Affordable dual-band Wi-Fi 7 mesh system from Netgear's Orbi 370 is now available, starting at $249.99. The company aims to match the competitive pricing of TP-Link and Amazon with this next-generation router model.
Netgear Launches Affordable Orbi 370 Wi-Fi 7 Mesh Router
Netgear has unveiled the Orbi 370, a new Wi-Fi 7 mesh router that offers a balance of performance and affordability. Available starting at $249.99 for a two-pack, the Orbi 370 is an ideal choice for users with moderate Wi-Fi needs and smaller coverage areas.
The Orbi 370 leverages Multi-Link Operation (MLO) to combine the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for clients and as a shared wireless backhaul between the router and satellite. This ensures seamless connectivity and improved network performance. Each satellite of the Orbi 370 features a single 2.5 GbE LAN port, while the main router boasts a 2.5 GbE WAN and LAN port.
For those seeking additional coverage, each satellite can be purchased individually for $149.99. The Orbi 370 provides a coverage area of up to 6,000 sq ft when used in a 3-pack.
Key Differences with Higher-End Models
Compared to more expensive tri-band mesh routers like the Orbi 970, Orbi 870, and Orbi 770, the Orbi 370 primarily differs in Wi-Fi band support, speeds, number of streams, internet port speeds, and coverage area.
| Feature | Orbi 370 | Orbi 770 | Orbi 870 | Orbi 970 | |------------------------|--------------------------------|-------------------------------|-------------------------------|--------------------------------| | Wi-Fi Bands | Dual-band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) | Tri-band (includes 6 GHz) | Tri-band (includes 6 GHz) | Tri-band (includes 6 GHz) | | Wi-Fi Speed (aggregate) | Up to 5 Gbps | Up to 11 Gbps | Up to 21 Gbps | Up to 27 Gbps | | Number of Streams | 4 (2 + 2) | 6 (2 + 2 + 2) | 10 (4 + 4 + 2) | 16 (4 + 4 + 4 + 4) | | Internet Port Speeds | 2.5 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | 10 Gbps | | Router LAN Ports | 1 x 2.5G | 3 x 2.5G | 4 x 2.5G | 1 x 10G + 4 x 2.5G | | Coverage (3-pack) | Up to 6,000 sq ft | Up to 8,000 sq ft | Up to 9,000 sq ft | Up to 10,000 sq ft | | Price (MSRP, 3-pack) | $349.99 | Not specified (mid-range) | Not specified (more expensive)| $349.99 (most expensive) |
The Orbi 370 lacks the higher-performing 6 GHz band found in more expensive tri-band mesh routers, which may limit peak throughput. However, Netgear believes that the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands are sufficient to handle everyday wireless needs, including those with multi-gig internet connections.
Security and Parental Controls
The Orbi 370 comes equipped with Netgear Armor, an extra level of security priced at $99.99/year (Netgear Armor) or $149.99/year (Netgear Armor Plus). Additionally, the router includes Advanced Router Protection (ARP) in its software platform, actively protecting the network against known and unknown threats.
The Orbi 370 also offers parental controls, allowing users to manage their children's online activities.
Availability
The Orbi 370 is available for purchase from Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from Netgear. With its affordable price and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, the Orbi 370 is poised to be a popular choice for users seeking a future-proof mesh router at a reasonable price.
[1] Netgear. (2023). Orbi 370 Wi-Fi 7 AXE5400 Mesh System. [Online]. Available: https://www.netgear.com/home/products/wireless/orbi/orbi-axe5400/
[2] TechRadar. (2023). Netgear Orbi 370 AXE5400 review: A solid Wi-Fi 7 mesh system for a reasonable price. [Online]. Available: https://www.techradar.com/reviews/netgear-orbi-370-axe5400-review-a-solid-wi-fi-7-mesh-system-for-a-reasonable-price
The Orbi 370, despite being an affordable Wi-Fi 7 mesh router, still incorporates cutting-edge technology in its data-and-cloud-computing capabilities, ensuring seamless connectivity for users. Despite not supporting the higher-performing 6 GHz band like more expensive models, this gadget manages everyday wireless needs quite effectively due to its 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band support.
