Simple and powerful WLAN with TP-Link Deco in the test

With the Deco series, TP-Link offers a variety of devices for different purposes. In our review, we take a closer look at two models from this series: the Deco X50*, a powerful Wi-Fi router, and the Deco X50-PoE*, a versatile access point with Power over Ethernet technology. Both devices provide fast and reliable connections and smooth coverage in your home. A particular advantage of these models is the simple and simultaneous configuration of both devices, which makes setting up the network much easier. In this review, we will take a closer look at two TP-Link models to find out what advantages they offer and how they perform in practice.

Scope of delivery and technical data

Both the TP-Link Deco X50 and the X50-PoE are well packaged. In addition to the WLAN router itself, the scope of delivery also includes:

• Charger
• RJ45 network cable
• Quick start guide
• Mounting accessories (X50-PoE only)

141.11 €

€149.00

Auf Lager

Of particular note is the 2.5 Gb/s X50-PoE port. Other than that, the technical specifications of both devices are almost identical.

Design and execution

The workmanship of the TP-Link Deco X50 and X50-PoE is consistently good and leaves nothing to be desired. Both devices feature a high-quality construction that promises solidity and durability. The design is simple and white, which gives the routers a timeless aesthetic. This allows them to blend seamlessly into any environment without being intrusive.

In particular, the Deco X50-PoE offers additional benefits in terms of design and installation. Thanks to the flexible mounting plate, a variety of mounting options can be used, allowing for a visually clean installation. This flexibility allows the access point to be mounted on walls or ceilings to provide perfect coverage without disrupting the overall appearance.

Overall, both models impress with their well-thought-out design and impeccable workmanship.

Configuration and operation

The TP-Link Deco X50 and X50-PoE are configured using the user-friendly TP-Link app. A TP-Link account is required to configure and manage the devices. Setup using the app is quick and easy, so even less tech-savvy users can set up their network without any problems.

A special feature of the TP-Link Deco series is the automatic detection of new devices. When new devices are added, existing settings can be applied directly, which simplifies the configuration process even more. In addition, the app allows for the synchronous and simple configuration of multiple devices at the same time. This saves time and enables the seamless integration of all components into the home network.

There are almost no setting options in the web browser, while the app offers much more configuration options. However, this also means that there is a dependence on the availability of the application to be able to use all functions to their full extent. Overall, the setup and operation of the TP-Link Deco X50 and X50-PoE is user-friendly and efficient.

Practice test

As part of the practical test, various series of tests were performed to compare the performance of different WLAN configurations. An existing WLAN network via a centrally placed Fritz!Box in a network closet at home was compared with two scenarios with TP-Link Deco devices.

In the first series of tests, the Wi-Fi network was tested with the existing Fritz! The second series of tests was tested with a Deco device on one side of the house, while in the third series of tests, two Deco devices were placed around the house. In both scenarios, the reception strength, average download and upload speeds were measured in a total of 7 different locations in the house. Each location was measured five times with the same configuration to create an average value.

Measurements were performed on a current MacBook Air connected to a local server connected via Gigabit Ethernet. The measurement results are presented in the tables below.

The test series clearly shows that the reception strength of the Deco devices is significantly better than that of the central Fritz! This enables a much wider range of the Deco device compared to the Fritz! Although the Fritz!Box with 4 parallel streams offers a higher download speed, this difference is rarely significant in practice. The Deco device with 4 streams would certainly outperform the Fritz!

In addition, it should be mentioned that there were no problems with the WLAN network for an extended period of several months.

Conclusions about TP-Link Deco X50 and X50-PoE

The TP-Link Deco X50* and Deco X50-PoE* generally impress with their user-friendliness and solid performance. The hassle-free setup via the TP-Link app provides easy setup, but requires you to create an account. This may be seen as a limitation for some users.

The devices offer wide and good Wi-Fi coverage, which is sufficient for most households, but they are not necessarily the fastest on the market. Nevertheless, they are particularly suitable for non-professionals who want to set up a Wi-Fi network quickly and easily, even in larger apartments or houses with many devices.

In terms of price, the TP-Link Deco devices are well-positioned and offer good value for money. If the strengths of the devices, such as simple setup and solid Wi-Fi coverage, suit your individual requirements, they are definitely recommended. For users who value ease of use and sufficient coverage, the TP-Link Deco X50 and X50-PoE are the recommended choices.

These devices are especially recommended if other devices already exist in the Deco ecosystem or are to be used in the future. The seamless integration and expansion of the network with other Deco components makes the system particularly attractive to current and future TP-Link Deco users.