XFi Pods vs. Eero – what mesh router is the best for my home?

Are you struggling with weak Wi-Fi signals in your home? You may consider the benefits of using a mesh networking system rather than relying on one router, because there are many reasons behind weak signal transmission – which is why we will investigate the xFi pods and Eero.

The Eero uses a set of three identical units that work together to spread a Wi-Fi connection all over a residential property, and brings necessary streamlining to Wi-Fi installation at home. However, its drawback is its high price tag compared to otherWi-Fi routers.On the other hand, the xFi pods are the latest attempt by Comcast to enter into mesh networking. Even though these pods seem promising, there are certain factors that make us wonder if they are worth the purchase.

What are the differences between the Comcast xFi pods and Eero?

 
Comcast xFi
Eero
Dimensions (inches)
7.9 x 2.6 x 2.8 (larger in size)
3.9 x 3.9 x 2.4 (more portable option)
Weight
3.98 oz. (slightly heavier)
3.5 oz. (slightly light in comparison)
Average throughput speeds
250-300 Mbps
447 Mbps
Upload speeds
10 Mbps
150 Mbps
Download speeds
50 Mbps
300 Mbps

Comcast xFi pods vs. Eero – How they compare

Setup

There are some things that have changed about the Eero from its first design and usage – and these differences are very apparent when you look at its software updates. Many of these originate from the data that Eero has collected from its customers, and implementing possible improvements in subsequent models.

The Eero mesh networking system uses a new approach that the company refers to as TrueMesh. It also comes with Alexa integration, and the mobile app has greater polish to its interface. At its root though, the system is a low-power type that you will find easy to set up, and has mid to fast internet speeds in every room of your home – of course, depending on the number of units you decide to install. You can set it up through your phone, on the Eero app.

In the case of the xFi pods, the company behind them – Comcast – seeks to offer users with a new form of mesh technology, where you can purchase a three-pack or a six-pack. These units come in form of a polygon-shape design, and you can plug them directly into an outlet and form a mesh network with the Comcast router, so that you can extend the Wi-Fi signal throughout your home.

These pods operate best through either the xFi wireless gateway, or the xFi advanced gateway. The xFi system is basically a web interface or app that allows for the management of the Comcast Xfinity Wi-Fi service, as well as doing other functions like changing your password, setting up your network, and getting alerts when new devices connect to the network.

In addition, it is possible to use the app to set up the pods, and do some monitoring of the devices that are connected to specific pods – despite the manufacturer stating that the pods have an intelligent design that allows for self-troubleshooting and self-monitoring.

We prefer the easier setup of the Eero, as you will only need to rely on the app for many of the functions you need in a user-friendly interface.

Performance

The main issue to note about the Eero is the lack of wireless connection between the units (in other words, the backhaul connection). Instead, depending on the distance between the Eero units, it will either use the 5GHz or 2.4GHz band. That has plenty of implications, with the main one being loss of the signal by up to 50%, because the units have to receive the signal and rebroadcast it simultaneously.

In order to avoid losses in the signal, you can decide to daisy-chain the Eero units through the use of long network cables, which proves useful if your home has a challenging layout.

With that said, the TrueMesh update leads the Eero to be much faster in performance, compared to previous months. Using a single router has a speed of 447 Mbps at close proximity, while a distance of 75 feet has an average speed of 182 Mbps. adding a second Eero router results in slower connection speeds, with a close range score of 179 Mbps, and 146 Mbps at a longer distance.

The Eero is the better choice here because of higher speeds, and its TrueMesh software update leads to faster and more efficient performance.

Comcast xFi pods vs. Eero – A comparison review

Comcast xFi – Overview

The Comcast xFi pods are the latest version of the xFi advanced gateway, which is one of the router-modem combinations you can lease with the Xfinity internet setup. They have a distinct advantage that lacks in the Eero – the support of Wi-Fi 6, which works to deliver better speeds and handling of the greater numbers of networked devices in the home today.

Other than the Wi-Fi 6 usage, the pods come with four antennas, all dual-band. These have support for one 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands, the ZigBee and Bluetooth LE radios, and three 1 Gbps Ethernet ports. It also takes on the appearance of a white hexagonal design that fits in with your décor, and they can work well with the new advanced gateway to make a mesh network.

The main problem is the unavailability of the new gateway to all Comcast users; it only applies to you if you are using a package that has a minimum speed of 300 Mbps, and it does not automatically include the XFi Advanced Cyber security package (you will need to purchase it separately). All these make the xFi pods to be more expensive in the long term, since you will need to lease the cyber security package at a monthly subscription of $5.99, in addition to what you are paying for the internet and leasing of the Comcast router.

Pros

  • The design is compact
  • Connection is relatively reliable

Cons

  • Very expensive in the long term
  • Unavailable for many users
  • Connection tends to be weak

View Price on Amazon

Eero router – Overview

Amazon eero mesh WiFi router
  • FAST STANDALONE ROUTER - The eero mesh WiFi router brings up to 1,500 sq. ft. of fast, reliable WiFi to...
  • WORKS WITH ALEXA- With eero and an Alexa device (not included), you can easily manage wifi access for...

Eero is among the most well-known mesh routers in the market today, and that is for good reason – it offers both powerful connections and simplicity in use. It also makes it very easy in the configuration process, especially if you are using it in a large house, without the unnecessary additions of a complicated mesh system. The system also handles the moving between devices seamlessly, even when moving between the beacons and base.

In terms of its longevity in the market, it has been around for a very long time, and you can even find it in a less expensive version that has come recently. However, its original form (in form of the Eero Pro) is still quite popular due to its numerous capabilities. The only issue it has is that it is an overkill if you are using it in a small space, but it is an excellent choice for larger homes or offices.

Pros

  • Very simple setup process
  • The beacons use a socket-mounting design
  • Excellent app interface
  • Very easy to expand the networks
  • Very good network performance

Coons

  • The subscription system offers dubious value
  • Quite expensive
  • Lacks Wi-Fi 6
  • Overkill for people using it in small spaces

View Price on Amazon

Verdict: So what is better? The xFi or Eero?

Our final choice is the Eero, since it has an easier setup process, works with a variety of routers (as opposed to the xFi that only works with Comcast), and it has a good network performance. The most impressive aspect about it though is the commitment of the company to provide meaningful updates by taking the reviews of its users into consideration, which is not common for most router companies.

FAQs

How many Eero devices do I need?

It depends on the area you are covering. Note that an average-size home will need a maximum of three units, so a small apartment will need one, and a larger home will need four or five units.

Do xFi pods operate in the 5GHz, 2.4GHz, or both?

The manufacturer says they are usable for both bands, although this is not a feature we have tested.

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *