After the triumph of the Deco X90, TP-Link launched the Deco X95, which boasts several enhanced features. This move was likely aimed at competing with the latest Orbi and Asus products in the mid-range network segment, specifically between the AX6000 and AX7800 models. When considering the best value for your money, which of these products would be the ideal choice?
In this article:
Newer TP-link Deco X95
Why did TP-Link feel the need to introduce the new Deco X95 alongside their previous model, the Deco X90? Is it because their competitors, Asus and Netgear, have also released new products with only minor feature enhancements? We will explore this further in the following paragraphs.
TP-Link Deco X95 vs X90
To begin our analysis, let us take a closer look at the new Deco X95. What sets it apart from the Deco X90? Table 1 below presents a specification comparison between the two models, highlighting a few key differences.
Network segment different
The most notable distinction is in the network segment each series operates in. The Deco X95 functions at the AX7800 network segment, while the Deco X90 operates at the AX6600 level. One of the 5GHz bands on the Deco X95 delivers twice the bandwidth of the Deco X90, with speeds of 2400Mbps compared to the Deco X90’s 1200Mbps. The other two bands distribute the same bandwidth for both models.
See also comparison between Orbi 863 vs Deco X90 which also sit at ax6000 network segment.
Ethernet Ports
Both the Deco X90 and Deco X95 feature a single multi-gig 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN port with auto-sensing capabilities. This means that if your internet service provider offers a multi-gig plan of up to 2.5Gbps, you can take advantage of it. However, it is essential to ensure that your modem also supports a 2.5Gbps port, such as the Arris S33 or Netgear CM2000, if you have a cable internet connection.
The Deco X95 has an advantage over the Deco X90 when it comes to Ethernet ports, as it features three ports compared to the X90’s two. This additional port is particularly advantageous when configuring a wired Ethernet backhaul with a star topology, especially when using three Deco nodes. With three Deco X90 units, you can only use a daisy chain backhaul topology, and a separate unmanaged switch is required to implement a star backhaul topology.
The addition of another Ethernet port is a strategic move by TP-Link to gain a competitive edge. This is because their main rivals, Orbi and Asus, offer models with more ports, making it easier to configure a star backhaul topology.
The other specifications and features of both models are largely similar. They both have eight data streams, the same number of internal antennas, the same coverage area, and the same type of processor integrated into the board. Specifically, both models feature four high-gain internal antennas with beamforming technology that provide extensive coverage. Additionally, they both include two smart antennas that help in auto-detecting other Deco units and connecting to a stronger backhaul between nodes.
AI-driven mesh
TP-Link introduces different technology with its AI-driven mesh starting its deco x90 including this deco x95, deco xe75, and also the ultimate deco xe200.
Deco’s AI-driven mesh technology refers to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and machine learning (ML) techniques to optimize and manage the mesh network. Deco’s mesh routers use AI algorithms to continuously monitor the network and make adjustments to optimize the network performance based on the traffic patterns and usage behavior of the connected devices. The AI-driven mesh technology enables Deco’s mesh network to adapt and optimize itself in real-time, providing a seamless and reliable wireless experience to the users.
Spec comparison table Deco series
Take a look at the comparison table below for more details.
Table 1 TP-Link Deco X95 vs X90
| Deco Series | Deco X95 | Deco X90 |
| Wifi technology | Simultaneous tri-band ax7800 mesh wifi 6 with 8-streams | Simultaneous tri-band ax6600 mesh wifi-6 system with 8-streams (for connected devices) |
| Signal rate | 4,804 Mbps on 5 GHz (1) 4×4 2,400 Mbps on 5 GHz (2) 2×2 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz 2×2 | 4,804 Mbps on 5 GHz (1) 4×4 1,201 Mbps on 5 GHz (2) 2×2 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz 2×2 |
| 4x high gain antennas + 2 smart antennas | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage | 6,100 sq ft / 2-pack connect up to 200 devices | 6,000 sq ft / 2-pack connect up to 200 devices |
| Ethernet | 1x 2.5Gbps WAN/ LAN port 2x 1.0Gbps LAN Ports | 1x 2.5 Gbps port (WAN/LAN auto-sensing) 1x gigabit port per Deco unit |
| 1.5 GHz Quad-Core CPU | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $449.99 | $449.99 |
Typically, the prices for both series are comparable. However, with the introduction of the Deco X95, some online stores such as Amazon and Best Buy may offer deals on the Deco X90 at a lower price.
How this product is compared with the other two products from its rival Asus and Netgear.
Deco X95 vs Orbi vs Asus
Netgear made a big splash with the release of its mesh wifi 6 system, starting with the Orbi rbk850, followed by the ultimate model Orbi rbk960. Now, there’s a newer model available, the Orbi rbk860, with a few feature enhancements. Meanwhile, Asus has also added a new model to its lineup, the Asus xt9, which builds on the popularity of the Asus zenwifi xt8 by incorporating a few feature enhancements.
To help you compare these products, we’ve included two tables. Table 2 provides a spec comparison between the Deco x95 and Orbi rbk862, while Table 3 shows you a spec comparison between the Deco x95 and Asus xt9.
Wifi
Both Deco and Asus operate on the same ax7800 network segment, while Orbi operates at ax6000. All three products have the ability to deliver 8 streams over three bands. Although Orbi technically offers a lower aggregated bandwidth than the other two products, this is not the only parameter that determines Orbi’s inferiority. There are other features that need to be considered as well.
All three products are well-suited for homes with high traffic and a large number of connected devices, including laptops, desktops, mobile devices, and any other IoT devices.
Backhaul
Orbi has a distinctive design that sets it apart from other mesh wifi systems. Orbi distinguishes between the router node and the satellite nodes, with the router node featuring a WAN port while the satellite nodes only have LAN ports. Additionally, the Orbi router typically has more Ethernet ports than the satellite nodes. As a result, it’s not possible to interchange Orbi units like you can with Deco and Asus zenwifi series. With Deco and Asus zenwifi series, you have the flexibility to interchange each unit to function as either the router or the satellite node.
Orbi features a standard backhaul design that utilizes one of its 5GHz radio bands as a dedicated backhaul link between nodes. In contrast, Asus xt9 offers more flexibility in backhaul methods by providing users with the option to choose from three options: a dedicated backhaul, wired ethernet backhaul, or automatic backhaul selection. Deco also uses a dedicated backhaul at the 5GHz band but with an AI-based approach that leverages two smart internal antennas and four high-gain antennas to optimize the backhaul performance. All three products offer wired ethernet backhaul options, either using daisy chain or star backhaul topology.
Is asus with auto backhaul selection is better?
The option of automatic backhaul selection in Asus is a convenient feature that allows the system to dynamically select the best backhaul option based on the network conditions at that moment. This can be particularly helpful in situations where there are interference or signal strength issues that might affect the performance of a dedicated backhaul.
However, the performance of the automatic backhaul selection may not always be as reliable or consistent as that of a dedicated backhaul. Dedicated backhaul is designed to provide a consistent and reliable link between nodes, regardless of other network conditions. Therefore, the choice between the two options ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user’s network.
Ethernet Ports
Both Deco X95 and Asus XT9 are equipped with 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports that support auto sensing, allowing users to connect the XT9 / X95 router node to a high-speed modem or use it as a multi-gig wired LAN connection to other Ethernet-based devices such as a NAS device for the satellite node. In contrast, Orbi offers an impressive multi-gig 10Gbps WAN port on its router node. This 10Gbps port is advantageous when the next generation of DOCSIS 4.0 cable technology arrives, which will support 10Gbps internet speeds. Additionally, the upcoming Wifi 7 technology is expected to feature 10Gbps internet ports for even faster speeds.
Spec Comparison tables
Take a look at table 2 below for spec comparison between deco x95 and netgear orbi rbk862.
Table 2 Deco X95 vs Orbi
| Model | TP-Link Deco X95 | Netgear Orbi Rbk862 |
| Wifi technology | Simultaneous tri-band ax7800 mesh wifi 6 with 8-streams | Simultaneous tri-band ax6000 mesh wifi 6 with 8 streams |
| Signal rates | 4,804 Mbps on 5 GHz (1) 4×4 2,400 Mbps on 5 GHz (2) 2×2 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz 2×2 | 1,200Mbps @2.4GHz 4×4 2,400Mbps @5GHz 1 2×2 2,400Mbps @5GHz 2 2×2 |
| Antennas | 4x high gain antennas + 2 smart antennas | 8pcs high-performance internal antennas with high-power amplifiers |
| Backhaul | Dedicated Wifi backhaul @5GHz with smart antennas Optional wired Ethernet backhaul | Dedicated backhaul @5GHz and optional wired backhaul |
| Coverage | 6,100 Sq ft / 2-pack | 2,700 sq. ft./ unit |
| Ethernet | 1x 2.5Gbps WAN/ LAN port 2x 1.0Gbps LAN Ports | 1x 10.0 Gbps Multi-Gigabit WAN port (router) + 4x Gigabit LAN ports (router and satellite) |
| Network Protection | TP-Link homeshield | Netgear armor network protection services |
| Processor | 1.5 GHz Quad-Core CPU | Powerful Quad-Core 2.2 GHz processor with 512MB NAND Flash and 1GB RAM |
| Price | $449.99 / 2-pack | $1099.99 / 3-pack |
Spec Comparison table Deco vs Asus
Table 3 below shows you spec comparison between deco x95 and asus xt9. See that in terms of network protection, asus offers free lifetime Asus AiProtection pro powered by trend micro. While the other two products give you option to subscribe network protection plan.
Table 3 Deco X95 vs Asus
| Model | TP-Link Deco X95 | Asus Zenwifi XT9 |
| Wifi technology | Simultaneous tri-band ax7800 mesh wifi 6 with 8-streams | Simultaneous Tri-band ax7800 wifi 6 |
| Signal rates | 4,804 Mbps on 5 GHz (1) 4×4 2,400 Mbps on 5 GHz (2) 2×2 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz 2×2 | 574 Mbps @2.4Ghz 2×2; 2,400Mbps @5GHz band 1 2×2; 4,800Mbps @5GHz band 2 4×4 |
| Antennas | 4x high gain antennas + 2 smart antennas | |
| Backhaul | Dedicated Wifi backhaul @5GHz with smart antennas Optional wired Ethernet backhaul | Dedicated backhaul @4,800; wired backhaul or system auto selection for the best link |
| Coverage | 6,100 Sq ft / 2-pack | 5,700 sq ft / 2-pack |
| Ethernet | 1x 2.5Gbps WAN/ LAN port 2x 1.0Gbps LAN Ports | 1x 2.5Gbps WAN port 3x 1.0Gbps LAN Ports, supports 2 LAN aggregated link |
| USB Port | N/A | USB 3.2 Gen 1 x 1 |
| Network Protection | TP-Link homeshield | lifetime free AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro |
| Processor | 1.5 GHz Quad-Core CPU | 1.7 GHz quad-core processor Memory: 256MB Flash + 512 MB RAM |
| Price | $449.99 / 2-pack | $457.00 (2-pack) |
Which one to pick
After reviewing the previous spec and feature comparisons between the three products, it is up to you to decide which one is best suited to meet your business needs. Click on the links provided for each product to learn more details, check the current price, and possibly find the best deal on Best Buy or Amazon (#ads).
- Click here for Deco x95 On Amazon (#Ad)
- Or Check here for Orbi Rbk862 on Amazon (#Ad)
- Or see Asus XT9 on Amazon (#Ad)
Related Products
Should you like to taste popular eero with wifi 7 technology, you may consider eero 7. Click here to see eero 7 max vs Deco, which compete with popular and affordable Deco.
To taste the next generation of wifi 7 products, you may consider Archer BE550 and see comparison with Netgea raxe500 and Asus rog Rapture GT-AXE11000.