Wi-Fi 6E vs Wi-Fi 6: Learn the Key Differences in 10 Seconds
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.
So What’s Next?
The next generation Wi-Fi from the alliance, Wi-Fi 7 is even faster and with lower latency.
Check our other article Wi-Fi 7 vs Wi-Fi 6E: Learn the Key Differences in 10 Seconds to find out more.