Netgear Orbi RBK852 vs ASUS ZenWiFi XT8: The Ultimate Mesh Wi-Fi Battle
What To Know
- The Orbi RBK852 features a cylindrical shape with a glossy finish, while the ZenWiFi XT8 opts for a more angular design with a matte black exterior.
- The Netgear Orbi RBK852 boasts a maximum coverage area of up to 7,500 square feet, while the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 offers coverage of up to 6,000 square feet.
- The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are both exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems, but the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 emerges as the clear winner.
In the realm of mesh Wi-Fi systems, two titans stand tall: the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8. Both devices promise to deliver exceptional Wi-Fi coverage, speed, and reliability, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each system to determine the ultimate winner.
Design and Build Quality
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 share a sleek and modern design. The Orbi RBK852 features a cylindrical shape with a glossy finish, while the ZenWiFi XT8 opts for a more angular design with a matte black exterior. Both systems are well-built and exude a premium feel.
Wi-Fi Coverage and Performance
Wi-Fi coverage is a crucial aspect of any mesh system. The Netgear Orbi RBK852 boasts a maximum coverage area of up to 7,500 square feet, while the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 offers coverage of up to 6,000 square feet. In terms of performance, the Orbi RBK852 delivers speeds of up to 4.2Gbps, while the ZenWiFi XT8 achieves speeds of up to 6.6Gbps.
Number of Nodes
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 comes with a two-pack configuration, which includes a router and a satellite node. The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8, on the other hand, offers a three-pack configuration, consisting of a router and two satellite nodes. The additional node in the ZenWiFi XT8 provides enhanced coverage and performance, especially in larger homes.
Tri-Band vs Dual-Band
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 utilizes a tri-band design, which allocates a dedicated 5GHz band for communication between the router and satellite nodes. This ensures optimal performance and reduces interference. The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 employs a dual-band design, which uses a single 5GHz band for both backhaul and client communication.
Features and Functionality
Both the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 offer a comprehensive suite of features. The Orbi RBK852 includes parental controls, a built-in VPN, and support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The ZenWiFi XT8 features similar capabilities, along with the addition of an integrated security suite powered by Trend Micro.
Price and Value
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is priced at around $500 for the two-pack configuration, while the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 retails for approximately $700 for the three-pack configuration. The Orbi RBK852 offers a more affordable option, while the ZenWiFi XT8 provides better value for money considering its enhanced performance and additional node.
Final Thoughts: Declaring the Winner
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are both exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems, but the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 emerges as the clear winner. Its superior coverage, faster speeds, and additional node provide a more comprehensive and reliable Wi-Fi experience. While the Orbi RBK852 offers a more affordable option, the ZenWiFi XT8’s enhanced performance and value make it the better choice for most users.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which system has the better Wi-Fi coverage?
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 offers better Wi-Fi coverage, extending up to 6,000 square feet compared to the Orbi RBK852’s 7,500 square feet.
2. Which system is faster?
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 delivers faster speeds of up to 6.6Gbps, while the Orbi RBK852 achieves speeds of up to 4.2Gbps.
3. Which system has more advanced features?
The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 includes an integrated security suite powered by Trend Micro, while the Orbi RBK852 offers similar features but lacks a dedicated security suite.
