What To Know
- The best choice between the Netgear Orbi and the Linksys Velop depends on your specific needs and budget.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget and prioritize affordability, the Linksys Velop is a solid choice that still offers reliable and capable mesh Wi-Fi.
- Both the Netgear Orbi and Linksys Velop offer parental controls, but the Netgear Orbi has more advanced features with Circle with Disney, which provides comprehensive content filtering and device management.
In the world of home networking, mesh Wi-Fi systems have emerged as a game-changer, offering seamless coverage and powerful performance. Two leading contenders in this arena are the Netgear Orbi and the Linksys Velop. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of each system, helping you determine the best choice for your wireless needs.
Design and Aesthetics
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system features a sleek and modern design with white satellite units that blend seamlessly into any décor. The router has a distinctive cylindrical shape, while the satellites are compact and unobtrusive.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional design with black nodes that have a distinctive angular shape. While they are not as visually appealing as the Orbi, they are still relatively discreet.
Coverage and Performance
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system offers excellent coverage, with each satellite extending the range up to 2,000 square feet. The tri-band technology ensures fast and stable connections, even in large homes with multiple devices.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system also provides impressive coverage, with each node covering up to 2,000 square feet. However, it uses a dual-band technology, which may result in slightly slower speeds compared to the Orbi.
Speed and Bandwidth
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system supports speeds of up to 3.0 Gbps, making it ideal for demanding applications such as 4K video streaming and online gaming. The tri-band technology allows for dedicated channels for different types of traffic, ensuring optimal performance.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system offers speeds of up to 1.3 Gbps, which is sufficient for most home networks. However, it may struggle to handle extremely high-bandwidth applications.
Management and Control
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system can be managed through the Orbi app or web interface. The app is user-friendly and provides access to various settings and features, including parental controls, guest network setup, and device prioritization.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system is also managed through an app or web interface. The Linksys app is intuitive and offers similar features to the Orbi app. Additionally, the Velop system supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
Additional Features
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system includes several additional features, such as MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous data streaming to multiple devices, and Circle with Disney parental controls for managing children’s internet access.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system offers features like Beamforming technology for improved signal strength and directionality, and a built-in mesh extender for seamless expansion of coverage.
Price and Value
Netgear Orbi: The Orbi system is typically more expensive than the Linksys Velop system. However, it offers superior performance, coverage, and features, making it a more premium option.
Linksys Velop: The Velop system is a more budget-friendly option, providing solid performance and features at a lower cost. It is a good choice for those who prioritize affordability without compromising too much on quality.
Which System is Right for You?
The best choice between the Netgear Orbi and the Linksys Velop depends on your specific needs and budget. If you demand the ultimate performance, coverage, and features, the Netgear Orbi is the superior option. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and prioritize affordability, the Linksys Velop is a solid choice that still offers reliable and capable mesh Wi-Fi.
The Verdict
Both the Netgear Orbi and the Linksys Velop are excellent mesh Wi-Fi systems that offer strong performance and coverage. However, the Netgear Orbi stands out with its superior speed, tri-band technology, and premium features. The Linksys Velop, on the other hand, provides an affordable option with good performance and a user-friendly interface. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual requirements and budget.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which system offers better parental controls?
A: Both the Netgear Orbi and Linksys Velop offer parental controls, but the Netgear Orbi has more advanced features with Circle with Disney, which provides comprehensive content filtering and device management.
Q: Can I connect both systems to my existing modem?
A: Yes, both the Netgear Orbi and Linksys Velop can be connected to your existing modem to provide seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.
Q: Do these systems require a subscription fee?
A: No, neither the Netgear Orbi nor the Linksys Velop requires a subscription fee. However, some features, such as advanced parental controls, may require a separate subscription from third-party providers.
