Yet another whole-home wireless mesh system gets tested, this time the Deco M5 AC1300 kit from TP-Link. Is it a buy? Let's find out.

In short, the TP-Link Deco M5 is a worthy entry to the low end of the mesh networking market, and it includes network-based antivirus and excellent parental controls. We prefer Google Wifi's app and the way it can proactively change channels to improve wireless performance and avoid interference,...

The TP-Link Deco M5 was the first WiFi system released by the Shenzhen-based company in an attempt to join the then-already established group of systems, which included the the Linksys Velop , the Google WiFi and the Netgear Orbi .

Final Thoughts For their first entry into the whole-home WiFi market I think TP-Link has a very strong contender in the Deco M5 system. This is our first time taking a look at a system like this so we cannot compare it to others, but comparing it to typical routers we can definitely see some areas...

– Easy setup; – Better overall WiFi coverage than a normal router; – Small profile; – TPLink HomeCare included; – Great unboxing experience

– Not as many configuration options as a normal router; – Will need to buy a switch if you need multiple Ethernet ports

Like mentioned above, the setup and configuration of the TP-Link Deco M5 is by far the easiest Wi-Fi router that I have ever set up. This is perfect for those who just want to plug it in and go. There is no need to fiddle with obscure settings or constantly tweak things.

Covers up to 4,500 square feet; Excellent parental controls; Quick and easy setup from mobile device; Covers up to 4,500 square feet; Excellent parental controls; Quick and easy setup from mobile device

More on expensive side; No web UI access; No advanced routing settings; More on expensive side; No web UI access; No advanced routing settings

Overall, we were very impressed with the TP-Link Deco M5. While it didn't match our high-end router in terms of flat-out speed, we think it offers a fantastic overall networking solution for most households.

Very easy to use; robust network controls that parents will appreciate; excellent range

Flat-out speed not up to par with high-end routers; few tweaks available to power users

TP-Link is the latest networking company to launch a mesh network system. It's called Deco because the aim is to ‘paint your home with Wi-Fi'.

With multi-room mesh-based Wi-Fi solutions becoming more prominent, every networking brand out there has come out with their own trendy lifestyle routers. Routers that aren't conspicuous big grey boxes but devices as elegant and aesthetically appealing as any iPhone or Samsung flagship.

App works well; Setup is super easy

Settings can be light on detail; Minimalist design might not be for everyone

I purchased this because it will operate in access point mode (use my router) and is supports Ethernet backhaul. There were some minor setup glitches until the firmware updated. After updates and setup completed it has been bullet proof.

We have very large victorian 3 story home with thick brick walls. Wifi and cell phone reception is very poor. We did have multiple either net ports throughout the house. We were able to set this up easily through the ethernet ports and we have super fast wifi throughout the house.