WiFi 7 (IEEE 802.11be), the next-generation wireless standard, brings several key advancements—among which native support for tri-band operation (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz) stands out. This multi-band concurrent architecture significantly improves total throughput, reduces latency, and enables better user experience in high-density environments.
In response, Qualcomm has introduced several WiFi 7-capable SoCs. Among them, the IPQ9574, IPQ5424, and IPQ5322 stand out as flagship, performance-balanced, and cost-effective options respectively. Although all three support tri-band operation, their architectural designs, tri-band integration approaches, and target applications vary greatly.
This article explores and compares these three SoCs from the perspective of onboard tri-band support, aiming to provide technical engineers, product planners, and system integrators with a clear reference for optimal platform selection.
IPQ9574: The Flagship Tri-Band Solution with Maximum PerformanceThe IPQ9574 is Qualcomm's top-tier WiFi 7 SoC, designed for enterprise-class and carrier-grade deployments. Featuring a powerful 4-core Cortex-A73 CPU running at 2.2GHz and built on a 14nm process, it delivers exceptional computing power and stability for data-intensive scenarios.
Unlike integrated solutions, the IPQ9574 adopts a discrete wireless architecture. It connects to three high-performance WiFi 7 radio chips via separate PCIe interfaces:
2.4GHz: Paired with QCN6274 (4x4 MIMO)
5GHz: Paired with QCN9274 (4x4 MIMO)
6GHz: Paired with another QCN9274 (4x4 MIMO)
This setup supports full tri-band concurrency with maximum spatial streams, making it ideal for deployments requiring ultra-high throughput, such as 10Gbps Ethernet backhaul, SFP+ fiber uplinks, large-scale Mesh networks, and enterprise/edge routers. Currently, it's one of the most powerful WiFi 7 tri-band solutions available. IPQ5424: A Balanced Tri-Band Design for Performance and CostThe IPQ5424 is targeted at the mid-to-high-end market segment. It features a 4-core Cortex-A55 CPU running at 1.5GHz and utilizes a more advanced 6nm process, providing strong performance with improved energy efficiency. This SoC is particularly well-suited for prosumer routers, smart building APs, and business WiFi deployments.
Its tri-band implementation is more cost-effective than the IPQ9574:
2.4GHz and 5GHz: Handled by a single QCN6274 radio using dual-band mode (2x2 + 2x2 MIMO)
6GHz: Powered by a dedicated QCN9274 (4x4 MIMO)
This configuration reduces the number of RF modules and associated layout complexity, while still delivering full tri-band functionality. PCIe Gen3 ensures sufficient bandwidth for concurrent operation. As a result, this solution strikes a great balance between cost, performance, and feature completeness.
For product teams targeting high-performance but cost-sensitive applications—such as smart office APs, hospitality WiFi, or premium consumer routers—the IPQ5424 offers an excellent trade-off. IPQ5322: A Lightweight and Affordable Tri-Band PlatformThe IPQ5322 is Qualcomm's entry-level WiFi 7 SoC, focusing on low power consumption and minimal BOM cost. It features a dual-core Cortex-A55 CPU at 1.0GHz and is built on a 6nm process. While its processing power is modest, it is sufficient for lightweight routing and mesh networking applications.
Despite its compact design, the IPQ5322 supports tri-band WiFi 7 by leveraging flexible radio configurations:
2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz: Implemented using two low-power RF modules such as QCN6102 and QCN6122
Primarily supports 2x2 MIMO on each band
Utilizes PCIe Gen2 interfaces, which are adequate for mid-tier bandwidth needs
This makes it an ideal SoC for outdoor mesh nodes, low-cost CPE routers, WiFi 7 repeaters, or industrial IoT gateways. Many solutions based on IPQ5322 are available with IP68 enclosures, GPS modules, and PoE support—further extending deployment versatility for outdoor and rugged environments. Which SoC Is Right for Your Tri-Band WiFi 7 Product?Depending on the product’s target application and market, each of these three SoCs serves a distinct purpose:
IPQ9574 is the best choice for high-performance enterprise APs, carrier-grade gateways, or industrial edge networks.
IPQ5424 is ideal for mainstream commercial access points and high-end residential routers that require tri-band features without excessive cost.
IPQ5322 fits low-cost, entry-level tri-band devices such as mesh nodes, CPEs, or smart city wireless endpoints.
ConclusionTri-band design in WiFi 7 is more than just stacking frequency bands—it requires carefully coordinated decisions across SoC processing capabilities, interface bandwidth, RF module design, and thermal considerations. Qualcomm’s lineup of IPQ9574, IPQ5424, and IPQ5322 covers the entire spectrum of market needs—from flagship to mass-market.
Understanding their architectural differences and deployment strategies helps OEMs and ODMs make more informed decisions during product definition and system design—ultimately shortening development cycles and improving competitiveness.
If you're planning a WiFi 7 product and need support in tri-band design, radio module selection, or platform integration, feel free to reach out for engineering support or reference schematics.
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