What To Know
- The Asus ZenWiFi AX boasts a slightly smaller coverage area of up to 5,500 square feet, but it offers a higher theoretical speed of up to 6.
- If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a compact design and a built-in AiMesh feature, the Asus ZenWiFi AX is an excellent choice.
- The Netgear Orbi AX6000 excels in terms of coverage and speed, while the Asus ZenWiFi AX offers a more affordable price and a compact design.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as the go-to solution for seamless and reliable connectivity. Among the top contenders in this space are the Netgear Orbi AX6000 and the Asus ZenWiFi AX. Both systems promise exceptional performance, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each system to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Netgear Orbi AX6000 features a sleek and modern design with its white, cylindrical satellites. The Asus ZenWiFi AX, on the other hand, opts for a more understated, cube-shaped design with a matte black finish. Both systems are well-built and feature a sturdy construction that inspires confidence.
Coverage and Speed
One of the most important aspects of a mesh Wi-Fi system is its coverage and speed. The Netgear Orbi AX6000 offers a maximum coverage area of up to 6,000 square feet with a theoretical speed of up to 6 Gbps. The Asus ZenWiFi AX boasts a slightly smaller coverage area of up to 5,500 square feet, but it offers a higher theoretical speed of up to 6.6 Gbps.
Features and Functionality
Both the Netgear Orbi AX6000 and the Asus ZenWiFi AX come packed with a range of features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. The Netgear Orbi AX6000 features a dedicated backhaul channel, which helps to improve the speed and stability of the connection. It also supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. The Asus ZenWiFi AX offers a similar set of features, including a dedicated backhaul channel and support for Alexa and Google Assistant. Additionally, it boasts a built-in AiMesh feature, which allows you to seamlessly add more ZenWiFi nodes to expand your coverage.
Setup and Management
Setting up and managing both systems is straightforward. The Netgear Orbi AX6000 uses a mobile app for initial setup and ongoing management. The Asus ZenWiFi AX also uses a mobile app for setup, but it offers a more comprehensive web-based interface for advanced configuration.
Price and Value
The Netgear Orbi AX6000 typically retails for around $450, while the Asus ZenWiFi AX is priced at around $350. Both systems offer good value for the money, but the Asus ZenWiFi AX has a slight edge due to its lower price and comparable performance.
Pros and Cons
Netgear Orbi AX6000
- Pros:
- Excellent coverage and speed
- Dedicated backhaul channel
- Support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Cons:
- More expensive than the Asus ZenWiFi AX
- Bulkier design
Asus ZenWiFi AX
- Pros:
- Lower price than the Netgear Orbi AX6000
- Compact design
- Built-in AiMesh feature
- Cons:
- Slightly smaller coverage area
- Web-based interface may be too complex for some users
Which System is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best mesh Wi-Fi system for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize coverage and speed, the Netgear Orbi AX6000 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a compact design and a built-in AiMesh feature, the Asus ZenWiFi AX is an excellent choice.
The Verdict: Netgear Orbi AX6000 vs. Asus ZenWiFi AX
Both the Netgear Orbi AX6000 and the Asus ZenWiFi AX are exceptional mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer reliable and high-performance connectivity. The Netgear Orbi AX6000 excels in terms of coverage and speed, while the Asus ZenWiFi AX offers a more affordable price and a compact design. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which system has better coverage?
The Netgear Orbi AX6000 has a slightly larger coverage area than the Asus ZenWiFi AX.
2. Which system is faster?
The Asus ZenWiFi AX has a higher theoretical speed than the Netgear Orbi AX6000.
3. Which system is more affordable?
The Asus ZenWiFi AX is typically more affordable than the Netgear Orbi AX6000.
4. Which system is easier to set up?
Both systems are relatively easy to set up, but the Asus ZenWiFi AX offers a more comprehensive web-based interface for advanced configuration.
5. Which system has more features?
Both systems offer a similar set of features, but the Asus ZenWiFi AX has a built-in AiMesh feature that allows you to seamlessly add more nodes to expand your coverage.
