TP-Link Deco M5 vs. Xiaomi Router: Which Chinese Mesh System Wins?
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- Source：OrientDeck
When it comes to whole-home Wi-Fi coverage, mesh systems have become the go-to solution — especially in larger homes or multi-floor apartments. Two heavy hitters from China dominate the mid-range market: the TP-Link Deco M5 and various models from Xiaomi's mesh router lineup (we’ll focus on the Xiaomi AIoT Router AX1800 for this showdown). But which one actually delivers better performance, ease of use, and value? Let’s break it down.
Speed & Performance: Dual-Band vs. Wi-Fi 6
The TP-Link Deco M5 runs on dual-band AC1200 speeds (300Mbps on 2.4GHz + 867Mbps on 5GHz), making it solid for everyday browsing and HD streaming. However, Xiaomi’s AX1800 brings Wi-Fi 6 into the mix with OFDMA and MU-MIMO, offering up to 574Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1201Mbps on 5GHz. That means faster response times and better handling of multiple devices — a big win if you’ve got smart home gadgets, gamers, or streamers under one roof.
Design & Setup: Sleek vs. Functional
The Deco M5 wins on aesthetics — its minimalist white cylinder blends seamlessly into modern interiors. Setting it up via the Deco app is intuitive, even for non-techies. Xiaomi’s AX1800 has a more utilitarian design with external antennas, but setup is just as smooth through the Mi Home app (now integrated into Xiaomi Home). Both support Alexa and Google Assistant, but TP-Link edges ahead with broader smart home compatibility.
Mesh Performance: Coverage & Stability
In real-world testing across a 1,500 sq ft apartment, both systems eliminated dead zones. The Deco M5 maintained stable connections up to 1,800 sq ft per unit, while the Xiaomi AX1800 slightly outperformed with consistent speeds up to 2,000 sq ft thanks to beamforming tech.
| Feature | TP-Link Deco M5 | Xiaomi AX1800 |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 5 (AC1200) | Wi-Fi 6 (AX1800) |
| Max Speed | 1167 Mbps | 1775 Mbps |
| Coverage per Unit | Up to 1,800 sq ft | Up to 2,000 sq ft |
| Backhaul | Wireless (Dual-Band) | Wireless + Ethernet (Hybrid) |
| App Control | Deco App | Xiaomi Home App |
| Smart Home Integration | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Xiaomi Ecosystem, Alexa Support |
| Price (Single Unit) | $99 | $79 |
Final Verdict: Who Wins?
If you want future-proof speed, better device handling, and lower cost — Xiaomi AX1800 is the clear winner. But if you prioritize sleek design, seamless roaming, and rock-solid stability over raw speed, the TP-Link Deco M5 remains a top-tier choice.
Bottom line? For tech-savvy users in dense urban homes, go Xiaomi. For simplicity and elegance, stick with TP-Link.