Quick Overview
- The Orbi system features a sleek and modern design with a white or black finish.
- The Eero Pro 6 system has a more minimalist aesthetic, with small, cube-shaped units in a matte black or white finish.
- However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a minimalist design and advanced features such as a built-in Zigbee hub, Eero Pro 6 is an excellent choice.
Introduction:
In the realm of home networking, Netgear Orbi and Eero Pro 6 stand as two formidable contenders vying for the crown of Wi-Fi 6 dominance. Both systems promise exceptional coverage, speed, and reliability, but which one truly reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and drawbacks of each system to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system features a sleek and modern design with a white or black finish. The main router unit is a large, cylindrical device with two antennas that can be adjusted for optimal signal distribution. The satellite units are smaller and more compact, making them easy to place around your home.
Eero Pro 6: The Eero Pro 6 system has a more minimalist aesthetic, with small, cube-shaped units in a matte black or white finish. The units are designed to blend seamlessly into your home décor and feature integrated LED status indicators.
Coverage and Range
Netgear Orbi: Orbi systems are renowned for their exceptional coverage and range. The RBK853 model, for instance, covers up to 7,500 square feet, making it suitable for large homes or multiple-story buildings. The satellite units extend the range effectively, ensuring consistent Wi-Fi throughout your entire home.
Eero Pro 6: Eero Pro 6 systems also offer impressive coverage, although slightly less than Orbi. The 3-pack model covers up to 6,000 square feet, while the 6-pack model extends the range to over 10,000 square feet. The mesh technology ensures seamless roaming between units, providing a stable and reliable connection.
Speed and Performance
Netgear Orbi: Orbi systems utilize Wi-Fi 6 technology, which delivers blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency. The RBK853 model supports speeds of up to 6 Gbps, enabling you to stream 4K videos, play online games, and download large files effortlessly.
Eero Pro 6: Eero Pro 6 systems also feature Wi-Fi 6 and offer comparable speeds to Orbi. The 2-pack model provides speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps, while the 3-pack and 6-pack models offer speeds of up to 1.8 Gbps and 2.7 Gbps, respectively.
Features and Functionality
Netgear Orbi: Orbi systems come with a host of advanced features, including:
- Tri-band technology: Utilizes a dedicated backhaul band to optimize communication between the router and satellite units.
- Beamforming: Focuses Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices to improve range and reliability.
- MU-MIMO: Allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without sacrificing speed.
Eero Pro 6: Eero Pro 6 systems also offer a range of features, such as:
- TrueMesh technology: Automatically optimizes the network topology to ensure the best possible coverage and performance.
- WPA3 encryption: Provides the latest security standards to protect your network from unauthorized access.
- Built-in Zigbee hub: Allows you to connect and control compatible smart home devices directly through the Eero system.
Pricing and Value
Netgear Orbi: Orbi systems are generally more expensive than Eero Pro 6 systems. The RBK853 3-pack, for example, retails for around $500, while the RBK752 2-pack costs around $300.
Eero Pro 6: Eero Pro 6 systems offer a more affordable option. The 2-pack retails for around $250, the 3-pack for $350, and the 6-pack for $500.
Pros and Cons
Netgear Orbi:
Pros:
- Exceptional coverage and range
- Blazing-fast speeds
- Tri-band technology for optimized performance
Cons:
- More expensive than Eero Pro 6
- Larger and less aesthetically pleasing design
Eero Pro 6:
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Minimalist design
- TrueMesh technology for seamless roaming
Cons:
- Slightly less coverage than Orbi
- Fewer advanced features than Orbi
Ending Note: The Verdict
Both Netgear Orbi and Eero Pro 6 are exceptional Wi-Fi 6 systems that offer impressive coverage, speed, and reliability. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize maximum coverage and range, Netgear Orbi is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a minimalist design and advanced features such as a built-in Zigbee hub, Eero Pro 6 is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which system is better for large homes?
Answer: Netgear Orbi offers better coverage and range, making it more suitable for large homes.
2. Which system is faster?
Answer: Both Orbi and Eero Pro 6 offer similar speeds, although Orbi has a slight edge in certain models.
3. Which system has more advanced features?
Answer: Netgear Orbi offers more advanced features, such as tri-band technology and beamforming.
4. Which system is more affordable?
Answer: Eero Pro 6 systems are generally more affordable than Orbi systems.
5. Which system has a better design?
Answer: Eero Pro 6 has a more minimalist and aesthetically pleasing design, while Orbi has a more traditional and larger design.