Netgear Orbi RBK852: The Ultimate Whole-Home Wi-Fi System for Large Homes

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is a high-end whole-home Wi-Fi system designed to provide fast and reliable internet connectivity throughout large homes. This tri-band mesh network system boasts impressive specifications, including 4×4 MU-MIMO technology, OFDMA, and a robust set of features that make it an attractive option for users who demand the best.

Design and Hardware

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 consists of two main components: the ORB8400 router and the HS850 satellite. Both devices are sleek and compact, with a similar design aesthetic that makes them blend seamlessly into any home decor. The ORB8400 router measures 7.9 x 5.3 x 2 inches, while the HS850 satellite is slightly smaller at 6.7 x 4.8 x 1.8 inches.

The hardware inside these devices is equally impressive, with a quad-core 1.7GHz processor providing the necessary processing power for seamless performance. The system also features 1GB of RAM and 512MB of flash storage, ensuring that data is processed quickly and efficiently.

Performance

One of the standout features of the Netgear Orbi RBK852 is its impressive performance. With a maximum theoretical speed of up to 3Gbps (2.4GHz), 1.9Gbps (5GHz), and 866Mbps (5GHz), this system can handle even the most demanding internet applications with ease.

The inclusion of 4×4 MU-MIMO technology allows for simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices, reducing congestion and ensuring that every device connected to the network enjoys fast speeds. Additionally, OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) enables efficient transmission of data packets, further improving performance and reducing latency.

Range and Coverage

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is designed to provide seamless coverage throughout large homes, with a maximum range of up to 7,500 square feet. The system uses mesh technology to create a network of interconnected nodes that communicate with each other to ensure reliable connectivity everywhere.

Security and Features

The Orbi RBK852 includes a robust set of security features, including WPA3 encryption, which provides the highest level of protection against hacking attempts. Additionally, the system supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant integration, allowing users to control their network settings using voice commands.

Other notable features include:

  • Dynamic Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing critical applications
  • Advanced malware protection
  • Guest networking capabilities
  • Easy setup and management via the Orbi app

Compatibility

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart home devices, and gaming consoles. The system supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, ensuring seamless connectivity for all devices.

Conclusion

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is an exceptional whole-home Wi-Fi system that offers unparalleled performance, range, and features. Its robust hardware, advanced security features, and seamless setup process make it the perfect solution for large homes where reliable internet connectivity is crucial.

While the price may be a bit steep at $599 (for the two-pack), the benefits of having a fast and secure network throughout your home far outweigh the costs. The Orbi RBK852 is an investment worth considering for anyone who demands the best from their home network.

Technical Specifications:

  • Processor: Quad-core 1.7GHz
  • RAM: 1GB
  • Storage: 512MB flash storage
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz x2)
  • MU-MIMO Technology: 4×4
  • OFDMA Support: Yes
  • Maximum Theoretical Speed:
    • 2.4GHz: 3Gbps
    • 5GHz: 1.9Gbps and 866Mbps
  • Range and Coverage: Up to 7,500 square feet
  • Security Features: WPA3 encryption, Advanced Malware Protection
  • Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart home devices, and gaming consoles