Netgear
Netgear Orbi 960 Wi-Fi 6E (Router + 1 Satellite)
Quad-band WiFi with a dedicated 6GHz backhaul and 10G ethernet. For large homes with 30+ smart devices and multi-gig internet plans.
$700
What we like
- Quad-band design with a dedicated 6GHz backhaul channel delivers the fastest node-to-node communication available
- 10.8 Gbps combined throughput and a 2.5G WAN port handle multi-gig internet plans without bottlenecking
- Covers 6,000 sq ft with just two units, and each unit can handle 200+ devices
- Best-in-class performance for homes with very dense smart device networks (30+ devices)
What could be better
- At $700 for a router + one satellite, it's significantly more expensive than most households need
- The Netgear Armor subscription (security features) is an optional recurring cost
- The units are physically large and not as discreet as eero pucks or Nest WiFi points
Best for
- • Large homes (4,000+ sq ft) with 30+ smart devices that need maximum throughput
- • Anyone with a multi-gig internet plan who needs hardware that can actually use it
- • Power users who want the best available mesh performance and don't mind paying for it
Our verdict
The Orbi 960 is the premium pick for a reason. RTINGS and Tom's Hardware both rank it as the fastest Wi-Fi 6E mesh system you can buy, and the quad-band design with dedicated 6GHz backhaul means the satellite connection doesn't compete with your devices for bandwidth. The 2.5G WAN port is increasingly relevant as ISPs roll out multi-gig plans. For most smart homes, the eero Pro 6E at $200 covers the need. But if you have a large home, 30+ devices, and a fast internet plan, the Orbi 960 is the only system that won't be the bottleneck.
No monthly fee
This product works fully without any subscription or recurring cost.
More in Wi-Fi & Mesh
Eero Max 7
Amazon/eero
$599
Amazon Eero Pro 6E (3-Pack)
Amazon/eero
$200
$230