ZenWiFi Pro ET12 vs. Orbi 960: Clash of the Mesh Titans

The home networking landscape has been revolutionized by mesh Wi-Fi systems, offering seamless coverage and improved performance. The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 and the NETGEAR Orbi 960 stand out as two of the most formidable contenders in this arena. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two mesh behemoths, examining their features, performance, and value proposition.

Design and Build Quality

The ZenWiFi Pro ET12 features a sleek and modern design, with its cylindrical nodes blending seamlessly into any home décor. The Orbi 960, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional router-and-satellite approach, with its satellite units resembling miniature orbs. Both systems are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

Wi-Fi Coverage and Performance

Coverage is a crucial aspect for any mesh system. The ZenWiFi Pro ET12 boasts an impressive coverage of up to 6,000 square feet with a single three-pack, while the Orbi 960 covers up to 5,000 square feet. However, the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 employs Wi-Fi 6E technology, which provides faster speeds and reduced latency compared to the Orbi 960’s Wi-Fi 6.

Speed and Connectivity

Both the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 and the Orbi 960 offer exceptional speeds. The ZenWiFi Pro ET12 boasts a theoretical maximum speed of 11,000 Mbps (2.4 GHz: 574 Mbps, 5 GHz: 2402 Mbps, 6 GHz: 8024 Mbps), while the Orbi 960 offers speeds of up to 6,000 Mbps (2.4 GHz: 1200 Mbps, 5 GHz: 2400 Mbps). Additionally, the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, which provides access to the less congested 6 GHz band.

Features and Functionality

The ZenWiFi Pro ET12 comes equipped with a host of advanced features, including AiMesh support for seamless integration with other compatible ASUS routers, AiProtection Pro for robust network security, and a built-in smart home hub. The Orbi 960 also offers a range of features, such as NETGEAR Armor for advanced security, Circle with Disney for parental controls, and the ability to create a dedicated guest network.

Price and Value Proposition

The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 is priced at around $500 for a three-pack, while the NETGEAR Orbi 960 is slightly more expensive at around $600. Both systems offer excellent value for money, with the ZenWiFi Pro ET12 providing superior coverage and speed thanks to Wi-Fi 6E technology.

Final Verdict: The Choice is Yours

The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 and the NETGEAR Orbi 960 are both exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems with their own strengths and weaknesses. The ZenWiFi Pro ET12 offers superior coverage, speed, and features, while the Orbi 960 provides a more affordable option with a wider range of features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which system offers better coverage?
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 provides better coverage, with a range of up to 6,000 square feet.

2. Which system is faster?
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 offers faster speeds thanks to its Wi-Fi 6E technology.

3. Which system is more affordable?
The NETGEAR Orbi 960 is slightly more affordable than the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12.

4. Which system has more features?
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 has a wider range of features, including AiMesh support, AiProtection Pro, and a built-in smart home hub.

5. Which system is better for gaming?
Both systems offer excellent performance for gaming, but the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12’s Wi-Fi 6E technology provides a slight advantage.