What To Know
- If you’re looking for the fastest and most powerful mesh Wi-Fi system with the best coverage and support for a large number of devices, the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is the clear winner.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget or have a smaller home, the Netgear Orbi RBK853 is an excellent option that provides a great balance of performance and affordability.
- The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is the better choice for gaming due to its faster speeds and dedicated 6 GHz band, which provides a clear and interference-free channel for online gaming.
In the realm of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as game-changers, delivering seamless and reliable connectivity throughout your living space. Among the leading contenders in this arena are the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853, two high-performance mesh systems that promise to eliminate dead zones and enhance your online experience. But which one is the right choice for your needs? This comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key differences between the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853, helping you make an informed decision.
Speed and Performance
The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is a tri-band system that operates on the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands, providing a maximum theoretical speed of up to 6 Gbps. The RBK853, on the other hand, is a dual-band system that utilizes the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, with a maximum speed of 2.2 Gbps.
In real-world usage, the RBKE963’s tri-band architecture gives it a significant edge in terms of speed and performance. The dedicated 6 GHz band provides a clear and interference-free channel for high-bandwidth activities such as 4K streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.
Coverage
Both the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 offer excellent coverage, but the RBKE963 has a slight advantage due to its higher number of antennas. The RBKE963 comes with four antennas per satellite, while the RBK853 has three. This difference translates into a slightly larger coverage area for the RBKE963, making it a better choice for larger homes or homes with multiple floors.
Number of Devices
The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 can support a large number of connected devices simultaneously. The RBKE963 has a maximum capacity of 100 devices, while the RBK853 can handle up to 50 devices.
This difference may not be significant for most users, but it’s worth considering if you have a large number of smart home devices, such as smart TVs, security cameras, and IoT gadgets.
Features
Both the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 come with a range of features to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. These features include:
- Beamforming: Focuses the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices, improving signal strength and stability.
- MU-MIMO: Allows multiple devices to connect to the network simultaneously, reducing latency and improving overall performance.
- Smart Connect: Automatically assigns devices to the optimal frequency band, ensuring the best possible connection.
- Parental Controls: Allows you to set limits on internet usage and restrict access to inappropriate content.
Design
The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 have sleek and modern designs that will complement any home décor. The RBKE963 has a white finish, while the RBK853 is available in black or white.
Both systems are designed to be unobtrusive, with the satellites blending seamlessly into your surroundings. However, the RBKE963 is slightly larger than the RBK853, so it may be more noticeable in smaller spaces.
Price
The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is a more expensive system than the RBK853. The RBKE963 typically retails for around $600-$700, while the RBK853 can be purchased for around $300-$400.
The price difference is primarily due to the RBKE963’s superior speed, coverage, and number of devices it can support.
Recommendations: The Right Choice for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you’re looking for the fastest and most powerful mesh Wi-Fi system with the best coverage and support for a large number of devices, the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or have a smaller home, the Netgear Orbi RBK853 is an excellent option that provides a great balance of performance and affordability.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which system is better for gaming?
A: The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is the better choice for gaming due to its faster speeds and dedicated 6 GHz band, which provides a clear and interference-free channel for online gaming.
Q: Can I use the RBKE963 and RBK853 together?
A: Yes, you can mix and match the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 and RBK853 to create a customized mesh Wi-Fi system that meets your specific needs.
Q: How do I set up the Netgear Orbi system?
A: The Netgear Orbi system can be easily set up using the Orbi app. The app provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the setup process.
