Eero 6 Plus vs Netgear Orbi: The Ultimate Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Comparison
What To Know
- The eero 6 Plus is priced at $149 for a single unit, $299 for a two-pack, and $449 for a three-pack.
- The Netgear Orbi is slightly more expensive, with a single unit costing $199, a two-pack priced at $349, and a three-pack retailing for $499.
- It provides a premium experience with extended coverage and advanced features, making it a good choice for larger homes or those with demanding network requirements.
The world of home Wi-Fi has evolved significantly with the advent of Wi-Fi 6 technology. Two of the leading players in this arena are eero 6 Plus and Netgear Orbi, offering cutting-edge solutions for seamless connectivity. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the eero 6 Plus vs Netgear Orbi debate, comparing their features, performance, and value proposition to help you make an informed decision for your home network.
Design and Build
eero 6 Plus
The eero 6 Plus features a sleek and compact design, available in a minimalist white or black finish. Each unit measures approximately 4.8 x 4.8 x 2.3 inches, making it discreet and easy to place in any room. Its rounded edges and subtle LED indicator provide a modern and unobtrusive aesthetic.
Netgear Orbi
The Netgear Orbi, on the other hand, boasts a more angular and futuristic design. Its satellite units resemble miniature rockets, standing at 6.69 x 4.33 x 2.76 inches. The router unit is slightly larger, measuring 9.5 x 7.5 x 2.7 inches. While its size may be more noticeable, the Orbi’s unique design adds a touch of flair to your home décor.
Wi-Fi Performance
eero 6 Plus
The eero 6 Plus utilizes Wi-Fi 6 technology with a tri-band configuration. It delivers theoretical speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps on the 5 GHz bands and 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. Its mesh network architecture seamlessly connects multiple units to provide wide coverage and eliminate dead zones.
Netgear Orbi
The Netgear Orbi also employs Wi-Fi 6 technology, but it features a dedicated 5 GHz backhaul band for faster communication between units. This results in theoretical speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz bands and 600 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. The Orbi’s mesh network also ensures consistent coverage throughout your home.
Range and Coverage
eero 6 Plus
The eero 6 Plus provides a coverage range of up to 1,500 square feet per unit. With a three-pack system, you can extend coverage to up to 4,500 square feet. Its mesh network automatically adjusts to the layout of your home, ensuring optimal signal distribution.
Netgear Orbi
The Netgear Orbi offers a slightly larger coverage range of up to 2,000 square feet per unit. A three-pack system can cover up to 6,000 square feet. The Orbi’s dedicated backhaul band enhances signal stability and performance, especially in homes with thick walls or multiple floors.
Features and Functionality
eero 6 Plus
The eero 6 Plus comes with a range of advanced features, including:
- Adaptive Routing: Automatically selects the best path for data to travel, reducing latency and improving performance.
- Band Steering: Guides devices to the optimal frequency band for the best possible connection.
- WPA3 Encryption: Provides the latest security standards to protect your network from unauthorized access.
- Parental Controls: Allows you to set limits on internet usage and access for specific devices.
Netgear Orbi
The Netgear Orbi offers similar features to the eero 6 Plus, such as:
- Fast Roaming: Ensures seamless connectivity as you move around your home, without losing signal.
- Beamforming: Directs Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices for stronger connections.
- MU-MIMO: Allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without significant speed degradation.
- Guest Network: Provides a separate Wi-Fi network for visitors, isolating them from your main network.
Price and Value
eero 6 Plus
The eero 6 Plus is priced at $149 for a single unit, $299 for a two-pack, and $449 for a three-pack. It offers a solid balance of performance, features, and value for homes up to 4,500 square feet.
Netgear Orbi
The Netgear Orbi is slightly more expensive, with a single unit costing $199, a two-pack priced at $349, and a three-pack retailing for $499. It provides a premium experience with extended coverage and advanced features, making it a good choice for larger homes or those with demanding network requirements.
Which is Right for You?
The choice between eero 6 Plus and Netgear Orbi depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize value, coverage, and ease of use, the eero 6 Plus is an excellent option. For homes with larger square footage, demanding network requirements, or a desire for premium features, the Netgear Orbi is a more suitable choice.
Verdict: A Close Contest
Both the eero 6 Plus and Netgear Orbi are exceptional Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems that offer superior performance, range, and features. The eero 6 Plus provides a compelling balance of value and functionality, while the Netgear Orbi excels in coverage and advanced features. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual needs and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which system has better parental controls?
A: Both eero 6 Plus and Netgear Orbi offer parental controls, but eero 6 Plus provides more granular options and supports device grouping for easier management.
Q: Does the eero 6 Plus support Wi-Fi 6E?
A: No, the eero 6 Plus does not support Wi-Fi 6E.
Q: Can I use the eero 6 Plus and Netgear Orbi together?
A: No, it is not recommended to mix and match Wi-Fi systems from different manufacturers.
