connection.
Range and Coverage
The TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 provides a decent range and coverage for small to medium-sized homes. The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900, however, has a wider range and more stable coverage, thanks to its four antennas and Beamforming technology. This makes it a better choice for larger homes or homes with thick walls or obstacles that can interfere with Wi-Fi signals.
Price and Value
The TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 is an affordable option, typically priced around $50. The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 is slightly more expensive, with a typical price range of $70-$80. Both routers offer excellent value for their respective price points.
In a nutshell: Which Router is Right for You?
Both the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 and TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 are excellent budget-friendly routers that offer reliable and fast internet connectivity. However, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you have a small to medium-sized home and are on a tight budget, the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200 is a great option. It provides decent range and coverage and offers a range of essential features.
If you have a larger home or require faster speeds and more robust coverage, the TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 is a better choice. It offers a wider range, faster speeds, and more advanced features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which router has a better range and coverage?
A: The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 has a wider range and more stable coverage than the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200.
Q: Which router is faster?
A: The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 offers faster speeds than the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200.
Q: Which router is more expensive?
A: The TP-Link Archer C80 AC1900 is slightly more expensive than the TP-Link Archer C6 AC1200.