TP-Link Archer BE9700 review: a powerful Wi-Fi 7 router at half the price
The TP-Link Archer BE9700 marks a significant shift in the home networking space. As Wi-Fi 7 routers begin to emerge with staggering speed claims and future-ready capabilities, most models come with price tags north of $500. That’s where TP-Link disrupts the equation. The Archer BE9700 delivers Wi-Fi 7 performance, tri-band flexibility, and robust smart home support — all at a price point far below its competitors. This review breaks down what sets the BE9700 apart, whether it’s worth upgrading from your current router, and how it stands up to real-world use in bandwidth-hungry households.
Wi-Fi 7 at a disruptive price point
Most Wi-Fi 7 routers currently land in the $500–$700 range, pricing out many everyday users. TP-Link’s Archer BE9700 challenges that standard with an MSRP closer to $300, setting a new benchmark for value in the networking market. With support for the latest 802.11be standard, the BE9700 delivers theoretical speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps — matching or exceeding rivals that cost nearly twice as much.
This affordability unlocks next-gen wireless capabilities for a broader range of users, including gamers, content streamers, and smart home enthusiasts. Whether you’re upgrading from Wi-Fi 5 or replacing an aging Wi-Fi 6 router, the BE9700 hits a compelling midpoint between cost-efficiency and performance.
Tri-band architecture for optimized traffic flow
Unlike standard dual-band routers, the Archer BE9700 operates on three bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and an additional 6GHz band enabled by Wi-Fi 7. This tri-band system improves bandwidth allocation, helping your network manage multiple activities simultaneously with minimal interference or congestion.
- 2.4GHz: Ideal for smart devices and long-range coverage.
- 5GHz: Handles video streaming, gaming consoles, and high-traffic applications.
- 6GHz: Provides ultra-fast speeds for newer devices that support Wi-Fi 7, perfect for future-proof setups.
The dynamic frequency selection and better channel efficiency of Wi-Fi 7 further reduce latency and increase reliability — especially important for high-stakes online gaming or 4K/8K streaming environments.
Designed to handle smart home saturation
Modern smart homes can host dozens of connected devices — from smart locks and thermostats to streaming TVs and voice assistants. The Archer BE9700 supports Multi-Link Operation (MLO), enabling devices to use multiple bands simultaneously, optimizing stability and throughput across the network.
With TP-Link’s HomeShield suite, users can also manage security features, parental controls, and device-level prioritization. This makes it easier to ensure that essential apps — such as work calls or gaming — never get throttled by background device chatter. For households leaning heavily on smart tech infrastructure, the router’s robust processing and tri-band logic ensure consistent performance with minimal user input needed.
Performance metrics vs. market leaders
Below is a comparison of the Archer BE9700 against other top-performing Wi-Fi 7 routers in terms of pricing and key capabilities:
| Router | Wi-Fi Standard | Bands | Max Throughput | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Archer BE9700 | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Tri-Band | 9.6 Gbps | $299 |
| Netgear Nighthawk RS700 | Wi-Fi 7 | Tri-Band | 10.8 Gbps | $699 |
| Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 | Wi-Fi 7 | Quad-Band | 25 Gbps | $799 |
| TP-Link Deco BE85 (2-pack) | Wi-Fi 7 Mesh | Tri-Band | 10 Gbps | $999 |
While high-end models eke out more theoretical speed, the BE9700’s price-to-performance ratio is unmatched, especially for individual home users who don’t need full mesh systems or quad-band setups.
Final thoughts
The TP-Link Archer BE9700 arrives at a pivotal moment when Wi-Fi 7 adoption is gaining traction but prices are still limiting access. By combining tri-band architecture, competitive throughput, and smart-focused feature sets at a fraction of the cost of other flagship routers, TP-Link makes next-gen wireless truly accessible. While enthusiasts chasing absolute top-end specs may still gravitate toward pricier models, the BE9700 is an ideal choice for users who demand premium performance without overpaying. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or filling your home with connected devices, the Archer BE9700 is a powerful, budget-conscious pick in the new era of home networking.
Image by: Pascal
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