Linksys EA7300 Max-Stream AC1750 Wi-Fi Router: features and who it suits

The Linksys EA7300 Max-Stream is a dual-band Wi-Fi router rated AC1750. It connects to your existing modem and shares the internet with phones, laptops, TVs and game consoles across a home. Here is what the numbers mean and how to judge whether it fits your home.

What AC1750 means

"AC1750" is a combined figure. Linksys lists speeds of up to 450 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 1,300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, which together make roughly 1.7 Gbps. These are theoretical maximums for the two bands added together. No single device gets the full total, and real speeds depend on your internet plan, distance, walls and the device's own Wi-Fi hardware.

Two bands, two jobs

The 2.4 GHz band typically reaches farther and passes through walls better, but it is slower and often more crowded. The 5 GHz band is typically faster at closer range. A dual-band router lets you put nearby, demanding devices such as streaming boxes and gaming PCs on 5 GHz and leave smart-home gadgets and distant devices on 2.4 GHz.

MU-MIMO and multiple devices

Linksys highlights MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output). In general, older routers talk to one device at a time and switch quickly between them; MU-MIMO lets a compatible router send data to several compatible devices at once. The benefit depends on your devices also supporting it. Linksys says the router handles 10-plus wireless devices and suits 4K streaming and gaming without buffering.

Coverage and wired ports

The listed coverage is up to 1,500 square feet. Actual range varies with layout and building materials, so a larger or multi-storey home may need a range extender. Linksys mentions Seamless Roaming when the router is paired with a Max-Stream range extender, so devices can move to the strongest signal as you walk through the house. The router has Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices; the listing doesn't give the port count, so check the specifications for how many you get.

Setup and the app

The router works with your existing modem and is set up through the Linksys app, with browser-based settings available on current versions of Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox and Chrome. Linksys says the Smart Wi-Fi app lets you manage the home network from anywhere. It is rated 18 months of warranty and dedicated tech support, and the manual includes troubleshooting steps.

Size and weight

The router measures about 10.1 x 2.2 x 7.2 inches and weighs around 2.5 lb, so it fits on a shelf or desk.

Who it suits

It suits a small to mid-size home or apartment with several connected devices, a household that streams and games at the same time, and anyone who wants simple app-based setup. Very large homes or those wanting the newest Wi-Fi standards may want to look at other options.

What to check before you buy

• Your internet plan: make sure the router's speeds are not the limit for your connection.
• Modem: the router needs a separate modem, so confirm you have one.
• Home size and layout: compare 1,500 square feet with your space, and plan for an extender if needed.
• Devices: check which of your devices support 5 GHz and MU-MIMO.
• Wired needs: count the devices you want to connect by cable.

The short version

• A dual-band AC1750 router: up to 450 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 1,300 Mbps on 5 GHz.
• MU-MIMO and Gigabit Ethernet; coverage listed at up to 1,500 square feet.
• Set up through the Linksys app and works with an existing modem.
• An 18-month warranty is listed.

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