TP-Link Deco BE65 Pro Review: The Best Wi-Fi 7 Mesh System?

I don’t prefer using mesh Wi-Fi systems, and even as I’ve tested plenty of models over the last decade – including Netgear’s Orbi 970 series – I generally switch back to a standalone router after the testing period. But a move to a larger house last year forced me to reconsider mesh systems, as my existing router couldn’t provide complete coverage. After evaluating several options, I finally found a mesh Wi-Fi 7 router I actually *like*: the TP-Link Deco BE65 Pro.

My biggest frustration with most mesh routers has always been limited port selection and a lack of configurability. I rely on a custom DNS solution and need at least two Ethernet ports in addition to the WAN port. The Deco BE65 Pro addresses both of these concerns, and at a price point that’s considerably more approachable than some of the higher-end options currently available. The two-pack configuration, which includes a router and a satellite, currently sells for around $299, while a three-pack is available for $399. Best Buy is one retailer carrying the system.

Wi-Fi 7 and the Deco BE65 Pro’s Capabilities

The Deco BE65 Pro, also marketed as the Deco 7 Pro BE11000, is a tri-band Wi-Fi 7 mesh system. Wi-Fi 7, the latest generation of wireless networking, promises significant improvements in speed, latency, and reliability compared to Wi-Fi 6 and 6E. Recent reviews highlight the potential of Wi-Fi 7, but widespread adoption is still in its early stages. The BE65 Pro supports the 320MHz channel width and 4096-QAM modulation that define the Wi-Fi 7 standard, translating to theoretical maximum speeds of 11,000 Mbps (or 11 Gbps) across all bands.

In practical terms, this means faster downloads, smoother streaming, and a more responsive experience for bandwidth-intensive applications like online gaming and virtual reality. The system offers 6GHz (5765 Mbps), 5GHz (4324 Mbps), and 2.4GHz channels. Each node features three 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, a welcome addition compared to many mesh systems that offer only one multi-Gigabit port. A USB-A port on each node allows for connecting external storage for network-attached storage (NAS) functionality.

Design and Setup

TP-Link has done a good job with the BE65 Pro’s design. The units are relatively compact and blend in well with most home décor. They’re significantly smaller than some of the bulkier mesh nodes on the market. Setup is straightforward using the Deco app, which provides a modern and intuitive interface. The app guides you through the process step-by-step, and I found it simple to configure the network to my specific needs.

Crucially, the Deco app allows for extensive customization. I was able to easily set up a static IP address and configure my preferred private DNS server – a feature that’s often missing or difficult to implement on other mesh systems. The app also includes robust parental controls and an optional “HomeShield Pro” security subscription that provides intrusion prevention and IoT device monitoring. I didn’t find the paid subscription necessary for my needs, but it’s an option for users who want additional security features.

Performance and Multi-Link Operation

Over the past six months, the Deco BE65 Pro has performed admirably in my home network. Coverage is excellent, providing a stable and reliable connection throughout the house. The system supports Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which combines all three available bands into a single SSID to maximize bandwidth and coverage. To take full advantage of MLO, you’ll need a Wi-Fi 7 client device, but many newer smartphones, including the Vivo X300 Pro and Oppo Find X9 Pro, support the standard. I experienced noticeable improvements in speed and stability when using MLO-compatible devices.

I tested the system with a variety of devices, including laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, and IoT devices, and didn’t encounter any connectivity issues. The 2.5GbE Ethernet ports provided ample bandwidth for wired connections, and the USB-A ports worked seamlessly for accessing files on an external hard drive.

What Comes Next for Wi-Fi 7 and Mesh Networking

The Deco BE65 Pro represents a significant step forward in mesh Wi-Fi technology. As Wi-Fi 7 adoption continues to grow, we can expect to see even more devices and routers that support the standard. The ongoing development of Wi-Fi 7 will likely focus on optimizing MLO performance, improving power efficiency, and enhancing security features. Further firmware updates for the Deco BE65 Pro could potentially introduce new features and performance improvements. The Wi-Fi Alliance is continually refining the Wi-Fi 7 standard, and future certifications will ensure interoperability between devices from different manufacturers. The long-term success of Wi-Fi 7 will depend on the availability of affordable Wi-Fi 7 client devices and the continued innovation in mesh networking technology.

For now, the TP-Link Deco BE65 Pro strikes an excellent balance between performance, features, and price. It’s a compelling option for users who want to upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 without breaking the bank, and it’s the first mesh system I’ve tested that I’m happy to use as my primary home network solution.