Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti- Which is the better Wi-Fi system
When selecting the right Wi-Fi connection, you need to look at one that is reliable, with good coverage and fantastic speeds. This article will guide you through reputable Wi-Fi brands in the market to assist in making the right choice for you.
In today’s market there are a number of Wi-Fi systems which range from the modern mesh systems to the single router system. The Ubiquiti and Google Wi-Fi are both modern Wi-Fi systems that make use of the mesh system which is allow the option of additional Wi-Fi routers to offer a better Wi-Fi connection. Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti have also been in the market for a long while proving their good standing.
Having tested a number of Wi-Fi systems, this article has narrowed down to these two as among the most reliable Wi-Fi systems which are suitable for all types of users. For more information on these two Wi-Fi systems, this is an insightful guide to help you make the right decision for you.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti?
Feature |
Google Wi-Fi (Winner) |
Ubiquiti |
Chipset |
2.4GHz and 5 GHz Radio Frequency 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
2.4GHz and 5 GHz Radio Frequency
802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Speeds (Maximum theoretical) |
300Mbps+867Mbps on each of the bands |
300Mbps + 450Mbps on each of the bands |
Size |
4.2 x 4.2 x 2.7 inches |
6.3 x 6.3 x 1.3 inches |
Weight |
11.8 ounces |
1.5 pounds |
Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti- How do they compare to one another?
The main purpose of both these devices as it is with mesh networks is to create a Wi-Fi system that is capable of managing a good number of clients. Also entails one that enables them a good connection in homes or offices.The Ubiquiti uses a dual band AC1750 mesh system that it includes a router and two mesh satellites. The mesh points and routers can be sold individually or as a unit in the case you would like to build your mesh Wi-Fi system gradually. GoogleWi-Fi uses a dual band system as well as nodes that expand the network coverage. It can also be purchased individually or as a unit.
Design
The Google Wi-Fi has an LED indicator on the cuts in the middle of the device shows the status of the network by lighting up different colors. The solid blue/green indicates that the Wi-Fi unit is working properly without any hindrance. When the LED is flashing blue color then it is either downloading an update or is ready for set up and when it is solid blue the device is restoring to factory default settings and this process may take up to 5 minutes. LED flashing an amber color indicates that the Wi-Fi has an error. The Ubiquiti on the flipside did away with the old array of LED’s and adopted a single LED setup which remains completely lit when the device has not been configured. It will flash slowly when the configuration is in process or whilst trying to locate to the mesh points. The LED will also increase the brightness when the router is being upgraded.
Both Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti can seamlessly fit into a room. The only downer with these routers is that the Ubiquiti Wi-Fi extenders are quite short of being eye candy.
Hardware Specs
Google Wi-Fi is built with Qualcomm Atheros IPQ4019 chipset and a QCA8075 Gigabit switch. It also has RAM of 512MB and 4GB flash memory. To add, the 2.4 GHZ radio uses the Qualcomm Atheros IPQ4019 chip.
Ubiquiti has a Qualcomm Atheros QCA956X; it has a RAM of 128MB and 256MB flash memory. It also uses a 2.4 GHz radio band and uses the Qualcomm Atheros QCA9563 while the 5GHz radio band uses the Qualcomm Atheros QCA9880. In addition to the main router unit and the mesh points, this router has antennas which are designed to make an optimum signal.
Performance in speed tests
The Ubiquiti has maximum theoretical transfer of 450 Mbps while using the 2.4 GHz radio band and a maximum theoretical data transfer of 1,300 Mbps while using the 5GHz radio band. Google Wi-Fi on the other hand has a maximum combined throughput speed of 1,267Mbps (400Mbps +1267Mbps).
Features and Performance
GoogleWi-Fi and Ubiquiti both use the mesh technology to enable large network coverage in a modernized way as compared to the traditional single router. In the case where a new node is added, the mesh network is able analyze the area and check if there is a better and faster route for the data. The disadvantage to this is that when multiple nodes are added it may cause backhaul traffic. With additional nodes the bandwidth decreases for data transfer because a fairly large amount has been reserved for the backhaul traffic.
Installation and Set-up
Setting up the GoogleWi-Fi has simple steps beginning with finding the best location for the wireless mesh system. Once the GoogleWi-Fi point has been connected to a power source and download an app that is both available on Play store and Apple store. This is a pretty simple process and does not require a tech expert for the installation.
Ubiquiti also uses an app or a web browser for installation. The mobile app is quite simpler and the app is easily available on all platforms. Once installed, the app can help you configure and manage your network.
Google Wi-Fi vs. Ubiquiti- A comparison overview
Google Wi-Fi
- A new type of connected system for seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home, helping eliminate dead...
- Replaces your current router, and works your modem and internet service. It’s compatible with major...
Google which dominates the technology world from the most popular search engine to the mobile world with Android OS has not lagged behind with its router. The Google Wi-Fi is equipped with the 5GHz and the 2GHz radio band. They both use the Qualcomm Atheros IPQ4019. As for their speeds, the maximum data transfer is 300 mbps while using the 2GHz radio and when using the 5GHz radio the maximum transfer is 867 Mbps.
Beyond using Mesh technology, this router also utilizes the ZigBee technology. Coupled together, this makes Google Wi-Fi an easily expandable system in case of traffic congestion. With additional nodes or clients, you can easily ensure there are minimal lags or buffering in your network. Google Wi-Fi also uses an automatic band steering which basically means that the devices are automatically routed between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks.
As for installation process, it is quite easy once you have downloaded the app has all you need to do is scan the QR code for automatic connection. The app is rather easy to use with three main windows. Through these windows you can get timely updates on your network. You can also add your family’s profiles on one of the nodes.
Pros
- Minimalistic design
- Good wireless performance
- Easy set up
Cons
- Only has two Ethernet ports
- Does not have advanced features
Ubiquiti
- WHOLE HOME WIFI SYSTEM: Not Just a wifi router, it's a wifi system. The AmpliFi Instant Kit includes a...
- 802.11AC TECHNOLOGY FOR FASTER SPEEDS AND BETTER COVERAGE: AmpliFi Instant is more than a wireless...
The Ubiquiti is a premium quality router that comes as a mesh Wi-Fi system. It is sold as a package including the main router unit and two satellites for additional coverage. They also communicate with each other to offer a mesh multi-hop. This creates the most suitable root for the data to be able to reach its destination. This mesh system also has a self-healing ability where when one mesh collapses data is rerouted to the closer and most suitable node for it to be able to reach its destination. The Ubiquiti router also comes in a white box that has a matte finish with an LED set up which appears from the bottom.
Regarding its performance, Ubiquiti has a transfer data of 450mbps when using the 2.4 GHz radio band and a maximum theoretical data transfer rate of 1,300Mbps when using the 5 GHz radio band. This basically means that one Ubiquiti unit is working a network of AC1750 and works best with fast internet speeds to begin with.
As for its installation, the set up process is easy through the app. destination. Once the configuration is complete the app allows you to access the system by using the overview window which indicates the status of the network. It also has a graph that displays the router and mesh point’s activity. There is also a family section that has parental controls to be able to monitor your children’s activities.
Pros
- Unique design
- Simple set up process
- LCD display
Cons
- Costly
- No Ethernet Port
Conclusion
This article has given an overview of Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti. They do have their own similarities like their modernized designs and impressive performance. However, it is quite easy to tell them apart as Google Wi-Fi are mainly used in households while some Ubiquiti routers are enterprise levels.
Verdict: So which between the two is the better option? Google Wi-Fi or Ubiquiti
Both Google Wi-Fi and Ubiquiti are reliable and high standard systems. They are also well-established brands in the market. However, when it comes down to it, Google Wi-Fi has some advantages over the Ubiquiti. For example, it offers simplicity to its users and functionality for a fair price.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the default password and username on Ubiquiti?
There are two possible default user name and password and which are case sensitive:Username: root/ubnt
- Which Java is most compatible with these routers like Ubiquiti Unifi?
Any Java version 8 is compatible with the Unifi network controller.
