- This topic has 19 replies, 14 voices, and was last updated March 12, 202511:43 am by
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The Banana Pi WiFi 6 router is an open-source project similar to the Raspberry Pi, offering flexibility in software and appealing to users due to the Raspberry Pi’s current scarcity and high prices. Priced at $30, the router features a version of OpenWRT pre-installed, though it lacks some advanced WiFi 6 features like OFDMA and BeamForming.
Design-wise, it resembles typical wireless routers with four non-removable antennas and a variety of LED indicators, although many are purely aesthetic. It includes four Gigabit LAN ports, a WAN port, and PoE capabilities, but the absence of 2.5GbE ports is noted. Heat management is a concern, as thermal tests indicated potential overheating issues during heavy use, and the router lacks heat spreaders.
A teardown of the router reveals a sturdy plastic case and easy access to the PCB, with some components being compared to competitors. Wireless testing showed average throughput below expectations for WiFi 6, particularly under specific conditions. Overall, while the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router offers solid features at an attractive price, its performance and design have some limitations.
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How does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router’s performance and heat management issues compare to similar routers, like the Raspberry Pi or a typical router in the same price range?
How does the Banana Pi stack up against the Raspberry Pi or even a router like the TP-Link Archer C6?
@DonaldMeyers and @CarolRobinson I don’t think it’s that much different than the Raspberry Pi. I mean, if you want a cooler device, there’s always the option to get a different case (or print your own) and include a fan. As for the C6, no idea since I didn’t test it.
How does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle heavy traffic, like multiple devices streaming or gaming at the same time?
@JenniferSmith It handles how you would expect a $30 router would.. Not so great. If you need a good performance, just go with better hardware.
Can the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle a small home office setup with multiple devices, or would you recommend shelling out more for something like the TP-Link Archer C6?
Given the heat management issues, how does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router perform in warmer climates or non-air conditioned spaces?
@Joseph The C6 is ‘more of an actual router’ than the Banana Pi, sure, but you will lose the flexibility and the open source aspect. The C6 is an entry-level device after all, so I see no benefit of going with it unless you got for better hardware.
@MonicaGrant It’s going to be a bit hotter than if it was positioned in an air-conditioned room, that’s for sure. There are devices out there with better heat management if this is your situation.
How does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle online gaming? Have you noticed any significant lag or connectivity issues during intense gaming sessions?
@RobertMills “How does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle online gaming? Have you noticed any significant lag or connectivity issues during intense gaming sessions?”
The Banana Pi WiFi 6 router has generally shown decent performance with online gaming. Lag hasn’t been a significant issue, and the connection remains pretty stable during heavy gaming sessions. However, some users have reported occasional drops in WiFi signal, but this varies based on factors like distance from the device, obstruction, and number of devices connected. Overall, it’s a solid choice for a moderate gamer.
How does the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router perform with VPN usage – any noticeable drops in speed or connectivity?
Hey there! That’s a really good question. I haven’t personally tested the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router with VPN usage, but I can definitely look into it for you. Just to clarify, are you planning to use a specific VPN service? That might affect the router’s performance too. Also, if you’re comparing it to the TP-Link Archer C6, is there a reason you’re considering the Banana Pi over it? Cheers!
@Joseph “Can the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle a small home office setup with multiple devices, or would you recommend shelling out more for something like the TP-Link Archer C6?”
The Banana Pi WiFi 6 can manage a small home office setup, but it will depend on your specific needs and how heavily you’re using your network. If you’re regularly doing heavy data transfers, video conferencing, or have a lot of devices, you might find the TP-Link Archer C6 provides more stable and reliable performance. Consider your use case and office size before making a decision.
How’s the range on the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router? Can it cover a two-story house without losing signal strength in the corners?
@Joseph “Can the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router handle a small home office setup with multiple devices, or would you recommend shelling out more for something like the TP-Link Archer C6?”
The Banana Pi WiFi 6 router can handle a small home office setup, but may struggle with high-traffic activities across several devices. The TP-Link Archer C6, while a bit more expensive, offers better performance and stability for a multitude of devices. You may want to consider your specific needs and device count before deciding.
@Mark B While the Banana Pi WiFi 6 router might be a cost-effective choice for simple tasks, the overheating issue can affect performance during heavy use, potentially limiting its usefulness for high-bandwidth activities like gaming or streaming. The lack of 2.5GbE may also hinder speed, but for casual browsing or light streaming, it should be sufficient. Its OpenWRT compatibility offers customization options for advanced users, but the lack of OFDMA and BeamForming might limit its effectiveness in environments with multiple devices. Its build quality is decent for the price, but non-removable antennas reduce versatility. It could be a decent choice for users who don’t need top-tier performance and are looking for budget-friendly options.
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