Linksys EA9500 AC5400 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 5 Router: features and specs explained

The Linksys EA9500 is a tri-band Wi-Fi 5 router rated at AC5400. It is aimed at homes with many connected devices, from phones and laptops to streaming boxes and consoles. It works with an existing modem and is set up through the Linksys app.

What AC5400 and "tri-band" mean

AC5400 is a combined figure, adding the top speeds of all three radios. Linksys lists them as one 5 GHz band at up to 1,000 Mbps, a second 5 GHz band at up to 2,166 Mbps, and a 2.4 GHz band at up to 2,166 Mbps (the brand also states the total as 5.3 Gbps). No single device gets the combined number. Each device connects to one band at a time, so real speeds are lower and depend on the device, distance and walls.

The point of three bands is capacity. Devices can be spread across the radios, which typically keeps one busy band from slowing everything else. The 2.4 GHz band reaches farther through walls, while 5 GHz is typically faster at shorter range.

MU-MIMO

The router supports MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output). Linksys says it provides Wi-Fi to several devices at once at the same high speed, instead of serving them one after another. The benefit usually requires client devices that support MU-MIMO too.

Coverage and device count

Linksys says the router covers up to 3,000 square feet (about 280 square metres) and supports 25 or more wireless devices. Coverage claims are typically best-case; building materials and layout make a big difference.

Streaming and gaming

Linksys says the router lets you enjoy 4K HD streaming and gaming without buffering. In general, a stable connection and enough capacity for simultaneous users matter more for this than headline speed.

Setup

The router connects to your existing modem and is configured through the Linksys app. The listing also gives a USB connector type, and the manual includes troubleshooting steps.

Size and placement

It measures 14.3 x 5.4 x 11.7 inches (about 36 x 14 x 30 cm) and weighs 3.2 lb (about 1.5 kg), with the antennas making it larger than many modern routers. A central, raised, open position typically gives the best coverage.

Who it suits

It suits a busy household or small home office with many Wi-Fi 5 devices. Wi-Fi 5 is an older standard than Wi-Fi 6 and 7, so newer devices will connect but won't use the newer features.

What to check before you buy

• Standard: this is Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac); check that it meets your plans for newer devices.
• Home size and layout: large or multi-storey homes may need more than one access point.
• Internet plan: a router can't exceed the speed of your service.
• Modem: confirm you have a separate modem for it to connect to.
• Space: allow room for the antennas and airflow.

The short version

• A tri-band Wi-Fi 5 router rated at AC5400.
• Radios of 1,000, 2,166 and 2,166 Mbps; the combined figure isn't available to one device.
• MU-MIMO support and coverage of up to 3,000 sq ft.
• Works with an existing modem and is set up through the Linksys app.

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