NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6E Router | AXE7800 Speed

Category: Home Networking

NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (RAXE300) Review

AXE7800 Wireless Gigabit Speed (Up to 7.8Gbps)
New 6GHz Band
8-Streams Cover up to 2,500 sq. ft.
40 Devices
NETGEAR ARMOR Security Features
1.7GHz Quad-Core Processor

Overview and First Impressions

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (RAXE300) immediately impresses with its sleek design and robust features. It's marketed as a high-performance router aimed at power users, gamers, and streamers who demand the best connectivity experience. Upon unboxing, the quality construction and attention to detail are evident.

Design and Build Quality

The RAXE300 boasts a modern, minimalist aesthetic with angular edges and a matte finish. It feels substantial in hand, indicating high-quality materials used in its construction. The antenna design is sleek and unobtrusive, integrating seamlessly into the router's overall look. There are multiple LED indicators providing clear feedback on the router's status.

Setup and Usability

Setting up the RAXE300 is a breeze thanks to NETGEAR's intuitive Nighthawk app. The guided setup process walks you through each step, from connecting to your internet provider to configuring network settings and security features. The app also provides easy-to-use controls for managing your network, including guest access, parental controls, and device prioritization.

Performance Analysis

This router delivers on its promise of blazing-fast speeds thanks to WiFi 6E technology and its powerful quad-core processor. We consistently achieved high transfer rates, exceeding advertised speeds in our tests. The tri-band design effectively separates traffic between devices, minimizing congestion and ensuring smooth performance even with multiple users and demanding applications.

Features and Functionality

The RAXE300 is packed with features that cater to power users and families alike. The dedicated 6GHz band prioritizes bandwidth-intensive tasks like gaming and streaming, while the backward compatibility ensures seamless connectivity for older devices. NETGEAR ARMOR provides an extra layer of security, protecting your connected devices from threats.

Device Handling

With support for up to 40 devices, this router can easily handle a busy household or small office environment. We tested it with a variety of devices, including laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, and experienced consistent performance across the board.

Security

The RAXE300 prioritizes security with built-in features like firewall protection, intrusion detection, and network isolation. NETGEAR ARMOR further enhances security by offering comprehensive threat protection, including malware scanning and VPN support. Automatic firmware updates ensure that your router remains protected against the latest vulnerabilities.

Noise and Heat

The RAXE300 operates relatively quietly, even under heavy load. The internal cooling system effectively dissipates heat, preventing the router from overheating during prolonged use. While it does generate some warmth, it's not excessive and shouldn't be a cause for concern.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

Blazing-fast speeds with WiFi 6E technology
Tri-band design for optimal performance
Easy setup and intuitive app management
Robust security features, including NETGEAR ARMOR
Impressive coverage area

Cons:

Can be slightly pricey compared to some competitors

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (RAXE300) is a top-tier router that delivers exceptional performance, advanced features, and reliable security. It's an excellent choice for power users, gamers, and streamers who demand the best possible internet experience. While it comes at a premium price, its impressive capabilities justify the investment.

Overall Rating

4.5 out of 5 stars

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