The Cheapest Wi-Fi 7 Router is This ₹8,200 TP-Link

TP-Link has debuted the Archer BE3600, a $99 (approximately ₹8,200) Wi-Fi 7 router that is the cheapest one we’ve seen released in the US so far since the first routers supporting the new standard started arriving last year.

Good port selection for such a cheap router. Image: TP-Link

Affordable Yet Limited

While the price is certainly attractive, the Archer BE3600 comes with some notable tradeoffs. Unlike its pricier counterparts or even many of the Wi-Fi 6E routers already on the market, it doesn’t have the new 6GHz band. This absence means that for many users, the new router won’t significantly boost download speeds compared to much older routers.

What is Wi-Fi 7?

Wi-Fi 7 promises improved throughput and more stable connections in congested areas due to how it handles data streams. However, without the 6GHz band, users won’t see many of the multi-gigabit benefits often highlighted in Wi-Fi 7 marketing. If you have a multi-gig internet connection, a higher-end router might be more suitable to fully utilize that bandwidth.

Features to Consider

Despite its limitations, the Archer BE3600 does have some appealing features:

• Ethernet Ports: Two of its five Ethernet ports offer 2.5Gbps connections, which is rare at this price point.

• Multi-Link Operation: This feature won’t necessarily boost throughput (due to the lack of a 6GHz band), but it could provide a more stable connection for Wi-Fi 7-capable devices. If one band fails or is too busy, your device can fall back onto another band.

• EasyMesh Standard: The router supports the Wi-Fi Alliance’s EasyMesh standard, allowing it to create mesh networks with routers from other brands that also support the standard.

The Cost Factor

The most significant thing about this router is its price. Offering Wi-Fi 7 for less than $100 (₹8,200) is a first, and by a substantial margin. The current low end for Wi-Fi 7 routers generally hovers around $300 (₹24,700), with options like TP-Link’s Deco BE63 or Archer BE550.

Conclusion

While the TP-Link Archer BE3600 introduces Wi-Fi 7 at an unprecedented price, it’s essential to weigh its limitations against your needs. If you're looking for basic enhancements and a stable connection without breaking the bank, this router could be a worthwhile investment. However, for those needing the full spectrum of Wi-Fi 7’s capabilities, it might be better to wait for a more robust option.

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