Netgear Orbi RBK752 vs RBK852: The Ultimate Wi-Fi 6 Showdown

In the realm of home networking, Netgear’s Orbi mesh systems have consistently reigned supreme. With the advent of Wi-Fi 6, the latest wireless standard, the Orbi RBK752 and RBK852 emerge as formidable contenders. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two routers, helping you make an informed decision for your Wi-Fi needs.

Design and Build Quality

Both the RBK752 and RBK852 feature a sleek, modern design that complements any home décor. The RBK752, with its compact size, is ideal for smaller homes or apartments, while the RBK852’s larger form factor is better suited for larger spaces. Both routers are constructed from durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability.

Wi-Fi 6 Performance

At the heart of these routers lies their Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. The RBK752 offers a theoretical maximum speed of 1.8 Gbps, while the RBK852 boasts an impressive 2.4 Gbps. In real-world scenarios, both routers deliver blazing-fast speeds that will satisfy even the most demanding users.

Coverage and Capacity

The RBK752 provides coverage up to 2,000 square feet, while the RBK852 extends its reach to a remarkable 5,000 square feet. This makes the RBK852 an excellent choice for large homes or those with thick walls or multiple floors. Additionally, both routers support up to 40 connected devices, ensuring seamless connectivity for all your smart home devices.

Mesh Networking

Both the RBK752 and RBK852 utilize Netgear’s proprietary mesh networking technology, which creates a seamless and consistent Wi-Fi experience throughout your home. The mesh nodes communicate with each other to optimize signal strength and eliminate dead zones, providing uninterrupted coverage in every corner of your space.

Advanced Features

The RBK852 comes with a host of advanced features that set it apart from the RBK752. These include:

• Dedicated Gaming Band: A dedicated 5 GHz band optimized for gaming, minimizing lag and latency.
• Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS): Access to additional channels for increased bandwidth and reduced interference.
• Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Port: A 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for lightning-fast wired connections.

Parental Controls and Security

Both the RBK752 and RBK852 offer robust parental controls and security features. You can easily create profiles for each family member, set time limits, filter content, and block inappropriate websites. Additionally, the routers support WPA2 and WPA3 encryption protocols, ensuring the highest level of protection for your data.

Which One is Right for You?

The choice between the Netgear Orbi RBK752 and RBK852 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you have a smaller home or apartment and don’t require advanced features, the RBK752 is a great value. However, if you have a larger space, require the fastest possible speeds, and want access to advanced features, the RBK852 is the superior choice.

The Winner: Netgear Orbi RBK852

While both the RBK752 and RBK852 are exceptional routers, the RBK852 emerges as the clear winner. Its superior coverage, faster speeds, and advanced features make it the ideal choice for large homes, demanding users, and those who prioritize the best possible Wi-Fi experience.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which router has a longer range?
A: The RBK852 has a longer range, covering up to 5,000 square feet compared to the RBK752’s 2,000 square feet.

Q: Does the RBK852 support Wi-Fi 6E?
A: No, the RBK852 does not support Wi-Fi 6E.

Q: Which router is better for gaming?
A: The RBK852 is better for gaming due to its dedicated gaming band, which minimizes lag and latency.

Q: Can I use the routers with my existing ISP?
A: Yes, both routers are compatible with all major ISPs.

Q: Do the routers require a subscription?
A: No, the routers do not require a subscription for basic functionality. However, some advanced features may require a Netgear Armor subscription.