NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 vs. RBK50 – A Comprehensive Router Comparison
Are you trying to find the best router to meet your internet needs and device preferences? You should consider either the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 or the RBK50. But, which of the two reigns supreme? Read on to find out!
The router market is flooded with a wide array of devices that have varying characteristics, which makes it slightly difficult to find a particular router that matches your respective internet needs and device preferences. The entire shopping process may require a lot of research on the technical specifications of different devices and comparisons. To narrow down your options, we have chosen to review two of the strongest contenders for the ‘Best high-performing routers by NETGEAR’ – the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 and the RBK50. These are not only high-performing routers but are also high-quality and durable devices. So, which of the two should you choose for your internet needs and why?
Table of Contents
What are the differences between NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 and RBK50?
Comparison Feature |
NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 |
NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 |
Device Configuration |
1 Router + 2 Satellites |
1 Router + 1 Satellite |
Wi-Fi Technology/ Frequency Bands |
Tri-Band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz + 5 GHz) |
Tri-Band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz + 5 GHz) |
Throughout Speeds |
Up to 2.2 Gbps |
Up to 3 Gbps |
Wi-Fi Coverage |
6,000 square feet |
5,000 square feet |
Backhaul Link Speeds |
Up to 866 Mbps |
Up to 1,733 Mbps |
Number of LAN Ports |
5 Gigabit LAN Ports |
7 Gigabit LAN Ports |
Availability |
NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 vs. RBK50 – How do they compare?
Design and Build
The main hardware differences between the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 and the RBK50 are seen in the number of antennas in their structure, their size dimensions, and the device configuration. Let us break this down further.
First, the RBK23 is much smaller than the RBK50, meaning that it is easier to deploy and can fit into even the smallest spaces around your home or office. When it comes to the internal antennas, the RBK23 has only 4 internal antennas, whereas the RBK50 has 6 internal antennas. This means that the RBK50 provides a more complete coverage than the RBK23. When it comes to device configuration, the RBK23 comes with one router and 2 satellites, whereas the RBK50 comes with one router and a satellite, which means that they are both ideal for use in medium to large-sized houses.
Speed and Performance
The RBK23 delivers maximum combined throughput speeds of 2,200 Mbps and the backhaul band delivers maximum speeds of 866 Mbps. The RBK50, on the other hand, delivers maximum bandwidth speeds of 3,000 Mbps and the backhaul band delivers maximum throughout speeds of up to 1,733 Mbps. Based on this comparison feature, we can clearly deduce that the RBK50 delivers faster wireless and backhaul link speeds than the RBK23.
Ports and Connectivity
In terms of ports and connectivity, the RBK50 has a competitive advantage over the RBK23, as it has more LAN ports that allow you to establish multiple wired connections at the same time. To be more specific, the router and satellites of the RBK50 have 4 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 WAN port, whereas the RBK23 has 2 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 WAN port.
NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 vs. RBK50 – A Comprehensive Overview
NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 Review
- Tri-band backhaul a dedicated band between your Orbi router and satellite frees up the other two bands...
- Works with all internet providers replace your existing wi-fi router and extender separate modem or...
The NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 has been designed to offer a more affordable way for anyone who lives in small to medium sized homes to enjoy the Orbi experience without having to pay for all the high-end features. The 3 units (a router and 2 satellites) offer a wide coverage over an area of 6,000 square feet. Each unit comes with 2 Ethernet ports that allow you to establish wired connections to your network devices, such as gaming consoles, printers, and PCs.
Besides that, the RBK23 has 4 internal antennas to extend coverage around your home and eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones. In addition to that, these internal antennas are capable of beamforming, a feature that directs the wireless network towards a specific device or location for better coverage. The Orbi RBK23 also comes with an eye-catching and easy-to-use app for your iOS and Android device, which seamlessly takes through the process of setting up the router.
In terms of performance, the RBK23 delivers total theoretical throughout speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps, which is just enough to accommodate all your high bandwidth applications such as 4K streaming and online gaming.
Pros
- Easy to setup and install
- Aesthetically pleasing and simplistic design
- Economical option
- Sturdy and durable build quality
- Fast and reliable throughout speeds
Cons
- Limited connectivity options/ Few Ethernet ports
NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 Review
- input voltage:100 -240V
- FAST WHOLE HOME WIFI SYSTEM - Covers up to 5000 square feet with high performance WiFi, kit includes WiFi...
The RBK50 is the most ideal network device for medium to large sized homes filled with smart devices. It transmits Wi-Fi data on 3 radio-frequency bands, out of which the primary bands (the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands) deliver theoretical throughput speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps of data to your network devices. The 2nd 5GHz band which is exclusively dedicated to backhaul delivers maximum bandwidth speeds of up to 1.7 Gbps. This significantly enables the main links between your network devices and the Orbi units remain strong, reliable, and fast at all times.
Along with that, the RBK50 has 6 high-performance amplified antennas that ensure complete Wi-Fi coverage. Also, the Orbi’s performance is optimized through the latest MU-MIMO and beamforming technology that actively send focused data streams to multiple devices concurrently. For a seamless setup and installation process, you can always use the Orbi app or the NETGEAR Genie app with your iOS and Android devices.
Pros
- Ultra-fast throughput speeds
- Complete Wi-Fi coverage over a wide range
- Easy and fast setup and installation process
- Aesthetically pleasing and durable design
Cons
- Quite costly
Conclusion
The NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 and the RBK50 share the same features such as wireless backhaul on 5 GHz band, beamforming and MU-MIMO technology, great Wi-Fi coverage, amazing speed performance, and Tri-Band Wi-Fi. However, they greatly differ when compared against each other.
Verdict: So, which is better – the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 or the NETGEAR Orbi RBK50?
With all factors considered, the NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 is a better router than the RBK23. It delivers faster throughput speeds, faster backhaul link speeds, and more connectivity options. However, if you are looking for a newer and more economical model to accommodate the needs of your medium to large-sized houses, then you can opt for the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23.
FAQs
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Is the NETGEAR Orbi RBK23 compatible with older Orbi systems?
Yes, this system is backwards compatible with older Orbi systems.
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Will the NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 work with Verizon DSL and Cox internet?
Yes, it should be compatible with any service provider modem.