Affordable dual-band Wi-Fi 7 mesh system from Netgear's Orbi 370 debuts at $249.99, aligning next-generation router pricing with competitors like TP-Link and Amazon.
The Netgear Orbi 370, the latest addition to Netgear's Wi-Fi 7 mesh router lineup, is now available for purchase. This dual-band router is priced starting at $249.99 for a two-pack, making it an affordable choice for many households.
The Orbi 370 supports Wi-Fi 7 capabilities such as multi-link operation (MLO), lower latency, and enhanced reliability compared to older Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E standards. However, it does not include the 6 GHz band, unlike Netgear's higher-end tri-band Orbi models like the Orbi 970, Orbi 870, and Orbi 770.
The Orbi 370 is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi 7 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), supporting up to 5 Gbps speeds with 4 streams. It uses MLO to combine these bands for improved speed and latency, but it does not utilise the 6 GHz band.
The Orbi 370 comes with a 2.5 GbE WAN port on the main router and 2.5 GbE LAN ports. Each satellite of the Orbi 370 has a single 2.5 GbE LAN port. The router also offers a wired backhaul for improved network performance and reliability using the 2.5 GbE LAN ports.
In terms of coverage, the Orbi 370 can cover approximately 6,000 square feet (when used in a 3-pack). Netgear's more expensive tri-band models offer wider coverage: the Orbi 970 can cover up to 10,000 square feet, and it supports multi-gig Ethernet ports (10G on the Orbi 970) that facilitate faster wired backhaul and better wired device support.
The Orbi 370 comes with a stout software platform, including Advanced Router Protection (ARP) for improved network security. ARP actively protects your network against known and unknown threats, leveraging AI for improved detection. Additionally, the Orbi 370 offers parental controls as part of its software platform.
Netgear Armor, an extra level of security, is available for the Orbi 370, priced at $99.99/year (Netgear Armor) or $149.99/year (Netgear Armor Plus). This service offers protection for all your connected devices.
The Orbi 370 is available for purchase from Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from Netgear. The pricing for the Orbi 370 is $249.99 for a two-pack, $349.99 for a three-pack, and $449.99 for a four-pack, with each additional satellite costing $149.99 individually.
In summary, the Netgear Orbi 370 is a suitable choice for everyday wireless needs, particularly for homes with fewer devices and lower bandwidth demands. For those requiring ultra-high-speed needs, heavy device congestion, or environments that can fully utilize the 6 GHz band, Netgear's higher-end tri-band mesh routers may be a better option.
The Orbi 370, despite being a budget-friendly choice for many households, does not support the 6 GHz band, a feature found in Netgear's more advanced data-and-cloud-computing gadgets like the Orbi 970, Orbi 870, and Orbi 770. This wireless router is equipped with technology such as Advanced Router Protection (ARP) and parental controls, serving as a comprehensive security solution for multiple gadgets within a household.
