The TP-Link Deco E4 is an entry-level mesh WiFi system designed to eliminate dead zones in smaller homes at a budget-friendly price. Here’s a closer look at the E4’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right WiFi solution for you.

Pros:

  • Super Affordable: The Deco E4 is one of the most affordable mesh WiFi systems on the market. If you’re looking for a way to ditch frustrating dead zones without breaking the bank, the E4 is a compelling option.

  • Simple Setup: Like other Deco models, the E4 boasts a user-friendly setup process. The TP-Link Deco app guides you through the steps, making it easy to get your network up and running, even for non-tech-savvy individuals.

  • Strong Coverage for Smaller Homes: The Deco E4 is well-suited for covering areas up to 3,800 square feet. If you have a smaller apartment, condo, or bungalow, the E4 can effectively eliminate WiFi dead zones and provide consistent coverage throughout your living space.

  • Seamless Roaming: One of the key benefits of mesh WiFi is seamless roaming. The Deco E4 delivers on this promise, ensuring you stay connected to the strongest signal as you move around your home without having to manually switch networks on your devices.

  • Basic Parental Controls: The Deco E4 app provides basic parental controls, allowing you to filter content, set time limits on internet usage, and even block specific websites to manage your children’s online activity.

Cons:

  • Limited Speed: The Deco E4 is an AC1200 system, meaning it offers maximum theoretical speeds of up to 1200 Mbps. However, the real-world speeds you experience will likely be lower, especially for users with high-bandwidth internet plans. Additionally, the E4’s wired Ethernet ports are limited to 100 Mbps speeds, further bottlenecking data transfer rates for wired devices.

  • Fewer Features: Compared to higher-end Deco models, the E4 has a more limited feature set. It lacks advanced features like MU-MIMO technology for enhanced multi-device performance or support for VPN connections.

  • Not Ideal for Large Homes: With a coverage area of 3,800 square feet, the Deco E4 might struggle to provide adequate coverage for larger homes with multiple floors or thick walls. In such cases, a Deco model with a higher unit count or extended range might be necessary.

Overall :

The TP-Link Deco E4 is a solid choice for budget-conscious users living in smaller homes or apartments who are struggling with WiFi dead zones. It offers a user-friendly setup, strong coverage for its size, and basic parental controls, all at a very attractive price point. However, if you have a large home, require top-tier WiFi speeds, or need advanced features, you might be better served by looking at higher-end Deco models or mesh systems from other brands.