Introducing Zyxel’s NWA220AX-6E, an affordable WiFi 6E access point. Boasting radio technology, it covers multi-level houses with a 4.8Gbps throughput. The pros include affordability, excellent range, and cloud accessibility.
Key Features:
- Affordable
- Impressive Range
- Cloud Accessibility
- WiFi 6E Support
However, note that it operates on either the 5GHz or 6GHz band, a potential drawback.
In conclusion, Zyxel’s NWA220AX-6E offers value for money with its affordable price, extensive range, and advanced WiFi 6E capabilities.
Zyxel NWA220AX-6E: Elevating Home Networking
Zyxel’s NWA220AX-6E WiFi 6E Access Point enhances home or small office networks, doubling WiFi 6 bandwidth. Installation is simplified via the Zyxel mobile app, which conveniently manages multiple Zyxel devices.
Key Features:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth Boost | Doubles WiFi 6 infrastructure bandwidth, ensuring high-performance networking. |
| Seamless Installation | Easy setup with Zyxel’s mobile app, capable of managing various Zyxel network appliances. |
| Versatile Connectivity | Boasts an exceptional internal antenna with 6dBi gain and an RF amplifier for enhanced coverage. |
| Impressive Range | Boasts exceptional internal antenna with 6dBi gain and RF amplifier for enhanced coverage. |
| Bandwidth Efficiency | 4×4 radio architecture promises 4800Mbps, though hardware limits utilization to 2400Mbps. |
| Power Adaptability | Lacks a power adapter, impacting out-of-box experience without a PoE switch. |
The NWA220AX-6E excels with its user-friendly setup, robust connectivity options, and remarkable range. However, users should be aware of its bandwidth limitations and the absence of an included power adapter.
ZYXEL NWA220AX-6E: AVAILABILITY
Priced at $150 on Amazon, the Zyxel NWA220AX-6E includes Nebula cloud access for remote WiFi network monitoring.
ZYXEL NWA220AX-6E: DESIGN
The compact NWA220AX offers versatile placement options, horizontally on a ceiling or vertically on a wall. Weighing 650g, the passively cooled design measures 180 x 180 x 42 mm, drawing a max of 21W over PoE.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU | Dual-core Qualcomm IPQ5018 CPU |
| RAM | 1GB |
| Storage | 512MB NAND |
| Radios | Dual 4×4 for 5GHz and 6GHz. One 2×2 for 2.4GHz |
| Wireless Throughput | Theoretical 4800Mbps, practical 2400Mbps |
| Ports | 2.5Gb Ethernet with PoE. 1Gb Ethernet |
| Weight | 650g |
| Dimensions | 180 mm x 180 mm x 42 mm |
| Power Consumption | 21W under full load |
Featuring a single multicolored LED on the front, the NWA220AX offers visual cues for Internet accessibility and WiFi connections. With three back sockets, it supports LAN infrastructure, PoE, and 12V DC power.
ZYXEL NWA220AX-6E: IN USE
Installation involves connecting to a PoE switch with at least 1 Gb Ethernet. Optimal performance is achieved with a 2.5Gb connection, though lower-quality cables may throttle speed to 100Mbps. Configuration via the mobile app or Nebula webpage, registration involves scanning a QR code.
Configuring through Zyxel’s cloud portal offers additional features. Performance tests using a Samsung S23 Ultra smartphone with WiFi 6E achieved a maximum throughput of 1.15Gb/s at one meter, dropping to 200Mb/s at 10m.
ZYXEL NWA220AX-6E: THE COMPETITION
For small businesses or remote work setups, the NWA220AX-6E with its 5400Mb/s bandwidth is cost-effective. Its low power usage, approximately $42 annually, outshines pricier competitors. Zyxel’s strong antenna and support make it a standout WiFi 6E choice.
The closest contender, Ubiquity U6 Enterprise at $279, offers minimal improvement despite a higher-priced, higher-power radio. However, the NWA220AX-6E compensates with exceptional radio sensitivity.
Comparison:
| Feature | NWA220AX-6E | Ubiquity U6 Enterprise |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth | 4800Mbps | 4800Mbps |
| Max Power Consumption | 21W | 22W |
| Antenna Gain | 6dBi | 6dBi |
| Number of Ports | 2.5Gbps PoE. 1 Gbps | 2.5Gbps PoE |
| CPU | Dual-Core 1GHz | Dual-Core 1GHz |
| Memory | 1GB/512MB | 1GB/512MB |
| Price | $149 | $279 |
ZYXEL NWA220AX-6E: FINAL VERDICT
While boasting a 4800Mbps throughput, the NWA220AX-6E tends to achieve around 1.2Gbps, limiting its full potential. It can’t simultaneously operate on both 5GHz and 6GHz channels, impacting its use in the new 6GHz bandwidth. However, it seamlessly integrates with Zyxel’s Nebula cloud ecosystem and is accessible via the mobile app. Priced under $200, it’s a worthy upgrade for existing networks.
Consider Buying if:
You need an affordable, high-speed WiFi access point with cloud access.
Consider Avoiding if:
Your network includes a mix of WiFi 6 and 6E devices, as the NWA220AX-6E supports only one type at a time.