Introduction

The Xiaomi Mi Router 4A R4AC (R4AC) arrived on my desk promising fast and stable Wi-Fi performance. Having used several routers in the past, I was eager to see if this budget-friendly option could deliver on its claims. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put it through its paces, testing its speed, range, and overall reliability in a variety of scenarios, from streaming 4K video to handling multiple devices simultaneously. This review shares my honest experience with the device.

Features

The Mi Router 4A R4AC boasts a number of features designed to enhance your wireless experience. The dual-band setup (2.4GHz and 5GHz) is a key advantage, providing flexibility for different needs. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for longer range and better penetration through walls, perfect for devices further away from the router or in areas with obstacles. The 5GHz band offers significantly faster speeds, ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming and online gaming. The four external omnidirectional antennas contribute to signal strength and coverage.

Setup was remarkably straightforward. The intuitive interface made configuration a breeze, even for a non-tech savvy user.

Performance

Speed tests consistently delivered results close to the advertised maximum speed of 1167 Mbps, although real-world performance naturally varied depending on distance from the router and interference. I experienced very little latency during online gaming and streaming, even with multiple devices connected simultaneously. The 5GHz band performed admirably, delivering fast and consistent speeds for my high-bandwidth tasks. The 2.4GHz band, while not as fast, still provided excellent coverage throughout my home, even in areas with thicker walls. I experienced occasional drops in connection, but these were infrequent and mostly resolved by restarting the router.

I tested the range by moving my laptop to different areas of my home, and I was pleased with its ability to maintain a strong signal even in farther corners.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Excellent speed performance, especially on the 5GHz band.
• Strong and reliable signal coverage.
• Easy setup and intuitive interface.
• Affordable price point.
• Good value for the money.

Cons:

• Occasional connection drops, though infrequent.
• Could benefit from more advanced features (e.g., guest network controls).

Final Verdict

The Xiaomi Mi Router 4A R4AC (R4AC) is a compelling option for users seeking a budget-friendly router that delivers solid performance. While not without its minor flaws (occasional disconnections), its speed, range, and ease of use make it a great choice for most users. I would recommend this router to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable solution to boost their home Wi-Fi. Its performance easily outweighed its drawbacks in my experience.