Unveiling the Wi-Fi Champions: Archer C80 vs AX3 Head-to-Head Comparison
What To Know
- While the Archer C80 has a slightly higher theoretical speed on the 5 GHz band, the AX3’s Wi-Fi 6 capabilities provide better overall performance and efficiency.
- If you are on a tight budget and do not require the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, the Archer C80 is a great value for money.
- If you are on a tight budget and do not require the latest Wi-Fi technology, the TP-Link Archer C80 is a great option.
In the realm of home networking, the mid-range router segment is a fiercely contested battleground. Two of the most formidable contenders in this arena are the TP-Link Archer C80 and the Huawei AX3. These routers promise a blend of performance, features, and affordability, making them ideal for small to medium-sized homes and apartments. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of the TP-Link Archer C80 vs. Huawei AX3 debate, examining their key features, performance, and suitability for various usage scenarios.
Key Features
TP-Link Archer C80
- Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
- AC1900 speed (1300 Mbps on 5 GHz, 600 Mbps on 2.4 GHz)
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
- MU-MIMO technology
- Parental controls
- Guest network
Huawei AX3
- Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- AX1800 speed (1201 Mbps on 5 GHz, 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz)
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
- OFDMA technology
- Parental controls
- Guest network
Performance
Speed and Range
The TP-Link Archer C80 offers AC1900 speeds, while the Huawei AX3 boasts AX1800 speeds. While the Archer C80 has a slightly higher theoretical speed on the 5 GHz band, the AX3’s Wi-Fi 6 capabilities provide better overall performance and efficiency. OFDMA technology, a key feature of Wi-Fi 6, allows the AX3 to transmit data to multiple devices simultaneously, reducing latency and improving throughput.
In terms of range, both routers provide adequate coverage for small to medium-sized homes. However, the AX3’s superior Wi-Fi 6 technology may provide a slight edge in reaching far corners and maintaining a stable connection.
Stability and Reliability
Both the TP-Link Archer C80 and the Huawei AX3 are known for their stability and reliability. They feature advanced security protocols and firmware updates to ensure a secure and uninterrupted network experience.
Features
Wi-Fi Standards
The TP-Link Archer C80 supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), while the Huawei AX3 supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard. Wi-Fi 6 offers several advantages over Wi-Fi 5, including higher speeds, improved efficiency, and reduced latency.
MU-MIMO vs. OFDMA
The Archer C80 utilizes MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) technology, which allows it to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously on the same frequency band. The AX3, on the other hand, employs OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), which is a more advanced technology that enables the router to transmit data to multiple devices using different subcarriers within the same channel. OFDMA provides better performance and efficiency in congested networks.
Parental Controls and Guest Network
Both the Archer C80 and the AX3 offer robust parental controls, allowing you to manage internet access, set time limits, and filter content for your children. Additionally, both routers support guest networks, which provide a separate and secure Wi-Fi network for visitors.
Suitability
Home Size and Usage
The TP-Link Archer C80 is suitable for small to medium-sized homes with moderate to heavy internet usage. It is ideal for families, students, and individuals who require reliable and fast Wi-Fi for streaming, gaming, and online work.
The Huawei AX3 is also suitable for small to medium-sized homes, but its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities make it a better choice for homes with multiple connected devices and demanding internet usage. It is particularly suitable for households with smart home devices, 4K streaming, and online gaming.
Budget
The TP-Link Archer C80 is typically priced lower than the Huawei AX3. If you are on a tight budget and do not require the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, the Archer C80 is a great value for money.
However, if you are willing to invest in a future-proof router with superior performance and efficiency, the Huawei AX3 is worth considering.
The Verdict: A Balanced Decision
The TP-Link Archer C80 and the Huawei AX3 are both excellent routers in their respective price ranges. The Archer C80 offers a solid combination of speed, reliability, and features at an affordable price point. The AX3, on the other hand, provides superior performance, efficiency, and future-proofing with its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are on a tight budget and do not require the latest Wi-Fi technology, the TP-Link Archer C80 is a great option. However, if you value performance, efficiency, and future-proofing, the Huawei AX3 is the better choice.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which router has faster speeds?
A: The Huawei AX3 offers faster speeds than the TP-Link Archer C80 due to its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities.
Q: Which router has better range?
A: Both routers provide adequate coverage for small to medium-sized homes. However, the Huawei AX3 may have a slight edge in reaching far corners due to its superior Wi-Fi 6 technology.
Q: Which router is more future-proof?
A: The Huawei AX3 is more future-proof than the TP-Link Archer C80 due to its support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard.
Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: The Huawei AX3 is a better choice for gaming due to its lower latency and improved throughput, which are crucial for online gaming.
Q: Which router is more affordable?
A: The TP-Link Archer C80 is typically priced lower than the Huawei AX3.
