In the constantly evolving world of wireless networking, Wi-Fi 7 is on the horizon to be released with significant advancements.
Though Wi-Fi 6E is already changing how we connect, it is good that we compare its features with the upcoming networking standard.
Here, we bring a comparison of Wi-Fi 7 vs. Wi-Fi 6E to explore their technical aspects and capabilities.
Wi-Fi 6E vs Wi-Fi 7: Specifications
Before moving on to specific features of each Wi-Fi, let’s take a look at the table to get an overview of the specifications.
Specifications | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 |
Launch Date | 2021 | 2024 (expected) |
IEEE Standard | 802.11ax | 802.11be |
Frequency Bands | 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz
(Devices must be 6 GHz-enabled) |
2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz
(Devices must be 6 GHz-enabled) |
Channel Size | 20, 40, 80, 80+80, 160 MHz | Up to 320 MHz |
Multi-link Operation (MLO) | No | Yes |
Security | WPA3 | WPA3 & 4 |
Compatibility | Backward compatible with Wi-Fi 6 and earlier Wi-Fi standards | Backward compatible with Wi-Fi 6E and earlier Wi-Fi standards |
1. Access Point
Wi-Fi 6E access points deliver connectivity in the 2.4 and 5-GHz bands as well as 6 GHz for compatible devices. The highest Wi-Fi 6E access point can support 8.4-9.6 Gbps.
The new Wi-Fi 7 access point can deliver massive throughput gains, thanks to a wider channel and capacity gains from the 6GHz spectrum. It can deliver peak rates of over 40 Gbps, which is 4 times higher than Wi-Fi 6E.
2. Range
Wi-Fi 6E works best when your device is within 50 feet of the router and there’s a direct and unobstructed view. However, if there are walls, doors, or other obstacles, the range and speed of the Wi-Fi may decrease.
The higher the frequency rate, the lower the Wi-Fi range is. So with 6GHz, the range of Wi-Fi 7 can reach up to 45 feet only.
3. Speed
Those setting up Wi-Fi 6E devices can experience faster speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps, which is twice as fast as Wi-Fi 6.
The upcoming Wi-Fi 7 is 2.4 times quicker with the same kind of Wi-Fi setup. So, if you have a regular phone with Wi-Fi 7, you can reach speeds of up to 10 Gbps internet speed.
Also Read: Mbps vs Gbps: Do You Need Gigabit Internet Speed?
4. Latency
Wi-Fi 6E services offer really fast response times, with a latency as low as 2 milliseconds. This is a big improvement compared to using the 5GHz band, where latency is usually higher, ranging from a few to 100 milliseconds.
The latency of Wi-Fi 7 is not confirmed yet, but many sources have mentioned that it will be below 5 milliseconds.
Wi-Fi 6 vs Wi-Fi 6E
This specification table enhances comprehension, comparing 6 and 6E Wi-Fi technologies that help you understand the differences easily.
Specifications | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
Data Bands | 2.4 and 5 GHz | 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz |
Data Delivery Rate at 15 feet | 1.146 Gbps | 1.788 Gbps |
Mesh Capable | Yes | Yes |
Number of 160-MHz-wide Channels Available | 1 (in 5-GHz band) | 8 (1 in 5-GHz, 7 in 6-GHz bands) |
Wi-Fi 5 vs Wi-Fi 6 vs Wi-Fi 7
Wi-Fi 7 outshines both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 in terms of features, range, speed, and coverage, offering remarkable advancements. If you want an in-depth comparison of these Wi-Fi standards, then you must refer to our blog WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6 vs WiFi 7: Which is Better.
What’s New in the Wi-Fi 7 Standard?
We have listed the new features that are expected in the upcoming Wi-Fi 7.
- Offers higher speed and accommodates more devices
- Adapts better to ensure consistently low latency performance
- Contributes to delivering top-notch video quality and improved cloud gaming
- Support applications like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) that demand both high data speed and minimal delays
- Utilize channels with a width of up to 320 MHz
- Simultaneously link with a Wi-Fi 7 device using two or more channels in different frequency bands
Also Read: How to Get WiFi Without Internet Provider
Should You Upgrade to a Wi-Fi 7 Router?
Yes, Wi-Fi 7 has the potential to enhance your smart home experience with better internet speed, but its benefits will only be realized once you’ve replaced all your devices with a new standard.
Wi-Fi 7 routers can use more power to make the 6-GHz signal stronger and cover a larger area. This is possible because of automated frequency coordination (AFC), which means you will have faster internet and a more reliable connection, and the signal will reach farther distances.
We hope this comparative article on Wi-Fi 7 vs Wi-Fi 6E was helpful.
If you have any doubts or suggestions, please let us know in the comments section. Also, stay tuned to Techcult for more such comparison articles.