Google Wifi
Score: 68/100
TP-Link Archer AX21
Score: 74/100Rankings
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.
Google Wifi is an entry-level dual-band Wi-Fi 5 mesh router offering up to 1,200 Mbps speed and 1,500 sq ft coverage per unit with easy app-based setup. Its limitations include lower throughput, few Ethernet ports, and lack of Wi-Fi 6. It is best for budget-focused households that need straightforward coverage without demanding high-speed networking.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,200 Mbps | 1,800 Mbpsbest | |
1,500 sqftbest | — | |
— | 4best | |
4best | 2 | |
0.5 GBbest | 0.256 GB | |
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(4) | ||
Maximum Wireless Speed (Mbps) | 1200 Mbps | 1800 Mbps |
Processor | Quad-core 1.4 GHz | Dual-core |
CPU Cores | 4 | 2 |
RAM (GB) | 0.5 GB | 0.256 GB |
Ports(1) | ||
LAN Ports | 2 | 4 |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the system's plug-and-play installation, reliable self-healing mesh, and scalable coverage, but criticize the lack of Wi-Fi 6, limited wired ports, and the simplistic app that omits advanced controls.
Everyday users repeatedly praise the straightforward setup, seamless roaming, and compact design, while common complaints focus on the scarcity of Ethernet ports, no increase in ISP speed, occasional reboots, and reduced performance at the edges of coverage.
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”
