TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router -High vs TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi

Design and build quality

The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router features a standard home router design intended for stationary placement. It is built to sit on a desk or shelf, prioritizing antenna performance over portability. In contrast, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi is compactly designed for trips and adventures. Its pocket-sized form factor makes it significantly easier to transport, featuring a durable design suited for travel environments like hotels and airports. While the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router focuses on home aesthetics, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi prioritizes durability and size for on-the-go use.

Wireless standards and speed

When comparing wireless standards, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi holds an advantage with Wi-Fi 6 technology. This newer standard supports speeds up to 1,201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router utilizes Wi-Fi 5 Wave 2 technology, achieving up to 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. Although the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router offers a higher combined total speed of 1900 Mbps compared to 1500 Mbps, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi benefits from the efficiency improvements inherent to Wi-Fi 6.

Performance

Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls for both units. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router employs MU-MIMO technology with 3 simultaneous data streams to help devices achieve optimal performance by making communication more efficient. It also utilizes beamforming technology for a more efficient, focused wireless connection. The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi supports up to 60 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for environments with many connected gadgets. Actual Wi-Fi speeds vary based on source bandwidth and environment for the travel router, whereas the home router is optimized for consistent home network loads.

Coverage and range

Coverage is a significant differentiator between these two devices. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router is specified to cover up to 1,200 sq. ft. with its beamforming technology. This makes it suitable for average-sized apartments or homes. The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi does not list a specific square footage coverage as it is designed for personal space coverage in transient locations. For users needing to blanket a home in WiFi, the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router is the superior choice. The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi is intended to create a private network in a single room or small area.

Connectivity and ports

Wired connectivity options favor the home-focused device. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router includes Full Gigabit Ports, specifically 4 x Gigabit LAN and 1 x Gigabit WAN. This allows for fast, reliable wired connections for PCs, Smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It explicitly notes No USB Port. The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi features a 1 Gbps WAN/LAN port and a 1 Gbps LAN port. It supports USB tethering to connect to a phone, adding versatility for internet sources. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router provides more flexibility for wired home devices, while the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi offers more flexibility for internet input sources.

Software and ecosystem

Both routers offer simple setup and easy control mechanisms. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router can be quickly set up and managed with the free Tether App. Users can keep their WiFi performing at its best by keeping the firmware updated through the App. The TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router is also OneMesh Compatible, allowing it to form a seamless WiFi when working with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders. The TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi supports multiple ways to connect including Router Mode, AP Mode, RE Mode, and Client Mode. It also enables VPN connectivity for secure remote work, a feature not highlighted for the home router.

Price and value

The pricing for both units is nearly identical, with the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router listed at $49.98 and the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi at $49.99. Given the similar cost, the value proposition depends on the use case. For a primary home network, the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router offers better value due to higher port count and coverage. For travelers requiring secure public WiFi management, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi provides specialized value. Both represent competitive entry points in their respective sub-categories of routers.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router and the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi depends on your primary networking environment. If you need a dedicated router for your home with extensive wired connections and broader coverage, the TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router is the recommended choice. It provides the necessary ports and range for daily household use. However, if you frequently travel and need to secure public connections or tether via USB, the TP-Link Roam 6 AX1500 Portable Wi-Fi is the better tool. All Wi-Fi routers require a separate modem for home use, so ensure you have the necessary infrastructure before purchasing the home model.