TP-Link Archer AX21
Score: 74/100
TP-Link Archer BE230
Score: 79/100Rankings
The TP-Link Archer BE230 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 7 router delivering up to 3.6 Gbps total throughput with four antennas, MLO and two 2.5 Gbps ports, ideal for medium-size homes. However, it lacks a 6 GHz band and its 5 GHz range drops off beyond short distances. Best for gamers and streamers in smaller spaces who need fast wired connections.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
1,800 Mbps | 3,600 Mbpsbest | |
4best | 4best | |
2 | 4best | |
0.256 GBbest | — | |
4best | 4best | |
0.016 GBbest | — | |
1best | 1best | |
1best | 1best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ax | Wi‑Fi 7 |
Frequency Bands | dual-band | 2.4 GHz,5 GHz |
Security(1) | ||
Security Protocols | WPA3 | WPA3,HomeShield |
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Wireless Speed (Mbps) | 1800 Mbps | 3600 Mbps |
Processor | Dual-core | Quad-core |
CPU Cores | 2 | 4 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
Professional reviewers consider the Archer BE230 a high-performance Wi-Fi 7 router for close-range, bandwidth-intensive use cases, praising its fast 5 GHz speeds, robust 2.4 GHz signal, 2.5 Gbps ports, and superior VPN and USB performance. However, they point out the critical omission of a 6 GHz band and the steep drop-off of 5 GHz throughput at longer distances, which limits its suitability for large or multi-story homes without mesh expansion.
Everyday users value the router's ability to deliver gigabit-level speeds near the device, its strong 2.4 GHz coverage for IoT gadgets, and the convenience of the Tether app. The most common criticism revolves around limited long-range 5 GHz coverage and the lack of a 6 GHz band, prompting many to consider adding EasyMesh nodes for broader coverage.
“smooth for home office and smart TVs”
“fine for apartments, but lags with 30+ IoT devices”
