When comparing Google OnHub vs Netgear Orbi, the Slant community recommends Netgear Orbi for most people. In the question“What are the best wireless routers?” Netgear Orbi is ranked 7th while Google OnHub is ranked 12th. The most important reason people chose Netgear Orbi is:
This tri-band AC3000 device can deliver theoretical throughput speeds of 1,266Mbps (400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 866Mbps on the 5GHz band). Third 5GHz band can reach maximum speeds of 1,733Mbps. In real life testing the Orbi router turns in a score of 480Mbps, and the satellite delivers 470Mbps. At a distance of 30 feet, the Orbi router scores 223Mbps, and the satellite scores 220Mbps. To maximize routers performance Orbi uses a separate 5GHz band that’s used only for communications between the router and the satellite. In comparison, other Wi-Fi extenders use the same bands to extend signal, which results in a 50% signal loss each time the signal is wirelessly extended.
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Pros
Pro Beautiful designs that blend in with any decor
The OnHub router is one of the more good looking network devices. It’s a cylindrical device that has several customized shells to choose from, so it can fit with your decor.
Pro Great coverage
With a range of up to 2,500 square feet, the OneHub is superb for modest-sized or larger homes.
Pro First-class performance
The OnHub can provide a maximum theoretical throughput of up to 1.9Gbps across its both bands. Up to 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 1.3 Gbps on the 5GHz band. Realistically, at a close range of 15 feet (about 4.6 m), the router registers a throughput of 308Mbps. When the distance is increased to about 100 feet (30m), the throughput drops to 179Mbps.
Pro Incredibly easy to set up
Setting up the OnHub es very simple, you just need to turn it on, download the app, and follow few simple steps.
Pro Great performance
This tri-band AC3000 device can deliver theoretical throughput speeds of 1,266Mbps (400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 866Mbps on the 5GHz band). Third 5GHz band can reach maximum speeds of 1,733Mbps. In real life testing the Orbi router turns in a score of 480Mbps, and the satellite delivers 470Mbps. At a distance of 30 feet, the Orbi router scores 223Mbps, and the satellite scores 220Mbps.
To maximize routers performance Orbi uses a separate 5GHz band that’s used only for communications between the router and the satellite. In comparison, other Wi-Fi extenders use the same bands to extend signal, which results in a 50% signal loss each time the signal is wirelessly extended.
Pro Good covarage
The Netgear Orbi WiFi system can cover up to 6,000 square feet home. The router itself can cover 2,000 square feet and one satellite unit covers additional 2,000 square feet. It’s possible to add a second extender for a total coverage of 6,000 square feet.
The idea is that you would put the main router near your ISP's modem and then just add the extender where it’s needed the most.
Pro Simple setup
Setting up the Orbi is very easy. All you need to do is to turn on the main router, download the Orbi app, and follow few simple steps. Then you need to find a place for satellite where you can get best possible coverage. Connection between main router and satellite will be done automatically.
Cons
Con Very few advanced functions
The OnHub is a very simple router, there are no additional customization features for more advanced users. It also lacks many standard router-management features, including parental controls and support for VPN services.
Con Expensive to buy 1 individual satellite
If you find out that a pair of two is not sufficient, you will be paying a lot more for 1 extra satellite.
Con Expensive for bigger homes
Orbi Home WiFi System is available for just under $400. It includes a router and an extender which will cover 4,000 square feet. However if this isn’t enough for you and you need better coverage, you can get a third device for an extra $250, which makes it a total of $650.
