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Today, TP-Link officially announced the availability of its latest Wi-Fi 7 mesh systems, the Deco BE25 (a.k.a. Deco BE5000) and the TP-Link BE3600 (a.k.a Deco WB10800). Both are super affordable, costing $299 and $199 for a 3-pack, respectively, cheaper than many Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E counterparts.
The low pricing sure is exciting, but before you get too excited, know that they are inexpensive for a reason. Among other things, these are dual-band hardware that doesn’t include the 6GHz band.
While this review is the result of my weeklong hands-on testing and real-world usage with the Deco BE25, it’ll give you an idea of what to expect from the TP-Link BE3600, partly because both are part of the Deco family, which shares the firmware and, therefore, provides the same general user experience.
Here’s the bottom line: If you don’t care about the 6GHz band, have Gigabit-class or slightly faster broadband, and live in a wired home, the modest Deco BE25 makes an excellent multi-Gigabit-ready Wi-Fi system. Go ahead and get one today!
Similarly, for a wired place, the lowest-end TP-Link BE3600 will likely offer comparable Wi-Fi coverage but with the bandwidth capped at Gigabit, negating the appeal of its significantly lower cost. If you can’t run network cables to use as the backhaul, the Deco BE25 is decidedly the better between the two, but still not ideal.
TP-Link Deco BE25: Two 2.5Gbps ports for the win
The Deco BE25 is the second dual-band mesh in the family that features two 2.5Gbps ports—after the Deco X55 Pro. Unfortunately, the TP-Link BE3600 remains Gigabit hardware with two Gigabit ports.
Untangling the hardware variant confusion
TP-Link is notorious for making many hardware variants. It’s tough to keep tabs on them all.
Deco BE25 vs. Deco BE5000: These are two model names of the same hardware. The former is the standard hardware, and the latter is a variant. Both are BE5000 broadcasters, where BE stands for Wi-Fi 7, and the following number (5000) indicates the rounded total bandwidth of the hardware in Mbps.
TP-Link BE3600 vs. Deco WB10800: Similarly, the TP-Link BE3600 is a Wi-Fi 7 variant (likely of the Deco BE23, which is not yet announced) with up to 3600Mbps of wireless bandwidth. The Deco WB10800 is another variant with an arbitrary name.
Generally, the standard versions are available widely at general retail stores, whereas the variants are available exclusively (temporarily or permanently) to specific outlets. Example: The Deco WB10800 (TP-Link BE3600) is currently only available at Walmart, and the Deco BE5000 can only be found at Best Buy.
This dual 2.5Gbps approach is significant because, unlike other higher-end and more expensive systems with a single Multi-Gig port per unit, which is the case of all Wi-Fi 6E Deco sets, the Deco BE25 offers multi-Gigabit wired backhauling out of the box. You can daisy-chain the hardware units—no switch is necessary.
Considering its modest Wi-Fi 7 specs, wired backhauling is the only way to get the best performance. The table below shows the differences and similarities between the Deco BE25 and the TP-Link BE3600.
TP-Link Deco BE25 vs. TP-Link BE3600 (or Deco BE5000 vs. Deco WB10800): Hardware specifications
| TP-Link Deco BE25 BE5000 Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 Mesh System | TP-Link BE3600 Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 Mesh System | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Model | Deco BE25, Deco BE5000 | Deco BE23, TP-Link BE3600, Deco WB10800 |
| Pre-Synced Hardware | Yes | |
| Possible Dedicated Backhaul Band (default) | None | |
| Wired Backhaul | Yes | |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 5.91 × 5.91 × 2.44 in (150 × 150 × 62 mm) | |
| Weight | 1.12 lbs (508 gram) | |
| Wi-Fi Bandwith | Dual-band BE5000 | Dual-band BE3600 |
| 1st Band (2.4GHz) | 2×2 BE: Up to 688Mbps (20/40MHz) | |
| 2nd Band (5GHz) | 2×2 BE: Up to 4324Mbps (20/40/80/160/240MHz) | 2×2 BE: Up to 2802Mbps (20/40/80/160MHz) |
| Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) | N/A (only applicable to the 6GHz band) | |
| Multi-Link Operation (MLO) | Yes | |
| Backward Compatibility | 802.11ax/ac/n/g/a/b | |
| Guest Network | Yes (one SSID assigned to one or both bands) | |
| IoT Network | Yes (one SSID assigned to one or both bands) | |
| Mobile App | Deco | |
| Web User Interface | Simple (status only, no local management) | |
| AP Mode | Yes (as a router or a mesh) | |
| USB Port | None | |
| Gigabit Port | None | 2x Auto-Sensing |
| Multi-Gig Port | 2x 2.5Gbps Auto-Sensing | None |
| Dual-WAN and Link Aggregation | No | |
| Firmware Version (at review) | 1.0.13 Build 20241108 Rel. 48139 | not tested |
| U.S. Release Date | November 19, 2024 | |
| Power Specs | Input: 100-240V Output: 12V 0.8A | |
| Real-World Power Consumption (per 24 hours) | ≈ 195 Wh (router) ≈ 135 Wh (satellite) | not tested |
| U.S. Launch Price | $299.99 (3-pack) $199.99 (2-pack) $129.99 (single router) (buy now!) | $199.99 (3-pack) (buy now!) |
TP-Link Deco BE25 vs. TP-Link BE3600: It’s multi-Gigabit vs. Gigabit
As shown in the table above, both the Deco BE25 and TP-Link BE3600 share the same Wi-Fi specs as the Archer BE230 (a.k.a. Archer BE3600). They are dual-band mid-tier (2×2) Wi-Fi 7 machines.
However, the Deco BE25 is much more powerful thanks to the fact that it has two 2.5Gbps ports. Additionally, it features the new 240MHz channelwidth on the 5GHz, allowing it to have 50% more bandwidth on this band. Specifically:
- In a wireless setup, the Deco BE25, on paper, has up to 5000Mbps of bandwidth for backhauling vs. only 3600Mbps of the TP-Link BE3600. Considering the two share the same range, more bandwidth of the former means you can place the units slightly farther apart.
- In a wired setup, the Deco BE25 has 2.5Gbps backhauling vs. the Gigabit of the TP-Link BE3600.
It’s worth noting, though, that in real-world usage with wired backhauling, the Deco BE25’s 240MHz channel is insignificant because most existing clients don’t support it, and the speed of the hardware will be limited by the 2.5Gbps ports anyway, negating the 5GHz band’s added bandwidth.
For the same token, the TP-Link BE3600 doesn’t have Multi-Gig ports, meaning its wireless bandwidth will be capped at Gigabit at best, making the lack of 240MHz support a moot point.
So, the 2.5Gbps ports is the biggest win for the Deco BE25. In my testing, it consistently delivered around 2.2Gbps of Internet bandwidth out of my 10Gbps fiber-optic plan, something no router with only Gigabit ports can do.
That familiar Deco experience
The Deco BE25, like previous Deco sets, shares the same Deco mobile and features as the rest of the hardware in the ecosystem. That said, here are some highlights:
- The hardware is pre-synced: After you set up one unit of the pack as the network router, the rest will automatically become part of the system when plugged in and placed within the coverage of the router.
- You can use a network cable to link the hardware unit. The system, then, automatically picks the wired connection as the backhaul.
- The system has relatively generous Wi-Fi options for a canned system. Specifically:
- There’s a single main SSID shared between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands—each can be turned off.
- You can create an optional IoT SSID for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands—each of the bands can be turned off—that must be different from other SSIDs.
- You can create one optional Guest Wi-Fi SSID for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands—each of the bands can be turned off. You can limit bandwidth for this network, and there’s also an option to turn on a captive portal, enforcing agreement on specific terms for those who want to get connected.
- The system has a standard set of free network settings and features, including QoS, Dynamic DNS, and VPN options (server or client). Additionally, the hardware includes the basic level of Parental Control and Security with the option to upgrade to more advanced versions via subscription, as shown below.
| Security | Security+ | Total Security Package | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | At home | At home and on the go | |
| Availability | Included with all TP-Link Archer or Deco routers | Paid subscription | |
| Monthly Price | Free | $4.99 | n/a |
| Annual Price | Free | $35.99 | $69.99 |
| Mobile App Required | Yes | ||
| Features | Router security scan, wireless security scan, IoT device identification, Guest network, Camera security, Wi-Fi access control, Device isolation, Quality of Service (QoS) | All features of Security, plus: Web protection, Intrusion prevention, IoT protection, comprehensive report | All features of Security+, plus: Antivirus protection for PCs and mobile devices, Unlimited VPN, Password management for PCs and mobile devices. |
| Notes | Unavailable when the router (or mesh system) is working in the access point (AP) mode. Internet Security is provided by Norton 360 Deluxe TP-Link Edition, F-Secure Total, or Avira Prime, depending on the router model. | ||
| Standard | Advanced PC | Total PC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | At home | At home and on the go | |
| Availability | Included with all TP-Link Archer or Deco routers | Paid subscription | |
| Monthly Price | Free | $2.99 | TBD |
| Annual Price | Free | $17.99 | TBD |
| Mobile App Required | Yes | ||
| Features | Create profiles, Preset age template, Pause the Internet, Content filter by URL, block specific website, Bedtime, Insight report | All features of Standard, plus: Flexible bedtime, Time limits, Office time, Time reward, Family time, Blocked apps, App time limits, Always allowed apps, Safe search, YouTube restrictions, Comprehensive insights and reports | All features of Advanced PC, plus: KidShield app for Parental Controls on the go, Device settings management, Payment management, Lock device, Keep track of locations, Additional insights and reports |
| Notes | Not available when router (or mesh system) is working in the access point (AP) mode | ||
In terms of setup and management, it’s worth noting that you must use the Deco app. The router has a simple web interface, available at its default IP address (192.168.68.1) after the initial setup, that’s only for manual firmware updates and status viewing.
The Deco app requires a login account with TP-Link. In return, it allows users to manage the hardware locally or when they are out and about.
TP-Link and your privacy
Having to sign in with an account generally means your hardware connects to the vendor at all times, which translates into inherent privacy risks.
On this matter, the China-origin networking company, among other things, insists that it’s a “global multinational group” and offers this assurance:
“TP-Link takes privacy seriously and complies with U.S. policies to protect consumers.”
TP-Link’s Privacy Policy page.
Managing your home network via a third party is never a good idea. Privacy is a matter of degree. Data collection and handling vary vendor by vendor.
Deco BE25: Reliable Gig+ performance, short range
I tested a 3-pack of the Deco BE25 for over a week, and the system proved to be reliable. It passed my 3-day stress test without any disconnection.
The hardware had limited coverage, however. It was among a few broadcasters from which my test clients started to lose a bar on the 5GHz band at merely 40 feet (13 m) away within a line of sight.
It’s hard to figure out the Wi-Fi range in concrete numbers, but I estimate that a single Deco BE25 unit will cover no more than 1500 ft2 (139 m2) of indoor space with a decent data rate at the far end. Your mileage will vary.
In terms of real-world performance, as a single router or a wired satellite, the Deco BE25 did well for a dual-band entry-level Wi-Fi 7 system. Its real-world sustained Wi-Fi rates generally averaged in Gig+ at close range and close to Gigabit farther out.
What is Gig+
Gig+, or Gig Plus, conveys a speed grade faster than 1Gbps but slower than 2Gbps. So, it’s 1.5Gbps, give or take a couple hundred megabits per second, and it’s not speedy enough to qualify as Multi-Gig Ethernet or multi-Gigabit. Intel coined the term to call its Wi-Fi 6E client chips—the AX210 and AX211—to describe their real-world speeds.
Gig+ applies to the sustained speeds of Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7—via a 2×2 at 160MHz connection—or Internet speed. It’s generally not used to describe wired network connections.
However, the short-range also means that when used in a fully wireless setup, the performance of the satellite unit is markedly reduced, as shown in the chart.
Other than that, having no internal fan, the hardware worked silently—you can even turn off its little status light to render it distraction-free. It also generated little heat, barely warm to the touch, which is a welcome change compared to TP-Link’s previous Wi-Fi 7 Decos, namely the Deco BE85 and Deco BE95, which run hot.
Finally, the Deco BE25 had relatively low power consumption, as shown in the hardware specs table above, which is always a plus.
TP-Link Deco BE25 (Deco BE5000)'s Rating
Pros
Reliable Wi-Fi performance; dual 2.5Gbps port with excellent wired backhauling
Super affordable for Wi-Fi 7 hardware; standard set of free networking and features
Compact, eye-catching, fanless design; easy to use
Cons
Short range, minimum Wi-Fi 7 specs with matching performance
Security+ and advanced Parental Controls require subscriptions.
TP-Link login account and mobile app required; no web-based management
Conclusion
The TP-Link Deco BE25 is an excellent Wi-Fi 7 option thanks to the ultra-friendly pricing. However, it’s inexpensive for a reason. So, the question is: who should get it?
It’s quite simple: If you live in a large wired home, this compact mesh set will give you a reliable Wi-Fi network with Gig+ real-world performance. On the other hand, in a fully wireless setup, you can’t place the units too far apart due to the short range and the performance will suffer, though still fast enough for a sub-Gigabit network.
As for the TP-Link BE3600, due to the lack of Multi-Gig ports, it will be worse than even the Deo X55 Pro in real-world performance. Its only upside is that, at less than $200, it’s the cheapest 3-pack Wi-Fi 7 you can find, and it’ll get you connected.
Having a low budget and even lower expectations? Consider one of the two today!
Hello Dong
Did you noticed that TP-Link just pushed beta firmware for BE800 with DoH/DoT feature available for testing ? {…}
would you test this feature and give us your thoughts in a special review ?
Yes and no. It’s not that special by the way, stop looking for bias confirmation! 🤓
Hi can you compare with the Asus ZenWifi BD4 model?
Yes I can, Hondy. Here you go.
I bought the Deco x55 Pro earlier in the year for my wired home after reading your reviews. I’m having difficulty seeing any difference (other than WIFI7 support) between the BE5000 and the x55 Pro. I’m considering upgrading but not sure I’m getting any more bang for the buck. What am I missing?
Read the review, Andy.
Thank you I did not see that! I assumed “DIY” would give greater coverage and some flexibility. The article makes EasyMesh seem a bit finicky, the problematic handoff between units issue especially. I wasn’t clear on if somehow wired backhaul didn’t have this problem or was just improved?
Can you use TP-Link hardware at a very basic user level yet adequate without making an account, where the privacy concerns stem, or is it necessary to operate?
Thank you for the reply, and foot the vast information I’ve been”rabbit-holing” for days to try to decide what to do!
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Would there be any benefit of running 3 – BE230 routers vs this kit? The cost would be similar so just curious as I’m in need of a new setup but on a small budget.
“Any”, yes. Assuming you’ve read this review, more on EasyMesh in this post. Give it a read and you’ll be able to determine the details yourself.