Google Wi-Fi vs. Netgear Orbi AC3000 – A comprehensive router comparison
Are you trying to find a convenient router for your home connections? The Google Wi-Fi and Netgear Orbi A3000 are excellent devices that boast great speeds.
The need for home connections is growing by the day, causing more people to install routers in their homes. In response to this need, router manufacturers are continuing to diversify router specifications to fit the demands of different users. The Google Wi-Fi and Netgear Orbi AC3000 bear varying characteristics which make them ideal for different environments. They are both high end routers that are built to deliver high speeds over different ranges. So, which one of them is superior?
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Google Wi-Fi and Netgear Orbi AC3000?
Model |
Google Wi-Fi |
Netgear Orbi AC3000 |
Dimensions |
4.17 x 2.70 inches |
8.0 x 6.4 x 3.1 inches |
Range |
1,500 square feet |
3,000 square feet |
Transmission Speed |
400Mbps at 2.4GHz
867Mbps at 5GHz |
600Mbps at 2.4GHz
1300Mbps at 5GHz 1733Mbps at 5GHz |
Processor |
800MHz Dual Core |
710MHz Dual Core |
Ports |
1 WAN, 1 LAN |
1 WAN, 3 LAN, 4 LAN |
Google Wi-Fi vs. Netgear Orbi AC3000 – How do they compare?
Design and Build
Aside from the speed and reliability of a router, many users pick their preferred device based on its general outlook. There are those that prefer techy and futuristic designs while others go for simplicity. The Google Wi-Fi is a favorite of many since it has a degree of sophistication combined with beautiful simplicity. Its small size also makes it quite convenient especially where installation space is an issue. A clever LED light runs its entire diameter at the center, making it look like a piece of home décor.
When it comes to looks, the Netgear Orbi AC3000 strikes you as a simplistic and almost ‘quiet’ device as it does not call for attention. However, it is almost twice as large as the Google Wi-Fi which makes it a bit harder to install. On the flip side, it has a flat base that allows it to sit on any flat surface which eliminates the need to install it on a wall.
The Google Wi-Fi boasts a more intriguing and practical design than the Netgear Orbi AC3000, making it the better router.
Speed and Performance
When thinking about a reliable home router, its speed and range are some of its most significant characteristics. In this regard, the Netgear Orbi AC3000 beats the Google Wi-Fi as it boasts speeds that reach a whooping 3,000Mbps. Keep in mind, though, that these are theoretical speeds and actual speeds are dependent on network factors. Aside from this, the Netgear Orbi AC3000 is able to amply cover a range of 3,000 square feet which is quite impressive.
In comparison, the Google Wi-Fi comes in considerably slower than the Netgear Orbi AC3000, delivering speeds that reach a 1,200Mbps theoretical throughput. In matters range, this router covers a home that spans 1,500 square feet, also significantly smaller than that of the Netgear Orbi AC3000.
Since the Netgear Orbi AC3000 boasts faster speeds and a wider range of transmission than the Google Wi-Fi, it stands as a better router.
Ports and Connectivity
Ports are an important part of routers, and one with many ports allows for multiple devices to be connected. The Google Wi-Fi only comes with 1 WAN port and 1 LAN port, a characteristic that is quite a drawback. It however, has a mobile app that you can download on your phone. This app lets you do a quick install, and also lets you control the router from the convenience of your phone.
The Netgear Orbi comes with 1 WAN port and 3 LAN ports on the main router, and 4 LAN ports on the satellite. This offers quite a number of connection options. It also comes with an app that allows you to operate it on your phone.
The Netgear Orbi AC3000 boasts many ports, making it a better router than the Google Wi-Fi.
Google Wi-Fi vs. Netgear Orbi AC3000 – A comparison overview
Google Wi-Fi Overview
- A new type of connected system that replaces your router for seamless wifi coverage throughout your home,...
- Network assist technology keeps your connection fast by always selecting the clearest channel and fastest...
Even though this router is considerably new in the routers market, it has cut a niche for itself where reliable mesh routers are concerned. It promises reliability in transmission and coverage in middle sized homes that span 1,500 square feet. In matters looks, the Google Wi-Fi has a cylindrical shape and measures 4.17 inches by 2.70 inches in diameter. Its excellent transmission is attributed to 4 internal routers that make sure that all rooms within the house are well covered and that there are no dead zones.
Inside the router is an 800MHz Dual Core processor that works with a 512MB RAM and 128MB flash memory for optimal performance. Since it is a mesh router, it is able to ensure that network speeds are at their best at any one given time.There are two main reasons behind this router’s transmission speeds. The first is that it operates on the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard and the other is that it is a dual band device. This means that it transmits its speeds from two different bands, with a 2.4GHz band delivering 400Mbps speeds and a larger 5GHz band delivering 867Mbps theoretical throughput.
The main router is fitted with 1 WAN port and 1 LAN port which is ideal for wired connectivity. However, this provision is quite small as compared to other routers. Other features that enhance the performance of this router include a downloadable mobile app through which you can conduct speed tests, run parental controls and manage guest networks. Aside from this, the router has an app that keeps it updated for optimal performance at all times.
Pros
- It is small and can easily be hidden away
- Transmits at decent speeds
- Comes with a mobile app for easy control
Cons
- It has only few ports
Netgear Orbi AC3000 Overview
- Ultra-performance Mesh WiFi network blankets every inch of your home in super fast and seamless WiFi...
- Eliminates WiFi dead zones and buffering - 5,000 square feet of consistent coverage - with speeds up to...
The Netgear Orbi AC3000 makes for an excellent device that does not just deliver lightning-fast speeds, but also covers an impressively wide range. Unlike an array of other futuristic looking Netgear routers, this particular one maintains a high level of simplicity and sophistication. It comes as a set of two, with each device in the set measuring 8.0 x 6.4 x 3.1 inches, making them considerably larger than the Google Wi-Fi. A total of 10 antennas ensure that transmission is sufficient in all areas of the house at all times.
The Netgear Orbi AC3000 is known for great performance and the reason behind this is a 710MHz Dual Core processor and a 512MB RAM that works alongside a 512MB flash memory. Interestingly, this router operates on three bandwidths, with a lesser 2.4GHz band delivering 600Mbps and a larger 5GHZ band delivering 1,300Mbps. There is also a backhaul 5GHz band that transmits 1,733Mbps throughput.
The main router in the mesh system comes with a total of 1 WAN port, 7 LAN ports and 2 USB ports. Each satellite device bears 7 LAN ports and 2 USB ports as well. When using this router, you can enjoy fast gaming, multiple device connections with several streaming 4K videos and excellent security against cyber-attacks.
Pros
- It comes as a set of two
- Has a large number of ports
- It has many antennas
- Comes with a mobile app for easy control
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
Verdict: So, which one is better – Google Wi-Fi or Netgear Orbi AC3000?
After conducting an in-depth research, it is clear that the Netgear Orbi AC3000 is a superior router compared to the Google Wi-Fi due to more antennas, more ports and most importantly, faster speeds.
FAQs
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Does the Netgear Orbi AC3000 come with parental control?
Yes, it does. It is possible for you to control content streaming on this device.
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Is it possible to issue voice commands to Google Wi-Fi?
Yes, it is possible.
