As Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be) moves closer to real-world deployment, more device manufacturers are evaluating SoC solutions for next-generation wireless products. Among the most anticipated Wi-Fi 7 chipsets from Qualcomm are the IPQ9570 and IPQ5424. While both support the latest wireless standards, they differ significantly in architecture, performance, and target applications. 1. Core Specification ComparisonFeatureIPQ9570IPQ5424
Wi-Fi SupportWi-Fi 7 (802.11be)Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
CPUQuad-core ARM Cortex-A73 @ 2.2GHzQuad-core ARM Cortex-A53 @ 1.5GHz
Process Node14nm14nm
Frequency Bands2.4GHz / 5GHz / 6GHz (Tri-band)2.4GHz / 5GHz / 6GHz (Tri-band)
Memory SupportDDR4 / DDR5DDR4
Interfaces10G Ethernet, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.02.5G Ethernet, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.0
Target Use CaseHigh-end enterprise APs, gateways, edge networkingMid-to-high-end routers, mesh nodes
Expansion CapabilityHighModerate
2. IPQ9570: Built for High-Performance Wireless NetworksThe IPQ9570 is a flagship SoC in Qualcomm’s Networking Pro series, designed for high throughput, dense environments, and advanced routing performance. Key Features:Tri-band Wi-Fi 7 support (2.4G + 5G + 6G) High-performance Cortex-A73 quad-core CPU at 2.2GHz Supports multiple 10G Ethernet ports Works with QCN9274/QCN6274 NICs for up to 8×8 MIMO configurations
Ideal Applications:Enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 7 Access Points Carrier-grade home gateways Industrial/commercial repeaters Outdoor CPE and edge computing gateways
3. [color=var(--font-color)]IPQ5424: Performance-Cost Balanced Wi-Fi 7 PlatformThe IPQ5424 is a more cost-effective Wi-Fi 7 SoC offering, ideal for performance-conscious designs without overcommitting on hardware resources.
Key Features:Tri-band Wi-Fi 7 support for broad compatibility Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU at 1.5GHz for energy-efficient computing Supports 2.5G Ethernet and PCIe 3.0, fitting most mid-range network products
Ideal Applications: 4. Side-by-Side AnalysisCriteriaIPQ9570IPQ5424
Processing PowerHigh (A73 @ 2.2GHz)Moderate (A53 @ 1.5GHz)
Network Throughput10Gbps+2.5Gbps
Power ConsumptionHigherLower
CostHigherLower
Market PositionEnterprise, carrier, industrialConsumer, prosumer, SMB
The IPQ9570 targets demanding environments that require maximum performance and capacity. In contrast, the IPQ5424 offers a more accessible path to Wi-Fi 7 for mid-range products, balancing cost, power, and performance. 5. ConclusionIf your goal is to build high-performance Wi-Fi 7 networking solutions—such as enterprise APs or next-gen gateways—the IPQ9570 stands out with its CPU performance and I/O bandwidth. On the other hand, the IPQ5424 is ideal for manufacturers seeking a cost-optimized yet capable SoC for smart routers or mesh systems.
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