Mesh WiFiReview
Netgear Orbi 970 review: enterprise speeds, consumer price tag
The fastest mesh kit we've tested, but the subscription paywall for advanced security is a real drawback.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. It never changes our scores. Details.
Key specs
| Wi-Fi standard | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) |
|---|---|
| Coverage (3-pack) | Up to 9,000 sq ft |
| Backhaul | Dedicated 6 GHz |
| Street price | $1,199 (3-pack) |
What we like
- No visible slowdown in a 20-device stress test
- Dedicated 6 GHz backhaul
- Basic firewall and guest network stay free
What we don't
- $99/year after year one for advanced security and parental controls
- $1,199 is a lot for a 3-pack
The Orbi 970 is the first mesh kit we’ve tested that didn’t visibly slow down under a 20-device stress test, including two simultaneous 4K uploads.
The catch: advanced threat protection and parental controls sit behind a $99/year subscription after the first year. Basic firewall and guest network features stay free, which is the right call, but it’s worth knowing before you buy.
