Which router would you choose?

[Loogster]

Long time lurker, first time poster!

Compared to many, my needs are relatively simple.

We have 4 phones, 2 TVs, 2 laptops, a couple of tablets, a thermostat, garage door opener, outdoor LED lights, robot vac and 4 security cameras.
Internet is a solid 400mbps.

There are 4 TVs, a phone, a computer and a printer that are hard wired to the network.
We had a Synology RT2600ac for 5 years, and it was rock solid. It also had impressive range, easily covering our 1750 square foot two floor house. Heck, we could get wifi 50+ feet from the house. SRM was simple.

It went to router heaven, so we had to quickly replace it. Wife was already shopping, so I had her pick up what was available, a TP Link Archer AXE5400.

After a few minor challenges getting it set up, it seemed a little unstable for a few days.
I would get a phone alert that the wifi had no Internet but a few seconds later it resolved.
Family mentioned a few random, short-lived issues. Our Internet is quite stable, but it could have been on their end.
Also, our phones had a Wi-Fi service update, so maybe a coincidence.

Because of the mild instability, I ordered a Synology RT6600.
However, the TP Link settled down and has been solid for the last few weeks.

The Synology is a slightly older unit, but is considered a workhorse by many.
I prefer to set it up and forget it, though I manually reboot monthly.
I think it has pretty good baseline security, with optional free apps (with possible hit to speed).

The TP Link is now stable and has good specs (but the hardware is not divulged, which I find concerning).
Two phones have wifi 6e capability, but we are happy with 5ghz or 2.4,, and the 6e range isn't good, so it isn't needed.
We don't need mesh.
It has some baseline security stuff, but a subscription is needed for the full features.

I just need stability, decent speed and range, and good security. Uncomplicated setup is nice too.
I disable remote management.

Opinions?
Should I return the Synology and stick with the TP Link?
I would also consider an Asus unit, as they seem to have a good reputation, along with good specs and baseline security features.

Many thanks,
Bob

 

[degrub]

Either would serve your use case. The Synology has slightly better radio set up with 4x4 versus 2x2 on the TP. Almost all clients are 2x2 with some IOT devices 1x1. So slightly more throughput possible or more clients. The Synology may have better long term support/security updates. TP Link consumer gear tends to have few updates.

If you are more comfortable with the Synology configuration and are willing to tinker a bit, i would stay with that. There is a subforum here that is active. On either, i would set the 5GHz radios to 80 MHz channel width rather than 160. This will allow a bit more reach with the radio . 5.9/6 GHz is a waste unless there are no walls between the client and the wifi router. i would turn off the 6 GHz radios. Seems the 2.4GHz radios at default settings ( i assume ) are working well for you , so i would not change. If you needed more distance/compatibility with IOTs , you could change the channel width to 40 MHz or even 20 MHz if dedicated to IOTs. It sounds like your devices may be using the 2.4 GHz band heavily, so doing so would have an adverse effect on you regular clients, so i would not do.

 

[Loogster]

Wow, thanks for the response, I really appreciate it!

I recall making only one or maybe 2 mods to the RT2600 settings, but don't recall what I did...might have been the 5ghz mod.
It had surprisingly good range on either channel.

I do lean toward the Synology, and like that they tend to be good with updates.

I know there are some concerns regarding TP Link security, though it is hard to gauge if the concerns are warranted...many opinions.
I have an older TP Link C9 that is pretty solid, but probably not supported.

Bob