TP-Link Deco X50-5G: 5G mesh router with Wi-Fi 6 for internet without a landline

Not everywhere has a fast DSL or fibre connection. That's why the Deco X50-5G relies on mobile broadband: you insert a nano-SIM, and the router gets its internet connection via 5G or 4G. That's useful for holiday flats, as a stopgap after moving house, or as a replacement when the local line is too slow.

Inside your home, the Deco distributes the signal via Wi-Fi 6 in the AX3000 class. Because it's part of the Deco family, you can add more Deco units to build a mesh network that covers larger areas. For wired devices, there's a 2.5 Gigabit port and two Gigabit ports, which automatically configure themselves as WAN or LAN. That means the router can also run on a fixed-line connection if needed.

Inside, there are four mobile and two Wi-Fi antennas. If reception is weak, you can connect external antennas via two sockets. HomeShield provides protection features such as blocking malicious websites, and WPA3 is supported too.

Worth knowing: how fast your internet will be depends heavily on mobile reception at your location and on your plan. Check your provider's network coverage beforehand. The basic HomeShield package is included, while the Pro tier requires a subscription.