Can you get a better mesh system than Netgear Orbi?

Best Netgear Orbi Alternatives Android Central 2020

As more companies start to make mesh Wi-Fi systems, there are more options than ever to find the set that fits your precise needs. Whether you need more coverage or higher speeds, there's a package that will work for you. The AmpliFi HD system from Ubiquiti is one of the most well-rounded mesh systems. It makes the transition easy with the coverage and features you expect in a traditional router with the added flexibility of a mesh network.

Best Overall: AmpliFi HD

While other companies were removing features from their mesh routers, Ubiquiti reminded us that you can still have four Ethernet ports in a cool and compact mesh router. The AmpliFi HD (high-density) mesh system combines a base router with four Ethernet ports with two antenna-like mesh points that simply carry the wireless signal. The AmpliFi HD with two MeshPoints can cover up to 10,000 square feet, which is big even by mesh standards.

Speeds come in at a combined 1,750Mbps from a dual-band setup. Like most Wi-Fi routers, you'll never see those full speeds on any one device but this system should be able to keep up with most standard usage, including video streaming at 4K resolutions.

If you are looking to expand your AmpliFi HD system, you can add additional mesh points, or if you're looking for a little more functionality, add additional routers like the more compact AmpliFi Instant routers. This can help add wired capabilities to more areas of the home. There's also a gaming version that comes in a matte black housing with a green accent. This design hints at the NVIDIA software that keeps lag down and game traffic running smoothly.

Great Security: Nest Wifi

If you need more speed and capacity than most mesh systems provide, the Velop MX5 is a great starting point. Alone, it can cover an average home but for it to really shine, it can be combined with more Wi-Fi 6 Velop routers to form a great mesh. Wi-Fi 6 will have greater coverage than 802.11ac-based routers, and will be the upcoming Wi-Fi standard, but will still be susceptible to interference. The speed comes in at AX5300, which breaks down into 1146Mbps, 2402Mbps, and 1733Mbps with its tri-band setup.

While many people will need to wait for their next device upgrades to make the most of Wi-Fi 6, this router fully supports the older 802.11ac until then. Wi-Fi 6 will come into its own in a home with a lot of wireless devices connected such as in a fully-connected smart home. If your devices support it, you can also connect more securely with WPA3.

Bottom line

Netgear makes some of the best networking equipment around but the fact is, there are a ton of options for mesh networks available from some other great manufacturers. Whether you need support for a lot of wired devices, ultimate speed, or great expansion options, there's an option available for you. You can also pick one that fits in with your home's decor to blend in even more.

While some people have managed to transition to a fully wireless network, many will still want a more traditional four Ethernet ports on the back of the main router. The AmpliFi HD WiFi System has all of the best features of a traditional router with great support for expansion with its MeshPoints or even other AmpliFi mesh devices.

Credits - The team that worked on this guide

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