Netgear Orbi RBKE963: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is a high-end mesh Wi-Fi system designed to provide robust and seamless internet coverage across large homes and offices. Leveraging the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology, it aims to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and improved overall network performance. This product is targeted at tech-savvy users, gamers, and households with multiple connected devices that demand high-speed internet access.

Key Features

The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 comes packed with an array of impressive features:

Wi-Fi 6E Technology: Supports the new 6 GHz band, offering less congestion and higher speeds.
Tri-Band Mesh System: Includes one router and two satellites, covering up to 9,000 square feet.
Multi-Gig Ethernet Port: Provides a 10 Gbps Ethernet port for ultra-fast wired connections.
Advanced Security: Includes Netgear Armor for enhanced cybersecurity and parental controls.
High Device Capacity: Can handle up to 200 connected devices simultaneously.

One standout feature is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E, which opens up the 6 GHz band for faster and more reliable connections, especially in crowded environments.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 excels in delivering high-speed internet across large areas. During testing, it consistently provided speeds exceeding 1 Gbps on the 6 GHz band, even at a distance. Compared to similar products, such as the Eero Pro 6E and Asus ZenWiFi AX, the Orbi RBKE963 often outperformed in both speed and coverage.

Strengths:

Exceptional speed and coverage.
Reliable performance with minimal latency.
Handles multiple devices without degradation in performance.

Weaknesses:

High price point.
Large physical footprint of the units.

User Experience

Setting up the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly Orbi app. The app guides users through the installation process, making it accessible even for those with limited technical knowledge. The user interface is intuitive, allowing for easy management of network settings, device prioritization, and security features.

User feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the system's reliability and speed. Some users, however, have noted the high cost as a potential drawback.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Outstanding speed and coverage.
Wi-Fi 6E support for future-proofing.
Easy setup and user-friendly app.
Advanced security features.

Cons:

Expensive compared to other mesh systems.
Large size of the router and satellites.

Value for Money

The Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is undoubtedly a premium product with a price tag to match. While it is more expensive than many other mesh Wi-Fi systems, its performance, features, and future-proofing capabilities justify the cost for those who need top-tier networking solutions. When compared to other high-end systems like the Eero Pro 6E, the Orbi RBKE963 offers superior speed and coverage, making it a worthwhile investment for demanding users.

Conclusion

In summary, the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is an exceptional mesh Wi-Fi system that delivers on its promises of speed, coverage, and reliability. While it comes at a premium price, its performance and features make it a compelling choice for those who require the best in home networking. If you are looking for a future-proof, high-performance Wi-Fi solution, the Orbi RBKE963 is highly recommended.