NETGEAR Orbi RBK50: Unveiling the Differences Between V1 and V2
What To Know
- If you prioritize the latest Wi-Fi technology, increased capacity, and a larger coverage area, then the Orbi RBK50 V2 is the better choice.
- However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with solid performance and coverage for smaller homes or apartments, then the Orbi RBK50 V1 may be a suitable option.
- The V2 model has four Ethernet ports (three on the main router and one on the satellite), while the V1 model has three Ethernet ports (two on the main router and one on the satellite).
The NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 is a high-performance mesh Wi-Fi system designed to provide seamless and reliable wireless connectivity throughout your home. With the release of the updated V2 model, users are curious about the key differences between the two versions. This comprehensive comparison will shed light on the specifications, features, and performance of the NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2, helping you make an informed decision about which model best suits your needs.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Orbi RBK50 V1 | Orbi RBK50 V2 |
| — | — | — |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) |
| Number of Bands | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) | Tri-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max Speed | 1.2Gbps | 1.8Gbps |
| Coverage Area | Up to 4,000 sq. ft. | Up to 5,000 sq. ft. |
| Number of Ethernet Ports | 3 | 4 |
Wi-Fi Performance
The most significant difference between the Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2 lies in their Wi-Fi performance. The V2 model boasts Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, which offers several advantages over the 802.11ac standard used in the V1 model.
Wi-Fi 6 provides faster speeds, increased capacity, and reduced latency. This means that the Orbi RBK50 V2 can handle more devices simultaneously without experiencing congestion or slowdowns. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6 is designed to improve performance in crowded environments, such as apartment buildings or densely populated areas.
Coverage Area
Another key difference between the two models is their coverage area. The Orbi RBK50 V2 offers a slightly larger coverage area of up to 5,000 sq. ft., compared to the V1 model’s coverage area of up to 4,000 sq. ft. This makes the V2 model a better choice for larger homes or businesses.
Connectivity
Both the Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2 offer a range of connectivity options. However, the V2 model adds an additional Ethernet port, giving users a total of four Ethernet ports on the main router and satellite units. This provides more flexibility for connecting wired devices, such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, or NAS drives.
Design and Appearance
Physically, the Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2 models look very similar. They both feature a sleek and modern design with a white finish. However, the V2 model has a slightly smaller satellite unit, which may be a consideration for users with limited space.
Setup and Management
The Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2 both come with user-friendly setup and management tools. Users can easily configure and monitor their network using the Orbi app or the web interface. The app provides a range of features, including parental controls, guest network management, and device prioritization.
Price and Availability
The Orbi RBK50 V1 is typically priced lower than the V2 model. The V1 model is available at most major retailers, while the V2 model is still relatively new and may only be available from select retailers.
Which Model is Right for You?
The decision between the NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize the latest Wi-Fi technology, increased capacity, and a larger coverage area, then the Orbi RBK50 V2 is the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with solid performance and coverage for smaller homes or apartments, then the Orbi RBK50 V1 may be a suitable option.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the main difference between the Orbi RBK50 V1 and V2?
A: The main difference is that the V2 model uses Wi-Fi 6 technology, which provides faster speeds, increased capacity, and reduced latency.
Q: Which model has a larger coverage area?
A: The Orbi RBK50 V2 has a slightly larger coverage area of up to 5,000 sq. ft., compared to the V1 model’s coverage area of up to 4,000 sq. ft.
Q: How many Ethernet ports do each model have?
A: The V2 model has four Ethernet ports (three on the main router and one on the satellite), while the V1 model has three Ethernet ports (two on the main router and one on the satellite).
