The Linksys EA6350 is a dual-band Wi-Fi router designed for small homes with just a handful of wired and wireless devices, that doesn’t justify spending hundreds of dollars on routers with the latest Wi-Fi technologies. Routers like the Netgear AC1750 offer extensive connectivity and excellent throughput, but for a small home, you don’t need all that range, so spending lots of money isn’t justifiable.
For under $90 (which can be much lower on a sale), the Linksys EA6350 offers reliable and lightning-fast 5GHz throughput, as well as a nice collection of control options and I/O ports. It’s cheaper than the Asus RT-AX55 AX1800, but it still delivers fast connectivity and has a USB port, so it’s our latest Editors’ Choice budget Wi-Fi router.
Design and Build Quality
The EA6350 is a small black box with two non-removable antennas, meaning you can’t replace them with a pair of high-gain antennas. It measures 1.1 by 8.9 by 7 inches (HWD) and weighs 1 pound; with a strip of gray trim containing a single status light at the middle of the top of the enclosure. Build quality is solid, and the device feels durable.
The pair of external antennas can be adjusted to optimize signal strength, ensuring better coverage throughout your space. The router’s front panel includes LED indicators for power, internet connectivity, and the status of both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
Powering the AC1200 is a single-core 800MHz CPU. The router can achieve speeds of up to 300Mbps on the 2.4Hz band and up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz band. It supports beamforming, which sends wireless signals directly to each client rather than over a broad spectrum, but unlike competing routers, it doesn’t support Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) data streaming.
At the back of the router, there are four Gigabit LAN ports, a WAN port, a single USB 3.0 port, a WPS button, and a Reset button.
Key Features
- Dual-Band Connectivity: The Linksys EA6350 operates on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, allowing users to allocate devices to different bands for optimal performance.
- AC1200 Wi-Fi Standard: With wireless AC1200 technology, the router supports speeds of up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz band and up to 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, providing a total maximum throughput of 1200Mbps.
- Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports, the router facilitates high-speed wired connections for devices such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers.
- USB 3.0 Port: Including a USB 3.0 port allows users to share files or connect a USB printer or external storage device, enhancing the router’s overall versatility.
Setup and Performance
Setting up the Linksys EA6350 router is a straightforward process, thanks to the user-friendly Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Web console. The Smart Wi-Fi app adds an extra layer of convenience; simply open a browser tab and type linksyssmartwifi.com in the address bar. It launches the Setup Wizard that lets you manage the network settings, monitor connected devices, and perform speed tests from their mobile devices.
In real-world testing, the Linksys EA6350 impresses with its consistent and reliable performance. The dual-band functionality ensures that multiple devices can connect simultaneously without sacrificing speed. Streaming high-definition content, online gaming, and video conferencing all performed seamlessly, thanks to the router’s AC1200 standard.
The two adjustable antennas contribute to excellent signal coverage throughout a standard-sized home or office. The beamforming technology employed by the EA6350 further enhances signal strength and stability by focusing the wireless signal directly on connected devices.
Security and Parental Controls
Linksys prioritizes user security with the inclusion of WPA/WPA2 encryption and an SPI firewall. The router also supports guest network access, enabling you to provide internet connectivity to visitors without compromising your main network’s security.
For families, the parental control features of the Linksys EA6350 are noteworthy. With the Smart Wi-Fi app, users can easily manage and restrict internet access for specific devices, set up content filters, and schedule internet usage times for children.
Linksys EA6350 Review: Verdict
The Linksys EA6350 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Router stands out as a reliable and user-friendly option for individuals and small businesses seeking a balance between performance and affordability. With its AC1200 standard, Gigabit Ethernet ports, USB 3.0 functionality, and robust security features, the router addresses the needs of various users, from casual internet browsing to bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and online gaming.
While it may lack some advanced features, the Linksys EA6350 Router excels in delivering stable and fast wireless connectivity for the average consumer.
Recommended Configuration
Linksys EA6350 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Router for Home (AC1200 Fast Wireless Router),Black
20 used from $16.00
The Review
Linksys EA6350
The Linksys EA6350 (AC1200) is an affordable, dual-band router that offers fast 5GHz throughput connectivity, at a very affordable price. It’s a perfect choice for home and small business use.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Fast 5GHz throughput
- USB 3.0 port
- Includes beamforming technology
CONS
- Lacks MU-MIMO
- Basic customization options
Review Breakdown
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ARS Guide SCORE
