Editors' Note: This review has been updated to reflect the addition of guest networking support, which was recently added by Netgear in a firmware update. The feature was not available when we tested the Orbi in October of 2016. Neither the score nor the Editors' Choice designation has changed.

Easy to install; Fast throughput; Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) capable; Highly configurable

Expensive; Bulky; Limited USB functionality

The Netgear Orbi mesh-router system is out of this world, able to fill a large home with high-speed Wi-Fi. It's a snap to set up and has more range and power than almost any other router.

Phenomenal performance; Dedicated router-to-extension data channel; MU-MIMO technology; Choice of app or browser setup

Relatively large devices; Expensive; Limited functionality on mobile app for now

Note : This review discusses the Orbi's performance in a Mac environment. There's a very similar version of this story that discusses this router's performance in a Windows environment on our sister site TechHive.com. Ignore Netgear's advertising: Its Orbi Wi-Fi router is not a mesh network system.

Strong Wi-Fi performance, Three-port gigabit ethernet switch on the router; four-port switch on the satellite, Dedicated 4x4 radio for backhaul

Physically larger and more visually obtrusive than the competition; USB port is currently dormant

WiFi mesh router solutions like the Netgear Orbi are designed specifically to eliminate wireless connectivity dead spots in your home or small office environment. The solution is intended to serve the requirements of a larger coverage area.

In all, the Orbi is a smart system: we found it delivered rock-solid and stable Wi-Fi to our entire house. If you've struggled with poor Wi-Fi performance in the past, then this router could well be the answer.

Bought this based on the rating - it is the worst wifi equipment I have ever owned and the least supported. Beware - go online to Orbi support groups to find out about how much maintenance this takes to work properly and that is if the firmware updates are done in the proper order for the...

Orbi might be the first mesh-based network to launch over here, but it's got some big competition across the pond. Eero has been out in the US for a while, and Google Wifi will arrive there in November.

Blistering wireless speeds; Great design; Incredibly simple setup

Beaten by much cheaper routers for everyday file transfers; QoS options are basic; Mobile app is horrific

It's expensive, but the Orbi's long-range, reliable Wi-Fi coverage ensures that this new-generation home router will earn its keep in many homes. Here's our Netgear Orbi review

Weak Wi-Fi is the bane of many a home. Dead spots, unreliable connections and slow speeds are common problems. Possible solutions can range from running Ethernet cables around your home to installing Wi-Fi range extenders.

Very easy to set up; Delivers great performance and coverage

Distinctly pricey; Doesn't currently support YouView streaming

The Orbi system is expensive, even given the fact that it includes both a router and satellite together. If you only have one room where the wi-fi doesn't work very well then you could save money simply by buying an inexpensive powerline adaptor or range extender for that particular spot.