What To Know
- The ZenWiFi XT8 features a cylindrical design with a matte black finish, while the Orbi has a more traditional rectangular design with a white or black finish.
- A three-pack of the ZenWiFi XT8 typically costs around $450, while a three-pack of the Orbi is priced around $400.
- The ZenWiFi XT8 excels in coverage, speed, and scalability, while the Orbi provides consistent coverage and a more affordable price point.
When it comes to mesh Wi-Fi systems, two prominent names stand out: ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and NETGEAR Orbi. Both offer exceptional coverage, speed, and features, making them top contenders in the market. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of these mesh systems to help you make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.
Coverage
Both ZenWiFi XT8 and Orbi boast impressive coverage. The ZenWiFi XT8 features a tri-band design with a dedicated backhaul band, providing excellent coverage for large homes and multi-story buildings. It covers up to 6,000 square feet with a single three-pack system.
The Orbi, on the other hand, offers a dual-band design, delivering coverage up to 5,000 square feet with its three-pack system. While it covers a slightly smaller area than the ZenWiFi XT8, it excels in providing consistent coverage throughout the home.
Speed
Speed is crucial for a seamless Wi-Fi experience. The ZenWiFi XT8 outperforms the Orbi in this aspect. It supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering speeds of up to 6.6 Gbps. This makes it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities such as 4K streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
The Orbi, on the other hand, supports Wi-Fi 6, providing speeds of up to 6 Gbps. While it’s still fast enough for most users, it falls slightly behind the ZenWiFi XT8 in terms of raw speed.
Features
Both ZenWiFi XT8 and Orbi come equipped with a wide range of features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. The ZenWiFi XT8 features AiMesh technology, which allows you to seamlessly connect multiple ZenWiFi routers to extend your coverage even further. It also offers advanced security features like AiProtection Pro, which protects your network from malware and cyber threats.
The Orbi offers similar features, including a dedicated backhaul band for improved performance, parental controls, and an easy-to-use mobile app for remote management. However, it lacks AiMesh support, which limits its scalability compared to the ZenWiFi XT8.
Design
Design is a subjective matter, but both the ZenWiFi XT8 and Orbi offer sleek and modern designs that blend well with any home décor. The ZenWiFi XT8 features a cylindrical design with a matte black finish, while the Orbi has a more traditional rectangular design with a white or black finish.
Price
Price is an important factor to consider. The ZenWiFi XT8 is priced slightly higher than the Orbi. A three-pack of the ZenWiFi XT8 typically costs around $450, while a three-pack of the Orbi is priced around $400.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and NETGEAR Orbi depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize coverage, speed, and advanced features, the ZenWiFi XT8 is the better option. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and widely available system that provides consistent coverage, the Orbi is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts
Both the ASUS ZenWiFi XT8 and NETGEAR Orbi are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer exceptional performance and features. The ZenWiFi XT8 excels in coverage, speed, and scalability, while the Orbi provides consistent coverage and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which mesh Wi-Fi system has better coverage, the ZenWiFi XT8 or the Orbi?
A: The ZenWiFi XT8 offers slightly better coverage, up to 6,000 square feet compared to the Orbi’s 5,000 square feet.
Q: Is the ZenWiFi XT8 faster than the Orbi?
A: Yes, the ZenWiFi XT8 supports Wi-Fi 6E and offers speeds of up to 6.6 Gbps, while the Orbi supports Wi-Fi 6 and provides speeds of up to 6 Gbps.
Q: Which mesh system has more advanced features?
A: The ZenWiFi XT8 features AiMesh technology for extended coverage and AiProtection Pro for enhanced security. The Orbi offers parental controls and an easy-to-use mobile app, but lacks AiMesh support.
