Cisco Meraki MR36 vs MR44
Both are Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) dual-band APs, but the MR44 steps the 5 GHz radio up to 4x4:4 (versus 2x2:2 on the MR36), nearly doubling aggregate throughput and adding a 2.5G multi-gig uplink. Choose the MR36 for moderate-density coverage on a budget, and the MR44 for higher-density areas that need more streams and a multi-gig uplink.
Cisco Meraki MR36
Cloud-managed 2x2:2 Wi-Fi 6 dual-band access point for moderate-density indoor coverage.
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), 2x2:2 on both bands
- 1.5 Gbps dual-radio aggregate frame rate
- 1x 1GbE uplink, 802.3af PoE (15W)
- Dedicated WIDS/WIPS radio plus BLE
Cisco Meraki MR44
Cloud-managed Wi-Fi 6 dual-band access point with a 4x4:4 5 GHz radio and a 2.5G multi-gig uplink.
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), 4x4:4 on 5 GHz / 2x2:2 on 2.4 GHz
- 2.7 Gbps dual-radio aggregate frame rate
- 1x 2.5G Multigigabit uplink, 802.3at PoE+ (30W)
- Dedicated WIDS/WIPS radio plus BLE
Cisco Meraki MR36 vs Cisco Meraki MR44: spec comparison
| Spec | Cisco Meraki MR36 | Cisco Meraki MR44 |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Bands | 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz |
| Spatial streams (2.4 GHz) | 2x2:2 | 2x2:2 |
| Spatial streams (5 GHz) | 2x2:2 | 4x4:4 |
| Aggregate frame rate | 1.5 Gbps | 2.7 Gbps |
| Max data rate (5 GHz) | 1,201 Mbps | 2,402 Mbps |
| Ethernet uplink | 1x 10/100/1000 (1GbE, RJ45) | 1x 100M/1G/2.5G mGig (RJ45) |
| PoE / power draw | 802.3af, 15W max | 802.3at PoE+, 30W max (15W in af mode) |
| Dedicated security radio | Yes (dual-band WIDS/WIPS) | Yes (dual-band WIDS/WIPS) |
| Bluetooth LE | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime with advance replacement | Lifetime with advance replacement |
Choose Cisco Meraki MR36 if
Choose the MR36 for offices, classrooms, and retail with moderate client density where a 1 GbE uplink and 802.3af PoE keep switch and cabling costs down. It delivers full Wi-Fi 6 features at the lowest entry point in the line.
Choose Cisco Meraki MR44 if
Choose the MR44 when 5 GHz client density is high and you want the extra spatial streams (4x4:4) and a 2.5G multi-gig uplink so the AP is not bottlenecked. It is the better fit for busy conference areas and higher-throughput sites.
Verdict
If your switch already supplies 802.3at PoE+ and 2.5G ports, the MR44 is worth the step up for its 4x4:4 5 GHz radio and roughly 80% higher aggregate throughput. The MR36 remains the right call for moderate-density coverage where its 1 GbE uplink and 802.3af power are a better budget and infrastructure fit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Meraki MR36 and MR44?
The MR44 has a 4x4:4 5 GHz radio versus the MR36's 2x2:2, which lifts aggregate frame rate from 1.5 Gbps to 2.7 Gbps. The MR44 also has a 2.5G multi-gig uplink and uses 802.3at PoE+, while the MR36 has a 1 GbE uplink and runs on 802.3af.
Is the MR44 worth the extra cost over the MR36?
In high-density 5 GHz environments, yes: the extra streams and 2.5G uplink prevent the AP from becoming a bottleneck. In moderate-density spaces, the MR36 delivers the same Wi-Fi 6 feature set for less.
Does the MR36 need PoE+?
No. The MR36 runs on standard 802.3af PoE at up to 15W, which can simplify switch requirements. The MR44 needs 802.3at PoE+ (30W) for full performance, though it can run in a reduced 802.3af mode.
Are the MR36 and MR44 end of life?
Both are current Wi-Fi 6 models in the Meraki MR line as of this comparison. For brand-new 6 GHz deployments, Cisco also offers the Wi-Fi 6E CW916x series; confirm lifecycle status with your reseller before large purchases.
More Wireless comparisons
Specs are for planning and may change; Uniqcli confirms the current Cisco bill of materials and pricing on your quote. Cisco, Catalyst, Nexus, Meraki, and Firepower are trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc.; Uniqcli LLC is an independent authorized Cisco partner.