You are doing the mistake most reviewers do, connecting to different speedtest servers, this can have an impact on the results even if they are both in Dallas, TX... Amplifi Alien test was to Sparklight, and the Linksys test was to GMCHosting LLC. Best case scenario, connect to the same server to test speeds. Yes, you have done multiple tests, but it could been to multiple different speedtest servers. edit: just noticed you addressed this below, maybe put it in the description.
I'm looking to upgrade WiFi for my in-laws, and I'm looking into the Amplifi Alien since it's on sale on their website. Watching a bunch of CZcams videos, I can't believe how many reviewers make the same novice mistake of comparing oranges to apples. This is how you kill a good product and promote not as good ones. Good thing there are folks like yourself noticing this and pointing it out since it's not so obvious to everyone. I'm definitely going to need to take this review with a huge grain of salt.
Interesting review and fair arguments of the Alien. I don’t believe it was designed to be the fastest router out there but it is extremely stable and basically has good enough speed to run any application. I consistently get high 600 mbps to low 700 mbps with the alien. To be fair though I have the Alien only handling WiFi clients and my ASUS ROG AX11000 handles all wired clients using a MoCA setup. I agree that Ubiquiti needs to be more transparent as to when DFS and 160 MHz channels will be available as an option etc, Would also like to see them implement link aggregation on the router as well.
Nice review but I think you’re missing a big feature of the Alien. I have 1gb ISP and have used the same two routers but in a much different environment than yours. While you’re testing in a small apartment environment I’ve used both in a two story 2600 sq. ft. house. In my testing the Aliens signal and range are far superior than the MX5. The Velop signal degrades about 40 ft. away and the Alien signal goes twice that far easily and maintains a strong signal. Wi-Fi speeds are pretty much the same for both within 30 ft. of both routers. As far as updates goes Amplifi throws updates for the Alien every 45 days or so. I have a Linksys MR9600 router that has received one firmware update in a year, none since May. Unlike your apartment if you’re covering a large area and want a strong signal all over the Alien is a far superior router than the MX5. But like everything in life as with routers YMMV.
That's a good point. I did, however, notice that my phone picked up my MX5 signal far out in the hallway but could not find the Alien, but it still couldn't really connect, so I didn't think much of it. Since both are mesh systems, it should be easy enough to just add a node to cover the dead spot and/or expand the coverage, but of course, that could results in a big price difference if each node covers significantly less space.
@@MrExitStrategy When I had the MX5 I figured no matter what I could go back to it if need be. I wouldn’t argue with anyone picking one over the other. You’re right about price, it’s ridiculous a two node Wifi 6 mesh system should cost $700.
Hi! Yep, I find the MX5 to perform much better than the Alien, though it doesn't have all the fancy bells and whistles, it gets the job done. Keep in mind though the MX5 doesn't support the 160MHz channel bandwidth either.
It is the MX5300. It looks like Wifi 6E is becoming a bit more common since there were several announcements at CES. So, if you're not in a rush, I'd wait and see, at least the prices on the MX5300 and the likes will likely come down
I have the AMPLIFI and use it with my gigabit service through Verizon so each user will have different experiences. I have a 4500 sq ft home so the AMPLIFI works great with my 3 gaming systems and about 30 devices on it. That’s just my experience using it.
I am so glad I finally found a video on this issue. All I been finding are videos on how great the alien router is. I literally cannot get over 460 down on a gig plan. It doesn't matter the time of day or how close I am to the device. I like to get an update if your heard any more feedback. I did the beta updates but still nothing past 460. I still have time to return this bad boy too so hopefully this issue gets fixed
Right? I haven't found anyone else having this issue either. You should download the Wifi Analyzer, just the free version, and see how crowded the channel you're on is: www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/wifi-analyzer/9nblggh33n0n?activetab=pivot:overviewtab
If you're having hardwired issues it maybe this. www.reddit.com/r/YouShouldKnow/comments/d6vzet/ysk_that_windows_10_can_seriously_limit_your/ www.thewindowsclub.com/window-auto-tuning-in-windows-10
Thanks, that could contribute to the issue; however, I'm seeing the same degraded performance on Windows 10 devices as well as my iPhone 11 Pro Max and 12 Pro Max.
Are you using the Alien Router in Bridge Mode? I have watched other videos stating that if you do not, you won't get max speeds, due to your IPS-provided Modem being the Gateway. If your ISP let's you own your own modem (like Google Fiber does, and AT&T doesn't), then this isn't a problem. This is the #1 reason for poor speeds from what I've read, and really has nothing to do with the Alien.
Thanks for this video. I was hovering between buying a UniFi Dream Machine Pro + WiFi6 AP or the AmpliFi Alien. On paper, the all-in-one Alien looked the better performer, but it really seems worth paying a little more for a more professional solution.
I don't have much knowledge of their enterprise products, but I think they're certainly in a different category though. The Alien is simply just a mesh router system and doesn't offer those security/management or other enterprise features found on the Dream Machine Pro.
@@MrExitStrategy Oh absolutely. Their enterprise gear is definitely in another class, but it's also excellent value for what you get. You just have to prepare to dig a bit deeper into the setup to get the most out of it. The Alien (and other WiFi 6 mesh products) seem to be fit-and-forget, which is honestly appealing, but the UDM Pro and associated kit is also straightforward to set up and get connected, but they also give you the tools for more advanced config - which you can either use to improve security and performance, or indeed shoot yourself in the foot if you aren't careful.
I just let it chooses the fastest server available for each test. I didn't try to force it to be the same server, I should have. I ended up returning the Alien so I can't test it anymore haha
@@AKTECH2222 That's terrible! So we would have to get the US version for tri band...could cause warranty problems, import charges etc I'm looking at the Nighthawk AX12 (RAX 200) as an alternative to this I appreciate the fast reply 👌
I have the xfinity xFi system with gig pro plan are these better then what Comcast provides... Fastest speeds I've seem on my wifi is 650mbps down and 43 mbps up
While I'm not 100% certain, but I don't think the Alien will give you any significant performance increase in terms of speed, but it will probably give you more range/stability compared to the Comcast's router.
that’s why I went and paid just a tad more and got two aliens instead of the mesh kit. they will still mesh, but if one dies, the other can become router.
Not sure what this guy is talking about the linksys is sold on apple web site but does not work with apple products. I had both and would take the alien over garbage ass linksys.
You are doing the mistake most reviewers do, connecting to different speedtest servers, this can have an impact on the results even if they are both in Dallas, TX... Amplifi Alien test was to Sparklight, and the Linksys test was to GMCHosting LLC. Best case scenario, connect to the same server to test speeds. Yes, you have done multiple tests, but it could been to multiple different speedtest servers. edit: just noticed you addressed this below, maybe put it in the description.
I'm looking to upgrade WiFi for my in-laws, and I'm looking into the Amplifi Alien since it's on sale on their website. Watching a bunch of CZcams videos, I can't believe how many reviewers make the same novice mistake of comparing oranges to apples. This is how you kill a good product and promote not as good ones. Good thing there are folks like yourself noticing this and pointing it out since it's not so obvious to everyone. I'm definitely going to need to take this review with a huge grain of salt.
Interesting review and fair arguments of the Alien. I don’t believe it was designed to be the fastest router out there but it is extremely stable and basically has good enough speed to run any application. I consistently get high 600 mbps to low 700 mbps with the alien. To be fair though I have the Alien only handling WiFi clients and my ASUS ROG AX11000 handles all wired clients using a MoCA setup. I agree that Ubiquiti needs to be more transparent as to when DFS and 160 MHz channels will be available as an option etc, Would also like to see them implement link aggregation on the router as well.
Nice review but I think you’re missing a big feature of the Alien. I have 1gb ISP and have used the same two routers but in a much different environment than yours. While you’re testing in a small apartment environment I’ve used both in a two story 2600 sq. ft. house. In my testing the Aliens signal and range are far superior than the MX5. The Velop signal degrades about 40 ft. away and the Alien signal goes twice that far easily and maintains a strong signal. Wi-Fi speeds are pretty much the same for both within 30 ft. of both routers. As far as updates goes Amplifi throws updates for the Alien every 45 days or so. I have a Linksys MR9600 router that has received one firmware update in a year, none since May.
Unlike your apartment if you’re covering a large area and want a strong signal all over the Alien is a far superior router than the MX5. But like everything in life as with routers YMMV.
That's a good point. I did, however, notice that my phone picked up my MX5 signal far out in the hallway but could not find the Alien, but it still couldn't really connect, so I didn't think much of it. Since both are mesh systems, it should be easy enough to just add a node to cover the dead spot and/or expand the coverage, but of course, that could results in a big price difference if each node covers significantly less space.
@@MrExitStrategy When I had the MX5 I figured no matter what I could go back to it if need be. I wouldn’t argue with anyone picking one over the other. You’re right about price, it’s ridiculous a two node Wifi 6 mesh system should cost $700.
Hey! Thanks for this "real life" review. Very helpful information. Do you have a favorite router that you primarily use? Is it the MX5? Thanks Again.
Hi! Yep, I find the MX5 to perform much better than the Alien, though it doesn't have all the fancy bells and whistles, it gets the job done. Keep in mind though the MX5 doesn't support the 160MHz channel bandwidth either.
Was just about to order one of these so thanks for making this video
Glad I could help!!
Wow interesting amazing knowledge thank you
oooh, I was just about to buy one.
Now I'll have a look at the Linksys Velop.. is it the MX5300?
It is the MX5300. It looks like Wifi 6E is becoming a bit more common since there were several announcements at CES. So, if you're not in a rush, I'd wait and see, at least the prices on the MX5300 and the likes will likely come down
Nice video, although speed tests at the furthest end of your apartment would have been good
Thank you!
I have the AMPLIFI and use it with my gigabit service through Verizon so each user will have different experiences. I have a 4500 sq ft home so the AMPLIFI works great with my 3 gaming systems and about 30 devices on it. That’s just my experience using it.
Curious? Do you have the single unit or the combo kit?
@@DPpl-nu6km I bought 2 single units.
The added 160mHz in firmware …still dunno what that does for me.
I am so glad I finally found a video on this issue. All I been finding are videos on how great the alien router is. I literally cannot get over 460 down on a gig plan. It doesn't matter the time of day or how close I am to the device. I like to get an update if your heard any more feedback. I did the beta updates but still nothing past 460. I still have time to return this bad boy too so hopefully this issue gets fixed
Right? I haven't found anyone else having this issue either. You should download the Wifi Analyzer, just the free version, and see how crowded the channel you're on is: www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/wifi-analyzer/9nblggh33n0n?activetab=pivot:overviewtab
If you're having hardwired issues it maybe this.
www.reddit.com/r/YouShouldKnow/comments/d6vzet/ysk_that_windows_10_can_seriously_limit_your/
www.thewindowsclub.com/window-auto-tuning-in-windows-10
Thanks, that could contribute to the issue; however, I'm seeing the same degraded performance on Windows 10 devices as well as my iPhone 11 Pro Max and 12 Pro Max.
Are you using the Alien Router in Bridge Mode? I have watched other videos stating that if you do not, you won't get max speeds, due to your IPS-provided Modem being the Gateway.
If your ISP let's you own your own modem (like Google Fiber does, and AT&T doesn't), then this isn't a problem.
This is the #1 reason for poor speeds from what I've read, and really has nothing to do with the Alien.
Thanks for this video. I was hovering between buying a UniFi Dream Machine Pro + WiFi6 AP or the AmpliFi Alien.
On paper, the all-in-one Alien looked the better performer, but it really seems worth paying a little more for a more professional solution.
I don't have much knowledge of their enterprise products, but I think they're certainly in a different category though. The Alien is simply just a mesh router system and doesn't offer those security/management or other enterprise features found on the Dream Machine Pro.
@@MrExitStrategy Oh absolutely. Their enterprise gear is definitely in another class, but it's also excellent value for what you get. You just have to prepare to dig a bit deeper into the setup to get the most out of it.
The Alien (and other WiFi 6 mesh products) seem to be fit-and-forget, which is honestly appealing, but the UDM Pro and associated kit is also straightforward to set up and get connected, but they also give you the tools for more advanced config - which you can either use to improve security and performance, or indeed shoot yourself in the foot if you aren't careful.
You are wrong! Take it from an IT pro. And you're testing method is wrong. If you use the SAME speed test server for both you will see.
As a standalone one piece router this is the best to gets.
You used different servers for the SpeedTest tests. What are the results if you use the same server?
I just let it chooses the fastest server available for each test. I didn't try to force it to be the same server, I should have. I ended up returning the Alien so I can't test it anymore haha
Hopefully, it all can be fixed with a firmware update.
so, two years later. any firmware updates to get those items you wanted?
Unfortunately. I had to give up and got rid of it and bought something else instead. Just couldn't wait.
@@MrExitStrategy I recently purchased it because it works with Homekit Secure Video. But I’m still seeing some of the same issues you pointed out.
@@Floormat212 any update?
@@Apollo_GodMode I also got a refund.
they stuffed up the router , they released it dual band with slow cpu in europe
That's interesting. I didn't realize that.
Sorry, are you saying they released a different version for Europe will less specs?
@@CrucialP yes they made it dual band
eu.store.ui.com/collections/amplifi
@@AKTECH2222 That's terrible! So we would have to get the US version for tri band...could cause warranty problems, import charges etc
I'm looking at the Nighthawk AX12 (RAX 200) as an alternative to this
I appreciate the fast reply 👌
I have the xfinity xFi system with gig pro plan are these better then what Comcast provides... Fastest speeds I've seem on my wifi is 650mbps down and 43 mbps up
While I'm not 100% certain, but I don't think the Alien will give you any significant performance increase in terms of speed, but it will probably give you more range/stability compared to the Comcast's router.
So did they solve those 2 issues?
not yet unfortunately
How much for one of these and can you connect it to your regular WiFi box?
It's $375 on their website, and yes you should be able to connect to your existing modem (or router using Bridge mode)
@@MrExitStrategy thank you ❤️✨
Can this be connected to another router and offer same speeds?
It can certainly run in bridge-mode, but not sure how much it affect the speeds
Hi i only get 9.71 download and 0.82 upload as no faster option here would this router speed up my Internet? Sorry for my basic knowledge
Hi, it really depends, but I don't think this router would help with your internet speed if that's limited by your Internet Provider
@@MrExitStrategy thanks for your honesty 🙏
My Alien mesh died after six months. Customer service is really bad
oh man, I hope they replaced it for you
@@MrExitStrategy I do too. 750 is alot of money for something to work for just six months.
that’s why I went and paid just a tad more and got two aliens instead of the mesh kit. they will still mesh, but if one dies, the other can become router.
@@michaelbrown3423 it's ridiculous that the router and the node cost the same IMO
สวยใช้งานได้ดีมากเลยนะ
I disagree, mine is working superbly. I’m paying for 400 mb down. With a speed test I’m getting 450 mb down. I love it.
Is this on wifi?
It's not going to perform the best,no WiFi 6E
Not sure what this guy is talking about the linksys is sold on apple web site but does not work with apple products. I had both and would take the alien over garbage ass linksys.