NetGear Orbi 970 Series Quad-band WiFi 7 Mesh Black Edition Review
How Much Does it Cost?
The Netgear Orbi 970 series is undeniably a premium product, and its price reflects that. The 3-pack WiFi 7 Mesh System (RBE973SB) comes with a significant price tag of £2199.99. This investment places it at the very high end of the consumer router market, perhaps even outside of the consumer market. While the cost may seem prohibitive to many, it’s crucial to consider the advanced technology and extensive coverage it provides. For those with demanding networking needs and a willingness to invest in top-tier performance, the Orbi 970 represents a long-term investment in future-proofed connectivity. Individual satellite units are also available, but they similarly carry a high price point, reflecting their sophisticated internal hardware. The only other solution that could beat it would be to invest in some 10 GbE switches and cables, but if you have dozens, or even hundreds of smart wireless devices, then you still need a good router as well anyway.
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Conclusion
The Netgear Orbi 970 Black Edition is a powerhouse of networking technology, designed for users who demand the very best. It offers unparalleled speed, extensive coverage, and a host of advanced features that set it apart from the competition. While its price point places it firmly in the premium category, its performance justifies the investment for those with the most demanding networking needs.
However, keep in mind that few devices support the latest WiFi technologies at this time (some examples below), but that will grow over time, so this router is strongly focused on future proofing.
- iPhone 16 series
- Google Pixel 9 series
- Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro
- OnePlus 12
- Motorola Edge 50 Ultra
- Various new Asus ROG laptops
- Asus ROG line of motherboards that support the Z890 and X870 chipsets.
- Dell Alienware m18 R2 Gaming Laptop
- HP Envy x360
Build Quality
The Orbi 970 system exudes quality in its design and construction. The matte black finish and tall, sleek form factor give it a modern and sophisticated look. The units are quite heavy, robust and well-built, reflecting the high-end components within. The minimalist design ensures that the system blends seamlessly into any home environment, while the strategic placement of ports and antennas optimises performance. They are also available in white too, if you want something that matches a brighter aesthetic.
Features
The Orbi 970 is packed with cutting-edge features, including WiFi 7 technology, quad-band networking, and 10 Gig internet and LAN ports. Its ability to support up to 200 devices simultaneously and provide coverage for up to 8,200 sq. ft. makes it ideal for large homes and demanding users. Features like Multi-Link Operation and Preamble Puncturing further enhance performance, while NETGEAR Armor provides robust security, not that you need to concern yourself, as much of this is setup and handled automatically by the routers.
Security
Security is a paramount concern for any network, and the Orbi 970 excels in this area. NETGEAR Armor, powered by Bitdefender, provides comprehensive protection against online threats, including malware and phishing attacks. WPA3 encryption ensures secure wireless connections, and the ability to create a dedicated IoT network enhances security for smart home devices. The system’s advanced security features provide peace of mind for users concerned about protecting their network and devices.
Speed and Connectivity
The Orbi 970 delivers exceptional speed and connectivity, with a total wireless bandwidth of up to 27Gbps, it can handle the most demanding applications, from 8K streaming to online gaming from multiple users simultaneously with plenty to spare. The 10 Gig internet and LAN ports provide lightning-fast wired connections, while the 2.5Gbps ports offer flexibility for connecting a variety of devices such as NAS and gaming systems.
Should I Buy One?
The decision to purchase the Netgear Orbi 970 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you have a large home, a multitude of devices, and a need for the fastest possible network speeds, the Orbi 970 is an excellent choice. Its advanced features, robust security, and exceptional performance justify the high price tag for those who demand the best. However, if your networking needs are more modest, a less expensive WiFi 6E system may be sufficient. Ultimately, the Orbi 970 is a premium product for users who are unwilling to compromise on performance and coverage. If you’ve got multiple gaming PCs, consoles, the latest phones, and a big space, go for it. If you’ve got a PS5 and single phone, then yeah, it’s total overkill.
