now days, without MESH, coverage sure like shit.
AX or AC are same shit to me.
invest in 3 pcs mesh better than buy new router

i dont think tplink is lousy router
it depend on house size, partition and slab thickness.
if you wan to gamble with new router is up to you.
i prefer 3 node mesh rather super expensive router and yet not even know if it can penetrate my double story house but 3 story tall in size