Ubiquiti Wireless Access Point UAP-AC-PRO review is it worth upgrading?

Description

Seamless Design and Build Quality

From the moment I unboxed the Ubiquiti Networks Unifi 802.11ac Dual-Radio PRO Access Point (UAP-AC-PRO-US), its sleek and minimalistic design caught my attention. It’s compact, measuring 7.74 x 1.38 x 7.74 inches, and the smooth white finish gives it a professional, high-end look. The device is surprisingly lightweight at only 12.3 ounces, making it easy to install on walls or ceilings without worrying about it being bulky or intrusive.

What I appreciated most about the design was the discreet LED indicator that blends into its surface. It’s subtle yet functional, providing vital status updates without being obtrusive. The durable build quality also reassured me that this access point could handle long-term use, even in high-traffic environments like offices or cafes.

Performance That Stands Out

Using this 802.11ac dual-radio wireless access point, I was genuinely impressed by its performance. The dual-band connectivity supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, ensuring a stable and fast wireless connection across multiple devices. Even with several laptops, smartphones, and smart home devices running simultaneously, the network speeds remained consistently high.

The standout feature for me was the Intuitive Control Plane, which allows you to manage your network efficiently. I tested the Guest Portal/Hotspot Support, and it worked flawlessly, providing a smooth login experience for visitors while keeping my primary network secure. Additionally, the remote firmware upgrade feature saved me time, ensuring the device stayed updated without manual intervention.

Key Benefits

• Robust wireless coverage that performs well in both small and large spaces.
• User-friendly network management tools, making monitoring and controlling connections a breeze.
• Guest portal options that prioritize security while offering convenience for visitors.
• Remote upgrade capabilities, reducing the hassle of manual updates.

Areas for Improvement

No product is perfect, and this access point is no exception. While it excelled in many areas, there were a few shortcomings worth noting:

• Lacks a USB port for additional connectivity options, which some users might need for certain setups.
• Setup process could be daunting for beginners, as it leans heavily on technical knowledge.
• The 48V power requirement may not be compatible with some standard setups, necessitating additional hardware for power.

Ease of Installation

Setting up the device was a mixed bag. While the Unifi Controller software offered robust configuration options, it wasn’t exactly beginner-friendly. I found myself scratching my head a couple of times while navigating the advanced settings. For someone like me, who enjoys tinkering with tech, it was a fun challenge, but I can see this being a hurdle for less tech-savvy individuals.

That said, once configured, the plug-and-play nature of the device became evident. The access point connected seamlessly to my existing network infrastructure, and I appreciated how it optimized the signal strength based on the layout of my home.

Competing Brands

Comparing this to other wireless access points, such as the TP-Link Omada EAP245 and the Netgear WAC510, the Ubiquiti Unifi AP AC Pro showed some clear advantages. Unlike the TP-Link model, this device offered a more polished guest portal and better integration with its control software. On the other hand, the Netgear option excelled in ease of setup, making it more accessible for beginners.

However, in terms of coverage and speed, the Ubiquiti product outperformed both alternatives. Its ability to handle multiple connections without significant speed drops made it stand out as a reliable option for larger households or small businesses.

Affordable Quality

Considering its high-end features, this access point offers excellent value for money. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, the performance and durability justify the price point. For anyone seeking enterprise-grade features in a home or small business setup, this device strikes a good balance between cost and functionality.

Final Thoughts on the Ubiquiti Networks Unifi AP AC Pro

After testing this device, I can confidently say it’s a powerful and versatile solution for improving network connectivity. It’s especially ideal for those who need seamless coverage and advanced management tools. While there are a few areas that could use polishing, the overall performance and features make it a worthy investment for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Additional information