Comparing Linksys E900 with Other Routers: Which One is Right for You?When it comes to home networking, choosing the right router can significantly impact your internet experience. The Linksys E900 is a popular choice among consumers, but how does it stack up against other routers on the market? In this article, we will compare the Linksys E900 with several other routers, examining their features, performance, and suitability for different user needs.
Overview of Linksys E900
The Linksys E900 is a wireless-N router designed for home use. It offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for everyday internet activities such as browsing, streaming, and gaming. Key features of the Linksys E900 include:
- Wireless-N Technology: Supports speeds up to 300 Mbps.
- Multiple Ethernet Ports: Four ⁄100 Ethernet ports for wired connections.
- Easy Setup: User-friendly installation process with a web-based interface.
- Security Features: WPA/WPA2 encryption for secure connections.
While the E900 is a solid option, it’s essential to compare it with other routers to determine if it meets your specific needs.
Comparison with Other Routers
To provide a comprehensive comparison, we will look at the Linksys E900 alongside three other popular routers: the TP-Link Archer A7, the Netgear Nighthawk R6700, and the ASUS RT-AC66U.
| Feature/Router | Linksys E900 | TP-Link Archer A7 | Netgear Nighthawk R6700 | ASUS RT-AC66U |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 300 Mbps | 1750 Mbps | 1750 Mbps | 1750 Mbps |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11n | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | 802.11ac |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 x ⁄100 | 4 x Gigabit | 4 x Gigabit | 4 x Gigabit |
| USB Ports | None | 1 x USB 2.0 | 1 x USB 3.0 | 1 x USB 2.0 |
| Range | Up to 1,500 sq ft | Up to 2,500 sq ft | Up to 1,800 sq ft | Up to 3,000 sq ft |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Higher-end | Mid-range |
| Best For | Basic internet use | Streaming & gaming | High-performance needs | Versatile use |
Detailed Analysis
1. Performance and Speed
The Linksys E900 offers a maximum speed of 300 Mbps, which is suitable for basic internet activities like browsing and streaming in standard definition. However, if you have multiple devices or require higher speeds for activities like 4K streaming or online gaming, you may find it lacking compared to the TP-Link Archer A7 and Netgear Nighthawk R6700, both of which support speeds up to 1750 Mbps.
2. Wi-Fi Standards
The E900 uses 802.11n technology, while the other routers utilize 802.11ac, which provides better performance and range. If you have newer devices that support 802.11ac, you will benefit from faster speeds and improved connectivity with the Archer A7 and Nighthawk R6700.
3. Wired Connections
For users who prefer wired connections, the E900 has four ⁄100 Ethernet ports, which are sufficient for basic use. However, the TP-Link Archer A7, Netgear Nighthawk R6700, and ASUS RT-AC66U all feature Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for faster wired connections, which is essential for activities like gaming or transferring large files.
4. Range and Coverage
The E900 covers up to 1,500 square feet, which may be adequate for smaller homes. In contrast, the ASUS RT-AC66U offers a range of up to 3,000 square feet, making it a better choice for larger homes or spaces with multiple floors.
5. Additional Features
The TP-Link Archer A7 and Netgear Nighthawk R6700 come with USB ports, allowing for easy file sharing and printer connectivity. The E900 lacks this feature, which may be a drawback for users who need to share files across devices.
Conclusion: Which Router is Right for You?
Choosing the right router depends on your specific needs
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