TP-Link Archer MR600 vs Huawei B818: Which is the Better 4G LTE Router?
What To Know
- The Huawei B818 also has a mobile app, but it is less user-friendly and lacks some of the features available on the Archer MR600 app.
- The Archer MR600 is a great choice for those seeking a compact and user-friendly option, while the B818 is the superior choice for those who prioritize speed and advanced features.
- The Huawei B818 has a lower latency and faster speeds, making it a better choice for gaming.
In the realm of wireless connectivity, 4G LTE routers have emerged as indispensable tools for accessing the internet in areas with limited or unreliable broadband infrastructure. Among the contenders in this market, TP-Link Archer MR600 and Huawei B818 stand out as popular choices. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and user experience of these two routers to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features
TP-Link Archer MR600
- Supports LTE Cat6 with download speeds up to 300 Mbps
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with speeds up to 867 Mbps
- Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connectivity
- USB port for sharing files or connecting a printer
- Compact and portable design
Huawei B818
- Supports LTE Cat19 with download speeds up to 1.6 Gbps
- Tri-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 5 GHz-2) with speeds up to 1.73 Gbps
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections
- Two USB ports for file sharing or connecting external devices
- Larger and more robust design
Performance
Speed and Coverage
The Huawei B818 excels in terms of speed, supporting LTE Cat19 with theoretical download speeds of up to 1.6 Gbps. In real-world tests, it consistently delivers faster speeds than the Archer MR600, which supports LTE Cat6 with a maximum download speed of 300 Mbps.
The B818 also boasts a wider coverage area thanks to its four external antennas. It provides stronger and more stable Wi-Fi signals, even in larger homes or offices.
Wi-Fi Performance
The TP-Link Archer MR600 offers dual-band Wi-Fi with speeds up to 867 Mbps, while the Huawei B818 features tri-band Wi-Fi with speeds up to 1.73 Gbps. Both routers provide reliable and consistent Wi-Fi coverage, but the B818 has a slight edge due to its additional 5 GHz-2 band, which helps reduce interference and improve signal quality.
User Experience
Setup and Installation
Both the Archer MR600 and B818 are relatively easy to set up and install. They come with user-friendly web interfaces that guide you through the configuration process. The B818, however, offers more advanced settings and customization options for experienced users.
Management and Monitoring
The TP-Link Archer MR600 has a simple and intuitive mobile app for managing and monitoring the router remotely. The Huawei B818 also has a mobile app, but it is less user-friendly and lacks some of the features available on the Archer MR600 app.
Firmware and Support
TP-Link and Huawei both provide regular firmware updates for their routers, ensuring the latest security patches and performance improvements. The Archer MR600 has a larger community of users and developers, which means more custom firmware options and support resources are available.
Which Router is Right for You?
The choice between the TP-Link Archer MR600 and Huawei B818 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Archer MR600 if:
- You need a compact and portable router
- You prioritize ease of use and a user-friendly mobile app
- You have a smaller home or office and don’t need blazing-fast speeds
Choose the B818 if:
- You demand the fastest possible speeds
- You need a router with wider coverage and more advanced Wi-Fi features
- You have a larger home or office and need multiple wired connections
Final Verdict
Both the TP-Link Archer MR600 and Huawei B818 are excellent 4G LTE routers that offer reliable and fast internet connectivity. The Archer MR600 is a great choice for those seeking a compact and user-friendly option, while the B818 is the superior choice for those who prioritize speed and advanced features.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which router has better parental controls?
Both the Archer MR600 and B818 offer basic parental controls, such as website filtering and time limits. However, the B818 has more advanced parental control features, including content filtering and device management.
2. Can I use either router with my current SIM card?
Yes, both the Archer MR600 and B818 are unlocked and compatible with SIM cards from any carrier.
3. Which router is better for gaming?
The Huawei B818 has a lower latency and faster speeds, making it a better choice for gaming.
