TP-Link Archer MR600 (Archer MR600) Review: 4G+ Cat6 AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router

The TP-Link Archer MR600, a 4G+ Cat6 AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router, promises a seamless blend of cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity. As someone who frequently tests networking equipment, I spent several weeks putting this router through its paces in various real-world scenarios. This review details my findings, exploring both its strengths and weaknesses.

The Archer MR600 boasts a compelling feature set. The ability to switch between 4G and wired internet connections offers excellent flexibility, perfect for areas with unreliable broadband. The dual-band Wi-Fi delivers solid speeds, and the inclusion of Gigabit Ethernet ports caters to users with bandwidth-hungry devices. The OneMesh compatibility adds a layer of convenience for expanding your network. The ease of setup – just insert your SIM card – is a huge plus for less tech-savvy users.

Colour Name Black
Connection Type Wireless
What’s In The Box 1x4G+ Cat6 AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router Archer MR600, 1xPower Adapter, 1xRJ45 Ethernet Cable, 1xQuick Installation Guide
Wireless Technology WiFi 4
Band Technology Dual Band
Connector Type RJ45
Antenna Type External
Wireless Standard 4G
Product Length 14 cm
Product Height 3.36 cm
Product Width/Depth 20 cm
Wi-Fi Range 400 ft²
Max Data Transfer Rate 600 MBps
Features Business, Ergonomic, Eco Friendly
Model Number Archer MR600
Model Name Archer MR600
Item Quantity 4
Number of Ports 4
Wireless Standard Value EEE 802.11a/n/ac 5 GHz, IEEE 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz

In my testing, the Archer MR600 consistently delivered strong performance. Download speeds on the 5GHz band were very close to the advertised 867 Mbps in ideal conditions. The 2.4GHz band provided reliable connectivity for devices further away or with weaker signals. I experienced minimal latency during online gaming, and streaming 4K video was smooth and without interruption. Range was as advertised, performing well within a typical home environment. The Gigabit Ethernet ports provided a significant boost in speed for wired devices compared to using Wi-Fi.

However, in areas with weak 4G signals, performance naturally suffered. This highlights the importance of having a strong cellular signal for optimal results.

Pros:

  • Easy setup and configuration.
  • Strong Wi-Fi performance, especially on 5GHz.
  • Reliable Gigabit Ethernet ports.
  • Flexibility of 4G and wired internet options.
  • Compact and attractive design.
  • OneMesh compatibility.

Cons:

  • Performance dependent on 4G signal strength.
  • Wi-Fi range could be slightly improved for larger homes.

The TP-Link Archer MR600 (Archer MR600) is a solid router that delivers on its promises. Its ease of use, strong performance, and versatile connectivity options make it an excellent choice for users needing a reliable wireless solution, especially in areas with inconsistent broadband. While its performance is tied to 4G signal quality, it still provides an excellent alternative in locations where conventional broadband solutions are unreliable or unavailable. I would highly recommend it.