Youtube Reviews
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:
Pros:
- Unmatched Wi-Fi performance
- Easy handling of over 100 devices
- Fast speeds, including over 470 megabytes per second
- Extended range, reaching across the street to a garage
- Superior speeds for Wi-Fi 6E devices due to a dedicated 6 GHz band
- Multiple ethernet jacks on routers and mesh points
- Quad-band technology, reserving a dedicated 5 GHz band for router communication
Cons:
- Expensive, with a typical retail price of $1500 US dollars
- Paywalls for features like parental controls and NETGEAR Armor protection
- Lengthier setup process compared to competing router systems
- Occasional Wi-Fi network issues after power blips
Recommendations:
- For the best Wi-Fi performance: Get the NETGEAR Orbi Wi-Fi 6E mesh system if future-proofing your Wi-Fi router is important and you want a system with quad-band technology.
- For a more affordable option: For most people, the NETGEAR Orbi Wi-Fi 6 mesh system is a better choice, offering exceptional performance and tri-band technology for a lower price (currently $300 for a two-pack).
- Consider the Wi-Fi 6E version: If you want to future-proof your Wi-Fi setup, consider the Wi-Fi 6E version of the Orbi system when the price drops to around $500 US dollars for a two-pack.
Key Pointers:
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Unbox the Orbee mesh Wi-Fi 6 System model rbk653:
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Contains two boxes: one with the router and two satellites, the other with power adapters and an ethernet cable.
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Connect the power adapters:
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Use the adapter marked with orange tape for the router.
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Plug in power adapters for the satellites.
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Download the Orbee app:
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Create a new account for quick login.
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Enable face ID.
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Set up the router:
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Scan the QR code on the router using the Orbee app.
- Locate your modem, disconnect all connected devices, and unplug it.
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Plug in the router and connect it to the modem using the ethernet cable.
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Position the satellites:
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Place the first satellite on the second floor away from the router to extend coverage.
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Place the second satellite on the first floor.
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Connect the satellites:
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Wait a few minutes while the satellites start up.
- Click "Join Open Network."
- Create an admin password.
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Set up security questions.
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Check for firmware updates:
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Wait 5 minutes for the Orbee to check for new firmware.
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If an update is required, click "Update."
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Customize settings:
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Enable or disable face ID.
- Set up parental controls (optional).
Key Pointers:
- For medium to large homes with high-speed Internet, the NETGEAR Orbi mesh Wi-Fi system enhances performance.
- The package includes an Orbi router and two satellite boosters, providing coverage up to 4,500 square feet.
- The modular design ensures seamless connectivity with the same network name and password throughout the home.
- The Orbi router connects to the ISP's modem, disabling its Wi-Fi while the Orbi takes over.
- Satellite modules only require power and strategic placement within range of each other.
- Beamforming technology provides a strong and reliable connection for multiple devices.
- MU-MIMO allows for simultaneous streaming and online activities without interruptions.
- The NETGEAR Orbi app simplifies setup, management, and customization of the network.
- Parental controls with a free 30-day trial of advanced features are included.
- NETGEAR Armor offers advanced network security protection.
- The Orbi app monitors network performance and available bandwidth.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| WiFi Coverage | Up to 5000 sq. ft. |
| Number of Satellites | 2 |
| Wireless Technology | Tri-Band |
| Wireless Speeds | Up to 3.2 Gbps |
| Wireless Bands | 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 5 GHz |
| Antenna Type | Internal |
| Ports | 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports per satellite |
| Security | WPA2-PSK, WPA3-PSK |
| Dimensions | 9.09 x 6.69 x 2.68 in. (per satellite) |
| Weight | 2.2 lb. (per satellite) |
| Power | 12V, 1.5A |
| Operating Temperature | 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) |
| Operating Humidity | 10% to 90% non-condensing |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Key Features
Netgear Orbi Whole Home Mesh WiFi System (RBK50)
Coverage and Capacity:
- Up to 5,000 square feet of coverage with two satellite units
- Tri-band technology provides optimal performance and reduces interference
Speed and Performance:
- AC3000 Wi-Fi speeds with up to 3,000 Mbps throughput
- Dedicated 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for low-latency gaming and streaming
Easy Setup:
- Orbi app for hassle-free setup and management
- Automatic channel selection and interference avoidance
Connectivity and Flexibility:
- Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections on the router and satellites
- Built-in parental controls and guest network support
Other Features:
- Circle Smart Parental Controls with parental pause, time limits, and content filtering
- Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control compatibility
- Mesh technology allows for seamless roaming between units
- One-year manufacturer’s warranty with lifetime technical support
Benefits:
- Eliminates Wi-Fi dead zones and provides a strong signal throughout your home
- Blazing-fast speeds for gaming, streaming, and video conferencing
- Easy setup and management through the mobile app
- Flexibility to connect multiple devices and customize network settings
- Peace of mind with parental controls, guest network, and technical support
What do people say about this product
Pros:
- Excellent coverage: The tri-band system provides strong coverage throughout large homes, up to 5000 square feet.
- Fast speeds: Supports speeds up to 1.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band, and 867 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band.
- Easy setup: The mobile app makes setup quick and effortless.
- Dedicated backhaul channel: The third 5 GHz band provides a dedicated connection between the router and satellites, improving performance.
- Parental controls: Includes built-in parental controls for managing internet access and setting screen time limits.
- Advanced features: Supports IPv6, MU-MIMO, and Beamforming for optimized performance.
Cons:
- Expensive: The Orbi system is more expensive than other mesh WiFi systems.
- Limited satellite options: Only comes with two satellites, which may not be enough for very large homes.
- Bulky design: The satellites are relatively large and noticeable.
- Satellite connectivity issues: Some users have reported connectivity problems with the satellites, especially in dense environments.
- Lack of advanced customization: Limited customization options compared to some other mesh systems, such as the ability to adjust channel settings or create multiple SSIDs.