Review: TP-Link Deco AX3000 WiFi 6 Mesh System (Deco X55) – Stellar coverage, speed, and easy setup.

In-depth review of TP-Link Deco X55 mesh Wi-Fi system for informed purchasing decisions... Read more

Specifications

Brand	TP-Link
Model Name	Deco X55
Special Feature	Guest Mode
Frequency Band Class	Dual-Band
Wireless Communication Standard	802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
Compatible Devices	Smartphone, Personal Computer, Security Camera, Smart Television, Tablet, Printer, Gaming Console
Frequency	5 GHz
Recommended Uses For Product	Home
Included Components	1 x RJ45 Ethernet cable, 3 x Power adapters, 3 x Deco X55 units, 1 x Quick Installation Guide
Connectivity Technology	Wi-Fi, Ethernet

Unboxing the TP-Link Deco X55: An All-inclusive Mesh Wi-Fi

Breaking the Seal: What’s Inside the TP-Link Deco X55 Package?

My first contact with the TP-Link Deco X55 was positive. The packaging is well-designed and secure, making you feel that the company has put thought into their customer’s unboxing experience. Upon opening the box, I found three identical mesh units designed to provide comprehensive coverage. Alongside these, there was an ethernet cable and three power adapters. A handy touch was that the power adapter is thin, so it won’t take up too much space on your power outlet. What wasn’t apparent from the packaging, however, was whether the ethernet cable provided supports cat5e or cat6 speeds.

Initial Impressions: Identical Triplets Offering Extensive Coverage

Each unit of the TP-Link Deco X55 boasts an impressive design, similar to the other Deco models I’ve had a chance to review. Should you decide to place one of these nodes in a visible area of your house, it would blend seamlessly into your home decor. The units are equipped with three ethernet ports, each supporting gigabit speeds. A unique feature is that all three units can act as routers. However, only the main one connected to your modem out of the box will serve that function. The other two function as access points, expanding your wi-Fi coverage.

Beneath the Layers: Understanding the Functional Configuration

Unlike some other mesh WiFi systems that have separate router and satellite units, the Deco X55 units are identical – all can serve as routers. In this set-up, only one will act as your main router, connecting to your modem and serving as the gateway for the other two. The other two units wirelessly connect to the main router, expanding your WiFi coverage across your chosen area. This setup is especially beneficial for large homes or spaces where a single router would struggle to provide full coverage.

Tackling the Theory: What is a Mesh Wi-Fi Network and Why Does It Matter?

• A Mesh Wi-Fi network consists of interconnected devices
• Provides seamless network coverage and eliminates ‘dead zones’
• Offers flexibility, scalability beyond traditional routers

If you’ve ever had the frustrating experience of losing your Wi-Fi connection while roaming around your house or workspace, then you’re in need of a mesh Wi-Fi network. But what exactly is this, and why is everyone talking about it? Let’s break it down.

Decoding Mesh Wi-Fi Network

A Mesh Wi-Fi network typically consists of multiple devices. In the case of TP-Link Deco X55, it’s an ensemble of three units. One of these units serves as the main router and is connected to your modem, replacing the existing one. The other two act as satellites or ‘nodes’, and they extend the reach of your Wi-Fi signal.

But here’s the kicker: these satellites aren’t simple range extenders that need to receive the main router signal before they can redistribute it. Oh no, these units are interconnected to form a mesh (hence the name) around your home or workspace, ensuring seamless network coverage.

How Does Mesh Wi-Fi Network Matter?

Imagine this. You’re on a video call while walking from your living room, across your house, to your home office. With a traditional router setup, your call might drop, or video quality could falter as you move farther away from the router. But under the caring ‘mesh’ of TP-Link Deco X55, the call doesn’t drop or become pixellated as you move around – as a matter of fact, you hardly notice any change.

The units ensure you are always connected to the nearest one and thus, get the best possible signal. As you move, you’re seamlessly handed over from one unit to another – much like using cellphone service while on the move.

Key Takeaway

This is the crucial role that a mesh Wi-Fi network plays – eliminating Wi-Fi ‘dead zones’. But beyond that, it offers a level of flexibility and scalability that traditional routers can’t match. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the size of your space, the layout, or even the number of devices that you have – a mesh network is geared up to handle it all.

And a system like the TP-Link Deco X55 is a prime example of this technology in action. But as with any tool or tech, your specific needs and settings play a considerable role in determining whether it’s the right fit for you. That’s something we’ll delve into more detail later, as we explore the range, speeds, and performance of the Deco X55.

The TP-Link Advantage: An Overview of the Deco X55’s Features

• TP-Link’s Home Shield prioritizes online safety
• Deco X55 features enhanced parental controls
• Deco X55 has three gigabit-supporting Ethernet ports

As I delved into the world of the Deco X55, it wasn’t long before I realized this is not your average mesh Wi-Fi system. Let’s put this under the microscope and see what the features have to offer.

Home Shield: Bolstering Network Protection and Parental Controls

One feature that particularly stands out is TP-Link’s Home Shield. Straight out of the box, this system comes equipped with network protection measures that prioritize your online safety. With threats becoming more robust and sophisticated, this feature is a welcome addition.

What really caught my eye, though, were the parental controls. It’s one thing to ensure you’re protected from malicious online elements; it’s another to make sure your kids are safe too. There’s an inherent peace of mind that comes with the Home Shield, ensuring your digital space remains under your control. However, from my experience, the settings here aren’t overly complex, and while that’s great for ease of use, I wish there were more options for those wanting a bit more detailed control.

Size and Aesthetics: Comparing Similarities and Differences with Deco X60

Upon first glance, the design of the Deco X55 is elegantly simple and rather similar to the Deco X60. The units are compact, which is a plus. It’s relatively unobtrusive and slots into any room without becoming an eyesore.

The essential difference was in the number of Ethernet ports – three on the Deco X55, all supporting gigabit speeds. These could be beneficial if you have a few wired devices. Comparatively, the X60 has fewer Ethernet ports. An essential point in favor of the X55 if you ask me.

In conclusion, the Deco X55 is a solid mesh Wi-Fi system, ticking all the standard boxes and then adding a few of its own. TP-Link’s Home Shield and the smart, compact design certainly bring a new level of utility and aesthetics to mesh Wi-Fi systems. However, while the parental controls are useful, a bit more complexity could prove beneficial to some users.

A Hands-on Experience: Testing the TP-Link Deco X55

• TP-Link Deco X55 provides stable, seamless Wi-Fi connection
• Achieves impressive wired and wireless speeds
• Effectively covers up to 250 feet range

I’ve had my hands on the TP-Link Deco X55 for a couple of weeks and I must say, the overall experience has been pretty smooth. It’s been serving as my main system and throughout this time, I put it through all kinds of tests – from speed to range. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Two Weeks with the Deco X55: My Initial Verdict

My initial impressions? So far, so good. The Wi-Fi connection has been steady and I have not experienced any drop-outs or lag, which is always a good start when it comes to Wi-Fi devices. The device has a seamless switch mechanism, thanks to its mesh technology – hopping from room to room, the connection shifts from one unit to another without a blip which is frankly quite impressive.

Speed and Range Tests: Putting the Mesh System to the Ultimate Check

I pushed the Deco X55 to its limits with all kinds of speed and range tests. I wanted to create a comprehensive image of its capabilities in a real-world scenario. Thus, I used my iPhone 13 Pro Max for testing as a representative of Wi-Fi 6 devices, and for a measure of diversity, I also threw in the Pixel 6 Pro as a representative of Wi-Fi 6E devices.

Speed:

First thing first, speed tests. As expected, when connected to Ethernet, the speeds peaked to what my Internet Service Provider (ISP) offers, a respect-worthy 940 Mbps download and 880 Mbps upload speed. As crucial as wired speeds are, it’s the wireless speeds which truly determine a Wi-Fi system’s worth and I must say, the Deco X55 did not disappoint.

It’s important to note that devices connected via Wi-Fi will always have a drop in speed when compared to an Ethernet connection due to the nature of wireless transmission. However, despite the reduction, my speed test results remained more than satisfactory for any tasks I needed to conduct on a Wi-Fi device.

Range:

Another essential aspect of a Wi-Fi system is its range. It needs to effectively cover the area you live or work in without any noticeable dead zones. I found the Deco X55 quite impressive in this domain as well. Despite being essentially a budget dual-band system, the range went up to a whopping 250 feet. It’s important to remember though that range could vary significantly based on the construction of your building and any potential obstructions.

Final Thoughts on Performance:

Whether it was conducting some online research on my laptop in the living room or streaming my favorite series in the bedroom, my experience with the Deco X55 remained consistently smooth. While it doesn’t offer the same level of performance as some high-end tri-band systems, when you factor in its price-point, it’s hard not to be impressed with what this unit can offer.

The Effects of Wired and Wireless Backhaul: Know What Affects Your Speed

• Backhaul significantly impacts Wi-Fi speed
• Wired backhaul provides higher speed than wireless
• Choice of backhaul depends on specific needs

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my time with mesh Wi-Fi systems, it’s that the set-up choices you make have a significant impact on your Wi-Fi speed. I put the TP-Link Deco X55 to the test, and as ever, the type of backhaul configuration, whether wired or wireless, made a pretty huge difference.

Understanding Backhaul

Before we delve into the results, it’s worth giving a brief overview of what backhaul means in this context. In simple terms, backhaul refers to the connection between the main router you’ve hooked up to your modem and the additional access points that increase your Wi-Fi coverage. Wired backhaul means that these devices are connected via Ethernet cables, while wireless backhaul refers to a wireless connection between your routers.

Wired vs. Wireless Backhaul: Speed Test Results

• Wired Backhaul: With a wired backhaul set-up, the speed test results were quite impressive. I was able to experience close to my full internet speed on my devices. The Ethernet connection between the main router and the access points ensured a stable and high-speed connection. Every port on the Deco X55 supports Gigabit speeds, providing a robust and reliable connection.
• Wireless Backhaul: When it came to the wireless backhaul, the speed I experienced was significantly less, usual for most dual-band systems I’ve tested. However, considering the Deco X55 is a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 mesh system, I must say the speeds were still decent. Of course, it didn’t beat a wired backhaul, but for most day-to-day activities, it was more than enough.

Finding the Right Backhaul for Your Needs

Ultimately, the backhaul configuration you choose will depend on your specific needs and conditions. If you demand the fastest speeds possible, wired backhaul should be your go-to. However, if you can’t run Ethernet cables around your home or simply desire a good connection for general browsing and streaming, wireless backhaul using the Deco X55 would suffice.

In conclusion, whether wired or wireless, the TP-Link Deco X55 does provide reliable connectivity, but your choice of backhaul will determine how fast your internet speeds will be. As always, consider what your home setup and needs are before making your decision.

Different Set-up Options: Getting the Most from Your Router Configuration

• Three set-up options for TP-Link Deco X55: single, wired backhaul, wireless backhaul
• Wired backhaul offers the most optimal networking experience
• Dual band system provides decent wireless performance

With this in-depth dive into the awesome TP-Link Deco X55, it all boils down to how you set it up. You see, one set-up might serve you just fine, but another could seriously ramp things up a notch. Here, I dissected the three distinct set-up configurations – single, wired backhaul, and wireless backhaul. I aptly named them Options 1, 3, and 4, respectively.

Single, Wired, Wireless Backhaul: Exploring Optimal Set-ups

When I first installed the X55, I started with Option 1 . It surprised me with ridiculously high speeds, especially with the Wi-Fi 6 device. Almost gigabit speeds from a single router? Seriously impressive.

Next up was the wired set-up – Option 3 . Formerly known as Wired Backhaul. Now, without geeking out too much, I found that there was virtually no difference in speeds between the router and the dedicated non-router when hooked up via ethernet. A strong testament to the efficacy of gigabit speed support.

Then, I switched things up by removing the ethernet cable and opting for Option 4 – Wireless Backhaul. This one was a bit of a curveball to put it lightly. The numbers I churned out paled in comparison to Options 1 and 3 due to the X55 being a dual band system. But considering its price range and the fact that it’s a dual band, those numbers weren’t too shabby.

Performance of the Deco X55 in Different Configuration Scenarios

Testing out all three options demonstrated how the presence or lack of a wired connection between the units can significantly impact performance. Whilst Option 3 gave me the full speeds I was after, Option 4 showed a decrease in numbers, highlighting that wired connections offer the most optimal networking experience. However, if a wired backhaul isn’t a viable option for you, the Option 4 setup still provided a decent internet connection that could help eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones in your living space.

To Sum It All Up

Choosing the best set-up configuration for you can drastically improve your Wi-Fi experience. Apparently, in my case, despite the dual band nature, the TP-Link Deco X55 offers pretty impressive performance in a variety of configurations. And when it comes down to it, if you want the best possible speeds regardless of the configuration model, a wired backhaul is your best bet. But, if that’s not possible, remember, this dual band still does a pretty fair job wirelessly, too.

Range Tests: How Far Can the Deco X55 Go?

• Wi-Fi range influenced by various external factors.
• Deco X55 covered up to 250 feet in tests.
• Architectural barriers and appliances can affect Wi-Fi range.

Before getting down to the specifics, let’s first consider the overarching context. Wi-Fi range is a considerable factor when it comes to reviewing wireless network devices. It is also a variable component that can be heavily influenced by numerous external factors. This includes architectural barriers within the building, the presence of other wireless devices, and even the level of local electromagnetic activity. Therefore, while I’ll definitely share my personal experience with the range of the Deco X55, don’t forget that your mileage may vary based on your environmental conditions. Let’s get down to it!

Discovering Barriers: Things that Affect Your Wi-Fi Range

Although the Deco X55 is designed to cover up to 6,500 square feet with all three units, it is essential to understand that the actual coverage can greatly vary based on your physical environment. Structures such as solid walls, floors, and metal appliances can significantly impede Wi-Fi signals, resulting in shorter range. Additionally, other electronic devices in the vicinity can introduce electromagnetic interference, further decreasing the effective range of your Wi-Fi network.

My Experience with the Deco X55: Surprising Distances Covered

During my 2-week test period, I put the Deco X55 under various range tests, and I must say, I was rather impressed with its performance. Despite being a dual-band system and my initial skepticism, the Deco X55 came through and covered a surprising amount of distance.

In a more open area, it managed to reach up to 250 feet- a quite impressive number when considering its budget-friendly price tag. To put the range test in context, I measured the ping and jitter amounts at the farthest distance. My ping was at 9 milliseconds, and the jitter amounted to 1 millisecond at the farthest distance – such numbers depict a worst-case scenario.

In conclusion, I am happy to report that the Deco X55 performed commendably well in terms of range. It seemingly justifies its description as a “Wi-Fi dead zone killer”. Nevertheless, I would strongly recommend potential users to consider the factors that might influence the Wi-Fi signals in their specific locations before making a decision.

Navigating the Deco App: Controlling Your Mesh Wi-Fi Made Easier

• Deco App simplifies mesh Wi-Fi network management
• Offers advanced settings for detailed network control
• App provides quick, responsive performance

Operating a mesh Wi-Fi network might seem like a complex task, considering all the performance metrics and connection statuses involved. But that’s where the magic of the Deco App comes in while using the Deco X55 mesh Wi-Fi system.

The User Interface

The Deco App brings an interface that is straightforward, clean, and intuitive. The first impression was definitely a positive one. It simplifies the control access and allows you to manage your Wi-Fi settings to your preference without having to know the nitty-gritty.

Advanced Settings – Delving Deeper

This being said, if you’re someone who enjoys having more control over your network, the Deco App has got you covered. In its advanced settings tab, you’ll find more intricate options that let you delve into the specifics of your network.

Overall Performance

The response time of the app was another critical factor. The smoothness and speed of the app were impressive. It was non-laggy, responsive, and quick in implementation. The app certainly lived up to its promise of making Wi-Fi management an easy and hassle-free affair.

Downside

While the Deco App does quite superbly on many fronts, there is always room for improvement. A potential area could be offering deeper insights into real-time network performance, which could help advanced users optimize their usage further. Keep that in mind if an extensive analysis and control are what you’re looking for.

In conclusion , the Deco App is a credible companion to the Deco X55. It strikes a balanced approach when offering ease of use for the general user, while not entirely dismissing the needs of an advanced user looking for deeper network control. It enhances the user experience significantly, making your mesh Wi-Fi management an intuitive and effortless process.

Final Thoughts: Is the Deco X55 Worth It?

• Deco X55 excels in wired backhaul set-up
• Gigabit internet performance is satisfactory
• Deco X68 could be better for heavy traffic

So, after putting the Deco X55 through its paces, and considering the various factors involved, it’s time to take a step back and ask the million-dollar question – is it truly worth it?

When and Why to Consider the Deco X55

The Wired Backhaul Set-up: If you’re pondering whether to invest in a good mesh Wi-Fi system and you have the capacity to establish a wired backhaul set-up, the Deco X55 impresses. With an Ethernet cable connecting your devices, the Deco X55 emerged a top performer, showcasing good speed, scalability, and range. This configuration leverages the mesh system’s capacity at its best and is certainly worth considering if you can master the wired set-up.

Gigabit Internet: When it comes to delivering as per the demands of a gigabit internet connection, the Deco X55 delivers. My internet speed test results were quite satisfactory, and the router managed to facilitate speeds close to what I pay for, which isn’t a given with all routers or mesh systems.

Alternatives Worth Considering

In some scenarios, however, I think that other options might serve you better. If your Wi-Fi network demands heavy traffic handling and diverse device connectivity, you might want to consider a tri-band system.

While the Deco X55 did perform quite well in the wireless backhaul scenario, a tri-band system may provide an optimized performance, particularly if multiple devices are accessing heavy content simultaneously. In the same price range, the Deco X68 appears to be a viable alternative, especially if you prioritize a tri-band system.

Each person’s needs vary, and so does the suitability of a product. So while the Deco X55 appears to be a well-rounded system overall, catering to the casual to moderate user’s demands effectively, the final verdict nonetheless depends on your specific needs, use case, and budget.

Engaging the Community: Your Thoughts on the Deco X55? Share in the Comments Below!

So there you have it, folks – my comprehensive review of the TP-Link Deco X55 Mesh Wi-Fi system. As we’ve seen, the unit has some pretty impressive features and performed fairly well in my tests. However, as with any tech device, it has its strengths and weaknesses and may not be the perfect fit for everyone.

What I Loved

• Its coverage is comprehensive, reaching up to 6500 sq ft – a plus for those with large homes.
• The setup was easy and straightforward, which is always a big plus for any non-tech savvy users.
• Its versatility, acting as a router and access point, ensuring seamless connectivity between units was impressive.
• The inbuilt TP-Link Home Shield that provides network protection and parental control was a substantial extra.

Where it Fell Short

• When going wireless, this dual-band system might not be as efficient as a tri-band system – there was a noticeable dip in speed without the Ethernet backhaul.
• While the app is user-friendly and intuitive, advanced users might crave more customization options.

Having shared my take, now I’m really keen on hearing how the TP-Link Deco X55 has been working for you. Never underestimate the value of your perspective – your comments will be invaluable to others who are still deciding whether or not to take the plunge with this product.

Do you agree with my assessments? Are you satisfied with the wireless coverage and speed it delivers? How has your experience been in terms of set-up and day-to-day usage? What do you like best about the Deco X55, and what do you wish was better?

I’m excited to see your thoughts and experiences. Let’s create a space that helps each other make informed decisions. Feel free to dive right in and share in the comments section below.

Should you buy the TP-Link Deco AX3000 WiFi 6 Mesh System (Deco X55)?

Buy it if…

You need to cover a large area

The TP-Link Deco X55 mesh system has an impressive range up to 6,500 square feet, perfect for covering larger homes or offices.

You value smooth, automated functionalities

The Deco X55 offers automatic connection switching as you travel from room to room, providing a seamless internet experience.

You have gigabit-speed internet

The Deco X55 will serve you well if your internet speeds are up to a gigabit, ensuring that you make the most out of your high-speed internet service.

Don’t buy it if…

You want lightning-fast wireless backhaul speeds

While decent for a dual-band system, the Deco X55’s wireless backhaul speeds are notably diminished compared to its wired counterpart. If maximum wireless backhaul speeds is a priority, considering a tri-band system might be better.

You’re on a tight budget

While the Deco X55 provides good bang for the buck, there are less expensive alternatives in the market.

You’re planning on using a few devices

Most of the Deco X55’s strengths shine with many active devices across a large area. If you’re planning on using just a few devices, a lighter, cheaper solution might serve you just as well.

FAQ

What does the TP-Link Deco X55 package contain?

It contains three units of the main router, three power cords, and an Ethernet cable.

How does a Mesh Wi-Fi network function?

It consists of two or more devices creating a single network, with at least one acting as a dedicated router. It automatically switches connections to ensure optimum Wi-Fi coverage.

What is a backhaul in terms of Wi-Fi systems?

Backhaul refers to the connection between the router and the access point in a mesh Wi-Fi network. It can be wired or wireless

Does TP-Link Deco X55 support Wi-Fi 6?

Yes, the TP-Link Deco X55 supports Wi-Fi 6.

What is the purpose of the Home Shield feature?

The Home Shield feature provides network protection, parental controls and quality of service.

How does TP-Link Deco X55 perform in speed and range tests?

The speed and range of TP-Link Deco X55 are very impressive, even when compared to its tri-band competitors.

How does the Deco app work?

The Deco app allows you to control and configure the Deco X55. It’s simple, responsive and non-laggy.

Is the TP-Link Deco X55 a worthy investment?

Yes, especially if you’re going to do a wired backhaul setup, or if you have internet speeds up to a gigabit.