What To Know
- The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 boasts a coverage area of up to 6,000 square feet, while the Netgear Orbi 960 covers up to 7,500 square feet.
- The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 comes in a 2-pack for around $500, while the Netgear Orbi 960 is priced at around $700 for a 3-pack.
- The Netgear Orbi 960 provides slightly better coverage and a wider range of connectivity options, but at a higher cost.
In the realm of home networking, the battle for supremacy between ASUS and Netgear rages on. Two formidable contenders enter the arena: the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 and the Netgear Orbi 960. Both boast cutting-edge technology and promise to deliver seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. But which one emerges victorious? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to determine the ultimate winner.
Design and Aesthetics
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 features a sleek and minimalist design with white, cylindrical towers. Its compact size allows for discreet placement in any room. In contrast, the Netgear Orbi 960 adopts a more traditional design with larger, black satellites. Both systems blend seamlessly into most home decors.
Coverage and Performance
Coverage is paramount in any mesh Wi-Fi system. The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 boasts a coverage area of up to 6,000 square feet, while the Netgear Orbi 960 covers up to 7,500 square feet. In real-world testing, both systems deliver impressive coverage, with the Netgear Orbi 960 having a slight edge in larger homes.
Speed and Connectivity
Speed is another crucial factor. The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 supports Wi-Fi 6E, the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering speeds up to 11 Gbps. The Netgear Orbi 960, on the other hand, supports Wi-Fi 6, with speeds up to 6 Gbps. In terms of connectivity, both systems offer a wide range of options, including Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi.
Features and Functionality
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 comes with a host of advanced features, such as AiMesh support, which allows for seamless integration with other ASUS routers. It also features parental controls, network security, and a dedicated gaming mode. The Netgear Orbi 960 offers similar features, including parental controls, guest Wi-Fi, and a built-in VPN.
Ease of Use and Setup
Both systems offer user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps for easy setup and management. The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 features a step-by-step guide that makes setup a breeze. The Netgear Orbi 960 also has a straightforward setup process, but it requires a bit more technical knowledge.
Price and Value
The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 comes in a 2-pack for around $500, while the Netgear Orbi 960 is priced at around $700 for a 3-pack. The price difference is significant, making the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 a more affordable option.
The Verdict: A Close Contest
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 and the Netgear Orbi 960 are exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems. The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 offers excellent coverage, speed, and features at a competitive price. The Netgear Orbi 960 provides slightly better coverage and a wider range of connectivity options, but at a higher cost.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and advanced features, the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 is a solid choice. If you demand the ultimate coverage and connectivity, the Netgear Orbi 960 is worth the investment.
Alternatives to Consider
- TP-Link Deco X60: A budget-friendly mesh Wi-Fi system with excellent coverage and speeds.
- Eero Pro 6E: A high-performance mesh Wi-Fi system with Wi-Fi 6E support and robust security features.
- Google Nest WiFi Pro: A smart mesh Wi-Fi system with integrated Google Assistant and parental controls.
Popular Questions
Q: Which system has better coverage?
A: The Netgear Orbi 960 has a slightly larger coverage area than the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12.
Q: Which system is faster?
A: The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering higher speeds than the Netgear Orbi 960’s Wi-Fi 6.
Q: Which system is easier to set up?
A: Both systems offer user-friendly setup processes, but the ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12’s step-by-step guide makes it slightly easier for beginners.
Q: Which system has more features?
A: The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 offers a wider range of advanced features, including AiMesh support and parental controls.
Q: Which system is more affordable?
A: The ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 is more affordable than the Netgear Orbi 960, especially when considering the number of units in each pack.
