The manufacturer TP-Link has always stood for network solutions, among other things, and has built up an extensive range for different applications and budgets over the years. With the TP-Link Deco X1500, another mesh system has been added to this range, which should be of particular interest to the average consumer without any special requirements. The X1500 promises reliable dual-band Wi-Fi according to the WiFi 6 standard (802.11ax), simple setup via app and an area coverage of up to 520 m² when using the 3-pack. This should therefore be feasible for most households – especially with speeds of up to 1,500 Mbit/s, spread over two frequency bands.
In today’s test, we put the TP-Link Deco X1500 to the test as a mesh system and above all want to clarify whether the 3-pack can fully cover a multi-storey household.
Technical data
| Model | Deco X1500 |
| WiFi Standard | – WiFi 6 – 5 GHz: IEEE 802.11ax/ac/n/a – 2.4 GHz: IEEE 802.11n/b/g |
| WiFi range | – up to 520 m² |
| WiFi speed | – AX1500 – 5 GHz: 1201 Mbps (802.11ax) – 2.4 GHz: 300 Mbps (802.11n) |
| WiFi capacity | – Dual band – 2×2 MU-MIMO – OFDMA – 4 streams – Up to 120 devices simultaneously |
| WiFi encryption | – WPA-Personal – WPA2-Personal – WPA3-Personal |
| Working modes | – router – Access Point |
| Security modes | – SPI Firewall – Access control – 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz guest network |
| LAN ports | 2× Gigabit ports |
| Smart home compatibility | Google Home, Amazon Alexa |
| Price per unit | Single device: € 59.90 *, Bundle of 2: € 87.99 *, Bundle of 3: € 109.90 * |
Scope of delivery
- Set contains three Deco units including power supply units
- … and an RJ45 Ethernet cable
- Information material is also included in the box
If you unpack the entire set and spread it out next to each other, the following individual parts are revealed. In addition to the three X1500 decoders mentioned above, there are a total of three power supply units and an RJ45 Ethernet cable. The latter is relevant for connecting at least one Deco via LAN. The scope of delivery is supplemented by the usual paper supplement, which contains the quick start guide and an overview of the device features.
Design and workmanship
- Slim, cylindrical design with a matt finish
- Good workmanship with ventilation slots for heat dissipation
- Smaller power supply unit than the larger Deco models
In terms of design, the TP-Link Deco X1500 are somewhat chunkier than the Deco BE25 (our test), as their construction significantly emphasizes their height. Nevertheless, the X1500 also fits into the pattern of simple and unobtrusive design. In this respect, these Decos can be described more as cylindrical with a matt white surface. An eye-catcher is the top, whose plastic surface is slightly concave and slopes gently towards the center. In short, it can be said that the Deco X1500 fits well into modern living and office environments. In addition, there are no LEDs or buttons on the top, giving it the minimalist look you would expect from a discreet technology device.
In terms of build quality, we are already at a high level – as with the more expensive BE25 model. Nothing rattles or clatters, and the Deco also makes a solid impression to the touch. The many small, circular slots on the underside also ensure optimum air circulation. In summary, we can say that you can confidently expect a long service life with these Decos, even if the WiFi 6 standard may now be somewhat outdated. We will check at a later date to what extent this is noticeable in practice or whether it is ultimately just a difference in numbers.
All ports are located on the back of the Deco X1500. There are two Gigabit ports and the input for the power cable. Unlike the BE25, this model does not have a WPS switch. Otherwise, there is a reset button on the underside and a small LED light that indicates the current system status. During the start-up phase, it lights up in yellow, while a blue light flashes during the set-up process. As soon as a connection to the Internet is established, the LED lights up blue continuously. If the Internet connection is stable, the LED lights up green, whereas if there are any problems, it is permanently red. This means you can always see what stage the Deco X1500 is at. It should also be emphasized that the power supply unit of the X1500 is a good deal smaller than that of the other models, including the BE25, BE65 and XE75.
Setup
- Easy setup thanks to the Deco app
- Process visually highlighted with images
- A TP-Link account is required for use
As with the TP-Link Deco XE75 (our test), set-up is quite simple and intuitive. The manufacturer provides the Deco app for Android and iOS for this purpose. Step-by-step instructions, including short, clear videos and illustrations, guide you through the entire setup process. However, you must first either log in with your TP-Link ID or create a corresponding account. Please note that setup is only possible with a corresponding account.
After logging in, you can either create a new network or add a Deco via the menu bar. Otherwise, the setup wizard starts by default during the initial setup. As a rule, the first Deco X1500 is first connected to the existing modem or Internet socket via LAN cable, followed by plugging in the enclosed power supply unit. The network is then automatically detected within the app. If desired, you can also scan the QR code on the underside of the device. To rule out any network problems from the outset, the modem should now be restarted once. The next step is to assign the Deco to a room and give it a Wi-Fi name and password. Once the configuration is complete, the smartphone connects directly to the new mesh network. At this point, the mesh system is fully set up.
Additional Decos can be easily added at a later date using the plus symbol in the app – regardless of the specific model. Once positioned and plugged into the socket, the new Deco automatically connects to the account or the existing Mesh system.
Deco app
- Serves as a setup and management app
- Easy to use with modern UI
- Good, but limited configuration options
The Deco app, which serves as the system’s central control unit, is usually used for configuration. Thanks to its modern, tidy design, it is suitable for both tech-savvy and less experienced users. The “Network” section, for example, provides a clear display of the connected Deco units, including a network overview and all connected devices. There is also an integrated speed test and the option to conveniently adjust the Wi-Fi settings.
Further settings can be made via the “Security” tab, such as starting security scans or searching for IP or MAC addresses. The parental controls can be used to monitor or restrict children’s online activities. Unlike the Deco models BE65 (our test) and XE75 (our test), this function on the Deco X1500 is limited to the home network. It is therefore not possible to use it while on the move.
Numerous extra functions are available under the “More” menu item, including setting up a guest network, viewing monthly reports and temporarily activating WPS for a specific Deco unit. Admittedly, the “Advanced” entry is only partially self-explanatory. This selection hides various configuration options, including the choice between router and access point mode. Beamforming and ODFMA/MU-MIMO are also available here. It is therefore advisable to take a look at this menu item first when setting up for the first time.
Practical test
- Solid Wi-Fi coverage on several floors
- Weaknesses with thick walls and in the basement
- Gigabit connection not fully usable
The test environment
For our practical test, we use the TP-Link Deco X1500 set of three to test the coverage and data throughput in a building with a living area of around 300 m² or a total area including outdoor area of around 500 m². Due to the position of the Internet entrance or modem under the roof, the “main Deco” is placed in the living room (2nd floor). Another Deco unit will be stationed in the office (1st floor), while the third unit will be located in the kitchen (ground floor). The basement, on the other hand, will not have its own Deco unit. As this is an old building, there are several smaller rooms. A direct comparison with a modern house with fewer rooms is therefore likely to be difficult.
During installation, it is only necessary to ensure that the Deco units are spatially separated from each other to guarantee ideal coverage. Ideally, the devices should also be positioned freely in the room and not directly in front of the window. This prevents the radio waves from “fizzling out” outside or weakening the signal.
Is the network coverage sufficient?
The TP-Link Deco X1500 set performs solidly in the everyday test to cover a house, albeit with minor limitations. The placement over several floors ensures good reception and stable data rates. In a direct comparison with the TP-Link Deco XE75, the X1500’s performance drops depending on the spatial conditions or distance. This is logically explainable: thanks to the stronger antenna, the Deco XE75 set achieves additional coverage of a good 150 m² based on the data sheet.
Nevertheless, the Deco X1500 set establishes a reliable connection on all floors of the house – completely independent of a direct line of sight. This meant that the WLAN could be used from the first floor to the second floor without any problems. In the basement, however, there was only a very weak signal or none at all. In outdoor areas and in the garden, the connection varied between sufficient and good, depending on the location. When using the pool robots, however, there were occasional disconnections.
The bottom line is that the Deco X1500 in a pack of three can easily cover small to medium-sized living spaces. However, it reaches its limits with more complex floor plans, much thicker walls and greater distances.
What speeds are achieved?
We tested the Deco X1500 in an apartment with Gigabit Internet in order to be able to assess its performance more realistically. Although the apartment is generously proportioned and has some angled areas, the mesh system achieved solid results there. These conditions therefore form the basis for our speed test of the TP-Link Deco X1500.
Close to the router, we achieved measurable speeds of up to 750 Mbps, which is slightly below the level of the Deco XE75. In comparison, the bandwidth in adjacent rooms was somewhat more differentiated, i.e. between 550 and 700 Mbps. Behind a thicker wall with a steel door, however, there was a greater drop in performance than with the XE75: instead of the 220 Mbit/s achieved, only 80 Mbit/s were achieved here.
The TP-Link Deco X1500 is therefore well equipped for classic everyday use and should be able to meet the requirements in Germany anywhere up to Gigabit. One drawback, however, is that the Deco X1500 has neither a 6 GHz band nor its own backhaul. This means that clients and mesh connections have to share the 2.4 and 5 GHz network.
TP-Link Deco X1500 test: Conclusion
The TP-Link Deco X1500 set of three proved to be a simple and solid mesh system in the test, which covers the WLAN requirements of most households well. With a range of up to 520 m², this Deco is still slightly below the manufacturer’s own models, but still offers good network stability and range for homes without complex layouts. The X1500 relies on the still common WiFi 6 standard, which benefits better data throughput and more efficient channel usage. One drawback is the lack of support for the 6 GHz band, which means that the mesh system cannot communicate over it either as a backhaul or for the clients. Less experienced users, whose focus is more on basic coverage, are likely to be less concerned about this.
The X1500 or X50 should therefore be a good option for those who want to stick with the still common WiFi 6 standard. However, if you don’t want to do without WiFi 6E and the 6 GHz frequency band, the Deco XE75 is the right choice. To use the latest WiFi 7 standard, the Deco BE25 with 2.5 Gbps ports is a good option, although unfortunately without tri-band mode, i.e. without the 6 GHz band. If you are looking for one of the most powerful models with a full range of functions and have the necessary pocket money, you will find it with the Deco BE65.
In short: The TP-Link Deco X1500 proves to be an efficient choice in the entry-level segment and can cover most households without having to move into higher price regions. In terms of price-performance, the mesh system remains competitive as long as you know its limits.
- Affordable entry into the mesh world
- WiFi 6 support
- Device-compatible and established
- Two gigabit ports
- Simple setup via app
- Dual-band only (2.4 & 5 GHz)
- No USB port for additional functions
- Limited configuration options
TP-Link Deco X1500
Design and processing
Ease of use
Performance
Equipment
Price-performance ratio
89/100
With the TP-Link Deco X1500, you get an affordable entry into the mesh world and benefit from good coverage throughout the entire household. However, you have to do without certain functions and the 6 GHz band.
