eero Pro 6 vs 6e – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right mesh Wi-Fi system depends on your home size, connected devices, and internet speed requirements. The eero Pro 6e and eero Pro 6 are designed for users who want seamless whole-home coverage, but they cater to slightly different needs. The eero Pro 6e offers next-generation connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E support for faster speeds on compatible devices, while the eero Pro 6 remains a strong choice for most homes with its reliable Wi-Fi 6 performance. This article highlights the key differences between the two models to help you make an informed decision.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | eero Pro 6e | eero Pro 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Standard | Wi-Fi 6E tri-band | Wi-Fi 6 tri-band |
| Frequency Bands | 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz | 2.4GHz, 5GHz |
| Max Wireless Speed | Up to 2.3 Gbps | Up to 1 Gbps |
| Wired Ports | 1× 2.5GbE + 1× Gigabit | 2× Gigabit |
| Coverage per Unit | Up to 2,000 sq. ft. | Up to 2,000 sq. ft. |
| Number of Devices Supported | 100+ devices | 75+ devices |
| Processor | Quad-core 1.8 GHz | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Memory | 1GB RAM, 4GB Flash | 1GB RAM, 4GB Flash |
| Smart Home Hub | Built-in Thread + Zigbee | Built-in Zigbee |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Build: Both routers share a similar sleek, minimalist design that blends into most home interiors. The eero Pro 6e has a slightly updated housing with better thermal management to handle the faster 6GHz band.
Connectivity: The eero Pro 6e includes a 2.5GbE port, which is ideal for gigabit+ internet plans or wired backhaul setups. The eero Pro 6 sticks to dual gigabit ports, which are enough for most average households but may limit ultra-high-speed internet connections.
Wireless Technology: The most significant difference is the eero Pro 6e’s support for the 6GHz band, which offers lower latency and less congestion. This is particularly beneficial in homes with many devices or in apartments where Wi-Fi networks compete for bandwidth.
Performance: In real-world tests, the eero Pro 6e consistently delivers faster speeds, especially for devices that support Wi-Fi 6E. The eero Pro 6 performs very well on 5GHz but may experience more interference in congested areas.
Smart Home Integration: Both support Amazon Alexa and act as smart home hubs, but the eero Pro 6e adds Thread support, making it more future-ready for Matter-enabled devices.
Setup and App Experience: The setup process is nearly identical with both models using the eero app. The app offers network health monitoring, parental controls, and guest network management.
Security: Both models provide automatic security updates, WPA3 encryption, and optional eero Plus subscription for advanced features like VPN and content filtering.
Scalability: You can mix and match either model with other eero devices. However, pairing multiple eero Pro 6e units allows you to fully take advantage of 6GHz backhaul for the best throughput in large homes.
FAQ
What is the main difference between eero Pro 6e and eero Pro 6?
The main difference is that eero Pro 6e supports Wi-Fi 6E, giving access to the 6GHz band for faster and more reliable wireless connections, while eero Pro 6 only supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
Do I need Wi-Fi 6E devices to benefit from the eero Pro 6e?
Yes, to fully utilize the 6GHz band, you need devices that support Wi-Fi 6E. Otherwise, your devices will connect on 5GHz or 2.4GHz like they would with the eero Pro 6.
Can I use eero Pro 6e and eero Pro 6 together in one network?
Yes, you can mix both models in the same mesh network. The 6GHz band will still be used for compatible devices if at least one eero Pro 6e is part of the network.
How much faster is eero Pro 6e compared to eero Pro 6?
In optimal conditions, the eero Pro 6e can reach over 2 Gbps speeds, while the eero Pro 6 typically maxes out around 1 Gbps. The real benefit is lower latency and less interference on the 6GHz band.
Is eero Pro 6e worth it if I have under 1 Gbps internet?
If your internet plan is below 1 Gbps, the eero Pro 6 may be sufficient. The eero Pro 6e is a better choice if you want to future-proof your network or have many connected devices.
Does eero Pro 6e support wired backhaul?
Yes, it supports wired backhaul and offers a faster 2.5GbE port, which is ideal for high-speed wired connections between nodes.
Do both models support Matter smart home devices?
The eero Pro 6e supports Matter over Thread, while the eero Pro 6 supports Matter over Wi-Fi and Zigbee but not Thread.
Can I set up parental controls on both models?
Yes, both support parental controls through the eero app. For advanced content filtering, you need to subscribe to eero Plus.
How many units do I need for a large home?
For homes up to 6,000 sq. ft., a three-pack is usually recommended for either model. You may need additional units for very large or multi-story homes.
Do these systems require a subscription to work?
No, they work without a subscription. The eero Plus plan is optional and adds features like ad blocking, VPN, and advanced security.