Wi-Fi 6E vs Wi-Fi 6: Learn the Key Differences in 10 Seconds

LaptopMedia.com Highlights Wi-Fi 6E vs Wi-Fi 6: Learn the Key Differences in 10 Seconds

From: Simeon Nikolov 05 May 2024 / 16:25 | 0

Wi-Fi 7 has already been announced, but some laptops, like the recently unveiled MacBook Air, are only now receiving the 6E upgrade. Consequently, we receive many questions about the differences between 6E and 6. If you’re looking for information about Wi-Fi 7, check out our article “Wi-Fi 7 vs Wi-Fi 6E: Learn the Key Differences in 10 Seconds”

In short, Wi-Fi 6E boasts one significant advantage: a brand new lane for your wireless traffic – the newly available 6 GHz band, leading to less congestion and thus better connection. Imagine a wider highway with fewer cars.

Here’s a quick comparison:

	Wi-Fi 6E	Wi-Fi 6
Frequency Bands	2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Bandwidth	Up to 160 MHz in 2.4 & 5 GHz, additional 1200 MHz in 6 GHz	Up to 160 MHz
Channels	14 in 5 GHz + 59 in 6 GHz	14 in 5 GHz
Latency	Even lower than Wi-Fi 6	Low
Interference	Greatly reduced in the 6 GHz band	Reduced
Use Cases	High-def streaming, online gaming, AR/VR, dense environments	Streaming, gaming, smart homes

❓ Should You Upgrade?

First, check whether your devices support Wi-Fi 6E. If the answer is yes, check your current Wi-Fi standard:

🛜 For Wi-Fi 5 (or older) users

Step 1: Do you experience issues with your connection?
Yes → Consider Wi-Fi 6E.
No → Go to Step 2

Step 2: Is security crucial for you?
Yes → Consider Wi-Fi 6E.
No → Go to Step 3

Step 3: Do you have money to spare for the latest and greatest gadgets?
Yes → Consider Wi-Fi 6E (or Wi-Fi 7) for cool points.
No → Stay with your current setup.

🛜 For Wi-Fi 6 users

Step 1: Do you experience issues with your connection?
Yes → Consider Wi-Fi 6E.
No → Go to Step 2

Step 2: Do you have money to spare for the latest and greatest gadgets?
Yes → Consider Wi-Fi 6E (or Wi-Fi 7) for cool points.
No → Stay with your current setup.