Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro – A detailed comparison
The Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro offer some of the most stable and reliable transmission speeds. Come along as we conduct an in-depth comparison.
Up until recently, Google Wi-Fi was not available in the routers market. This device has managed to make a name for itself as a reliable home router that is ideal for family use. On the other hand, the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro has long been known as a high performance router that handles high intensity streaming with grace and prowess. Both of these routers come with excellent features, and picking the better one is certainly difficult. Here is a detailed comparison of the two.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro?
Model |
Google Wi-Fi |
Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro |
Dimensions |
4.17 x 2.70 inches |
19.06 x 1.73 x 6.46 inches |
Range |
1,500 square feet |
4,500 square feet |
Transmission speed |
400Mbps at 2.4GHz
867Mbps at 5GHz |
4Gbps |
Processor |
800MHz Dual Core |
1GHz Dual Core |
Ports |
1 WAN, 1 LAN |
2 WAN, 2 LAN, 1 RJ45 Serial Port |
Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro – How do they compare?
Design and Build
When it comes to physical build, these two devices are quite different. The Google Wi-Fi bears a cylindrical shape and is quite small. It is also simplistic, but it has a more sophisticated look than the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro. 4 internal antennas keep the speed and range of transmission consistent at all times.
Since the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro was made to fit in a rack, its rectangular shape is quite convenient. It has a simple design that is not particularly interesting, an aspect that sets the Google Wi-Fi higher when it comes to looks. A detail worth noting is that this device is better suited for commercial environments such as offices and data centers which could be the reason behind its simplicity.
The Google Wi-Fi has a more interesting and sophisticated look, making it better than the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro in this section.
Speed and Performance
One of the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro’s most impressive features is its strong firewall which promises ultimate protection against cyber threats. On top of this, it delivers spectacular 4Gbps throughputs which places it higher than most other routers within its price range. For this reason, it handles transmission in homes and office settings with equal prowess.
On the other hand, the Google Wi-Fi comes with significantly lower speeds. It has a combined throughput of about 1,200Mbps which is quite decent for middle sized homes. However, it is a mesh router whose speed and range increases when it is connected to similar devices. If you have a significantly large home you can get a twin or triple pack for better performance.
The Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro boasts superior security and higher speeds, making it a better router than the Google Wi-Fi in this category.
Ports and Connectivity
Physical connectivity is of paramount importance, and for this reason, a router that has multiple ports is more convenient. The Google Wi-Fi allows for 1 WAN connection and 1 LAN connection. Its satellite devices come with 1 LAN port each. It remains impossible to connect multiple devices physically unless you install a mesh system. On the flip side, you can fully control this router using a downloadable app that grants you full access from wherever you are in the home.
On the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro is 2 WAN ports and 2 LAN ports which support ethernet connectivity. An extra RJ45 serial port provides room for console connections. As earlier mentioned, this router boasts superior security features. On top of this, it features a Graphical UI control that facilitates easy management and control.
Since it bears more ports and a sophisticated Graphical UI control, the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro stands out as a better router than the Google Wi-Fi in this category.
Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro – A comprehensive 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...
This router is one of the most popular mesh routers for home use. It is a conveniently small device that has a cylindrical shape and measures 4.17 inches in diameter by 2.70 inches in height. You can set this device on any flat surface since it has a flat base, and the fact that it is small keeps it from occupying a lot of room. Its sophisticated look makes it blend in with most home décor pieces.
The Google Wi-Fi works exceedingly well for middle range homes. Its performance is driven by an 800MHz Dual Core processor that works alongside a 512MB RAM and 128MB flash memory. As with most routers of its caliber, this device operates from two main bands which result in two transmission speeds. A 2.4GHz bandwidth gives a 400Mbps throughput while a 5GHz bandwidth delivers 867Mbps transmission speed. This results in a combined speed of 1,200Mbps. 4 internal routers ensure that this device reaches all rooms and levels of the home, facilitating minimal dead zones and zero down time.
In matters connectivity, this router falls short of most customer expectations. It has just one WAN port and 1 LAN port which are found on the under-side of the router. The LAN port is ideal for ethernetconnections, but the router can only support one at a time.
Perhaps one of this router’s main advantages is the fact that you can access and control it conveniently on your mobile phone via a downloadable app. You can conduct speed tests, switch the router on and off and also set up and manage guest networks. The router also comes with a security software that prevents cyber attacks.
This router can be used for multiple applications such as gaming and heavy data transfer.
Pros
- Small and easy to install
- Bears a sophisticated design
- It is a mesh router
- Can be controlled via a downloadable app
Cons
- It cannot be used for massive homes
Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro Overview
- Ubiquiti Networks networks networks Unifi security Gateway Pro 4-Port (USG-PRO-4)
- 4 Gigabit RJ45 ports plus 2 Gigabit SFP ports for fiber connectivity If needed
One of the most notable and impressive aspects of this router is its impressive security. It comes with a powerful firewall that ensures your information is kept safe. It is a rectangular device that measures19.06 x 1.73 x 6.46 inches and is designed to fit into a rack system.
Its powerful 1GHz Dual Core processor combines efforts with a 2GB RAM and 4GB internal memory for optimal performance. These aspects give the router the capacity to transmit at an impressive 4Gbps speed. This kind of speed gives it the ability to handle multiple devices at a go, and it can also be used in office settings.
Aside from accommodating multiple devices via Wi-Fi, this router can also host more through physical connectivity. It has 2 WAN ports, 2 LAN ports and 1 serial port for console connection. In a home setting, this router can support high intensity gaming, 4K video streaming across multiple devices and heavy data transfer across the network.
Pros
- Boasts superior security and powerful firewall
- Transmits at high speeds
- Can be used in large homes
- Has many ports
Cons
- It has a simple plain look
Verdict: So, which one is better – Google Wi-Fi or Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro?
Due to its superior security features, high speed of transmission and multiple ports for connectivity, the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro stands out as a better performer than the Google Wi-Fi which is suited for smaller homes and transmits at lower speeds.
FAQs
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Does the Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway Pro offer load balancing?
Yes, it does.
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Is the Google Wi-Fi a noisy router?
No, it is not. It does not have a big fan and is, therefore, a quiet device.