TP-Link Deco S4 Wi-Fi System This sleekly designed, high-performing Wi-Fi system is just for $89.99 at Amazon(3 packs). A great choice for families looking to invest in mesh Wi-Fi on a budget, the TP-Link Deco S4 system is a budget-friendly alternative.
TP-Link Deco S4 Pros and Cons
TP-Link Deco S4 Design
TP-Link Deco S4 has a simple rounded cylindrical shape and measures 162.3×90.7×90.7mm. With its height being similar to something like Google’s Nest WiFi, these will stand out in any room. Each Deco S4 device’s top is graced by a fan-shaped TP-Link icon, illuminated logo that showcases the unit’s status, helping users troubleshoot quickly in case of issues. If you’re concerned about LEDs being distracting in your room – TP-Link recognises they can be, particularly in bedrooms – they’ve included an option within the smartphone app to disable the indicator lights when needed.
There are two Ethernet ports on the back of the Deco S4, and that’s where you connect a pair of PCs, gaming consoles, or any device with an Ethernet plug and a need for a hardline to the internet. This is something that might seem really basic, and it appears that I’m going to take it totally for granted, yes, but you would not believe the amount of Mesh Wi-Fi systems that just don’t. The TP-Link Deco S4 might not look as attractive, or carry all the perks you’ll find on more expensive mesh systems, but that doesn’t matter when it’s as smart, capacious, and reliable as this.
TP-Link Deco S4 Feature
- 1900 Mbps WiFi Speed – Enjoy 4K video and play online games with up to 1900 Mbps of combined speeds (Up to 600 Mbps at 2.4GHz and up to 1300 Mbps at 5GHz) on 3x3MIMO.
- Connect 100 plus Devices – Deco can handle traffic from even the busiest of networks, providing lag free connections for up to 100 devices.
- Better Coverage than traditional WiFi routers: When paired with one or more Deco units, they will work seamlessly to create a WiFi mesh network that can cover homes up to 2,000 sq. ft. Say good bye to dead zones
- Seamless and Stable WiFi Mesh: Rather than wifi range extender that needs multiple network names and passwords, Deco S4 allows you to enjoy seamless roaming throughout the house, with a single network name and password.
- Deco Mesh Technology: When paired with one or more Deco units, they work together to form a unified network with a single network name. Devices automatically switch between Decos as you move through your home for the fastest possible speeds.
- Parental Controls: Limit online time and block inappropriate websites according to unique profiles created for each family member. It’s easy to keep your children safe while they’re online.
- Set Up in Minutes: Setup is a breeze with the Deco app available on your Android or iOS device. Turn on/off guest WiFi with Alexa voice commands.
TP-Link Deco S4 Specifications
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Model Name | Deco S4(1-pack) |
| Special Feature | Access Point Mode |
| Frequency Band Class | Dual-Band |
| Standards and Protocols | Wi-Fi 5 IEEE 802.11ac/n/a 5 GHz IEEE 802.11n/b/g 2.4 GHz |
| WiFi Speeds | AC1900 5 GHz: 1300 Mbps (802.11ac) 2.4 GHz: 600 Mbps (802.11n) |
| WiFi Range | 1-2 Bedroom Houses (1-pack) |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 6.4 × 3.6 × 3.6 in (162.3 × 90.7 × 90.7 mm) |
| Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Included Components | Deco S4 (3-pack) 3 Deco S4 Units 1 RJ45 Ethernet Cable 3 Power Adapters Quick Installation Guide |
TP-Link Deco S4 Performance
To test the TP-Link Deco S4 system’s wireless speeds, I verified throughput at four different locations: directly next to the router (15 feet away), placed so that a wall is between me the router, and on the second floor of my home (farthest point). Although this is a Mesh Wi-Fi system, I tested only one router to assess its inherent quality, particularly as all three routers in this system are identical.
Deco S4’s download speed remained relatively steady at between 555Mbps and 560Mbps at its closest point (next to the Deco S4, 15 feet away). These speeds closely approximated what I saw with the eero Pro 6, and they’re perfectly fine for a Wi-Fi 6 router working on the 5 GHz band. When testing devices further from the router, I was pleasantly surprised to find performance remained quite respectable. Behind a wall, download speeds reached 465 Mbps – a mere 17% drop from the initial result. Similarly, when moving to the farthest point on the second floor, my download speed only fell to 423 Mbps. Of course that isn’t a low number, and it still means you get some high-quality download speeds. Speeds at this spot were 23% lower than both from the direct vicinity of the router, but mere 9% slower than from way behind the wall. For comparison, the eero Pro 6 (3-pack) typically retails for $199.99 on Amazon, while the Deco S4 (3-pack) sells for $89.99.
TP-Link Deco S4 Setup
Setting up the TP-Link Deco S4 is surprisingly simple. The system can be easily set up via the Deco App and even if you are not a tech whizz you can get online within 15 minutes. To set up your Deco S4, download the TP-Link Deco application. The Deco App clearly explains each step and guides you through establishing the connection on your mobile device.Once connected, you’ll be prompted to set your Wi-Fi name and password, after which the app will directly create the Wi-Fi network on your phone. You won’t even need to access the “Settings” menu – the app automatically opens to let you input your login details. Then simply follow the prompts to complete installation. The app also supports network customisation, allowing users to set up guest networks, parental controls, and device prioritisation. The entire setup process takes just minutes, making it accessible even to those with limited technical knowledge.
When set up, the Deco S4 system offers you the option to personalise a range of features. Through the Deco app, you can set up a guests network, blacklist certain devices to keep them off the internet and set up priority connections for gaming consoles and streaming devices, but crucially for family users, you can also apply parental controls. Create individual profiles for each household member and assign devices to each account, enabling you to manage functions such as limiting online time, blocking access to specific content categories or websites.Additionally, you can monitor users’ browsing history to ensure children in the household do not access inappropriate websites.
TP-Link Deco S4 Verdict
TP-Link Deco S4 Whole Home Mesh WiFi System - Up to 2,000 Sq.ft. Coverage, AC1900 WiFi Router/Extender Replacement, Gigabit Ports,...
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