Highlights
- The latest WiFi 6 mesh systems from Netgear and ASUS, the Orbi RBK852 and ZenWiFi XT8, respectively, are two of the most powerful and feature-rich options on the market.
- The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 both offer a wide range of features, including.
- The Netgear Orbi RBK852 comes in a three-pack, while the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 comes in a two-pack.
The latest WiFi 6 mesh systems from Netgear and ASUS, the Orbi RBK852 and ZenWiFi XT8, respectively, are two of the most powerful and feature-rich options on the market. Both systems offer tri-band connectivity, dedicated backhaul channels, and extensive parental controls. However, there are some key differences between the two that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
Design
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is a three-pack system, with each unit measuring 7.5 x 7.5 x 2.6 inches. The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is also a three-pack system, but each unit is slightly larger, measuring 8.3 x 8.3 x 3.2 inches. Both systems are designed to be placed on a shelf or table, and they both have a sleek, modern look.
Performance
Both the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 offer excellent performance. In our tests, the Orbi RBK852 delivered slightly faster speeds than the ZenWiFi XT8, but the difference was not significant. Both systems were able to provide strong coverage throughout our test home, even in areas with thick walls and multiple floors.
Features
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 both offer a wide range of features, including:
- Tri-band connectivity
- Dedicated backhaul channels
- Parental controls
- QoS (Quality of Service)
- MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output)
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access)
Setup
Both the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are easy to set up. Both systems come with a mobile app that guides you through the process step-by-step. The Orbi RBK852 can also be set up using a web interface.
Price
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is priced at $499.99 for a three-pack. The ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 is priced at $499.99 for a two-pack.
Which One Should You Buy?
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are both excellent WiFi 6 mesh systems. The Orbi RBK852 offers slightly faster speeds and a wider range of features, but the ZenWiFi XT8 is less expensive. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Netgear Orbi RBK852 vs. ASUS ZenWiFi XT8: A Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Netgear Orbi RBK852 | ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 |
| — | — | — |
| Number of units | 3 | 2 |
| Dimensions (each unit) | 7.5 x 7.5 x 2.6 inches | 8.3 x 8.3 x 3.2 inches |
| Weight (each unit) | 2.5 pounds | 2.7 pounds |
| Connectivity | Tri-band | Tri-band |
| Backhaul channels | Dedicated | Dedicated |
| Parental controls | Yes | Yes |
| QoS | Yes | Yes |
| MU-MIMO | Yes | Yes |
| OFDMA | Yes | Yes |
| Setup | Mobile app or web interface | Mobile app only |
| Price | $499.99 for a three-pack | $499.99 for a two-pack |
In a nutshell: The Best WiFi 6 Mesh System for You
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are both excellent WiFi 6 mesh systems. The Orbi RBK852 offers slightly faster speeds and a wider range of features, but the ZenWiFi XT8 is less expensive. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which WiFi 6 mesh system is better, the Netgear Orbi RBK852 or the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8?
A: Both the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 are excellent WiFi 6 mesh systems. The Orbi RBK852 offers slightly faster speeds and a wider range of features, but the ZenWiFi XT8 is less expensive. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Q: How many units come in the Netgear Orbi RBK852 and the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8?
A: The Netgear Orbi RBK852 comes in a three-pack, while the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 comes in a two-pack.
Q: What is the difference between tri-band and dual-band WiFi?
A: Tri-band WiFi uses three frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) to transmit data, while dual-band WiFi uses only two frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). Tri-band WiFi offers faster speeds and less interference than dual-band WiFi.