The TP-Link Archer AX50 is an impressive Wi-Fi 6 router that perfectly balances affordability, performance, and advanced features.
With a price tag hovering around $150, this router is designed to deliver robust connectivity for modern households while offering features typically found in higher-priced models.
With the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, excellent throughput speeds, and additional benefits like malware protection and parental controls, it has become a top choice for many users.
It has earned PCMag’s Editors’ Choice award for being one of the market’s best affordable Wi-Fi 6 routers.
Key Features

Wi-Fi 6 Technology
The Archer AX50 leverages Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), providing faster speeds, improved efficiency, and better connectivity in device-heavy environments. Key specifications include:
- AX3000 speeds: Offers up to 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band, delivering a combined speed of nearly 3Gbps.
- Advanced technologies: Includes OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access), MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output), beamforming, and Smart Connect. These features ensure stable, high-speed connections for multiple devices simultaneously.
- Improved latency: Reduced lag and latency make gaming and video streaming ideal.
Build and Design
The router’s design is both functional and modern. Its compact build makes it suitable for most setups without occupying too much space. Key design features include:
- Aesthetic finish: A sleek black body with a matte and glossy combination that looks stylish in any environment.
- Four adjustable antennas: Enhance signal strength and allow for better customization of coverage.
- Ports: Includes four Gigabit LAN ports, one Gigabit WAN port, and a USB 3.0 port for file sharing or media storage access.
- LED indicators: Provide a clear view of the router’s status, such as power, internet connectivity, and active bands.
Software and Management
The Archer AX50 comes with TP-Link’s comprehensive HomeCare suite, making it more than just a router. Here’s what it offers:
- Parental Controls: Fully customizable settings to manage content access. Filters can be tailored for kids, teens, and adults, ensuring a safe online experience for the entire family.
- Anti-Malware Protection: Built-in malware protection automatically blocks malicious websites and quarantines harmful files.
- QoS Settings (Quality of Service): Users can prioritize bandwidth for activities like gaming, streaming, or video conferencing.
Management options are accessible via the TP-Link Tether app or a web interface, both of which are user-friendly. These platforms enable you to monitor connected devices, adjust settings, and keep your network secure.
Performance and Installation
Installation Process
The setup process for the Archer AX50 is designed with simplicity in mind. The TP-Link Tether app makes it a seamless experience:
- Connect the router to your modem and power it on.
- Open the Tether app and follow the step-by-step guide to configure SSIDs, passwords, and connection types.
- Firmware updates can be completed directly through the app for the latest features and security enhancements.
The installation takes under 10 minutes, even for users with minimal technical knowledge.
Throughput Performance
The Archer AX50’s throughput performance is excellent for its price point, making it a reliable option for most households:
- 2.4GHz Band: Achieved speeds of 109Mbps at close range and 42Mbps at a distance of 30 feet, performing well in medium-sized homes.
- 5GHz Band: Delivered impressive speeds of 689Mbps at close range and 231Mbps at 30 feet, outpacing many competing routers in this price range.
File Transfer Speeds
For those utilizing the USB 3.0 port for file sharing or media access, the router offers:
- Write speed: 42MBps.
- Read speed: 44MBps.
While these speeds suit casual users, they fall short compared to high-end routers like the Asus RT-AX86U, which deliver significantly faster file transfer rates.
Signal Strength
The Archer AX50 provides robust coverage across most areas of a standard home. Signal tests show:
- 2.4GHz Band: Performs admirably in larger spaces, ensuring consistent internet access for devices spread across multiple rooms.
- 5GHz Band: Excels at close and mid-range distances, making it ideal for activities requiring high bandwidth, such as video conferencing or gaming.
Strengths

The TP-Link Archer AX50 stands out for several reasons:
- Affordable Wi-Fi 6 Solution: Delivers advanced Wi-Fi 6 capabilities at a price accessible to most households.
- Strong Performance: Consistently high throughput and reliable signal strength ensure a seamless internet experience.
- Comprehensive Features: Offers robust parental controls, malware protection, and customizable QoS settings.
- Compact Design: Modern and space-saving design fits easily into any home setup.
Drawbacks
Despite its many advantages, the Archer AX50 has a few shortcomings:
- Lacks WPA3 Encryption: The absence of the latest WPA3 security standard is a notable limitation, especially for security-conscious users.
- Average File-Transfer Speeds: While adequate for most users, file-sharing speeds lag behind premium routers.
Verdict
The TP-Link Archer AX50 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a midrange Wi-Fi 6 router that balances affordability and performance.
It’s a great fit for homes with multiple devices, offering modern connectivity features, strong speed performance, and a variety of security and management tools.
While it may not match the file-transfer speeds or advanced security features of higher-end routers, its overall value and feature set are hard to beat at this price point.
Who Should Buy It?
- Households need reliable internet for multiple users and devices.
- Gamers and streamers are looking for reduced latency and consistent bandwidth.
- Families wanting enhanced parental controls and network security.
Price: The Archer AX50 is priced at an MSRP of $149.99 but is frequently discounted to around $99 on platforms like Amazon, making it even more appealing.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home network without breaking the bank, the TP-Link Archer AX50 delivers impressive performance and features, making it a worthy investment for most users.