Orbi WiFi 6E Mesh Network Review

Overview

The Orbi WiFi 6E mesh network is a powerful and high-performance solution for homes needing robust and reliable internet coverage. The system comes with three devices: a router and two satellites, allowing you to create a seamless wireless network across your entire home. I tested the Orbi 6E for several weeks, and I am impressed by its performance, features, and overall user experience.

Installation and Setup

Setting up the Orbi 6E is straightforward. The router connects directly to your modem, and the satellites use a one-touch sync button to connect to the network. The Orbi app helps guide you through the installation process, making it easy for even novice users to get up and running.

Performance

The Orbi 6E delivers exceptional performance for both wired and wireless connections. I experienced a significant improvement in internet speeds across all my devices, especially those that support WiFi 6E. The mesh network provides excellent coverage throughout my apartment, even in areas where I previously had weak signals.

Features

The Orbi 6E offers various features, including:

• One-Touch Sync Button: This button makes connecting satellites to the network a breeze. It can also be used as a WPS button for devices that support this connection method.
• App-Based Management: The Orbi app provides a simple and intuitive interface for managing your network, monitoring device activity, and adjusting settings.
• Security Features: While the Orbi 6E comes with basic security features, you can enhance them by subscribing to Netgear Armor for additional parental controls and advanced security protections.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional Performance: Provides fast and reliable speeds for both wired and wireless connections.
• Extensive Coverage: The mesh network effectively covers large spaces with strong signals.
• Easy Setup: Installation and configuration are streamlined with the help of the Orbi app.
• Backwards Compatibility: Works seamlessly with devices using older WiFi standards like WiFi 5.

Cons

• Price: The Orbi 6E is a premium product with a high price tag.
• Limited Ethernet Ports: Provides only one 10 gig port for internet input and a few 2.5 gig ports on each satellite.
• Basic Web Interface: The web-based interface is simple and lacks advanced customization options.

My Experience

I connected a wide range of devices to the Orbi 6E, including smart speakers, streaming sticks, computers, and network storage devices. The performance was excellent for all of them, with no connectivity issues or lag. The only complaint I have is about the web interface. I found it to be very basic and lacking in advanced features.

Recommendations

The Orbi WiFi 6E is a top-tier mesh network designed to deliver the best possible internet experience. If you’re serious about home networking and desire a robust, high-performance system, the Orbi 6E is a great option, but be prepared for its premium price. However, if you are on a budget or don’t require the latest technology, you might consider other excellent mesh network options that offer comparable performance at a lower price point.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Orbi WiFi 6E is a fantastic mesh networking system that offers speed, reliability, and range for your home. The app-based management system is user-friendly, and the performance for all connected devices is top-notch. Despite its high price and basic web interface, the Orbi 6E provides a "set it and forget it" experience, leaving you free to enjoy the internet without worrying about connectivity issues.