Netgear's Orbi 370 Series WiFi 7 mesh system offers much potential at an affordable cost
Netgear Unveils Affordable WiFi 7 Mesh System for U.K. and E.U. Markets
Netgear is set to release WiFi 7 mesh systems tailored for local specifications in the U.K. and E.U. later this year. This new system promises a host of security benefits, potentially reducing the need for separate antivirus subscriptions.
The upcoming Netgear Orbi 370 Series represents a significant leap forward in home networking. Compared to the previous Orbi RBK50, the new system boasts faster speeds, improved reliability, and more affordable pricing.
WiFi Standard and Speed
The Orbi 370 Series supports WiFi 7, the latest wireless standard offering potential speeds of up to 33Gbps. In contrast, the RBK50 uses WiFi 5, a significant step behind in terms of speed and efficiency.
Bands and Backhaul
The Orbi 370 is a dual-band WiFi 7 system, combining 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for enhanced backhaul and fronthaul. Meanwhile, the RBK50 is a tri-band WiFi 5 system, with a dedicated 5GHz band for backhaul but no WiFi 7 features.
Ports and Wired Speeds
The Orbi 370 includes 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports on both router and satellites, supporting multi-gig internet plans and faster wired connections. The RBK50, on the other hand, has Gigabit Ethernet ports only, limiting wired speeds to 1 Gbps.
Price and Market Position
The Orbi 370 Series is positioned as a budget-friendly WiFi 7 mesh option, starting at about $349 for a three-pack. This makes WiFi 7 technology more accessible, previously locked behind $1,000+ kits. The RBK50, launched years earlier, was high-end for WiFi 5 mesh but now is surpassed in performance by newer models.
Software and Features
The Orbi 370 retains the familiar Orbi setup experience and management through the Orbi app and web UI, with built-in privacy, automatic security updates, and parental controls. The RBK50 lacks WiFi 7 software features and multi-link capabilities.
In summary, the Orbi 370 Series brings cutting-edge WiFi 7 technology with faster speeds, multi-gig wired support, multi-link operation, and better future-proofing at a more affordable price than past high-end models like the RBK50. This new system is an affordable upgrade for those experiencing WiFi issues with Zoom calls, 4K streams, or smart home devices.
For setup tips, refer to our WiFi 7 guide. The new WiFi 7 mesh system is a smart pick for growing families, offering value and performance.
Competitors like TP-Link are also expected to release budget WiFi 7 mesh systems. Netgear's Q2 2025 earnings call on July 30 may provide more information about home networking plans, but no new product announcements are expected.
[1] Netgear's Orbi 370 Series Unveiled: A More Affordable WiFi 7 Mesh System [2] Netgear Orbi 370 Series vs Netgear Orbi RBK50: What's the Difference? [3] Netgear Orbi 370 Series Review: A Solid WiFi 7 Mesh System for the Masses [4] Netgear Orbi 370 Series: A Budget-Friendly WiFi 7 Mesh System
- The Orbi 370 Series, Netgear's latest WiFi 7 mesh system, not only offers a budget-friendly option for WiFi 7 technology but also integrates seamlessly with various gadgets and smart-home devices, leveraging the power of data-and-cloud-computing for a smarter home environment.
- As more affordable WiFi 7 mesh systems, like the Orbi 370 Series, enter the market, technology enthusiasts will find it easier to incorporate the latest gadgets and smart-home devices into their homes, taking advantage of fast and reliable wireless connections for a seamless digital experience.
