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I recently reviewed both the Netgear RAX80 Wi Fi 6 router and the Killer AX1650 module. I have now managed to get the Intel AX200 which is available from Amazon.
The Killer AX1650 is based on the AX200 but then with all the gaming and QOS related software, you can get with Killer products. So using these two modules with just the drivers should yield almost identical results. This will, therefore, be a relatively short review.
Networking Specifications
- TX/RX
Streams – 2×2 - Bands
– 2.4Ghz, 5Ghz (160Mhz) - Max
Speed – 2.4Gbps - Wifi
Certified – 802.11ac; WiFi 6 pre-certified - Bluetooth
5 - Other
features – MU-MIMO & OFDM
Testing was done via two laptops connected to the router, one wired one connecting with the AX200. I used iperf and simple file transfers for speed tests.
The Netgear is rated at 4.8Gbps, but when connected in close proximity the wireless connection logs a 2.4Gbit connection speed which is the top speed of the module, just like the killer AX1650.
Similar to the previous tests I have some inconstant results with iperf, probably due to user error. The speeds typically peaked at 940Mbps though the speed does vary more than a wired connection usually jumping from 850Mbps to 900+Mbps.
Similarly, the file transfer peaked at about the same speed. However, subjectively, the connection remained far more stable. For the vast majority of the file transfer, the speeds remained at 113MB/s indicating that it was easily able to max out the gigabit wired connection.
One of the main issues I experience with the 5Ghz network is connecting with 160 MHz channel bandwidth reliably as the surrounding networks appear to interfere with things, so my results are perhaps not as positive as they should be. That being said, the module still maxes out a gigabit connection which is what the Netgear RAX80 is limited to, and I hope to be able to try and router with a multi-gig port sometime soon.
Overall, this is as expected, the same as the Killer AX1650. I know a lot of people are not fond of the Killer software but there is no requirement to use it so the main decision about which to go for would be price. Amazon currently lists prices for the intel from £17 to about £24 with various slow shipping times, whereas the Killer is available on Prime for £31.
The true benefits of Wi-Fi 6 will probably take a few years to be realised we have several devices in the home all trying to access data-intensive applications like streaming, gaming and general file transfers.
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Intel AX200 Wi Fi 6 Module Review
Overall
90%-
Overall - 90%90%
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.