TP-LINK Archer C50 Router Review

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Most people who are looking for a wireless router will be looking for something to replace the built-in router that most internet and DSL modems come with as standard. Furthermore, while inexpensive routers like the TP-Link Archer C50 may accomplish the essential functions, they typically do not offer a significant improvement in performance, raising the question: for whom are they intended?

After testing the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router for a week, our reviewers concluded that while it is a competitively priced router, it might not be worthwhile, particularly if many people need an internet connection at once.

The TP-LINK Archer C50 Router is a product created by a company that is fixated on perfecting the little things. With the dual-band frequency, you’ll gain a ton of experience and have ample speed for your activities.

TP-LINK Archer C50 Router Specifications

TP LINK Archer C50 Router 2

The TP-LINK Archer C50 Router feels somewhat frail in the hand due to its small size and low weight plastic construction. But you can’t expect a heavy-duty body at this pricing point. Fortunately, it’s not ugly—the router is entirely black, with a sectioned design and glossy finish. Due to its diminutive size, its most noticeable feature is the row of brilliant green LEDs on the front.

Nevertheless, it has a respectable appearance, so you won’t feel obligated to cover it up. That’s fortunate because you don’t want to slow down this router in any way. Overall, a cheap router like the TP-Link Archer C50 can’t reasonably be expected to do more.

TP-Link made setup incredibly simple, recognizing that the majority of customers buying the Archer C50 probably haven’t purchased routers all that frequently in the past. Rather of being in a brochure that is easily misplaced, the instructions are printed on the exterior of the box.

You simply need to scan the QR code that is printed on the side of the box with your smartphone, download the app it links to, and follow the on-screen instructions. With our 250Mbps Xfinity subscription, we set it up in our home, and the entire process took just two minutes. The administration portal was then accessible, and we were able to update our SSID and password.

In 2014, the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router was made available. It is actually powered by MediaTek MT7620A chipsets running at 580 MHz, 64 MB of RAM, and 8 MB of memory. The Archer C50’s maximum speed is typically 300 + 867 Mbps, and the AC1200 router operates with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards.

TP LINK Archer C50 Router 3

The Archer C50 router’s Guest network, which creates a separate network just for visitors, is a wonderfully helpful feature. There is one USB 2.0 port (s). 4 10/100 Mbps LAN ports and 1 10/100 Mbps WAN port make up the Archer C50 router.

TP-LINK Archer C50 Router General Information

StandardsWi-Fi 5IEEE 802.11ac/n/a 5 GHzIEEE 802.11n/b/g 2.4 GHz
WiFi SpeedsAC12005 GHz: 867 Mbps (802.11ac)2.4 GHz: 300 Mbps (802.11n)
WiFi Range3 Bedroom Houses 4× Fixed Antennas Multiple antennas form a signal-boosting array to cover more directions and large areas
Beamforming Concentrates wireless signal strength towards clients to expand WiFi range
WiFi Capacity3 Bedroom Houses 4× Fixed Antennas Multiple antennas form a signal-boosting array to cover more directions and large areas
Beamforming Concentrates wireless signal strength towards clients to expand the WiFi range
Working ModesRouter ModeAccess Point ModeRange Extender Mode

TP-LINK Archer C50 Router Hardware

ProcessorSingle-Core CPU
Ethernet Ports1× 10/100 Mbps WAN Port4× 10/100 Mbps LAN Ports
ButtonsWPS/Wi-Fi ButtonPower On/Off ButtonReset Button
Power9 V ⎓ 0.85 A

TP-LINK Archer C50 Router Security

WiFi EncryptionWPAWPA2WAP3WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x)
Network SecuritySPI Firewall Access Control IP & MAC Binding Application Layer Gateway
Guest Network1× 5 GHz Guest Network1× 2.4 GHz Guest Network

TP-LINK Archer C50 Router Performance

TP LINK Archer C50 Router 4

The TP-LINK Archer C50 Router was unable to reach the claimed speeds throughout our tests. As mentioned, we tested the router using a 250Mbps connection, but while using a wired network, we were only able to reach 85Mbps.

Due to the strength of the wifi signal, we were unable to achieve speeds of more than 65Mbps throughout our tests. Initial testing led us to suspect that Xfinity was having problems, however, repeated testing carried out throughout the day continuously provided the same results.

Things begin to degrade even worse when numerous devices are simultaneously consuming large amounts of bandwidth. We discovered that when streaming some music through our Apple HomePod, our internet speed fell to 47Mbps. The temperature sank considerably lower when we were watching YouTube. No matter what we did, even with just one connected device, we were unable to even come close to the advertised internet download rates.

Despite how terrible this seems and how bad it is, there is one solution that has some promise. The residence where we tested the router is around 2,000 square feet in size, has three stories, and the router is positioned on the central floor. As soon as we got the router out of the box, we knew the signal strength and range would be insufficient. We were totally off base.

Throughout our entire house, we were able to keep the same download and upload speeds. We conducted our tests in the upstairs bathroom and the basement, and we were unable to find any slowdowns other than the already sluggish signal. The shooting range of the Archer C50 left us pleasantly surprised.

This router probably isn’t worth the money if your high-speed internet connection is more than 50 Mbps. If you have DSL and, more specifically, if your modem does not include a built-in router, you might be able to achieve some respectable range from this router, provided you do not have an excessive number of devices connected to the internet at once, which is not usually the case.

Final Thoughts on TP-LINK Archer C50 Router 

TP LINK Archer C50 Router 5

You shouldn’t anticipate high-end performance from a router in this price category, but it is an issue if it can’t even deliver the promised speeds over a broadband connection. However, the lengthy range is sufficient to justify a recommendation if you don’t have a broadband connection and you won’t be constrained by the router’s restrictions. Simply said, it’s not designed to handle much in the way of multi-device streaming.

Is the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router good?

For its price range, the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router is a reasonably priced router with respectable performance. Because it supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, it can adapt to the needs of various devices and networks. Four Ethernet ports are also included for wired connectivity.

Despite lacking the sophisticated functionalities and faster speeds of more costly routers, the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router usually works fine for standard internet browsing, streaming, and light gaming. However, you might want to think about spending more money on a higher-end router if you have a large household with lots of devices or if you need additional capabilities like MU-MIMO or enhanced security settings.

Overall, the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router can be a decent choice if you’re searching for a reasonably priced router for your standard home networking requirements. Just be mindful of its shortcomings in comparison to more costly ones.

Is the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router a modem router?

The TP-LINK Archer C50 Router does not come with a built-in modem; instead, it is a stand-alone router. It’s made to hook up to a modem or modem-router combo that you already have from your internet service provider (ISP). This implies that in order to connect to your ISP’s network, you’ll need a separate modem. You can then connect the Archer C50 to the modem to share your internet connection with your devices using Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

How many devices can the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router support?

A respectable number of devices can be supported by the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router, however the precise number may vary based on the kind of devices connected, their bandwidth needs, and the volume of network activity overall.

Budget routers, like as the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router, are generally appropriate for small to medium-sized households with ten or more connected devices. It is important to remember, though, that the more devices you have connected and using the network at the same time, the more stress they can put on the router’s functionality and perhaps affect the speed and reliability of the network as a whole.

A higher-end router with more sophisticated features and capabilities can work better for you if you have more devices or have high bandwidth requirements (such while streaming 4K video or playing online games).

There is no set maximum for the number of devices that the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router can support. However, the quantity of devices connected to the router may have an impact on its performance. The internet speed on all devices may be slowed down if there is an excessive number of connected and active devices on the network. It’s crucial to remember that the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router is made to support several devices for standard household activities, including web surfing, gaming, and streaming.

Does the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router collect data?

Like many other tech firms, TP-Link may gather certain data from their products in order to provide firmware upgrades, fix issues, and enhance product performance. Performance metrics, diagnostic data, and device usage statistics are frequently included in this data gathering. It’s crucial to remember that data-gathering procedures might differ in detail, and businesses are frequently bound by privacy laws and policies.

For the TP-LINK Archer C50 Router in particular, the most accurate and current information about what data, if any, the router gathers and how it is used can be found in TP-Link’s privacy policy. Every device or service you use should have a privacy policy that explains its data-gathering procedures and how your information is treated.

The TP-LINK Archer C50 Router user manual states that no personal information is gathered by the device from its customers. Nonetheless, in order to enhance the functionality and caliber of the device, TP-LINK may get certain usage and diagnostic data from the router. The model, firmware version, kind of internet connection, WAN IP address, MAC address, and wireless settings of the router are all included in this data. There is no personally identifying information in the encrypted and anonymized data. By logging onto the router’s web management page and selecting System Tools > System Parameters > Diagnostic & Usage Data, you can turn off this capability.

How do I get the most out of my TP-LINK Archer C50 Router?

Here are some pointers to help you get the most out of your TP-LINK Archer C50 Router:

The best location for your router is in the center of your house or place of business to provide improved coverage all around. Avoid putting it in enclosed areas like cupboards or next to major obstructions as they can impede the spread of Wi-Fi signals.

Firmware upgrades: Frequently check the router’s web interface or the TP-Link website for firmware upgrades. Performance improvements, security updates, and bug fixes are frequently included in updated firmware.

Safeguard Your Network: To avoid unwanted access, provide a strong password for your Wi-Fi network. To further safeguard your wireless connection, you can enable encryption (WPA2 is advised).

Quality of Service (QoS): For a more seamless experience, use the router’s QoS settings to give priority to particular kinds of traffic, such as streaming or gaming. This can aid in the best possible bandwidth allocation for various tasks.

Channel Selection: To manually choose the Wi-Fi channels for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, use the router’s web interface. By doing this, you can lessen interference from nearby networks and enhance Wi-Fi performance in general.

Guest Network: To allow guests to access the internet while maintaining the security of your primary network, enable a guest network. Usually, guest networks have a unique password and SSID.

Parental Controls: Use parental controls to limit a device’s time on the internet or to limit access to certain devices connected to your network. This can help control how much time kids spend online.

Device Management: To make sure that only allowed devices are connecting to your network, check the list of connected devices on a regular basis in the router’s settings. Devices can also be renamed to make them easier to recognize.

Periodically Restart: To optimize performance and freshen the system, periodically reboot your router. This can guarantee seamless operation and assist in resolving small concerns.

Think About Adding More Equipment: To improve coverage and get rid of dead zones, think about installing mesh Wi-Fi systems or Wi-Fi range extenders if your house is larger than average or if you experience coverage problems.

You can guarantee a dependable and effective network experience by optimizing the security and performance of your TP-LINK Archer C50 Router according to these suggestions.

Here’s an extensive list of pros and cons for the TP-Link Archer C50 Router:

Pros:

  1. Dual-Band Wi-Fi: The TP-Link Archer C50 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, operating on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, providing flexibility and reduced interference for optimal wireless performance.
  2. Fast Wireless Speeds: With support for Wireless-AC technology, the router offers fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 1200Mbps, suitable for smooth streaming, online gaming, and high-bandwidth activities.
  3. Improved Coverage: Equipped with external antennas, the Archer C50 enhances Wi-Fi coverage and signal strength, minimizing dead zones and ensuring reliable connectivity throughout your home or office.
  4. Easy Setup: Setting up the Archer C50 is hassle-free, thanks to its intuitive web interface and Quick Setup wizard, allowing users to get their network up and running in minutes.
  5. Guest Network: The router features a guest network functionality, enabling you to create a separate Wi-Fi network for guests, ensuring network security while providing internet access to visitors.
  6. Parental Controls: With robust parental control features, you can manage and restrict internet access for specific devices or block access to inappropriate content, helping you maintain a safe online environment for your family.
  7. Quality of Service (QoS): The Archer C50 supports Quality of Service (QoS) functionality, allowing you to prioritize network traffic based on application type, ensuring smooth performance for latency-sensitive activities like gaming and video streaming.
  8. USB Port: Unlike some budget routers, the Archer C50 features a USB 2.0 port, enabling easy file sharing and media streaming across your network by connecting external storage devices or printers.
  9. IPv6 Support: With support for IPv6, the latest version of the Internet Protocol, the Archer C50 ensures compatibility with future network technologies and addressing schemes, enhancing network connectivity and security.
  10. TP-Link Tether App: The router is compatible with the TP-Link Tether mobile app, allowing you to manage your network settings, monitor internet usage, and set up parental controls directly from your smartphone or tablet.

Cons:

  1. Limited Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The Archer C50 comes with four Fast Ethernet (10/100Mbps) LAN ports and one Fast Ethernet WAN port, lacking Gigabit Ethernet support, which may limit wired network speeds for users with high-speed internet connections or local network transfers.
  2. Basic Firmware Features: While the router offers essential features for home networking, its firmware may lack advanced functionalities found in higher-end routers, such as MU-MIMO, beamforming, and VPN support, limiting customization options and performance optimizations.
  3. Limited USB Functionality: While the USB port allows for basic file sharing and media streaming, it is limited to USB 2.0 speeds, which may result in slower data transfer rates compared to routers with USB 3.0 ports.
  4. Single USB Port: The Archer C50 features only one USB port, restricting users from connecting multiple storage devices or printers simultaneously without the use of additional USB hubs.
  5. No Beamforming Technology: Unlike some higher-end routers, the Archer C50 does not support beamforming technology, which dynamically adjusts the wireless signal direction to focus on connected devices, potentially reducing wireless interference and improving signal strength.
  6. Limited Warranty: TP-Link typically offers a one-year limited warranty for its routers, which may provide users with limited protection against defects or malfunctions, requiring additional warranty coverage for extended peace of mind.
  7. No Mesh Networking Support: The Archer C50 does not support mesh networking, a feature found in newer routers that allows for seamless integration with additional nodes to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home or office.
  8. No Multi-User MIMO Support: While the Archer C50 supports simultaneous dual-band operation, it does not feature Multi-User MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology, which allows for improved wireless performance and efficiency when multiple devices are connected to the network simultaneously.
  9. Limited Range: Despite its external antennas, the Archer C50 may have limited Wi-Fi range compared to more powerful routers, especially in larger homes or office spaces with thick walls and obstacles that can impede signal propagation.
  10. No Tri-Band Support: The Archer C50 only supports dual-band Wi-Fi and does not feature tri-band support, which may limit its ability to handle high volumes of network traffic or support a large number of connected devices simultaneously.

Overall, the TP-Link Archer C50 Router offers a balance of affordability and performance, making it a suitable choice for users seeking reliable dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity for everyday use. While it may lack some advanced features and capabilities of higher-end routers, its ease of use, fast wireless speeds, and robust network management features make it a popular option for small to medium-sized homes or offices.

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TP-LINK Archer C50 Router
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