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TP-Link: MR6400 vs Archer MR200 - Comparing LTE Routers for Better Performance in Small Towns

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Which LTE router should I choose for a small-town connection: TP-Link MR6400 or MR200, and can I connect a computer to it by Ethernet cable?

If you are choosing only between these two, the MR200 is mainly better because of Wi‑Fi: it has dual-band 2.4/5 GHz AC750, while the MR6400 is only 2.4 GHz 802.11n; LTE performance is the same on both, up to 150 Mb/s [#16769222] Both routers have a LAN (RJ45) port, so you can connect a computer by cable [#16769225] However, several replies say your low speeds are more likely caused by Plus network congestion than by the E5573 modem or the router, and that changing the router will not solve a badly loaded BTS [#16769352][#16770071] If you want to buy new equipment anyway, the thread recommends skipping these TP-Links and looking at LTE-A cat. 6 routers with gigabit ports and AC Wi‑Fi, such as the B525 class, in the 400–500 PLN range [#16769352][#16770071] One reply also notes that the E5573 itself is not necessarily broken and that the swollen battery should simply be replaced [#16769258]
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  • #1 16769194
    Anonymous
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  • #2 16769222
    honoratka
    Level 14  
    Posts: 197
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    Apart from the hardware differences (other cpu), routers mainly distinguish WiFi.
    The MR6400 model works in the N standard on the 2.4 GHz frequency, while the MR200 works in the AC750 standard and is dual-band 2.4 and 5 GHz. Both routers reach max. 150 Mb / s in LTE range.
    Personally, I think that small home networks N is sufficient, but you have to answer the question yourself which will be more suitable for you.
  • #3 16769225
    DejoDejo
    Level 21  
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    E5573 at a distance of 1km should receive very well, so the question arises whether the antenna you are talking about is definitely Plus / Polsat?

    If you want to connect a computer with a cable, you need a router with a LAN (RJ45) port, so both of your routers meet these requirements, but I suggest you check the range on E5573 first - go into configuration / status and check the signal.

    Contrary to appearances, Huawei E5573 is not bad at all, all the more for 1km ;)
  • #4 16769236
    matek451
    Level 43  
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    And what are your LTE signal parameters and Plus speed at peak times? What is the city / expenditure of PLN 400-500 for these TP Links not sensible? A router of LTE-A category 6 with Gigabit and WiFi ports in AC is bought for this amount. Do you have a subscription with Plus? Plus E5573 works with http://www.lte-anbieter.info/ltewatch/count_huawei.php?Datei=ltewatch_h. After logging in to E5573 it shows the LTE and CID BTS signal parameters. Allows you to force a specific LTE band on the E5573. Plus uses LTE1800Aero2, LTE800Sferii and its own LTE2600. What's wrong with E5573?
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  • #5 16769250
    Anonymous
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  • #6 16769258
    DejoDejo
    Level 21  
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    3/5 LTE lines?

    As for the device ... it is not the router that is damaged, but the battery -> replace the battery ;)
  • #7 16769260
    Anonymous
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  • #8 16769266
    DejoDejo
    Level 21  
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    If your card can change to 3G then do so and check the effect. Replace the batteries anyway - the router is a bit worth it, and nobody will take it with a "bomb" inside.
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  • #9 16769269
    Anonymous
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  • #10 16769352
    matek451
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    As for the replacement of equipment is agreed, the MiFi mobile router for 24/7 continuous operation is a mistake. But this is not your main problem but Plus. Transfers at this level practically exclude it. LTE1800Aero2 and LTE800Sferii operate on BTS Grunwaldzka 48. DL speeds indicate that it is massacred clogged. Check if http://www.mediafire.com/file/1yz26m6u8gfl16n/E5186+Toolbox_latest+v0.9.zip works with this E5573. There is nothing to use on 3G because it's Plus and so there are strict limits. The optimal advice is to change operators.
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    Anonymous
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  • #12 16770071
    matek451
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    You extended without equipment, under what conditions? In Plus, after giving notice, you can have DUK for 25 PLN 60GB + LTE without limit (contract for 18 months). With equipment, e.g. 40GB for PLN 25 + B315 for PLN 3 (property contract 26 months), 70GB + B315 for PLN 3, cost PLN 35 / month. All without SmartDom. But at such speeds, the extension of the contract is suicide, in addition a 2-year perspective with such internet. No chance for improvement is a Plus. LTE coverage for other operators, LTE1800NetWorks for T-Mobile and Orange. In T-Mobile for 45/55 PLN offer without limit and for 1 PLN router B525 with LTE-A worth 400-500 PLN. In Play, coverage of St. Mikołaja 1, on it LTE1800, LTE2100, LTE800 and possibly LTE2600, of course, their aggregation. Another in July on LTE1800, LTE2100 and LTE800. At Play without a subscription you can still have the Free LTE Internet service without limit for 5/15 PLN per month. You need to check Orange, T-Mobile and Play.
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  • #13 16770173
    Anonymous
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  • #14 16770433
    matek451
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    And what does this extension's regulations look like? In Plus there is a provision for FUP and according to him, i.e. I see the operator, data limits are set at which LTE internet slows down and to what values. There is no LTE internet in Plus with no data limit and speed limit9 (funnels). The price of 60 PLN is a mockery for the customer. And the contract is always pronounced before the expiry of the period for which it was concluded. After termination, DUK contacts you and you get a 50% discount and equipment immediately. How can you be satisfied with Plus's Internet operating at such speeds? The same in BDI Aero2 is for free and not for 60 PLN. Why do you need "unlimited LTE" at such speeds? Equipment weak E5573, such MiFi you buy for 80-100 PLN and you pay them for renting 10 PLN / month and so. Why buy anything to Plus? Any investment is a waste of time and In two years the equipment will be newer, operators offer LTE-A equipment for sensible cash. I gave the B315 as an example from Plus and for PLN 3 in the DUK offer, those with LTE were PLN 99 each. Now they have the B525 offer with LTE-A. On the free market the cost of B525 with T-Mobile is about PLN 400, those from Play, Plus about PLN 500. From the other 6 categories E5186, B618. Now with T-Mobile also B528, B529 and Play B715 with LTE 11 This offer from Plus is a bad joke with a real no limit on 3g / LTE in T-Mobile where DL for 20 PLN / month is DL up to 20Mbps and you get B525 for PLN 1. Just a router worth 400-500 PLN as I wrote if someone has their own LTE equipment, on Play without a contract, they have a DIL service on RBM with a 5 card from RWK for 5 PLN / mo. So what is the meaning of kor getting something from Plus with DL 200Kb / s because I can't name it on the Internet for PLN 60 / month? Plus, instead of modernizing the network for a long time, money is spent on silly, lying TV advertisements.
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  • #15 16770456
    Anonymous
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  • #16 16770896
    KOCUREK1970
    Network and Internet specialist  
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    Arthvendis wrote:
    It remains to wait for its end.

    There will be no end - you won't say it, the agreement goes on only indefinitely!
  • #17 16770949
    Anonymous
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  • #18 16772091
    KOCUREK1970
    Network and Internet specialist  
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    Arthvendis wrote:
    I know, I know, I meant waiting for the end of the current contract to terminate it

    You must terminate your current contract at least 30 days before it ends.
    Arthvendis wrote:
    I'd rather avoid the already mentioned penalty for (significantly) earlier withdrawal.

    It is important what date of withdrawal you give and not when you send them such a letter.
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion centers around the comparison of two TP-Link LTE routers, the MR6400 and the Archer MR200, for improving internet performance in a small town setting. The user currently utilizes a Huawei E5573 modem with LTE internet from Plus but is experiencing unsatisfactory speeds and is considering a stationary router. Key differences highlighted include the MR6400's N standard on 2.4 GHz and the MR200's dual-band AC750 capability, which may offer better performance for home networks. Users suggest checking the current signal strength and performance of the E5573 before making a decision, as well as considering the potential for upgrading to a more advanced LTE-A router within the budget of PLN 400-500. Concerns about the Plus network's performance and the possibility of changing operators are also discussed, with recommendations for exploring options with T-Mobile and Orange.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Archer MR200 adds dual‑band AC Wi‑Fi, but both TP-Link routers top out at 150 Mb/s; "Both routers reach max. 150 Mb/s." [Elektroda, honoratka, post #16769222]

Why it matters: This FAQ helps small‑town users choose between MR6400 and MR200, troubleshoot weak LTE, and avoid contract or hardware pitfalls.

Quick Facts

Which is better for small‑town LTE: MR6400 or Archer MR200?

Pick MR200 if you need faster in‑home Wi‑Fi on 5 GHz. It’s AC750 dual‑band, while MR6400 is 2.4 GHz N only. Both share the same LTE cap of 150 Mb/s, so cellular throughput will be identical. Choose based on Wi‑Fi environment and client devices. [Elektroda, honoratka, post #16769222]

Will either router give me wired internet to my desktop PC?

Yes. Both models include Ethernet (RJ45) LAN ports, so you can plug a PC directly for a stable wired connection. This avoids Wi‑Fi variability during gaming, streaming, or updates. Use a quality CAT5e or better cable for best results. [Elektroda, DejoDejo, post #16769225]

Why is my LTE slow even though I live ~1 km from a tower?

Congestion is the typical culprit. Plus sites can be heavily loaded, especially evenings, which crushes throughput despite strong signal. One expert noted a local BTS was “massacred clogged.” Try testing at off‑peak hours and consider band locking to a less busy carrier. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769352]

My E5573 battery is swollen—should I replace the router or just the battery?

Replace the battery immediately and avoid charging until you do. The router itself may be fine; swelling indicates battery failure, not modem damage. Dispose of the pack safely at an e‑waste point and use mains power after replacement. [Elektroda, DejoDejo, post #16769258]

How do I check and optimize LTE signal on a Huawei E5573?

Use LTEWatch to read RSRP/RSRQ and lock specific bands. The E5573 is compatible and lets you target LTE1800, LTE800, or LTE2600 based on load. Move the router near a window and test orientations for the best RSRP and consistency. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769236]

What LTE bands does Plus typically use around small towns?

Plus operates LTE1800 (Aero2), LTE800 (Sferia), and LTE2600. Coverage and load differ by site, so test each band if your hardware supports manual selection. Band‑locking can stabilize speeds during peak hours when one carrier gets saturated. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769236]

What category of LTE router should I buy around 400–500 PLN?

Aim for an LTE‑A Category 6 router with Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11ac Wi‑Fi. That class supports carrier aggregation for better peak and sustained speeds compared to Cat‑4 devices like MR6400/MR200. It’s the sweet spot for value in that budget. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769236]

Is switching my Plus SIM to 3G a good workaround for slow LTE?

No. Experts warn Plus imposes strict 3G limits, making performance worse. Stay on LTE and optimize band selection or test other operators. As one pro put it, “There is nothing to use on 3G.” [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769352]

How slow can it get on a congested Plus cell?

Users reported peak‑time downloads of about 200–250 kb/s. That is email‑only territory, not streaming. If you see this, test earlier in the day, try different bands, and consider alternative providers when possible. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16769250]

What’s a safe 3‑step method to lock bands and test speeds?

  1. Connect E5573 to a PC and open LTEWatch.
  2. Note RSRP/RSRQ, then lock LTE1800, LTE800, and LTE2600 in turn.
  3. For each band, run speed tests at peak and off‑peak, then keep the most stable. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769236]

Is a pocket MiFi good for 24/7 home internet?

No. Running a mobile MiFi continuously is a mistake due to thermal and battery wear. Use a mains‑powered LTE router designed for stationary use instead. That improves stability and longevity. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769352]

Could my ground‑floor flat with thick walls be hurting speeds?

Yes. Dense walls and low elevation attenuate signal and can worsen performance. Place the router by a window or on a higher shelf. If possible, test near different facades to find the best path to the tower. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16769250]

What alternatives to Plus were suggested for better performance?

Check T‑Mobile, Orange, and Play coverage. One expert highlighted T‑Mobile’s no‑limit plans with an LTE‑A B525 router for 1 PLN, plus Play sites with multi‑band aggregation. Always test before signing. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16770071]

How do I avoid getting stuck in an auto‑renewed contract?

Send termination notice about 30 days before the term ends, or the contract may continue indefinitely. The effective date on your letter matters. Keep copies and confirm receipt. [Elektroda, KOCUREK1970, post #16772091]

Is changing operators really the best fix when speeds collapse?

Often, yes. “The optimal advice is to change operators.” Network load is the limiting factor when signal is fine but throughput dies. Trial a second SIM before committing. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16769352]

Is a swollen battery dangerous even if the router still works?

Yes. Stop using it and replace it. A swollen pack is a safety risk; do not keep a “bomb” inside your device. Use proper disposal and run the router on mains after replacement. [Elektroda, DejoDejo, post #16769266]
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