The TP-Link Archer AXE75 – AXE5400 Router is their first standalone Wi-Fi 6E router. On the plus side, the AXE5400 provides greater Wi-Fi speed. On the minus side, as an entry-level 6E router, the scales of price vs functionality are tipped towards price. Still, you can enter the realm of 6E WiFi at a reasonable price of around $230 Canadian. This makes it the cheapest Wi-Fi 6E router on the market.
My experience with the TP-Link line of routers has been excellent. You can check out previous impressions here for the AC5400 and the AX6000; the former a 5 GHz router and the latter a 6 GHz router. Those reviews not only cover the strengths of both routers but also include background on TP-Link too. Additionally, check out our impressions for the AX11000 which also explains what Wi-Fi 6 is all about.
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The AXE5400 stylistically bears the same aesthetics as the AX6000 in a smaller form factor. It is all black Deco style with a wedge of piano black plastic lain diagonally across the top. I remember marveling in comparison how light the AX6000 is to the AC5400. My amazement deepened with the featherlight heft of the AXE5400, even accounting for the smaller size of the device and that it is an entry line model.
While the AXE5400 is more diminutive in stature compared to the previously mentioned brethren, it is a capable router, bolstered by the latest technological advances. The big feature is Wi-Fi 6E is making a whole frequency spectrum available for use. 2.4 and 5.0 GHz bands are becoming increasingly more congested. The 6E band has only been available in the last couple of years, so you won’t being competing with your neighbors for a while.
Whee Wi-Fi 6E!!!!!!
Wi-Fi 6E also boosts the ability to handle many more devices without a significant loss in performance. Other benefits include lower latency because of greater spectrum, and more throughput. In real-world terms, I can attest to this. With the AX6000, I couldn’t fully test its 6G functionality because I didn’t own any 6G capable devices at the time. This time I do. Two, in fact: a PS5 and a Quest 2 VR Headset.
Using the Quest 2 as my main Wi-Fi 6 test device, I could test the 6 GHz bands for both the AX6000 and the AXE5400. I saw a nice 30% increase in speed for Wi-Fi 6, going from 866 bps to 1200 bps. The only drawback is that the range for 6 GHz Wi-Fi is much shorter, so the speed boost is only line of sight. Moving out of the room where the router is located results in a big speed fall off. Still, for those looking to max out their wireless VR headsets, Wi-Fi 6 & 6E routers are the way to go.
Setting up a TP-Link router is getting easier and easier. It has almost become a plug’n play experience. I had the router up and running in under 15 minutes. TP-Link also provides a mobile app for Android and iOS devices that lets you control the router from your smartphone. The Tether app lets you connect remotely to the router through the Cloud. You can see how many devices/clients are connected to the router and further control is allowed. You can grant priority to each client–so, for example, my wife’s iPad used heavily on the top floor gets first consideration on Internet bandwidth over other devices.
The Tether app also comes with a HomeCare suite of apps that allows tailoring of Internet content to fit the profile of a user. Parents can invoke parental controls so that their kids cannot access material deemed inappropriate. Also available is Antivirus protection, which can be enabled or disabled.
Lots of Customization Features
Then there is the QOS–Quality of Service. From this nifty utility, you tailor how the TP-Link AXE5400 handles Internet usage. You can place priority on usage categories of gaming, streaming, surfing, downloading or chatting. Each Wi-Fi category can be assigned a priority: Low, Normal, or High. Very easy to use and very handy.
There is even built-in Amazon Alexa compatibility. No longer do you need to access a web browser of a device connected to your network to configure the router. There is also an extensive suite of tools where you can even limit the hours that a user on the network will have Wi-Fi access. Parents rejoice!
The first cost-cutting move comes with the allocation of Wi-Fi throughput with the Tri-Band allocation. In total, you can get 5400 bps across the three bands. The 5 and 6 GHz bands are mid-tier and capped at 2042 bps. We can see here price savings with the number and speed of the ports. They restrict the Ethernet ports to 1 Gigabit, so if you are hoping for higher Wi-Fi speeds, you will need to look elsewhere.
Another cost-cutting move is the virtual move of Homeshield services from the router to a web-based subscription service. This means they will host all your security settings on TP-Link servers. Something to remember, in case you are averse to sharing such information. This includes such things as QoS(Quality of Service), Parental Control, and online protection. Important to note as the company headquarters are in China, which has different standards for security and online privacy.
Good Wi-Fi Coverage for the Price
It will provide proper coverage for a 2000 sq ft home. Signal drop-off starts at about 40 feet. So your experience will vary depending on the layout of your home. Once I had the unit setup and let it run for a few days, it was rock solid. Like the other TP-Link routers, I experienced no dropouts or service interruptions.
The TP-Link Archer AXE75 is an entry-level Wi-Fi 6E router that is a good choice for most consumers and those on sub-1 Gigabit broadband feeds. Power users, such as gamers and creatives, should look at more powerful and expensive choices.
***TP-Link Archer AXE75 Router was provided by the publisher***
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
