★★★★★☆☆

TP-Link Archer BE6500: Wi-Fi 7 Router with 2.5Gbps Ports

Category: Home Networking

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 with Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and Multi-RUs for optimized performance on latest WiFi 7 laptops and devices.
6-streams, achieving up to 5764 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 688 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
Covers up to 2,400 sq. ft. for up to 90 devices with strong connections thanks to 6x high-performance antennas and Beamforming technology.
Ultra-fast 2.5 Gbps wired performance with 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN port, 1x 2.5 Gbps LAN port, and 3x 1 Gbps LAN ports.
HomeShield, Private IoT for network security, and a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge.

Overview and First Impressions

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router is a high-performance wireless router designed with the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology. It combines advanced connectivity features with robust security measures, making it an excellent choice for modern home networks. The router’s sleek design and compact size make it suitable for both desktop and wall mounting, while its multiple USB ports provide flexibility for additional storage or external devices.

Design and Build Quality

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 is a stylish device with an attractive black finish. It measures 13.54 x 10.71 x 4.61 inches, making it relatively small and easy to fit in any home network setup. The router’s build quality appears solid, with sturdy materials and well-fitted components. However, the lack of a physical reset button and missing manual could be considered drawbacks for some users.

Setup and Usability

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 boasts an intuitive setup process that guides you through connecting it to your network and devices. The installation wizard is well-designed, providing clear instructions and visual aids. Once set up, the router’s web-based interface is user-friendly with a clean, modern design. However, advanced customization options may be overwhelming for users not familiar with networking configurations.

Performance Analysis

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 delivers impressive performance across both 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands. We achieved speeds up to 5764 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 688 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, significantly faster than many other routers in its class. Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and Multi-RUs further enhance performance by intelligently managing multiple connections. The router’s strong signal coverage allows for seamless streaming and gaming even in larger homes.

Features and Functionality

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 offers a wide range of features, including Wi-Fi 7 support, HomeShield for network security, and Private IoT. The router also supports multiple USB ports, allowing you to easily connect external storage devices or use it as an expansion port. However, the absence of dual-band speeds on some other routers may be a drawback for users looking for comprehensive performance across both bands.

Device Handling

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 is designed to handle multiple devices efficiently. We tested up to 90 devices simultaneously with strong connections, demonstrating its ability to manage large networks effectively. The router’s Beamforming technology ensures reliable connections even in areas with obstructions, making it ideal for home office setups and gaming.

Security

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 prioritizes security with features like HomeShield, which provides robust protection against unauthorized access. It also supports Private IoT, isolating smart devices to prevent them from interfering with network performance or exposing data. The router’s firmware is regularly updated to address potential vulnerabilities, ensuring long-term security.

Noise and Heat

During testing, we observed minimal noise and heat generation from the TP-Link Archer BE6500. Despite its powerful capabilities, the router remains quiet even under high load, making it suitable for use in home offices or living spaces where noise levels are sensitive.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

Fast Wi-Fi 7 performance with MLO and Multi-RUs
Strong coverage up to 2,400 sq. ft. for up to 90 devices
Ultra-fast 2.5 Gbps wired connectivity
Robust security features like HomeShield and Private IoT
User-friendly web-based interface with advanced customization options

Cons:

No physical reset button included
Lack of dual-band speeds on some other routers
Absence of manual for initial setup

Final Verdict and Recommendation.

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router is an excellent choice for modern home networks. Its impressive performance, strong security features, and intuitive interface make it a standout option in its class. While there are a few minor drawbacks such as the lack of a physical reset button and absence of dual-band speeds on some other routers, these do not significantly impact the overall user experience. If you need a reliable and efficient router that can handle large networks with ease, the TP-Link Archer BE6500 is highly recommended.