Battle of the Mesh Titans: ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 vs. Netgear Orbi 960
What To Know
- The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 come equipped with an array of advanced features that enhance the user experience.
- While the Netgear Orbi 960 is a capable system, it falls short in terms of overall performance and range, making it a more suitable option for smaller homes or less demanding users.
- Both the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 provide parental controls, but the Orbi 960 has a slight edge with its Circle with Disney integration, offering more granular content filtering and time management options.
Introduction:
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as the ultimate solution for seamless and reliable coverage. Two industry giants, ASUS and Netgear, have locked horns with their latest offerings: the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these mesh behemoths, examining their features, performance, and suitability for various home scenarios.
Performance: Speed and Range
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 boast impressive speeds and coverage. The ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 offers theoretical speeds of up to 11,000 Mbps, while the Orbi 960 provides speeds of up to 6,000 Mbps. In real-world testing, both systems deliver exceptional performance, with the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 edging out the Orbi 960 in terms of overall speed and reliability.
The ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000’s superior range is another key advantage. Its tri-band design and powerful antennas ensure strong and consistent coverage throughout large homes, even those with multiple stories or thick walls. The Orbi 960, while still offering ample coverage, may struggle to provide the same level of consistency in larger spaces.
Features: Advanced Technologies
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 come equipped with an array of advanced features that enhance the user experience.
ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000:
- AiMesh: Allows you to seamlessly integrate existing ASUS routers into the mesh network, extending coverage and performance.
- Adaptive QoS: Prioritizes network traffic based on usage, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming.
- AiProtection Pro: Provides comprehensive network security with advanced parental controls and malware blocking.
Netgear Orbi 960:
- Armor Security: Offers advanced cybersecurity protection against malware, viruses, and phishing attacks.
- Circle with Disney: Provides parental controls with age-appropriate content filtering and time limits.
- MeshForce Technology: Optimizes the mesh network for maximum performance and stability.
Design: Aesthetics and Functionality
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 feature distinct designs that cater to different tastes.
ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000:
- Sleek and Modern: Features a minimalist design with a matte white finish and hidden antennas.
Netgear Orbi 960:
- Futuristic and Bold: Boasts a unique satellite design with a glossy black finish and visible antennas.
Both systems offer easy installation and management through dedicated mobile apps. However, the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000’s more user-friendly interface may appeal to non-technical users.
Price and Value
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 retails for around $500, while the Netgear Orbi 960 costs approximately $400. Both systems offer excellent value for money, considering their performance and feature set. However, the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000’s slightly higher price tag may be worth it for those demanding the ultimate Wi-Fi experience.
Which System is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000:
- Ideal for large homes and demanding users who prioritize speed, range, and advanced features.
Netgear Orbi 960:
- A solid choice for medium-sized homes and those seeking a balance of performance, security, and affordability.
Verdict: The Ultimate Mesh Wi-Fi System
Based on the comprehensive comparison, the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 emerges as the superior mesh Wi-Fi system. Its exceptional speed, extended range, and advanced features make it the ideal choice for users who demand the best possible home networking experience. While the Netgear Orbi 960 is a capable system, it falls short in terms of overall performance and range, making it a more suitable option for smaller homes or less demanding users.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which system offers better parental controls?
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Netgear Orbi 960 provide parental controls, but the Orbi 960 has a slight edge with its Circle with Disney integration, offering more granular content filtering and time management options.
2. Can I use either system with my existing router?
Yes, both the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 and the Orbi 960 support the addition of existing routers to the mesh network. However, only the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 offers true AiMesh compatibility, allowing for seamless integration and performance optimization.
3. Which system is easier to install and manage?
Both systems offer user-friendly mobile apps for installation and management. However, the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000’s simpler interface and intuitive setup wizard may make it slightly easier for non-technical users to set up and manage.
