TP-Link Deco BE85 Review: The Best Wi-Fi 7 Mesh System for 2025?
By Tom the Tech Explainer
As Wi-Fi 7 officially rolls out in 2025, there’s no shortage of new mesh systems claiming to deliver faster, smarter, and more seamless connectivity. I’ve tested more than a dozen of them — and the TP-Link Deco BE85 consistently comes out near the top. Here’s why I rate it as one of the best Wi-Fi 7 mesh kits you can buy right now.
đź’ˇ Quick Summary
- Model: TP-Link Deco BE85 (3-Pack)
- Coverage: Up to 9,600 sq. ft.
- Max Speed: Up to 22 Gbps (combined across bands)
- Backhaul: 6 GHz band + wired 10G Ethernet
- Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
- Ideal For: Large homes, heavy streaming, smart homes, multi-gig ISPs
TP-Link Deco BE85
- Model: TP-Link Deco BE85 (3-Pack)
- Coverage: Up to 9,600 sq. ft.
- Max Speed: Up to 22 Gbps (combined across bands)
- Backhaul: 6 GHz band + wired 10G Ethernet
- Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
- Ideal For: Large homes, heavy streaming, smart homes, multi-gig ISPs
🏡 Design & Setup
The BE85 units are minimal and modern — matte white cylinders with subtle LED indicators and generous cooling. Setup is smooth using the TP-Link Deco app, and within minutes I had all three nodes up, connected, and syncing. TP-Link’s guided wizard makes it approachable, even for non-techies.
🚀 Performance & Speed
This is where the BE85 really flexes. With three bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz), this mesh system can handle Gigabit+ internet connections with ease. I consistently hit over 1.8 Gbps download speeds on Wi-Fi in rooms across the house — even upstairs or through thick walls.
The 6GHz band acts as a dedicated backhaul between nodes, meaning devices on other bands stay fast and unbothered. I stress-tested with 4K streaming, gaming, Zoom calls, and file transfers — and nothing dropped. It’s powerful, stable, and perfect for homes full of smart devices.
🔌 Ports & Expandability
Each BE85 unit comes with two 10G Ethernet ports and two 2.5G ports, giving serious wired backhaul options. If you’re on Virgin Gig1 or similar multi-gig plans, this router won’t bottleneck you like others might.
You can also mix in other Deco units, but to keep the Wi-Fi 7 advantages, stick to BE series models.
đź”’ Security & Features
TP-Link includes HomeShield for network security, parental controls, and IoT protection — and it’s decent. While advanced features (like real-time scans and reports) require a subscription, basic protection is free and useful. WPA3 encryption is enabled by default for added safety.
📱 App Experience
The Deco app is one of the best on the market. You can see connected devices, prioritise traffic, set up guest networks, and run speed tests — all from your phone. It’s snappy, intuitive, and even lets you integrate with Alexa or Google Assistant.
đź’° Value for Money
Let’s be honest: the BE85 isn’t cheap — but you get what you pay for. With future-proof specs, high throughput, and rock-solid performance, it’s a serious investment for households that rely on fast, stable internet. Compared to Netgear or ASUS Wi-Fi 7 kits, the Deco BE85 punches above its price.
✅ Pros & ❌ Cons
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🔚 Final Verdict
The TP-Link Deco BE85 is, without question, one of the top Wi-Fi 7 mesh systems available in 2025. It blends power, simplicity, and flexibility into one of the most polished packages I’ve tested. If you’re ready to invest in next-gen Wi-Fi — and want performance you’ll feel every day — the BE85 3-pack is my top pick.
– Tom, The Tech Explainer
