WiFi speeds can vary based on several factors, including your router model, internet plan, connected devices, and even your home's layout. At Linksys, we want to help you understand what affects your WiFi performance and how to get the most out of your network.
Wired vs. Wireless: Know the Difference
If you're looking for the fastest and most stable connection, a wired ethernet connection is your best bet. However, most people rely on WiFi for everyday use, and that’s where speeds can vary more.
Typical WiFi Speed by Standard (on a 1Gbps or Higher Plan)
These are average speeds you can expect under real-world conditions, assuming:
- You’re using a Linksys router with the corresponding WiFi® standard
- Your device supports that standard
- You’re on a 1 Gbps or higher internet plan
| WiFi Standard | Max Download Speed |
| WiFi 4 (802.11n) | Up to 150 - 200 Mbps |
| WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | Up to 300- 500 Mbps |
| WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Up to 600 - 800 Mbps |
| WiFi 6E | Up to 1 - 1.6 Gbps |
Think of your router like a super-fast highway. But if your phone or laptop is an old car, it won’t go top speed, no matter how fast the highway is.
Newer devices (from 2020 onward) are more likely to support faster standards like WiFi 6 and 6E. Older devices may max out at lower speeds even with the best Linksys router.
| Device Category | Summary of WiFi Support |
| iPhones® & iPads® | Most Apple® iPhones and iPads released in the past 5 years support WiFi 6, starting from the iPhone 11 and newer iPads. The latest Pro models—like the iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max and iPad Pro® (4th gen and up)—now support WiFi 6E for faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Android™ Flagships | Many Android flagship phones from brands like Samsung®, Google™, ASUS®, and Xiaomi also support WiFi 6E, with some of the newest ones like the Pixel™ 8 / 8 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Pro already using WiFi 7. Entry-level and midrange phones typically stick with WiFi 5 or 6. |
| Laptops | Over the past few years, most high-end laptops from brands like Apple, Dell®, HP, Lenovo®, ASUS, and MSI have moved to WiFi 6E, especially models released since 2022.
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| Tablets | Most premium tablets from recent years now support WiFi 6 or 6E.
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| Smart Home & Streaming Devices | There’s a mix of standards across streaming devices and smart TVs.
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- Wired ethernet always wins: it offers the highest and most consistent speeds.
- Wireless speed depends on three key factors: your router’s standard, your device’s WiFi capabilities, and how your router and network are set up.
- To maximize performance: pair a WiFi 6/6E-capable device with a matching Linksys router and ensure optimal placement.
- For large spaces: deploy a mesh system and consider ethernet backhaul for peak performance.
