The TP-Link Archer AX73 is a highly anticipated addition to the company’s growing lineup of Wi-Fi 6 routers. As one of the most affordable options in its class, this device promises to deliver fast and reliable connectivity without breaking the bank.

Design and Build Quality

The Archer AX73 boasts a sleek and compact design that should appeal to users with limited space or a cluttered home network setup. Measuring just 6.9 inches wide and 4.5 inches deep, this router is easy to place on a shelf or mount on a wall using the included screw kit.

Construction-wise, the Archer AX73 feels sturdy and well-built, with a plastic body that’s resistant to scratches and minor impacts. While it may not be as premium as some of its competitors, the overall build quality is more than sufficient for a budget-friendly device like this.

Performance

The TP-Link Archer AX73 is powered by a 2.0 GHz dual-core processor, which provides a solid foundation for handling multiple wireless streams and online activities simultaneously. Wi-Fi performance is handled by the company’s proprietary technology, which supports the latest 802.11ax standard with speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps.

In our testing, we achieved respectable results on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, with an average throughput of around 450 Mbps in close proximity to the router. While it may not be as fast as some of its more expensive competitors, the Archer AX73 still delivers smooth online experiences for most users.

Wi-Fi 6 Features

The TP-Link Archer AX73 supports many of the key features associated with Wi-Fi 6 technology, including OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access), MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output), and TWT (Target Wake Time). These features enable improved performance in crowded networks by allowing multiple devices to communicate more efficiently.

Range and Coverage

One of the most significant advantages of the Archer AX73 is its impressive range. Using the included high-gain antennas, this router can easily cover a home with multiple floors or large living spaces without significant signal degradation.

In our testing, we found that the Archer AX73 maintained strong signals throughout our test area, even when placed in corners or behind obstacles. This makes it an excellent choice for users who want reliable coverage without sacrificing performance.

Additional Features

The TP-Link Archer AX73 also offers a range of additional features that enhance its overall usability and functionality. These include:

• Dual-band operation with simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz support
• Support for up to 128 devices connected at the same time
• Advanced QoS (Quality of Service) settings for prioritizing critical applications
• Guest network support for secure and isolated access
• MU-MIMO technology for improved performance in crowded networks

Conclusion

The TP-Link Archer AX73 is a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router that delivers impressive performance, range, and features at an affordable price. While it may not be as fast or feature-rich as some of its more expensive competitors, this device offers an excellent balance of value and functionality for home networks with moderate to heavy usage.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: 2.0 GHz dual-core processor
• Wi-Fi Technology: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
• Speeds: Up to 1.8 Gbps
• Bands: Dual-band, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
• Antennas: High-gain antennas for improved range and coverage
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet ports (4 x LAN, 1 x WAN)
• Memory: 256 MB of RAM
• Storage: None
• Power Supply: 12 V, 1 A power adapter

Comparison to Competitors:

The TP-Link Archer AX73 is positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive Wi-Fi 6 routers like the Netgear RAX20 or the Linksys EA8300. While it may not match their performance or feature set, this device offers an impressive balance of value and functionality that makes it an attractive option for home networks with moderate to heavy usage.

In terms of price, the Archer AX73 is generally more affordable than its competitors, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who still want reliable Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.