TP-Link Deco X50-POE: OpenWrt Compatibility Report

TP-Link Deco X50-POE router

The TP-Link Deco X50-POE runs OpenWrt from snapshot builds only on the mediatek/filogic target, so there is no stable release for it yet. Its WiFi 6 (AX) wireless on the mt76 driver rates excellent for open-source driver support (0.95/1.0), installation is rated moderate, and it is still sold new.

Drivers: Excellent (0.95) WiFi 6 (AX) Install: moderate

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Specifications

SoC MediaTek MT7981BA
CPU 2 cores @ 1300 MHz
RAM 512 MB
Flash 128 MB (NAND)
Ethernet ports 2 (2.5G)
WiFi generation WiFi 6 (AX)
Radios 2.4GHz: b/g/n/ax · 5GHz: a/n/ac/ax
WLAN hardware MediaTek MT7976 (DBDC)
WLAN driver mt76
OpenWrt target mediatek / filogic
Package architecture aarch64_cortex-a53
Current release snapshot
Supported since external image
Install method U-Boot TFTP recovery
Install difficulty moderate
Power supply 12 VDC, 1.2-1.5A, IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) and IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++)
Device type Home router
Estimated throughput 650 Mbps
Availability available

Installing OpenWrt on the Deco X50-POE

Installation on this device is rated moderate. Expect to use a recovery mode, TFTP or a vendor tool rather than a plain web upload. Documented methods: U-Boot TFTP recovery.

Flashing third-party firmware can brick a router and usually voids the warranty. Always check that the firmware image matches your exact hardware version.

Other routers to consider

Sinovoip Banana Pi BPi-R3 Mini

WiFi 6 (AX) Drivers: Excellent $109

Huasifei WH3000

WiFi 6 (AX) Drivers: Excellent

GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2)

WiFi 6 (AX) Drivers: Excellent $170

Not sure which fits? Take the 60-second quiz.