Unveiling the Clash: Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods vs TP-Link Deco M4 – Which Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to enhancing your home Wi-Fi coverage, two popular options that come to mind are Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and TP-Link Deco M4. Both systems offer mesh networking capabilities, but they have their own unique features and benefits. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods vs TP-Link Deco M4, helping you make an informed decision about which system is right for your needs.

Design and Features

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods are small, unobtrusive devices that blend seamlessly into your home décor. They feature a sleek, cylindrical design with a matte white finish. Each pod has a built-in LED indicator that provides status updates about the Wi-Fi connection.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 units are slightly larger than Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and have a more angular design. They come in a classic white color and have a glossy finish. The Deco M4 units also have LED indicators, but they are located on the bottom of the devices.

Coverage and Speed

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods utilize a proprietary mesh networking technology to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. They work together to create a seamless, whole-home Wi-Fi network. Ziggo claims that a single pod can cover up to 1,000 square feet, while a three-pack system can cover up to 3,000 square feet.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 also employs mesh networking technology, but it uses a different protocol called TP-Link OneMesh. Deco M4 units can provide coverage of up to 2,000 square feet per unit. A two-pack system can cover up to 4,000 square feet, while a three-pack system can cover up to 6,000 square feet.

Connectivity and Ports

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods only have one Ethernet port per pod. This port can be used to connect the pod to your modem or router, or to connect wired devices such as smart TVs or gaming consoles.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 units have two Ethernet ports per unit. One port is used to connect the pod to your modem or router, while the other port can be used to connect wired devices.

Parental Controls and Security

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods offer basic parental controls that allow you to set limits on internet access for specific devices and users. You can also create guest networks and manage the Wi-Fi password.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 provides more advanced parental controls through the TP-Link HomeCare app. You can set time limits, filter content, and monitor your children’s online activity. Deco M4 also supports WPA3 security, which is the latest Wi-Fi security protocol.

App and Management

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods are managed through the Ziggo Connect app. The app allows you to set up the pods, monitor your network, and adjust settings. However, the app has limited features compared to the TP-Link Deco app.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 is managed through the TP-Link Deco app. The app has a user-friendly interface and provides a wide range of features. You can set up the Deco M4 units, monitor your network, adjust settings, and access advanced features such as parental controls and QoS.

Pricing and Availability

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods are available in packs of one, two, or three pods. The single-pod system costs around €99, the two-pod system costs around €199, and the three-pod system costs around €299.

TP-Link Deco M4

TP-Link Deco M4 is available in packs of two or three units. The two-pack system costs around €130, while the three-pack system costs around €190.

Which System is Right for You?

The choice between Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and TP-Link Deco M4 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable mesh Wi-Fi system with basic features, Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods may be a good option. If you need more coverage, advanced parental controls, and a wider range of features, TP-Link Deco M4 is the better choice.

Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods vs TP-Link Deco M4: Key Differences

To summarize the key differences between Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and TP-Link Deco M4:

• Coverage: TP-Link Deco M4 provides wider coverage than Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods.
• Speed: Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods support faster speeds than TP-Link Deco M4.
• Connectivity: TP-Link Deco M4 has more Ethernet ports than Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods.
• Parental Controls: TP-Link Deco M4 offers more advanced parental controls than Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods.
• App and Management: TP-Link Deco M4 has a more feature-rich app than Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods.
• Pricing: Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods are generally more affordable than TP-Link Deco M4.

Final Verdict

Both Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and TP-Link Deco M4 are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that can significantly improve your home Wi-Fi coverage. However, TP-Link Deco M4 offers more coverage, advanced parental controls, and a wider range of features, making it the better choice for most users.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Are Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods compatible with TP-Link Deco M4?

No, Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods and TP-Link Deco M4 are not compatible with each other. They use different mesh networking protocols and cannot be combined into a single network.

2. Can I use Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods with a TP-Link router?

Yes, you can use Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods with a TP-Link router. However, you will not be able to take advantage of the full range of features offered by Ziggo Smart WiFi Pods, such as seamless roaming and automatic channel selection.

3. Can I use TP-Link Deco M4 with a Ziggo modem?

Yes, you can use TP-Link Deco M4 with a Ziggo modem. However, you may experience some compatibility issues, such as reduced performance or intermittent connectivity. It is recommended to use a TP-Link modem with TP-Link Deco M4 for optimal performance.