Mesh WiFi systems have become increasingly popular for providing reliable whole home WiFi coverage. Two of the top contenders in this category are the TP-Link Deco M5 and Deco AX3000.
This article will compare the key features and performance of these two systems to help you decide which is the better option.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Deco M5 | Deco AX3000 |
| WiFi Generation | AC1200 | AX1800 |
| Max Speed | 867Mbps (5GHz) + 300Mbps (2.4GHz) | 1201Mbps (5GHz) + 574Mbps (2.4GHz) |
| Coverage | Up to 5500 sq. ft. | Up to 5500 sq. ft. |
| Number of Nodes | 1-4 nodes | 1-3 nodes |
| Wired Backhaul | Yes | Yes |
| MU-MIMO | Yes | Yes |
| OFDMA | No | Yes |
| Processor | Quad-core | Tri-core |
| Memory | 256MB (each node) | 512MB (each node) |
| Wireless Security | WPA3 | WPA3 |
| Parental Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $259 (3-pack) | $399 (3-pack) |
Overview of Deco M5
The Deco M5 is a dual-band AC1200 mesh system that uses older 802.11ac WiFi technology. Each node provides up to 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band. Key features include:
- Seamless roaming and auto-switching between nodes
- Simple setup with Deco app
- Supports connecting up to 100 devices
- Wired Ethernet backhaul for best performance
- MU-MIMO for simultaneous data streaming
- Beamforming focuses signal to devices
- Works with Alexa for voice control
- Parental controls and content filtering
- Built-in speed test and analysis
- Compact design with each node measuring 4.3 x 4.3 x 2.4 in
The Deco M5 is a budget-friendly mesh system good for medium sized homes. It provides reliable whole home coverage but speeds are limited by the older AC WiFi technology. Performance degrades at range compared to AX systems.
Overview of Deco AX3000
The Deco AX3000 is a newer WiFi 6 mesh system powered by the latest 802.11ax technology. Each node provides up to 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band. Key features include:
- Latest WiFi 6 technology with faster speeds
- OFDMA reduces latency for multiple devices
- More concurrent data streams with 2.4GHz (2) and 5GHz (4)
- Backwards compatible with 802.11ac/n/g/b
- Seamless auto-switching between nodes
- Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired backhaul
- Easy setup and control with Deco app
- Supports connecting 100+ devices
- Advanced security with WPA3 encryption
- Powerful parental controls via app
- Alexa voice commands for controlling network
- Sleek compact node design measuring 4.7 x 4.7 x 2.4 in
With WiFi 6 support, the AX3000 delivers significantly faster speeds and more bandwidth compared to the AC1200 Deco M5. It’s ideal for smart homes with many connected devices.
Also Read: Comparison Between Eero 6 And Nest Wifi.
Key Differences Between Deco M5 and AX3000
· WiFi Technology
The Deco M5 uses older 802.11ac WiFi technology while the AX3000 uses the latest WiFi 6 standard. WiFi 6 provides faster top speeds, increased bandwidth, and reduced latency compared to WiFi 5.
This makes the AX3000 better suited for handling many devices simultaneously. The AX3000 has a maximum wireless bandwidth of 1201 + 574Mbps across its two bands compared to 867 + 300Mbps for the Deco M5.
· Speed and Performance
In real-world usage, the WiFi 6 advantage of the AX3000 means it can deliver faster speeds at range compared to the Deco M5. When nodes are farther apart, the Deco M5’s throughput takes a bigger hit than the AX3000.
The AX3000 also handles multiple devices better, providing faster average speeds when there are many connected clients. Its OFDMA support decreases latency which is good for gaming and video streaming.
· Coverage Area
Both systems provide whole home coverage for areas up to 5500 square feet. This makes them suitable for medium to large sized homes.
The signal strength and penetration of the AX3000 is slightly better thanks to WiFi 6 optimizations. But both provide reliable mesh coverage across multiple nodes, floors, and rooms when set up properly.
· Backhaul Technology
The AX3000 and Deco M5 both support Ethernet wired backhaul between nodes. This means nodes can connect over a high-speed wired Ethernet connection to reduce dependence on wireless backhaul.
Wired backhaul improves performance since traffic doesn’t have to go over the air. Both systems will automatically use wired connections between nodes if available.
· MU-MIMO Support
Both systems have MU-MIMO support which allows them to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. This improves bandwidth utilization when you have many devices connected to the network.
However, the AX3000 integrates MU-MIMO better by combining it with OFDMA for decreased latency across multiple MU-MIMO client devices.
· Processor and Memory
The hardware inside each node also impacts performance. The Deco M5 uses a quad core CPU while the AX3000 uses a triple core. Both have sufficient processing power for a mesh system.
For memory, the AX3000 has twice as much at 512MB per node versus 256MB on the Deco M5. More memory can help with heavier workloads when managing many connected devices.
· Voice Control Integration
The Deco systems can work together with Amazon Alexa for voice control of your WiFi network. You can use Alexa voice commands to pause the WiFi, set up guest networks, find out the WiFi credentials, and more. It’s a convenient way to control your Deco network hands-free.
· Parental Controls
Both systems have robust parental controls baked into the Deco app. You can set up profiles for each family member, filter content and block inappropriate sites, set time limits for device usage, and pause the internet when needed. It’s an easy way to manage what your kids access online.
· Ease of Setup
These Deco systems are designed to be easy to set up for the average consumer. The process involves installing the Deco app on your phone, creating an account, and following the step-by-step guide.
The nodes have LED indicators that change color to guide you through setup. Overall the setup process is straightforward and intuitive for both models.
· Price and Value
The Deco M5 3-pack has an MSRP of $259 while the AX3000 3-pack costs $399. So the Deco M5 is the more affordable option.
The AX3000 costs more but justifies it through better performance from the WiFi 6 support. The Deco M5 still provides good value for budget-minded shoppers wanting mesh WiFi coverage.
Also Read: Is Eero Better Than Gryphon Wifi System?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Deco AX3000 is a WiFi 6 mesh system that can provide wireless speeds up to 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. Real-world speeds will depend on your internet plan, router placement, and other factors. But you can expect significantly faster speeds compared to WiFi 5 systems.
The Deco M9 is a newer WiFi 5 model with some improvements over the M5. Key advantages of the M9 include 3×3 MU-MIMO support, built-in smart hub for automation, and higher memory/processing power. However, the M5 still holds up well in basic performance and remains a good value pick.
At around $80-90 per node, the Deco M5 hits a nice balance of price and performance. It provides reliable mesh WiFi coverage for most homes and has good range. If you want robust whole home coverage without paying premium prices, the M5 is a solid overall system worth considering.
The Deco X20 is a slightly faster AC1200 model thanks to some hardware improvements. But for basic mesh WiFi coverage, the M5 and X20 offer comparable performance. The X20 costs more so the M5 is likely the better value if your priority is getting solid coverage at the lowest cost. Either can meet typical home needs well.
Also Read: Comparison Between the Deco X20 and AX3000
Final Thoughts
For those seeking an affordable mesh system, the Deco M5 remains a strong choice thanks to its reliable wireless coverage and easy setup. But if you want cutting-edge WiFi 6 speeds to handle many devices, the Deco AX3000 justifies its higher cost.
Overall, the AX3000 is the better performing system while the M5 provides good value for budget-minded buyers. Consider your coverage needs, internet speeds, and number of devices to decide which Deco model fits best.