Luma vs. Eero vs. Ubiquiti – an offer of simplicity vs. complexity
If you are tired of depending on an inefficient single router in order to access a Wi-Fi network, then a mesh network can sort out your needs. You might not know the best mesh network though, which is why we compare three router options; Luma, Eero, and Ubiquiti.
With the many varieties of routers that are available in the market, it can be confusing making a decision on which one to go for. It is best to do your homework and figure out what works best for you. In order to help you narrow down your spectrum of choice, we are focusing on three big names in this article, looking at their attributes, as well as seeing which among them is the best option and why – read on for more on that.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Luma, Eero, and Ubiquiti?
Luma |
Eero |
Ubiquiti (Winner) |
|
Wi-Fithroughput performance |
94.6 Mbps |
573.7 Mbps |
928 Mbps |
Range |
65 feet (single router) |
65 feet (single router) |
78 feet (single router) |
Dimensions (inches) |
4.6 x 4.6 x 1.2 |
4.8 x 4.8 x 1.3 |
6.2 x 5.1 x 2.1 |
Luma vs. Eero vs. Ubiquiti – How they compare
Designs
The Luma router is for the people that do not want very complex systems to set up when they require wireless connectivity – rather, it is very easy to set up and operate. With measurements of 4.6 x 4.6 x 1.2 inches, it comes in a hexagonal shape and is white in color. The first thing you realize here is that the Luma does not look like any other networking device due to its hexagonal shape.
The Eero is similarly compact, coming in at 4.8 x 4.8 x 1.3 inches. While it is easy to hide away like the Luma, they do not have the small touch screen of the Ubiquiti that can function as a clock or LAN monitor.
Eero routers also have a single LED light that is blue when ready for configuration and becomes white when the device is online. If you see it red, that means there is something wrong. All Eero devices also have a 2×2 configuration that uses SU-MIMO system (which means it can connect with any client device simultaneously on both 2.4- and 5GHz bands).
The Ubiquiti, by contrast, takes a different approach. It is the most powerful option, and works well for larger houses or buildings that have plenty of obstructions like dense floors and walls. Its antennas can also cover larger areas compared to the other two, and the throughput is very high as well.
The design is quite attractive, even though it is small – it measures 3.75 x 1.0 x 2.75 inches. The finish is also a soft variation of white, and it comes with a variety of LED indicators that showcase different states. If the device firmware needs an upgrade, the lights will alternate between white and blue. If it is booting, the lights will be fully white, complete reboot changes the color to fully blue, and a flashing blue means that the router controller is activating the device locator.
Performance
The Luma takes on the design of a 2×2 router that will deliver 2 independent data traffic lanes, while relying on two technologies – MU-MIMO to help in management of traffic, and beam forming to help in efficient directing of signals to the receiving antennas. The maximum throughput to expect from here is 1.3 Gbps.
One area where the Luma disappoints is in a crowded Wi-Fi environment, according to our tests. You cannot separate the 5GHz and 2.4GHz transmissions, and the combined throughput at 5 feet reduces to 291.5 Mbps. This makes it have among the shortest ranges, making it essential to sue as a mesh network rather than a single router.
The Eero, on the other hand, cannot have multiple connections with multiple devices simultaneously. Its dual band nature also means it lacks a backhaul band, which means it has issues with optimizing connections for throughput. When used as a single-point router, it does have a stronger radio signal, but the Wi-Fi connection does better when it uses a mesh format.
The peak bandwidth to expect here is at 471.8 Mbps. Expect to see a dual-band router that splits its bandwidth rather than redirecting your devices to the strongest signal, since you are sacrificing the speed for coverage.
The Ubiquiti is similar to these two as it also uses a 2×2 port arrangement for the 5GHz band, and will boost connection through beam forming and MU-MIMO systems. The 2.4GHz band will use a 3×3 port arrangement though. The maximum speed to expect here ranges between 826 and 928 Mbps, making it among the fastest options.
Setup
Overall the setup process of the Luma is among the easiest out there, though you will need to be patient because it is quite long. The good news is that everything is automated, so you will spend most time waiting (except when creating an account on its mobile app).
When it comes to building a network of Eero routers, the best part is that you do not need prior knowledge about networking. You will need the smartphone app, and it can only work in portrait mode, create an account, and the app will show you the rest.You will have individual pages that can allow you to set up a guest access network, and the network settings can allow you to change the network password and name, time zone, and specific IP address.
The Ubiquiti setup is quite different though, because it relies heavily on networking knowledge that you have. The major issue we have with it is the default activation of the ICMP/Ping WAN setup, forcing you to disable it through the web browser’s CLI interface in order to be safe. After disabling it, you can deploy the network without the risk of hacking from unauthorized individuals – though you also need to deploy additional mechanisms like antiviruses to keep it safe.
Luma vs. Eero vs. Ubiquiti – A comparison review
Luma router – Overview
- Fastest home on the block: Ultra-fast WiFi delivered to every square inch of your house. No dead zones....
- Serious security: All-day, every-day security automatically scans and neutralizes any virus or malware,...
If you are likely struggling with dealing with Wi-Fi dead zones, the Luma router promises to eliminate this problem. In many ways, it is similar to the other two options, especially the Eero, though it has its own distinctions.
Rather than the reliance on one router in order to full your home with connectivity, the Luma system relies on multiple devices that will create a network to spread out throughout all corners of your home.
Pros
- Its performance is quite impressive
- Comes with parental controls and good security
- An easy setup process that creates a reliable mesh network
Cons
- It lacks extensive customization ability
- Quite expensive
- Lacks Mac and PC software
- Individual units have a short coverage range
Eero router – Overview
While the Eero is a pioneer when it comes to the mesh system of connection, there are plenty of other systems that bypass it.While the Eero system is quite easy to setup and operate, it has a tendency of dropping some connections. In fact, one of the surprising aspects we found during testing was that using a single Eero router proves more reliable and efficient compared to multiple Eero units in a mesh setup.
When you purchase it, you will get three units – but the trick is the individual coverage. You can gather as many Eero devices as you prefer, but every ‘hop’ from one extension to the next results in lower performance; unless you connect them through Ethernet, which will boost their connection.
Pros
- Very high extent of customization options
- Very good levels of security
- Has a strong radio signal
Cons
- The tests revealed unreliable connections
- Disappointing performance in mesh networking
Ubiquiti router – Overview
- Product Type:Networking Router
- Item Package Dimension:7.112 cm L X 10.16 cm W X 14.986 cm H
Like the other two options, Ubiquiti also uses a mesh system – but comes at a much cheaper cost compared to the Luma and Eero. You need to note though that before installing it, you must have some form of Ethernet wiring, since its access points will connect to the Ethernet port and broadcast a Wi-Fi signal. You will also require a router and modem, then install the app.
The main issue here is that the setup process is more challenging, since you need some knowledge of managing a mesh network. The good news is that its Wi-Fi connection is reliable and fast.
Pros
- Includes Pseudo-PoE power
- Multiple mounting options
- Comes with useful apps and tools
- Good and reliable coverage
- Works well with many devices
Cons
- You will need networking knowledge to set it up
Verdict: So which is better? The Luma, Eero, or Ubiquiti?
The answer to this will depend on what you prefer, and all three have their merits, but the Ubiquiti is the best choice as it is both reliable in connection and produces very strong signals.
Frequently asked questions
How many access points will be enough for an Ubiquiti router?
There is no set figure – it will mainly depend on your requirements.
Will I require a set number of Eero router beacons?
Not really, since this will also depend on your needs. The optimal experience though will need you to install the beacons a maximum distance of 50 feet from each other.
