25 July, 2024

Considering Wi-Fi 6? Here’s What You Need to Know

Wi-Fi 6: The New Standard You Didn't Know You Needed

So, you’ve probably heard some buzz about Wi-Fi 6, right? It’s the latest and greatest in wireless tech, but what’s all the hype about? Is it really that much better than what you’ve already got? Let’s dive into what Wi-Fi 6 is all about and whether it’s worth making the switch.

What is Wi-Fi 6?

What the Heck is Wi-Fi 6?

Let’s keep it simple: Wi-Fi 6 is the latest version of Wi-Fi technology, officially known as 802.11ax (but who wants to remember that?). It’s designed to be faster, more efficient, and better at handling a ton of devices all at once. So, if your home is packed with smart gadgets, gaming consoles, and streaming devices, Wi-Fi 6 is like the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

Why Should You Care About Wi-Fi 6?

Alright, so what makes Wi-Fi 6 such a big deal? First off, it’s faster. We’re talking speeds that can handle multiple devices streaming, gaming, and browsing all at once without breaking a sweat. But it’s not just about speed—it’s also about efficiency. Wi-Fi 6 uses some pretty cool tech to reduce congestion, which means your internet won’t slow down even if everyone in the house is online at the same time.

Plus, Wi-Fi 6 is all about better range and coverage. If you’ve got dead zones in your house where the Wi-Fi barely reaches, this new standard is designed to give you a more reliable signal, even in those tricky spots.



What’s the Catch?

Like anything, Wi-Fi 6 isn’t perfect. For starters, you’ll need a new router that supports Wi-Fi 6. If you’ve just upgraded your router recently, this might feel like a bit of a bummer. And while Wi-Fi 6 devices are becoming more common, not everything is compatible just yet—so your old tech might not see much benefit.

Another thing to keep in mind is that to really take advantage of those crazy fast speeds, your internet connection itself needs to be up to the task. If you’re rocking a basic broadband plan, you might not notice a huge difference just from switching to Wi-Fi 6.



Is Wi-Fi 6 Worth It?

So, is it worth the upgrade? If you’re a tech lover who’s always adding new gadgets to your setup, or if you’ve got a big family with everyone online at the same time, Wi-Fi 6 could be a game-changer. It’s especially great for smart homes, where there are tons of devices connected 24/7. But if you’re happy with your current setup and don’t have a bunch of devices competing for bandwidth, you might be okay sticking with what you’ve got—at least for now.

Top Wi-Fi 6 Routers and Access Points to Check Out


Netgear Nighthawk AX12

Netgear Nighthawk AX12
Image: Netgear

If you want a router that looks as cool as it performs, the Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is for you. This thing is a beast—both in size and performance. It’s designed to handle tons of devices at once, so your whole household can stream, game, and browse without missing a beat. But fair warning, it’s on the pricier side, so you’ll need to be ready to invest.

ASUS RT-AX86U

ASUS RT-AX86U
Image: ASUS

The ASUS RT-AX86U is another top pick. It’s not as flashy as the Nighthawk, but it’s still a powerhouse. It’s got great range, handles multiple devices like a champ, and even has some cool gaming features built-in. Plus, it’s a bit more budget-friendly, so you won’t have to break the bank to get your hands on one.

Ubiquiti UniFi 6 Lite Access Point

Ubiquiti UniFi 6 Lite Access Point
Image: Ubiquiti

If you’re looking for something a little different, the Ubiquiti UniFi 6 Lite Access Point is a fantastic choice. It’s designed to be part of a larger network of access points, so if you’ve got a big house or office, you can set up multiple units for seamless coverage everywhere. It’s fast, reliable, and integrates smoothly with other UniFi devices, making it a top pick for anyone serious about their home or office network.



So, Should You Upgrade?

At the end of the day, upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 depends on your needs and budget. If you’re all about having the latest tech, or if your household is full of connected devices, it’s definitely worth considering. But if your current setup is working just fine and you’re not ready to splash out on a new router or access points, you can probably hold off for now.



Struggling with Poor WiFi Coverage?

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