When it comes to the question of which router to choose for your home Wi-Fi, the Orbi and Nighthawk have emerged as two of the most popular options on the market for 2020. Both of these routers offer superior reliability, range, speed, and customization options, meaning that it can be tough to choose between them.
In this post, we’re going to compare the Orbi and Nighthawk in terms of features, performance, and budget-friendliness, so that you can make an informed decision when choosing the best router for your home. We’ll explore their similarities, differences, and what unique benefits each router offers, so that you can make a decision that best suits your specific needs.
Orbi VS Nighthawk
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Speed and Range
The first comparison between the Orbi and Nighthawk is their speed and range. The Orbi has a speed of up to 2.2 Gbps, and its range is up to 4,500 square feet, making it perfect for large homes. On the other hand, the Nighthawk has a maximum speed of up to 1.3 Gbps and its range is up to 2,500 square feet, making it a better fit for apartments and small homes. Both routers have enough speed and range to keep you connected, but the Orbi is definitely the better choice for larger homes.
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Ease of Use
When comparing the Orbi to the Nighthawk, the Orbi is definitely easier to configure and use. The software is easy to navigate, with an intuitive design that makes setting up the router and customizing your settings a breeze. This makes the Orbi great for those who are less tech-savvy, or who simply want a quicker and easier setup. The Nighthawk does offer more advanced settings, but it can be daunting for those unfamiliar with networking. The Orbi also offers a mobile application for Apple and Android devices, allowing users to easily control and manage their network from anywhere.
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Security
When it comes to security, the Orbi and Nighthawk routers both have strong security protocols in place to protect your information and data. The Orbi has a built-in firewall that helps to protect your data from malicious attacks. Additionally, it includes advanced security features like WPA3 and WPA2-PSK encryption, as well as MU-MIMO and beamforming technology. The Nighthawk also has a built-in firewall and is equipped with WPA3, WPA2-PSK, and WPA/WPA2 encryption protocols. Both routers also feature advanced parental controls to help you manage access to certain websites and programs for your children.
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Price and Availability
When it comes to price and availability, the Orbi offers the most flexibility. It’s available in two sizes: the standard Orbi and the mini Orbi, either of which is available in three colors. The standard Orbi is available for around $200, while the mini Orbi is slightly cheaper, at around $150. Meanwhile, Nighthawk routers are generally more expensive than Orbi routers, at around $300 or more, depending on the model.
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Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to design and aesthetics, the Orbi and Nighthawk both have a modern and sleek look. The Orbi is a cylindrical white tower with a black base, while the Nighthawk is a black box with a glossy black finish. Both have LED lights on the front to indicate their connection status. Both also have antennas that can be adjusted for better WiFi coverage, but the Nighthawk stands out with its four adjustable antennas that provide stronger signal strength from different angles. In terms of design and aesthetics, both Wi-Fi routers look quite modern and attractive.
In Conclusion
Both the Orbi and Nighthawk are great routers that will provide you with the wireless coverage and speed you need. If you have a large home and need to cover multiple floors, the Orbi is the better choice with its mesh technology. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with great performances, the Nighthawk is a great choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two is up to your needs and budget.
