If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you’re in the market for a reliable mesh router, or you’re curious about them. Most people are doing that now. With most people now adopting work-from-home schedules since the pandemic, our home networks have been pushed to the limit, and mesh routers that use multiple devices to deliver a more reliable Wi-Fi signal from room to room will offer the clearest, most stable home networking boost in most households.
The TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi is one such system. It packs impressive tech under the hood that should negate the struggle you face transmitting signals through thick walls and overcoming dead spots in the home. While it doesn’t support the latest Wi-Fi 6 protocol like the TP-Link Deco X20, it’s still one of the best Wi-Fi 5 mesh routers available in the market.
After all, most of our smart devices are still stuck with Wi-Fi 5, and before we can fully move over to the newer Wi-Fi 6 networking standard, the Deco S4 remains an excellent choice for people looking for a solid, reliable wireless connection throughout the home.
TP-Link Deco S4: Specs
- AC1200 Wi-Fi – 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz
- Management – Deco App (iOS & Android)
- Two ethernet ports per Deco unit
- Compatible with Alexa
- up to 5500ft range
- Supports 100 devices
Design and Build
The Deco S4 comes in a pack of two or three, and each unit is identical – you don’t get a main unit and some supporting points like you get with some mesh Wi-Fi systems.
The cylindrical S4 units themselves are sleek and minimalist, and around the same height as the likes of the Google Nest WiFi, but shorter than the high-end NETGEAR Orbi Quad-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System (RBKE963). That means the units will stand out in any room they’re placed in, and since they only come in one finish – white – it means you’ll most certainly notice them no matter where they’re placed.
At the top of each unit, there’s a grille in the shape of the TP-link logo with a glowing logo in the center that doubles as a status indicator for easy troubleshooting in case something goes wrong. If you’re concerned about the LEDs in the room, TP-Link understands that they can be annoying- especially if placed in a bedroom – they’ve included an option in the smartphone app that lets you disable the indicator when needed.
Around the back of each unit, you’ll find two Ethernet port that allows for stable wired connections for PCs, consoles, and any other Ethernet-equipped device you might want to connect to the internet. It may come out like a basic feature that I’d ignore altogether, but you’ll be surprised at how many mesh Wi-Fi systems don’t offer this functionality.
The TP-Link Deco S4 might not be as stylish or feature-loaded as more expensive mesh systems, but it makes up for it in terms of feature smarts, extensive range, and power.
Setup and Use
Setting up the TP-Link Deco S4 is a breeze. The system can be easily configured using the Deco app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app guides users through the setup process, prompting them to connect the main unit to their modem and then strategically place the remaining units within the home.
The app also facilitates network customization, enabling users to set up guest networks, parental controls, and device prioritization. The whole setup process takes just a few minutes, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical knowledge.
Once set up, you can configure various features of the Deco S4 system. Via the app, you can create a guest network, blacklist specific devices from connecting to the internet, give preference to devices such as consoles and streaming devices and most importantly for families, set up parental controls.
You can create separate profiles for each family member and allocate devices to each account, and from there control various aspects like limiting the time spent online and blocking access to certain categories of websites or specific sites. Also, you can track user browsing history to make sure the little ones in the household aren’t visiting websites they shouldn’t be.
The TP-Link Deco Mesh system integrates with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to completely shut off internet access at important times – dinner or prayer time – with your voice.
Performance & Features
When it comes to performance, the TP-Link Deco S4 excels in providing seamless coverage across a large area. Each unit is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi, with a combined speed of up to 1167 Mbps. This ensures a stable and reliable connection for various online activities, including streaming 4K videos, online gaming, and web browsing. The mesh system dynamically manages device connections, intelligently steering them to the least congested band, thus optimizing overall network performance.
Additionally, the Deco S4 supports MU-MIMO technology, allowing multiple devices to connect simultaneously without compromising speed or stability. During tests, it delivers consistent and reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout a 3500-square-foot, two-story house, with minimal signal drops and no dead zones, but it can extend coverage for up to 3500 square feet.
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Handoff between the units is seamless, ensuring that devices remain connected even while moving between different areas of the house. You won’t notice any significant latency issues, even with multiple devices actively using the network simultaneously.
The Deco app serves as the primary interface for managing the TP-Link Deco S4, and it does so with great effectiveness. The app is user-friendly, intuitive, and responsive, making it easy for both novice and experienced users to navigate through various settings and configurations. Additionally, the app provides real-time network statistics, allowing users to monitor data usage and connected devices effortlessly.
The TP-Link Deco S4 is backward compatible with previous TP-Link Deco models and extenders, making it a suitable option for users looking to expand their existing mesh network. TP-Link also offers the option to mix and match different Deco models, allowing for seamless integration of various devices to cater to specific coverage needs.
TP-Link Deco S4 Review – Verdict
The TP-Link Deco S4 might not have the sleekest design, but that’s a relatively minor complaint here. The combination of wide mesh Wi-Fi coverage and incredible AC12000 speeds is a huge bonus -even through thick walls. It supports up to 100 devices simultaneously, and each unit features ethernet ports to connect wired devices when needed.
The accompanying Deco app, unlike some counterparts, is well-built and user-friendly, offering the ability to configure the Wi-Fi network, create a suite of parental controls, prioritize particular devices, and more. You’ve even got access to a monthly internet connectivity report if needed – it’s a niche, without a doubt, but it’s there when you want it.
Most importantly, it creates a reliable blanket for your home Wi-Fi, eliminating any dead spots you might have, and extends coverage further than ever before.
The only downside? It misses out on faster Wi-Fi 6 support, meaning newer devices won’t run at their optimal speeds. If that’s your dilemma, TP-Link offers the Deco AXE5400 (Deco XE75) WiFi 6E Mesh system with up to 7200 square-feet coverage, with unlimited support for the new 6Hz band.
Overall, the Deco S4 excels in providing reliable, seamless coverage throughout a large area, with advanced features like parental controls and antivirus protection adding significant value to the overall package. Considering its competitive pricing and exceptional performance, the TP-Link Deco S4 is undoubtedly a top-notch mesh Wi-Fi system worthy of consideration for your home.
Last update on 2024-06-30 at 14:46 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Pick
TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System (Deco S4) – Up to 5,500 Sq.ft. Coverage, Replaces WiFi Router and Extender, Gigabit Ports, Works with Alexa, 3-pack
$114.99 in stock
5 used from $90.84
