M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?

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M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?

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M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?
M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?
2020-08-19 13:44:17 - last edited 2020-08-25 06:48:48
Model: Deco M9 Plus  
Hardware Version:
Firmware Version:

So I'm considering upgrading my single OnHub to a M5 (3 puck) or M9 (2 puck) in our 2 storey + basement home (1500 sq ft per level).  OnHub was generally fine but stutters sometimes with HD video streaming and Chromcasting.  I have about 80 devices/connections total in our smart home.  We only have 50 mbps internet service anyway, but was wondering whether getting an M9 over an M5 will make a difference.  Desktop ethernet connected PC speed tests are showing about 49 mbps which is expected but wifi speed tests are showing 37, 23 and 14 mbps depending on the location in the house I'm testing.  Really the bottom line is whether you think getting an M9 will provide a better connection than an M5 considering I only have a 50 mbps connection anyway.  Thanks.

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Re:M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?-Solution
2020-08-25 07:26:14 - last edited 2020-08-25 13:31:41

@Gory33 

The main difference between M5 and M9 is the dedicated wireless backhaul. 

 

M9 has a dedicated wireless backhaul on 5 ghz band which help slave decos m9 to provide better speeds.

 

However, it is more noticeable only when you have Internet speeds of over 200 Mbps. With a speed of 100mbps or less, it will perform similar to M5. But I suggest you go for M9 to be future proof.

Also, please note that both the models have same radios inside which means that they have same range and speed. Just that M9 models have an extra set of radios to communicate between the nodes. M9 also supports zigbee devices if you have in your home. 

 

Range wise, M5 and M9 will perform similar. 

 

Speed wise, theoretically M9 will provide better performance but will be noted only if you have internet speeds of over 200 Mbps. 

 

Please remember that the speed is a function of distance. The father you go from a node, or the more obstructions you have between the device and a node, the speed gets reduced. 

 

If you can afford the M9, go for it. But if you have already purchased M5, then migrating to M9 just for speed with a 50 Mbps connection will not make a significant difference. 

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Re:M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?
2020-08-25 06:48:04 - last edited 2020-08-25 13:32:23

@Gory33 

 

Hello,

 

Yes, Deco M9 should provide you better coverage than Deco M5, you may also refer to the SPECs on the official website:

https://www.tp-link.com/compare/?typeId=5700&productIds=41150%2C35307

https://www.tp-link.com/home-networking/deco/deco-m9-plus/v2%20(2-pack)/

 

May it help.

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Re:M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?-Solution
2020-08-25 07:26:14 - last edited 2020-08-25 13:31:41

@Gory33 

The main difference between M5 and M9 is the dedicated wireless backhaul. 

 

M9 has a dedicated wireless backhaul on 5 ghz band which help slave decos m9 to provide better speeds.

 

However, it is more noticeable only when you have Internet speeds of over 200 Mbps. With a speed of 100mbps or less, it will perform similar to M5. But I suggest you go for M9 to be future proof.

Also, please note that both the models have same radios inside which means that they have same range and speed. Just that M9 models have an extra set of radios to communicate between the nodes. M9 also supports zigbee devices if you have in your home. 

 

Range wise, M5 and M9 will perform similar. 

 

Speed wise, theoretically M9 will provide better performance but will be noted only if you have internet speeds of over 200 Mbps. 

 

Please remember that the speed is a function of distance. The father you go from a node, or the more obstructions you have between the device and a node, the speed gets reduced. 

 

If you can afford the M9, go for it. But if you have already purchased M5, then migrating to M9 just for speed with a 50 Mbps connection will not make a significant difference. 

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Re:M9 (2 puck) vs M5 (3 puck) making a difference at lower speeds?
2020-08-25 13:38:47
Thanks! I know the M9 has more antennas, and wasn't sure whether it also had a higher broadcast power / stronger signal / watts? that would make a difference. I did get the M5 set on sale, but I'm finding that there isn't much of a difference vs. the single ON-Hub that I have now in getting the signal through walls/floors to weaker signal locations. Thanks for your advice.
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