I use a Surf SOHO right now as my single AP, located somewhat centrally in small townhome. Approx. 800 sq ft per floor + 270 sqft finished basement.
My SOHO is currently broadcasting on both bands, 20mghz wide channel for both. 5ghz band is using a somewhat unique channel available only when using 20mghz channel width, ch 165. Trying to avoid channel overlap as much as possible. My area sees anywhere from 60 to 100 other networks.
The SOHO tx power is currently 16dbm on 2.4 (high setting) and 21dbm on 5ghz (MAX setting).
I did a site survey and provided heatmaps here:
Still somewhat impressed with the range. Speedtest next to the SOHO over wifi will hit about 100-110… furthest bedroom will drop to 40 or so… all on 5ghz.
The AP mini tx power for both bands is rated at 17dbm i believe and antenna gain is rated at 2.2dbi for 2.4 and 3dbi for 5ghz.
Both are omni directional, but the SOHO antennas are external. And the SOHO antennas are 3x3 MU-MIMO compared to the 2x2 MU-MIMO of the AP mini. But that i believe is meaningless unless your wireless devices are compatible with MU-MIMO.
To me, I would expect the performance and range of an AP mini to be inferior to my SOHO given the specs on paper…
But i am considering adding an AP mini to the upstairs hallway to help with the range a little.
But honestly can’t complain with the SOHO as it is now.
Hope this helps.