Youtube Reviews
Key Pointers
- Netgear Orbi Home Wi-Fi System includes two units: a base unit and a satellite unit.
- The base unit connects to the internet and provides the main Wi-Fi coverage.
- The satellite unit extends Wi-Fi coverage to other areas.
- The setup process involves downloading the Netgear app and following the instructions.
- The app allows for easy management of the system, including security settings and parental controls.
- The Orbi system provides excellent performance and throughput, even with multiple devices connected.
- The initial setup may take some time due to firmware updates.
- The system includes a 30-day free trial of advanced security features.
Key Pointers:
What is a Mesh Wi-Fi System?
- Utilizes multiple access points distributed throughout the home.
- Access points form a единая система, providing optimal Wi-Fi coverage to devices nearest each access point.
- Employs dedicated wireless channels or hardwired cables for backhaul connection between access points, ensuring maximum bandwidth availability.
Benefits of Mesh Wi-Fi Systems over Range Extenders:
- Provides full coverage throughout the home without sacrificing speed.
- Eliminates annoying network switching between upstairs/downstairs areas (seamless roaming).
- Provides a unified network name (SSID) for the entire home.
- Automatically connects devices to the optimal access point based on signal strength.
Setup and Configuration:
- Use the Netgear Genie app or web interface for setup.
- If using a modem/router combo, switch the router to "modem mode" to disable Wi-Fi and routing.
- Connect the Orbi router to the modem and power it on.
- Use wired or wireless connections to the router for initial setup.
- Configure the network name, password, and IP address.
- Add satellite units by placing them strategically and pressing the sync button on each satellite.
- For wired backhaul connections, upgrade the Orbi firmware and connect the satellites via Ethernet cables.
Comparison of Before and After Speed Tests:
- Overall Wi-Fi speeds increased by an average of 281% after installing Netgear Orbi.
- Speeds improved significantly in areas where the previous access points were weak or non-existent.
- Roaming between access points initially had issues, but placing one of the satellites in a central location resolved the problem.
Other Observations and Considerations:
- The Orbi app provides basic features but lacks advanced reporting capabilities.
- Parental controls via Circle with Disney are supported.
- USB ports on the router and satellites can be used for printer sharing.
- Currently, there is no official support for connecting external hard drives to the USB ports.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
- Netgear Orbi is highly recommended for homes seeking reliable and fast Wi-Fi coverage throughout.
- Choose the appropriate system size (number of satellites) based on the size of the home.
- Consider the more powerful AC 3000 system if budget allows.
- Use the provided Amazon link to find the best system for your needs.
Key Pointers:
-
Unbox the Orbee mesh Wi-Fi 6 System model rbk653:
-
Contains two boxes: one with the router and two satellites, the other with power adapters and an ethernet cable.
-
Connect the power adapters:
-
Use the adapter marked with orange tape for the router.
-
Plug in power adapters for the satellites.
-
Download the Orbee app:
-
Create a new account for quick login.
-
Enable face ID.
-
Set up the router:
-
Scan the QR code on the router using the Orbee app.
- Locate your modem, disconnect all connected devices, and unplug it.
-
Plug in the router and connect it to the modem using the ethernet cable.
-
Position the satellites:
-
Place the first satellite on the second floor away from the router to extend coverage.
-
Place the second satellite on the first floor.
-
Connect the satellites:
-
Wait a few minutes while the satellites start up.
- Click "Join Open Network."
- Create an admin password.
-
Set up security questions.
-
Check for firmware updates:
-
Wait 5 minutes for the Orbee to check for new firmware.
-
If an update is required, click "Update."
-
Customize settings:
-
Enable or disable face ID.
- Set up parental controls (optional).
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Up to 4000 Sq Ft |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Tri-Band AC3000 (3.0 Gbps) |
| Number of Bands | 3 |
| Parental Controls | Circle Parental Controls |
| Voice Assistant Support | Alexa Enabled |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 (1 WAN + 3 LAN) |
| Dimensions (Main Unit) | 7.2 x 3.8 x 10.2 inches |
| Dimensions (Satellite Unit) | 7.2 x 3.8 x 6.6 inches |
| Weight (Main Unit) | 1.8 pounds |
| Weight (Satellite Unit) | 1.2 pounds |
Key Features
NETGEAR Rbk50 Orbi Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi System
Features:
Coverage and Speed: * Up to 4,000 square feet of coverage * Tri-band AC3000 speed (3.0 Gbps) * Mesh technology for seamless roaming
Easy Setup and Management: * Orbi app for mobile setup and management * Intuitive web interface for advanced settings * Color-coded LED indicators for device status
Wi-Fi Technology: * MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) for simultaneous device connection * Beamforming+ for targeted Wi-Fi signal delivery * FastLane3 technology for dedicated high-speed connection between Orbi satellites
Parental Controls (Circle with Disney): * Pause internet access, set time limits, and filter content * Create personalized profiles for each family member * Monitor online activity and receive notifications
Alexa Integration: * Use voice commands with Alexa to control Orbi Wi-Fi features * Pause and resume internet access, check device status, and more
Other Features: * Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections * QoS (Quality of Service) for prioritizing traffic * VPN support for secure remote access * Guest network for secure access for visitors * Automatic firmware updates
Benefits:
- Extends Wi-Fi coverage to large homes
- Improves speed and reliability for multiple devices
- Simplifies network setup and management
- Enhances online safety for children with parental controls
- Integrates with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control
- Provides secure and customizable Wi-Fi experience
What do people say about this product
Pros:
- Excellent coverage: With a coverage range of up to 4,000 square feet, the NETGEAR Orbi Rbk50 can effectively blanket even large homes with a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- Tri-band technology: The system’s tri-band technology (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and another 5 GHz band) provides ample bandwidth and helps reduce congestion, ensuring fast and reliable connections for multiple devices.
- AC3000 Wi-Fi speeds: The Orbi Rbk50 supports AC3000 Wi-Fi speeds (up to 3.0 Gbps), enabling fast data transfer rates and smooth streaming.
- Easy setup: The system comes with a user-friendly mobile app that guides you through the installation process, making it easy to set up and configure.
- Circle parental controls: Integrated with the Circle app, the Orbi Rbk50 allows parents to easily manage their children’s online activities, including setting time limits and filtering content.
- Alexa enabled: The system can be controlled with voice commands via Amazon Alexa, providing convenient hands-free operation.
Cons:
- Limited number of Ethernet ports: Each satellite unit only has one Ethernet port, which may be limiting if you have multiple wired devices.
- Satellites non-daisy-chainable: Unlike some other mesh systems, the Orbi Rbk50 satellites cannot be daisy-chained, reducing the flexibility of the system’s placement.
- Price: The NETGEAR Orbi Rbk50 is a relatively expensive mesh Wi-Fi system, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
- Possible firmware issues: Some users have reported occasional firmware bugs that may require troubleshooting or updates.
- Size: The Orbi Rbk50 satellites are relatively large compared to some other mesh Wi-Fi systems, which may be a concern for users with limited space.