What to know
- Orbi offers a range of features, including parental controls, a built-in VPN server, and support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- It includes a built-in touchscreen display, a customizable LED ring, and a variety of advanced networking features.
- If you prefer a more compact and affordable option with flexible coverage and advanced networking capabilities, the Ubiquiti AmpliFi is a great pick.
In the realm of home networking, the quest for seamless and reliable Wi-Fi coverage is an ongoing battle. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Netgear Orbi and the Ubiquiti AmpliFi mesh systems. Both systems promise exceptional performance, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both contenders to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics
Netgear Orbi: Orbi’s satellites feature a sleek and futuristic design with a white or black finish. They are relatively large and not as discreet as some other mesh systems.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi: AmpliFi’s satellites have a more compact and minimalist design. They come in a variety of colors, including black, white, and gray, and can blend seamlessly into any home décor.
Coverage and Performance
Netgear Orbi: Orbi boasts impressive coverage, with each satellite capable of covering up to 2,500 square feet. The system uses a tri-band design with a dedicated backhaul channel, which helps minimize interference and improve performance.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi: AmpliFi offers slightly less coverage than Orbi, with each satellite covering up to 2,000 square feet. However, it uses a mesh network topology with multiple radios, allowing for more flexible and reliable coverage.
Speed and Latency
Netgear Orbi: Orbi delivers fast speeds, with the top-of-the-line model capable of achieving speeds of up to 6 Gbps. However, real-world speeds may vary depending on factors such as distance from the router and interference.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi: AmpliFi is also capable of delivering high speeds, with the top-of-the-line model offering speeds of up to 5.3 Gbps. It uses a combination of Wi-Fi 6 and MU-MIMO technology to improve performance in crowded environments.
Features and Functionality
Netgear Orbi: Orbi offers a range of features, including parental controls, a built-in VPN server, and support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It also has a dedicated app for easy setup and management.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi: AmpliFi is relatively more feature-rich than Orbi. It includes a built-in touchscreen display, a customizable LED ring, and a variety of advanced networking features. It also has a dedicated app for setup and management.
Price and Value
Netgear Orbi: Orbi is generally more expensive than AmpliFi, with prices ranging from $300 to $700. However, it offers a wider range of features and more coverage.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi: AmpliFi is more affordable than Orbi, with prices ranging from $200 to $500. It offers a good balance of features and performance at a competitive price point.
Pros and Cons
Netgear Orbi
Pros:
- Excellent coverage
- Fast speeds
- Tri-band design
- Parental controls and VPN server
Cons:
- Larger and less discreet design
- More expensive
Ubiquiti AmpliFi
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Flexible and reliable coverage
- Advanced networking features
- Affordable
Cons:
- Slightly less coverage than Orbi
- Fewer built-in features
The Verdict: Which One to Choose?
Choosing between the Netgear Orbi and the Ubiquiti AmpliFi depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value coverage, speed, and advanced features, the Netgear Orbi is a solid choice. If you prefer a more compact and affordable option with flexible coverage and advanced networking capabilities, the Ubiquiti AmpliFi is a great pick.
What You Need to Know
1. Which system has better parental controls?
Both Netgear Orbi and Ubiquiti AmpliFi offer parental controls, but Orbi’s parental controls are more comprehensive and user-friendly.
2. Can I use either system with my existing router?
Yes, both Orbi and AmpliFi can be used as standalone mesh systems or as extenders to your existing router.
3. Which system is easier to set up?
Both systems offer user-friendly apps for easy setup and management. However, AmpliFi’s touchscreen display and customizable LED ring make it slightly more intuitive to use.