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NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 vs TP-Link Archer BE230

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Product A: NETGEAR

Nighthawk CAX30

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B

Product B: TP-Link

Archer BE230

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Only differences

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

BTP-Link Archer BE230

General

2 of 9 differ

Series

Nighthawk2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Titled Nighthawk AX6/6-Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router, data sheet CAX30.

Archer1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

CAX30, CAX30S1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page title and mpn are CAX30S. The CAX30 is the same Wi-Fi 6 cable modem router with the same datasheet figures. The CAX30S bundle has a 90-day Armor trial and the CAX30 a 30-day trial.

Archer BE230, Archer BE36001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The support page lists the Archer BE3600 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router datasheet under the Archer BE230 downloads, and the maker's end-of-sale list has Archer BE230 and Archer BE3600 (Walmart) rows with the same dates. Tom's Guide and Dong Knows Tech both call the BE3600 the identical router. The datasheet of the BE230 is used.

GTIN / EAN

6064491564161Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026JSON-LD on the page: sku CAX30S-100NAS, gtin and upc 606449156416. No GTIN is stored for the CAX30 since no maker page prints one.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

Not available

Status

Available1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page offers the CAX30S for sale with an Add To Cart button. It is not marked discontinued.

Available1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The product page and the support downloads are live. Firmware 1.2.6 build 20260617 is dated 2026-07-30. The maker's US end-of-sale list (V9) gives an end-of-sale notice date of 2026-08-18 and an end-of-sale date of 2027-02-14 for the US versions, so it is still sold.5Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260921/US%20EOS_List_Home%20-%20V9.pdfRead 14 October 2026Archer BE230 versions 1.0, 1.6, 1.20 and 1.26 (US) and Archer BE3600 1.6 and 1.26 (USW): end-of-sale notice 2026-08-18, end of sale 2027-02-14. Stored as available until the end-of-sale date passes.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

$9911Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: U.S. price at launch $99, for the Archer BE230 (Archer BE3600). The Tom's Hardware launch report of 2024-07-23 gives $99 at Walmart too. Tom's Guide later prints a list price of $120. Retailer sale prices are not used.13Press articletech.yahoo.com/general/articles/tp-walmart-tout-first-sub-181914722.htmlRead 14 October 2026The new TP-Link Archer BE3600 is available exclusively through Walmart for $99. Excluding tax, US.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page and the datasheet name US cable providers: Xfinity, Spectrum and Cox.

US10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026US review and US prices.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026US launch price.13Press articletech.yahoo.com/general/articles/tp-walmart-tout-first-sub-181914722.htmlRead 14 October 2026US, Walmart.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black7Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B08R588RCGRead 15 October 2026Product details: Color Black. The listing is titled NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30), manufacturer part CAX30-200NAS.

Black10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Wrapped in black plastic. The review gives no colour name. The retail listings say Black.

Form factoriMesh system is a product line sold in packs of mesh units, e.g. eero, Deco and Orbi. A standalone router that can join a mesh as an option is a router. A travel router is a pocket-size router sold for travel.

Router2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Router1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Standalone router, EasyMesh-compatible.

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ROG is Gaming and ASUS ExpertWiFi is Business. It is not assigned from price or features.

Home1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page sits under Home, WiFi, Modem Routers on netgear.com and is part of the Nighthawk home line.

Home1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Listed under the maker's WiFi routers for homes. The page rates coverage for 3 Bedroom Houses.

Wi-Fi

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Wi-FiiThe newest Wi-Fi generation the product supports.

Wi-Fi 62Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

Wi-Fi speed classiThe maker's class name, e.g. BE19000 or AXE11000. It adds up the top link rates of all radios. No single device reaches it. A Wi-Fi 6E class starts with AXE, also when the maker writes AX, so eero's AX5400 is AXE5400. The class is not the model number, so GL.iNet's GL-AXT1800 is AX1800.

AX27001Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

BE36001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The page names the product BE3600 and shows the total as 3570 Mbps (2882 + 688).

Wi-Fi radiosiOne row per radio in one unit. A quad-band unit with two 5 GHz radios has two 5 GHz rows.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	40	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	80	No

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical specs (page 10): 2.4 GHz AX 3x3 (Tx/Rx) 1024-QAM 40 MHz, up to 0.9 Gbps, and 5 GHz AX 3x3 1024-QAM 80 MHz, up to 1.8 Gbps. The maker prints the rates only rounded to 0.1 Gbps, so no link rate is stored. The footnote says up to 2700 Mbps when connected to other 802.11ax 2700 Mbps devices.

BTP-Link Archer BE230

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	40	688
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	160	2,882

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026WiFi Speeds: BE3600, 5 GHz 2882 Mbps (802.11be) and 2.4 GHz 688 Mbps (802.11be). Capacity: 2x2 MU-MIMO, 4 streams, dual-band. Streams per band follow from the rates: 688 Mbps at 40 MHz and 2882 Mbps at 160 MHz are both 2 streams. The widest channels come from the datasheet.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Datasheet Archer BE230_V1: WiFi Speeds 2882 Mbps (5 GHz) + 688 Mbps (2.4 GHz). The reception sensitivity table lists 11be EHT40 on 2.4 GHz and 11be EHT160 on 5 GHz, so 40 MHz and 160 MHz are the widest channels.

Radio bandsiRadios that work at the same time in one unit. Tri-band is 3 and quad-band is 4, also when two radios use the same frequency band.

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6 GHz band

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Combined Wi-Fi link rateiSum of the top link rates of all radios in one unit. It is close to the number in the speed class. No single device reaches it.

Not available

3,570Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi streamsiSpatial streams of all radios in one unit, e.g. 12 for a tri-band router with 4x4 on each band.

6=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

4=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel of any radio, e.g. 320 on the 6 GHz band.

80MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

160MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi featuresiFeatures the maker names for the product. Band steering puts all bands under one network name and moves devices between them, e.g. Smart Connect. Band steering over only some of the bands, such as 2.4 and 5 GHz on a tri-band router, counts. AFC is Automated Frequency Coordination, which allows standard power on 6 GHz. Support that needs a later firmware counts, and the firmware goes in the source note.

OFDMA, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs list Uplink and Downlink OFDMA and Smart Connect, which picks the fastest WiFi band under one WiFi name.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: needs compatible AX clients with DL-OFDMA and UL-OFDMA support. Smart Connect puts both bands under one WiFi name. MU-MIMO is not named, so it is not stored.

Multi-Link Operation (MLO), Multi-RU, 4K-QAM, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Advanced Features: MLO, 4K-QAM, Multi-RUs, EasyMesh-compatible. Capacity lists 2x2 MU-MIMO, OFDMA and Airtime Fairness. Range lists Beamforming.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026WiFi 7 Features: MLO, 4K-QAM and Multi-RUs. Smart Connect assigns each device to the best Wi-Fi band, stored as band_steering.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Smart Connect combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands and assigns devices between them to balance network demands. Wireless Settings offers OFDMA + MU-MIMO.

External antennasiAntennas outside the case, as the maker counts them.

Not available

41Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 20264x External Antennas.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Four non-detachable antennas that swivel 180 degrees and tilt up to 90 degrees.

Internal antennasiAntennas inside the case, as the maker counts them.

Not available

Not available

Detachable antennasiThe external antennas screw off and can be replaced. Fixed antennas that only fold or turn do not count.

Not available

No10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: number of antennas/removable: 4/No. The text says the antennas swivel but can't easily be replaced.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Four non-detachable antennas.

Coverage of one unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area that one unit covers. A square feet claim is converted exactly and rounded to a whole m². A claim for a whole pack is stored separately. An area that a trusted review quotes from the maker counts, and the source note names the review.

Not available

Not available

Connected devices per unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed maximum number of devices one unit serves. A claim for a whole mesh pack is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Ports and modem

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PortsiData ports on the main unit. The power input is not a port. A combo port takes an RJ45 cable or an SFP+ module and is counted once. WAN or LAN means the maker says the port can be either, including auto-sensing ports.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
Coax	1	WAN	Not available	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports with dual Gigabit port aggregation, one USB 3.0 port and a cable/coaxial port (connection diagram, page 9). The coax port takes the cable internet connection, so it is the WAN. No link rate is stored for it, since DOCSIS is not an Ethernet rate.

BTP-Link Archer BE230

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	1	LAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	3	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Ethernet Ports: 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN, 1x 2.5 Gbps LAN and 3x 1 Gbps LAN. USB Support: 1x USB 3.0. USB 3.0 is the 5 Gbps USB data rate.

Ethernet portsiRJ45 ports of all roles, WAN and LAN.

4=CalculatedFrom Ports

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

Multi-gig portsiWired network ports of 2.5 Gbps or faster, RJ45 or fiber.

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

2=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest WAN portiThe fastest port that can take the internet connection.

Not available

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest LAN portiThe fastest port for wired devices. A port that can be WAN or LAN counts here too.

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

USB ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

SFP+ portiA slot for a 10 Gbps fiber or DAC module.

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Built-in modemiModems inside the router. A port for an external modem does not count. A fiber slot counts only when the fiber module is in the box.

Cable2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Not available

Modem standardsiStandards of the built-in modem as published, e.g. DOCSIS 3.1, VDSL2 35b, GPON or 5G NR.

DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.0 (32x8)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem compatible with 32x8 DOCSIS 3.0. Up to 10 Gbps is the DOCSIS 3.1 maximum and depends on the provider.

Not available

Mesh

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Mesh technologiesiMesh systems the unit can join, by the maker's name, e.g. AiMesh, EasyMesh or TP-Link OneMesh.

Not available

EasyMesh1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026EasyMesh: Compatible with EasyMesh.

Units per packiUnits in the box. The base lists every pack size sold. Each pack variant holds its own. A standalone router is 1.

12Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sold as one modem router. The package contents list a single router.

11Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026One router is sold.

Coverage of the pack (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area for a whole pack. Each pack variant holds its own claim. The claims of single units are never added up.

Not available

Not available

Identical unitsiEvery unit in a pack is the same model, so any unit can be the router. Not true for systems with a separate satellite model, such as NETGEAR Orbi.

Not available

Not available

Satellite modeliModel number of the satellite when it differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Satellite portsiData ports on one satellite. Only when the satellite differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Ethernet backhauliMesh units can link to each other over an Ethernet cable.

Not available

Not available

Software

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ManagementiWays to set up and manage the router. A web interface is a full settings page in a browser on the local network. A status page alone does not count.

Mobile app, Web interface3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Settings are changed at http://www.routerlogin.net with the admin login. Chapter 6 also covers remote access with the Nighthawk app.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Install using the modem router web interface at routerlogin.net, or with the Nighthawk app.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Management Features: Tether App and Webpage.

Online account requirediSetup and management need an online account with the maker, with no local way around it.

No3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The router is set up and managed with a local admin login at routerlogin.net, so no maker account is needed.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The guide offers the web interface as an install route next to the Nighthawk app.

No3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Quick setup in the web interface says that to use more of TP-Link's cloud service you can log in with a TP-Link ID or click Skip to proceed.

Operating modesiModes the maker lists. Media bridge connects wired devices to another router over Wi-Fi. Extender, range extender and WDS modes count as repeater.

Router3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual configures the unit as a modem router. Bridge and access point modes appear only in troubleshooting tips and are not stored.

Router, Access point1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Wireless Mode: Router Mode and Access Point Mode.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Section 4.4 Set Up the Router as an Access Point.

Network featuresiFeatures the maker lists that work without a paid subscription. An IoT network is a separate network for smart home devices. Dual WAN uses a second internet connection as a backup or to share the load. Only features the maker clearly says are free. Parental controls counts when a free feature pauses or schedules internet access per person or device, such as eero Profiles, even when content filters need a subscription. When the maker's pages contradict each other, leave the feature out.

Guest network, LAN aggregation, Dynamic DNS2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Dual Gigabit Ethernet port aggregation and a guest network. The Nighthawk app also lists guest networks.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 5: guest WiFi network (page 52) and Ethernet port aggregation of ports 1 and 2 (page 59). Chapter 8: Dynamic DNS with NETGEAR, No-IP and Dyn accounts (page 92). Parental controls, QoS, VLAN and IPTV are not named, so they are not stored.

Guest network, IoT network, IPTV, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Guest Network: 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz. Advanced Features lists an IoT Network. IPTV lists IGMP Proxy, IGMP Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN, so VLAN is not stored. QoS by Device and DDNS (TP-Link, NO-IP, DynDNS) are listed. HomeShield Parental Controls are listed and the basic tier is free (see the HomeShield page).3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Chapters on Guest Network, IoT Network, IPTV (section 16.4) and Dynamic DNS (section 16.6).8Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026Basic parental controls (create profile, preset age template, pause the internet) and QoS are listed as free.

VPN serveriProtocols the router can serve, to reach the home network from outside. A paid VPN service is not a VPN server.

OpenVPN2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026VPN support for secure access to the home network away from home. The manual names OpenVPN.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 9: use OpenVPN software to remotely access the router. The router is the gateway. No VPN client mode is described.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026VPN Server: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP and WireGuard. The user guide names the L2TP server L2TP/IPSec.

VPN clientiProtocols the router can use to connect to an outside VPN server.

Not available

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026VPN Client: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP and WireGuard.

USB applicationsiWhat the USB port can be used for. Cellular modem is a USB 4G or 5G modem used as an internet connection or backup.

File server, Media server3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 7: ReadySHARE storage with FTP access inside the network. ReadyDLNA media server is on by default (page 79).

File server, Media server, Time Machine1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Supported functions: FTP Server, Media Server, Samba Server.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Chapter 10 covers USB storage access (Samba, FTP), media sharing and Time Machine in its chapter overview. The body of the chapter has no Time Machine section. Tom's Guide describes a Time Machine backup setting in the web interface.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026The web interface has a place to set the USB drive up for Time Machine backups.

Security

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Wi-Fi securityiEnhanced Open encrypts an open network without a password.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Standards-based WiFi security (802.11i, 128-bit AES with PSK) and stronger WiFi password protection with WPA3.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Page 51: WPA2-PSK [AES] is the default and WPA/WPA2 Enterprise needs a RADIUS server. WPA3 is claimed on the data sheet, but this April 2021 manual lists only WPA, WPA2 and WPA/WPA2.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3 and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).

Security serviceiThe maker's built-in security service by name, e.g. AiProtection Pro, HomeShield, NETGEAR Armor or eero Plus.

NETGEAR Armor1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR Armor, with a trial included in the bundle.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

HomeShield1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Service Kit: HomeShield.

Security service costiWhat the service costs after any free trial. Basic free means the basic features are free and the full set needs a subscription. When the free and paid tiers share one name, such as HomeShield, it is basic free. NETGEAR Armor has no free tier after its trial, so it is paid. When the paid tier is a separate add-on, such as eero Plus, it is paid.

Paid2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: NETGEAR Armor requires a paid subscription after the initial 30-day free trial. No free tier is listed. The field note names Armor as basic_free for shared names, but the maker states only a paid subscription, so paid is stored like for the RS300 and Orbi 370.

Basic free, full paid8Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026Basic network security (router and wireless security scan, IoT device identification) is free. IoT protection, web protection and intrusion prevention need Security+, with a 30-day free trial. The datasheet says HomeShield includes basic and advanced features and advanced features need a paid subscription.

Automatic firmware updatesiThe router can install firmware updates by itself.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade.

Security updates untiliPublished end date of security updates for this model. It is not calculated from a number of years. A published minimum date, such as "at least through" or "or later", counts as the stated date. The source note says it is a minimum and names the region.

Not available

3 August 20296Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260907/Statements%20of%20PSTI%20Compliance_TP-Link.pdfRead 14 October 2026UK PSTI statement, Home Networking, Routers: Archer BE230 V1 has a defined support period of 3/8/2029 (3 August 2029). The statement says the period ends 3 years after the end-of-life date and may be refreshed to extend it, so the date is a minimum. The same list gives Archer BE3600 V1 as 14/2/2030. The statement is for the UK, and the US end-of-sale date is later than the EU one, so the US date may be later.

Smart home

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Thread border router

Not available

Not available

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

Not available

BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio in the router, often used for setup.

Not available

Not available

Smart home platformsiSmart home and voice platforms the router works with, e.g. Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Not available

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Advanced Features: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Hardware

6 of 6 differ

System on chipiMain chip or platform as published, e.g. Broadcom BCM4916 or Qualcomm Networking Pro 620. A chip maker name alone, such as Broadcom, is not stored.

Not available

Broadcom BCM676410Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi chip Broadcom BCM6764. The text says the router is powered by Broadcom's BCM6764 Wi-Fi chip with a quad-core 2.0 GHz processor. The maker publishes no chip and Dong Knows Tech lists the processor as undisclosed.

CPU cores

21Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs: dual-core 1.5GHz processor.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

410Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: processor/memory/storage quad-core 2.0 / 512MB / 128MB.

CPU clockiHighest published processor clock.

1.5GHz1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

2GHz10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: quad-core 2.0.

RAMiRouter RAM in GB. When any trusted source prints a GB figure, use it, e.g. 1 GB rather than 1024 MB converted. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB only when MB is the only figure, e.g. 512 MB is 0.512, and keep the original figure in the source note. Same rule as streaming devices.

Not available

512MB10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026512MB, the only figure printed. Stored as 0.512 GB.

Flash storageiBuilt-in flash memory for the firmware in GB. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB, as for RAM. A memory card or USB drive does not count.

Not available

128MB10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026128MB. Stored as 0.128 GB.

Cooling faniA fan inside the unit. Passive cooling does not count.

Not available

No10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Passive cooling through square holes in the top.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026The router has no fan and ran silently.

Power

2 of 5 differ

Power supplyiHow the main unit gets power. USB is a USB-C power adapter. PoE is power over an Ethernet cable.

External DC adapter3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6: power adapter, 120V 60 Hz input and 12V/3.5A DC output.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The datasheet lists a power adapter in the box, and the user guide describes a power port for the provided adapter.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating as published, in volts and amps.

12 V, 3.5 A3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual's rear panel figure labels the DC inlet 12V 3.5A.

12 V, 2 A1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Power: 12 V, 2 A (US) and 12 V, 1.5 A (EU). The US figure is stored.

Included adapter outputiRated output of the power adapter in the box. This is not power use.

42W3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 202612 V times 3.5 A is 42 W.

24W1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 202612 V times 2 A is 24 W (US adapter). The EU adapter is 12 V, 1.5 A.

Power use (typical, claimed)iThe maker's typical or average power use of one unit. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out.

Not available

Not available

Power use (max, claimed)iThe maker's maximum power use of one unit. Power given out over PoE is not included. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out. A figure measured with the power adapter counts.

Not available

Not available

Measured

6 of 6 differ

Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iTom's Guide throughput, one row per test position. Tool, client, direction and walls are in the source note. Other reviewers' results go in source notes only.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Not available

BTP-Link Archer BE230

Distance (m)	Connected to	Throughput (Mbps)
4.572	Main unit	1,138
15.24	Main unit	702.3
22.86	Main unit	205.2
27.432	Main unit	15.5

Source9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Review of the identical Archer BE3600 (sold as Archer BE230 on Amazon). Keysight IxChariot simulating 10 users, Acer Swift Edge 16 Wi-Fi 7 notebook, 3,500 sq ft home. Rows are 15 ft (4.572 m) 1.138 Gbps, 50 ft (15.24 m) 702.3 Mbps, 75 ft (22.86 m) 205.2 Mbps and 90 ft (27.432 m) 15.5 Mbps. The band is not named and the firmware is not stated. The review also gives 1.234 Gbps with the router and the notebook side by side and 1.103 Gbps over a 15 ft wired link, which are not stored.

Fastest Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iHighest measured row with the client connected to the main unit. Compare only results from the same reviewer.

Not available

1,138Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi throughput (measured)

Wi-Fi throughput through a wall (measured)iTom's Guide throughput at 25 ft through one wall, with the client on the main unit.

Not available

1,114Mbps9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Notebook in an adjacent room 25 ft from the router. The text prints 1.114 Mbps next to a 990.1 Mbps result for the MSI Roamii BE Lite, so the unit is a typo for Gbps. Stored as 1114 Mbps. Band not named.

Range (measured)iDistance at which the reviewer's client lost its connection to the main unit.

Not available

28.956m9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table and text: maximum range 95 feet (28.956 m).

Power use under load (measured)iWall power of the main unit during the reviewer's throughput or saturation test.

Not available

7.7W9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026During the saturation test with data flowing, the router in Normal power mode used 7.7 watts. The review lists Power-Saving and Ultra Power Saving modes too.

Energy use per day (measured)iEnergy the router used over 24 hours of the reviewer's test use. This is not the power at one moment.

Not available

195Wh12Measurementdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: power consumption per 24 hours about 195 Wh as tested. Firmware 1.0.3 Build 20240612 rel.13057(5553).

Dimensions and weight

3 of 4 differ

DimensionsiOne unit in its normal position, with antennas folded flat or removed. Height is bottom to top. For a round unit, width and depth are both the diameter. A size the maker prints with antennas up goes in Dimensions with antennas.

Width110Height254Depth211mm(4.3 × 10 × 8.3 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 10.0 x 8.3 x 4.3 in / 254 x 211 x 110 mm without axis names. The manual says the status LEDs and buttons are on the front, and in the product photo they sit on the narrow edge. Amazon prints 8.3 in L x 4.3 in W x 10 in H. So 254 mm is the height, 211 mm the depth and 110 mm the width. The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 264 x 215 x 110 mm. The newer data sheet and the netgear.com page agree, so the data sheet is used.

Width272.7Height41.7Depth147mm(10.7 × 1.6 × 5.8 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Published as 10.7 x 5.8 x 1.6 in (272.7 x 147 x 41.7 mm). Stored as width, depth and height. Tom's Guide gives the same inches with the antennas folded flat and adds 5.0 in for the antennas. Dong Knows Tech prints 13.52 x 9.25 x 3.90 in, which does not fit the datasheet and is not used.

Dimensions with antennasiOne unit with its external antennas up, as the maker prints it.

Not available

Not available

WeightiOne unit without power adapter and cables.

950g(2.1 lb)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 2.10 lb / 0.95 kg, the same as the netgear.com page and Amazon (2.1 lb). The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 2.55 lb (1.16 kg), so the maker's documents disagree and the data sheet is used.

Not available

Wall mountableiThe maker says the unit can be mounted on a wall.

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Section 2.1 shows the router mounted on the wall with two screws 157 mm apart. No bracket is named.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Cutouts let the router be wall-mounted without a bracket.

Certifications

1 of 1 differ

Wi-Fi Alliance certification IDiCertificate ID in the Wi-Fi Alliance product finder.

Not available

Not available

FCC IDiFCC ID of the main unit.

PY3193004616Spec databasewikidevi.wi-cat.ru/Netgear_PCB_IDRead 15 October 2026FCC Info entry: Netgear CAX30, Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFi Cable Modem Router, PY319300461 (2020-07-06). The FCC database could not be read, so the ID is not checked against the grant.

Not available

Other certifications

FCC Part 15 Class B3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6, electromagnetic emissions: FCC Part 15 Class B.

FCC, CE, RoHS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Certifications: CE, FCC. The datasheet adds RoHS.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Certifications: FCC, CE, RoHS.

In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the boxiItems as the maker lists them for the exact pack.

Nighthawk AX6/6 Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide, Power adapter2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide and power adapter.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: cable modem router, Ethernet cable and power adapter.

Wi-Fi 7 Router Archer BE230, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Package Contents: Wi-Fi 7 Router Archer BE230, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide.

Links

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Product page

www.netgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30s1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be2301Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdf2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/172862Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026

Manual

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdf3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/467743Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Archer BE230(US)_V1_User Guide.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR 1-year limited warranty. It is valid only if the product is bought from a NETGEAR authorized reseller.

2years7Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/support/replacement-warrantyRead 14 October 2026US warranty page: Wi-Fi routers bought on or after 2023-09-01 have a 2 year warranty. Tom's Guide and Staples give 2 years for the Archer BE3600 too.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026The two-year warranty includes lifetime support. US market. Staples lists a 2 year warranty for the Archer BE3600 too.

Both are also in the API. Back to all routers.