Google Nest Wifi
Score: 75/100
TP-Link Archer AX21
Score: 74/100Rankings
Google Nest Wifi is a second-generation mesh system delivering AC2200 dual-band speeds and up to 4400 sq ft coverage with integrated Google Assistant. It trades off Wi-Fi 6 and tri-band capabilities for ease of use and modest port count. Best for families in medium-size homes who value plug-and-play setup and voice-assistant integration.
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is a budget-friendly dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router offering up to 1.8 Gbps combined speed and four high-gain antennas with beamforming. Its dual-core processor and lack of tri-band or faster wired ports limit performance under heavy loads. Ideal for small-to-medium homes seeking affordable Wi-Fi 6.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2,200 Mbpsbest | 1,800 Mbps | |
2,200 sqftbest | — | |
— | 4best | |
— | 2best | |
— | 0.256 GBbest | |
2 | 4best | |
— | 0.016 GBbest | |
— | 1best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11ax |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band | dual-band |
Performance(1) | ||
Maximum Wireless Speed (Mbps) | 2200 Mbps | 1800 Mbps |
Ports(1) | ||
LAN Ports | 2 | 4 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Nest Wifi AC2200 for its intuitive app-based installation, solid AC2200 throughput, and sustainable construction, describing it as a reliable, easy-to-use solution for typical households. However, they criticize its reliance on legacy Wi-Fi 5 hardware, the absence of tri-band capability, and limited wired ports, noting that it falls behind newer Wi-Fi 6/6E competitors for power users and gamers.
Everyday users praise the system's plug-and-play setup, strong signal coverage across multi-story homes, and the convenience of the built-in Google Assistant speaker. Common complaints revolve around occasional speed drops, reduced performance through thick walls, and occasional buffering, especially when the mesh is stretched beyond its optimal coverage area.
Professional reviewers commend the Archer AX21 for delivering solid Wi-Fi 6 performance at a very competitive price, highlighting its four antennas, OFDMA, and security suite. However, they note the dual-core CPU and single-band-per-device limitation as drawbacks, and point out the absence of advanced QoS, USB 3.0, and full-speed Ethernet as gaps compared with pricier models.
Everyday users appreciate the quick Tether app setup, stable 4K streaming, and the speed boost over older routers, especially in apartments and small homes. Common complaints revolve around weaker 2.4 GHz coverage in larger spaces, occasional firmware freezes, and the lack of tri-band or faster wired ports for heavy device loads.
“smooth for home office and smart TVs”
“fine for apartments, but lags with 30+ IoT devices”
