The TP-Link Archer AX50 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router designed to deliver high-speed, reliable internet connectivity for small to medium-sized homes. As part of TP-Link's Archer series, it combines next-generation Wi-Fi 6 technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to upgrade their home network without breaking the bank. Below is a detailed breakdown of its key aspects:

• The Archer AX50 supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), offering significant improvements over previous generations. It achieves up to 3x faster speeds, 4x greater capacity, and 75% lower latency compared to Wi-Fi 5 routers . This ensures smoother streaming, gaming, and downloading, even with multiple devices connected simultaneously.

• It features OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) and MU-MIMO technology, allowing the router to communicate efficiently with multiple devices at once. This is particularly beneficial for modern smart homes with numerous IoT devices, as it reduces lag and improves overall network efficiency .

• The router is powered by an Intel dual-core processor, which enhances processing speed and ensures stable performance for bandwidth-intensive tasks . It includes 4 gigabit LAN ports and 1 gigabit WAN port, supporting wired connections for devices like gaming consoles and PCs. Additionally, it features a USB 3.0 port for network storage and media sharing, though its file transfer speeds are noted to be modest .

• With 4 external antennas and beamforming technology, the Archer AX50 focuses Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices, improving coverage and reliability across areas up to 2,000 square feet . However, some users may find its range limited in larger homes or through thick walls .

• The router includes TP-Link HomeCare, a suite of security and management tools offering lifetime free antivirus protection, parental controls, and QoS (Quality of Service) features. The antivirus, powered by TrendMicro, blocks malicious sites and isolates infected devices, while parental controls allow for content filtering and time-based restrictions .

• Setup and management are streamlined through the TP-Link Tether app or web interface, enabling users to configure settings, monitor connected devices, and perform firmware updates easily. However, advanced features like HomeCare require the mobile app and a TP-Link account, which may be a drawback for some users .

• In testing, the Archer AX50 delivers solid throughput speeds, with up to 2.4 Gbps on the 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band . It supports 160 MHz channel width, allowing compatible devices to achieve faster speeds. However, its lack of multi-gig ports limits wired connections to 1 Gbps, and some users report performance issues in specific scenarios, such as reduced speeds over 5 GHz at close range .

• The router is backward compatible with older Wi-Fi standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), ensuring all devices can connect seamlessly. It also supports Alexa voice commands for basic controls, such as prioritizing devices or checking network status .

• Pros:

  • Affordable Wi-Fi 6 performance with reliable speeds.

  • Lifetime free security and parental controls.

  • Easy setup and management via Tether app.

  • Compact design with wall-mount options .

• Cons:

  • No support for WPA3 encryption or TP-Link OneMesh for mesh networking.

  • USB 3.0 port performs at near-USB 2.0 speeds.

  • Can run warm during operation .

The TP-Link Archer AX50 is a value-packed Wi-Fi 6 router ideal for users seeking modern features like enhanced security, low latency, and high capacity without a premium price tag. While it has minor limitations in NAS performance and range, its overall performance and feature set make it a strong contender in the mid-range router market