Netgear Nighthawk Tri Band Wi Fi 6E Router Raxe500 Review

If you’re looking for a router that can handle the future of home networking, the Netgear Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router RAXE500 is a serious contender. It’s a beast designed to deliver blazing-fast, low-latency connections, especially for those with new Wi-Fi 6E devices. This router opens up the 6GHz band, a dedicated highway for data traffic, which means less interference and significantly higher speeds for compatible devices, making it a must for anything from 8K streaming to VR gaming. While its premium features come with a premium price tag, the RAXE500’s performance, especially in congested environments, can justify the investment for tech enthusiasts and households demanding top-tier connectivity.

• Netgear Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router RAXE500

  

  • Key Features: Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, Wi-Fi 6E, AXE11000, 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port, Multi-Gigabit Ethernet ports, Powerful quad-core processor, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming.
  • Average Price: ~$500 – $600
  • Pros: Unmatched Wi-Fi 6E performance, incredibly fast 6GHz band, robust hardware, future-proof for next-gen devices, excellent for high-bandwidth applications, comprehensive security features.
  • Cons: Expensive, large footprint, 6GHz band benefits only Wi-Fi 6E compatible devices, potential overkill for standard users.

• TP-Link Archer AXE300

  • Key Features: Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, Wi-Fi 6E, AXE16000, 10G WAN/LAN, 2.5G WAN/LAN, 4x Gigabit LAN, Quad-core CPU, HomeShield Security.
  • Average Price: ~$400 – $500
  • Pros: Exceptional Wi-Fi 6E speeds, competitive pricing for its feature set, powerful processor, good range, extensive security suite.
  • Cons: Design might not appeal to everyone, still a relatively new technology, limited Wi-Fi 6E client availability.

• ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000

  • Key Features: Quad-band two 5GHz, 2.4GHz, 6GHz, Wi-Fi 6E, AXE16000, Dual 10G ports, 2.5G WAN port, Powerful quad-core CPU, AiMesh support.
  • Average Price: ~$600 – $700
  • Pros: Extreme performance with quad-band, excellent for large gaming setups, robust software features, premium build, AiMesh for mesh expansion.
  • Cons: Very expensive, massive footprint, feature set might be overkill for non-gamers, complex setup for some.

• Linksys Hydra Pro 6E AXE6600

  • Key Features: Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, Wi-Fi 6E, AXE6600, 5GbE WAN port, 4 Gigabit LAN ports, Qualcomm Networking Pro 1200 platform.
  • Average Price: ~$300 – $400
  • Pros: More affordable entry into Wi-Fi 6E, decent performance for its class, simple setup, good for medium-sized homes, solid Linksys app experience.
  • Cons: Not as powerful as top-tier models, lower maximum theoretical speeds, design is somewhat generic.

• Netgear Nighthawk RAX200 Wi-Fi 6, not 6E

  • Key Features: Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 5GHz, Wi-Fi 6, AX11000, 2.5G WAN/LAN, 4x Gigabit LAN, Quad-core processor.
  • Average Price: ~$350 – $450
  • Pros: Top-tier Wi-Fi 6 performance, excellent for current-gen devices, multi-gig port, good for large homes, robust build quality.
  • Cons: No 6GHz band not Wi-Fi 6E, still a significant investment, larger physical size.

• Eero Pro 6E Mesh Wi-Fi System

  • Key Features: Mesh Wi-Fi 6E system, Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, AXE4200 per unit, TrueMesh technology, built-in Zigbee smart home hub.
  • Average Price: ~$500 – $650 for 2-pack
  • Pros: Seamless whole-home coverage, easy setup and management, integrated smart home hub, sleek design, ideal for large or multi-story homes.
  • Cons: Less granular control than traditional routers, individual unit performance not as high as standalone premium routers, requires multiple units for full coverage.

• Google Nest Wifi Pro Wi-Fi 6E Mesh

  • Key Features: Mesh Wi-Fi 6E system, Tri-band 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, AXE4200 per unit, Proactive network optimization, Matter support.
  • Average Price: ~$400 – $550 for 2-pack
  • Pros: Excellent ease of use and setup, strong smart home integration, good coverage for mesh, sleek design, proactive network management.
  • Cons: Limited advanced configuration options, no USB ports, reliance on Google Home app for management, only two Ethernet ports per unit.

The Dawn of 6E: Why the RAXE500 Matters

The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 marks a significant leap in home networking, largely due to its embrace of Wi-Fi 6E.

Unlike its Wi-Fi 6 predecessors, the “E” signifies support for the 6GHz frequency band. This isn’t just another incremental upgrade.

It’s a must for anyone experiencing network congestion or looking for the absolute cutting edge in wireless performance.

Imagine an entirely new, wide-open highway dedicated solely to your Wi-Fi traffic, free from the crowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. That’s essentially what the 6GHz band offers.

Unpacking Wi-Fi 6E and Its Advantages

Wi-Fi 6E extends the capabilities of Wi-Fi 6 by adding support for the 6GHz band. This band provides up to 1200 MHz of contiguous spectrum in the US, allowing for many more 160 MHz and 80 MHz channels than currently available in the 5GHz band.

• Reduced Interference: The 6GHz band is currently exclusive to Wi-Fi 6E devices. This means minimal to no interference from legacy Wi-Fi devices, Bluetooth, microwaves, or other common wireless technologies that often crowd the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This translates to incredibly stable and consistent connections.
• Higher Throughput: More channels, especially wider ones like 160MHz, mean higher potential data rates. For devices capable of utilizing it, this translates to multi-gigabit wireless speeds. Think of downloading massive game files in seconds, seamless 8K video streaming, or lag-free VR experiences.
• Lower Latency: With less congestion and larger channels, data packets can travel more freely and quickly, resulting in significantly lower latency. This is crucial for real-time applications like online gaming, video conferencing, and augmented/virtual reality. A lower ping can be the difference between victory and defeat in competitive online games.
• Increased Capacity: The sheer amount of available spectrum allows the RAXE500 to handle a much larger number of simultaneous devices with optimal performance. In a smart home filled with dozens of IoT devices, multiple streaming clients, and remote workers, this capacity becomes invaluable.

The Impact on Your Home Network

For the average user, the immediate benefits of Wi-Fi 6E might not be apparent unless they own a Wi-Fi 6E compatible device like newer smartphones, laptops, or VR headsets. However, for tech enthusiasts, gamers, or those with multi-gigabit internet connections, the RAXE500 leveraging 6E can be transformative.

It offloads compatible devices to a less congested band, freeing up the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands for older devices, thereby improving the overall network efficiency for everyone.

This creates a “fast lane” for your most demanding devices, while still providing robust connectivity for everything else.

Design and Hardware: A Look Under the Hood

The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 immediately stands out with its distinctive, angular “wings” design, a signature of the Nighthawk series.

It’s an imposing piece of hardware, designed not just for performance but also to make a statement. Air Review

While its aesthetics might be subjective, there’s no denying the engineering packed within its chassis.

Physical Footprint and Aesthetics

The RAXE500 is a large router, measuring approximately 11.75 x 11.22 x 3.03 inches 29.85 x 28.5 x 7.7 cm with the “wings” extended. It’s not a router you’ll easily tuck away.

It demands a prominent spot, ideally in an open area for optimal signal dissemination.

The integrated antennas are hidden within the wings, giving it a sleeker look compared to routers with multiple external antennas, though the sheer size might be a concern for some space-conscious users.

Its black, somewhat stealth-fighter-like design might appeal to gamers and tech enthusiasts.

Internal Components and Processing Power

Underneath its aggressive exterior, the RAXE500 houses a powerful 1.8GHz Quad-Core Processor. This high-performance CPU is crucial for handling the immense data throughput, managing numerous simultaneous connections, and running advanced features like QoS Quality of Service, network security, and VPN.

• Processor: A robust processor prevents bottlenecks, ensuring that the router can efficiently manage multiple data streams from various devices without slowing down, even under heavy load. This is especially important for multi-gigabit connections and the demanding nature of Wi-Fi 6E.
• Memory: The RAXE500 typically comes with ample RAM e.g., 512MB or 1GB to manage network tables, client connections, and firmware operations smoothly. More RAM translates to better stability and performance, particularly with a large number of connected devices.
• Cooling: Given the high-performance components, effective cooling is vital. Netgear often incorporates internal heatsinks and efficient airflow designs to prevent thermal throttling and ensure long-term stability.

Connectivity Ports and I/O

The RAXE500 offers a comprehensive array of ports, making it suitable for high-speed wired connections and various network configurations.

• 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN Port: This is a standout feature. It allows you to connect to multi-gigabit internet services e.g., 2.5Gbps, 5Gbps, or even 10Gbps, if available or use it as a high-speed LAN port to connect to a multi-gigabit switch or NAS. This port is key for truly leveraging the speeds of Wi-Fi 6E.
• 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port: Another multi-gig port, providing flexibility for connecting another high-bandwidth device like a gaming PC, workstation, or dedicated server at speeds beyond standard Gigabit Ethernet.
• Four Gigabit Ethernet LAN Ports: Standard Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, desktop PCs, and network printers.
• Two USB 3.0 Ports: These ports enable you to connect external storage devices like USB hard drives to create a simple network-attached storage NAS solution for file sharing across your network. You can also use them for printer sharing.

The inclusion of multiple multi-gigabit ports underscores the RAXE500’s commitment to high-performance networking, both wirelessly and wired.

It’s designed for users who are pushing the boundaries of their home network infrastructure.

Performance Benchmarks: Speed and Coverage

When it comes to a premium router like the RAXE500, performance is paramount. Bowers Wilkins Pi7 Review

Users are paying a premium for speed, reliability, and coverage, and the RAXE500 largely delivers, especially on the newly opened 6GHz band.

Real-World Speed Tests 6GHz, 5GHz, 2.4GHz

Testing routers in a real-world environment can be tricky due to variables like interference, building materials, and client device capabilities.

However, consistent patterns emerge from various expert reviews.

• 6GHz Band Wi-Fi 6E Devices: This is where the RAXE500 truly shines. With a compatible Wi-Fi 6E client device, speeds can approach multi-gigabit levels in close proximity to the router. Reports often show speeds easily exceeding 1.5 Gbps and even approaching 2.0 Gbps under ideal conditions, especially when connected to the 10GbE WAN/LAN port. This makes it ideal for incredibly demanding tasks like large file transfers, uncompressed 8K video streaming, and latency-sensitive VR applications. The key advantage here is the wide, uncongested channels.
• 5GHz Band Wi-Fi 6/5 Devices: Performance on the 5GHz band is also excellent. Expect speeds that comfortably saturate a typical gigabit internet connection, with local network transfers often reaching 800-900 Mbps or more for Wi-Fi 6 clients. Even older Wi-Fi 5 802.11ac devices benefit from the router’s powerful processing and improved efficiency, though their maximum speeds will be lower. The RAXE500’s 5GHz band handles multiple concurrent streams very well, thanks to OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies.
• 2.4GHz Band IoT Devices, Legacy Devices: The 2.4GHz band, while slower, offers better range and penetration through walls. Speeds typically range from 100-200 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for most IoT devices, smart home gadgets, and older Wi-Fi devices. The RAXE500’s performance here is robust, ensuring reliable connectivity for devices that don’t require high bandwidth.

Data Point: According to tests by various independent reviewers, the RAXE500 consistently ranks among the top performers for Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 6 speeds. For instance, in close-range 6GHz tests, it often delivers throughput 20-30% higher than comparable Wi-Fi 6-only routers and significantly better than older Wi-Fi 5 models.

Coverage and Range Capabilities

Netgear rates the RAXE500 as suitable for “very large homes” e.g., 3,500 sq. ft. or more. This claim holds up well in practice.

• Strong Signal Penetration: The powerful internal antennas and beamforming technology help direct strong Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices, even through walls and floors. While the 6GHz band, by its nature, has slightly less penetration than 5GHz or 2.4GHz, the RAXE500 still provides respectable coverage for compatible devices within a reasonable range.
• Whole-Home Coverage: For most multi-story homes, the RAXE500 alone can provide good coverage. However, like any single router, very large or unusually shaped homes might experience some dead spots at the extreme edges.
• Mesh Compatibility: For truly expansive coverage, the RAXE500 is compatible with Netgear’s Orbi Mesh Wi-Fi systems though it’s a standalone router, not a mesh node itself in the traditional sense for Orbi. If you need to extend coverage beyond what a single powerful router can offer, considering a mesh system or adding an extender would be the next step. However, for a single unit, the RAXE500 offers one of the best ranges available.

The combination of raw speed and excellent coverage makes the RAXE500 a formidable choice for homes demanding high-performance wireless connectivity across a broad area.

Setup and Management: The Nighthawk App Experience

Setting up a high-end router like the RAXE500 can sometimes feel daunting, but Netgear has made significant strides in simplifying the process, largely through its intuitive Nighthawk mobile app.

Initial Setup Process

The initial setup of the RAXE500 is streamlined and generally takes less than 15 minutes for most users.

1. Hardware Connection: Plug in the power adapter, connect your modem to the 10GbE WAN/LAN port or 2.5GbE if preferred on the router, and power it on.
2. App-Guided Setup: The recommended method is to download the Netgear Nighthawk app available for iOS and Android. The app will guide you through connecting to the router’s temporary Wi-Fi network, detecting your internet connection, and setting up your new Wi-Fi network name SSID and password. It will also prompt you to update the firmware, which is crucial for performance and security.
3. Web Interface Option: For those who prefer a desktop experience or more granular control from the outset, you can also access the router’s web-based interface by navigating to routerlogin.net or the router’s default IP address e.g., 192.168.1.1 from a wired or wirelessly connected computer.

Tip: During setup, ensure your modem is fully initialized before connecting it to the router to avoid connectivity issues. A simple modem reboot unplugging for 30 seconds before connecting to the RAXE500 can often resolve initial hiccups.

Nighthawk App Features and Usability

The Nighthawk app is the primary interface for managing your RAXE500 and offers a surprisingly comprehensive set of features in an easy-to-navigate format. Hp Zbook Firefly 15 G8 Review

• Dashboard: Provides an overview of your network status, connected devices, and internet speed.
• Network Map: Visually displays all connected devices, allowing you to easily identify and manage them. You can pause internet access for specific devices, see their connection type 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, and prioritize them.
• Traffic Meter: Monitors internet usage, which can be useful for tracking data consumption if you have a capped internet plan.
• Wi-Fi Settings: Allows you to change your Wi-Fi name, password, and security settings for each band. You can also enable or disable specific bands.
• Guest Wi-Fi: Easily set up a separate network for guests, keeping your main network secure.
• Parental Controls Basic: Provides basic website filtering and pause internet access features. For more advanced parental controls, Netgear Armor subscription-based is integrated.
• Smart Parental Controls: This is part of the Netgear Armor suite, offering more sophisticated control over internet access, content filtering, and time limits for individual users and devices.
• Security Netgear Armor: This is a key feature, powered by Bitdefender. It provides comprehensive network security, including vulnerability assessments, brute-force protection, DDoS prevention, and device-level security against malware and phishing attempts. It’s a subscription service, but a free trial is usually included.
• VPN: Allows you to set up a VPN server on your router, enabling secure remote access to your home network.
• Port Forwarding: Configure port forwarding rules for gaming consoles or specific applications.
• Firmware Updates: The app alerts you to and facilitates firmware updates, crucial for security patches and performance improvements.

Web Interface for Advanced Settings

While the Nighthawk app is excellent for most daily tasks, the web-based interface offers access to the full suite of advanced settings that power users might need.

• Deep Customization: This includes granular control over QoS Quality of Service settings, specific firewall rules, VPN client/server configurations, advanced wireless settings like channel width, specific channels, IPv6 settings, and detailed system logs.
• Router Mode/AP Mode: Allows you to switch the RAXE500 between router mode and access point AP mode if you already have a router and just want to add Wi-Fi capabilities.
• ReadySHARE: Manage connected USB storage devices, set up media servers, and configure remote access.
• VLAN/Bridge Settings: For more complex network setups.

In summary, Netgear has balanced ease of use with powerful configuration options.

The Nighthawk app handles the basics beautifully, making it accessible to everyone, while the web interface caters to the needs of network enthusiasts and professionals.

Key Features and Technologies: Beyond the Basics

The RAXE500 isn’t just about raw speed.

It’s packed with a suite of advanced features and technologies that elevate the overall networking experience.

These go beyond the standard Wi-Fi capabilities to provide better performance, security, and control.

Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Ports

As highlighted earlier, the inclusion of a 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port is a significant differentiator.

• Future-Proofing Internet: With internet service providers ISPs increasingly rolling out multi-gigabit fiber plans 2Gbps, 5Gbps, 10Gbps, these ports ensure the RAXE500 can fully utilize these blazing-fast connections. Connecting your modem to the 10GbE port allows the router to handle inbound traffic without becoming a bottleneck.
• High-Speed Local Network: These ports aren’t just for the internet. They allow you to connect high-bandwidth wired devices, such as a powerful gaming PC, a Network Attached Storage NAS device, or a multi-gigabit switch, at speeds far exceeding traditional Gigabit Ethernet. This is crucial for local file transfers, media streaming, and applications that require high internal network throughput. Imagine transferring a 100GB file in minutes instead of hours!

OFDMA Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access

OFDMA is a core technology of Wi-Fi 6 and by extension, Wi-Fi 6E that significantly improves network efficiency.

• Analogy: Think of OFDMA like a delivery truck that can deliver multiple packages to multiple houses on a single trip. In older Wi-Fi standards, each device had to wait for its own delivery truck, even for small packages.
• How it Works: OFDMA allows the router to simultaneously send data to multiple devices using different sub-channels within a single Wi-Fi channel. This is particularly effective in environments with many low-bandwidth devices like IoT sensors, smart plugs, security cameras, as it reduces latency and improves overall network efficiency by minimizing airtime contention. Each device gets its small, dedicated “slice” of the channel, leading to less waiting time and more efficient data transmission.
• Benefit: Less lag for all connected devices, better performance in crowded network environments, and improved battery life for client devices as they spend less time transmitting and receiving.

MU-MIMO Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output

MU-MIMO complements OFDMA by allowing the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously using multiple antennas.

• Analogy: If OFDMA is about sharing a delivery truck, MU-MIMO is about a post office having multiple counters open, serving several customers at once instead of one by one.
• How it Works: In traditional Wi-Fi, a router could only talk to one device at a time. With MU-MIMO, the RAXE500 can serve multiple compatible devices e.g., a laptop, a smartphone, and a tablet simultaneously on different spatial streams. This significantly increases the total throughput and reduces the time each device has to wait for its turn.
• Benefit: Faster downloads and uploads for multiple users at the same time, leading to a smoother experience in multi-user households. The RAXE500 supports 4×4 MU-MIMO on its 5GHz and 6GHz bands, meaning it can serve four devices simultaneously in each direction.

Beamforming

Beamforming is a smart antenna technology that focuses the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices rather than broadcasting it indiscriminately. Wyze Floor Lamp Review

• How it Works: The router “listens” to where a device is located and then concentrates the Wi-Fi signal in that specific direction.
• Benefit: Stronger and more stable connections, especially for devices at a distance or through obstacles. This extends the effective range and improves the reliability of your Wi-Fi network. For the RAXE500, with its powerful radios, beamforming helps maximize the reach and stability of its high-speed connections.

These technologies, when combined, make the RAXE500 a powerhouse for modern, high-density networks.

They are essential for leveraging the full potential of Wi-Fi 6E and ensuring a smooth, fast, and responsive internet experience for every device in your home.

Security Features: Protecting Your Network

Network security is no longer an afterthought. it’s a critical component of any modern router. The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 integrates robust security features, with Netgear Armor being the cornerstone of its protection strategy.

Netgear Armor Powered by Bitdefender

Netgear Armor is a comprehensive, subscription-based security suite embedded directly into the router’s firmware.

While it requires an annual fee after an initial trial period typically 30 or 90 days, it offers significant benefits for protecting your entire network.

• Vulnerability Assessment: Scans your network and connected devices for potential security vulnerabilities and provides recommendations to mitigate them. This proactive approach helps identify weak points before they can be exploited.
• Brute-Force Protection: Defends against automated attempts to guess your network passwords or access your router’s administration interface.
• DDoS Prevention: Protects against Distributed Denial of Service attacks, which try to overwhelm your network with traffic to make it unavailable.
• Real-time Threat Prevention: Scans incoming and outgoing data for malware, ransomware, phishing attempts, and other malicious threats. If a device on your network tries to access a dangerous website or download a malicious file, Armor blocks it at the router level.
• Device Security: Extends protection to individual devices PCs, Macs, Android, iOS with a Bitdefender Total Security license, included with the Armor subscription. This means your devices are protected even when they leave your home network.
• VPN Protection: For some versions of Armor, a VPN client can be included for additional privacy when browsing.
• Smart Home Security: Monitors IoT devices for unusual behavior, providing an extra layer of defense for smart devices that often lack strong built-in security.

Consideration: While the subscription cost might be a deterrent for some, the centralized protection for all network-connected devices, including those that can’t run traditional antivirus software like smart TVs, cameras, or gaming consoles, makes Netgear Armor a valuable investment for households concerned about digital security.

Standard Router Security Protocols

Beyond Netgear Armor, the RAXE500 supports industry-standard security protocols to keep your Wi-Fi network safe.

• WPA3 Encryption: This is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard, offering stronger encryption and improved protection against brute-force attacks compared to WPA2. The RAXE500 fully supports WPA3 for both personal and enterprise use. Using WPA3 is highly recommended if all your devices support it.
• SPI Firewall: A Stateful Packet Inspection SPI firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, allowing legitimate connections while blocking suspicious ones. This acts as the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your home network.
• VPN Support VPN Server: The RAXE500 can function as a VPN server. This allows you to securely access your home network resources like files on a connected USB drive or smart home devices from outside your home, using an encrypted tunnel. This is fantastic for travelers or remote workers who need secure access to their home network.
• Guest Wi-Fi Network: The ability to set up a separate guest network is crucial for security. Guests get their own Wi-Fi access, isolated from your main network and its connected devices, preventing them from accessing your personal files or potentially introducing malware. You can easily set up time limits or bandwidth restrictions for the guest network.
• Access Control: Allows you to define which devices are permitted to connect to your network based on their MAC addresses. This provides an additional layer of control, though it can be cumbersome to manage for many devices.

Target Audience and Value Proposition

The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is undeniably a premium router, and its feature set and price point dictate a specific target audience.

It’s not for everyone, but for those who fit the profile, its value proposition is compelling.

Who is the RAXE500 For?

• Early Adopters and Tech Enthusiasts: If you’re passionate about having the latest technology and want to be at the forefront of Wi-Fi 6E, the RAXE500 is designed for you. You likely own, or plan to acquire, Wi-Fi 6E compatible devices to take full advantage of the 6GHz band.
• Multi-Gigabit Internet Subscribers: If your ISP provides internet speeds exceeding 1 Gbps e.g., 2 Gbps, 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps fiber, the RAXE500’s 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port is essential to utilize that bandwidth fully. Without it, your router would be the bottleneck.
• Heavy Streamers and Gamers: For households with multiple 4K/8K streamers, competitive online gamers, and VR/AR users, the RAXE500’s low-latency 6GHz band and high throughput on all bands ensure a smooth, lag-free experience for even the most demanding applications. Lower latency is critical for responsiveness in gaming.
• Smart Homes with Numerous Devices: In a modern smart home ecosystem with dozens of connected IoT devices smart lights, cameras, thermostats, voice assistants, etc., the RAXE500’s capacity, thanks to OFDMA and MU-MIMO, ensures that all devices remain connected and responsive without bogging down the network.
• Home Office / Remote Workers: Professionals who rely on stable, high-speed connections for video conferencing, large file transfers, and cloud-based applications will appreciate the RAXE500’s reliability and performance, especially if they have access to multi-gig internet.
• Users Demanding High-Speed Local Networking: If you frequently transfer large files between local devices e.g., from a PC to a NAS, or between two workstations and have multi-gigabit wired infrastructure, the RAXE500’s multi-gig LAN ports are invaluable.

Is It Worth the Investment?

The RAXE500 carries a significant price tag, typically ranging from $500 to $600. Is it worth it? Evga Z20 Opto Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review

• Yes, if you meet the criteria above. For users who can genuinely leverage the Wi-Fi 6E capabilities and multi-gigabit ports, the RAXE500 offers unparalleled performance and future-proofing. The improved speed, lower latency, and reduced interference on the 6GHz band can be a must for high-bandwidth, latency-sensitive applications. The comprehensive security suite Netgear Armor, albeit subscription-based also adds considerable value.
• No, if you don’t. If you have a standard gigabit internet connection, don’t own any Wi-Fi 6E devices, and your primary use is basic browsing and streaming, a high-end Wi-Fi 6 router like Netgear’s own RAX200 or RAX80 or even a more affordable Wi-Fi 6E option like the Linksys Hydra Pro 6E might offer sufficient performance at a lower cost. Overspending on features you won’t use doesn’t make sense.

Perspective: Consider the RAXE500 as an investment in your home’s digital infrastructure. Just as you might invest in a high-performance computer or a top-tier entertainment system, the RAXE500 is for those who prioritize a cutting-edge, highly responsive, and reliable network experience. It’s built to handle the demands of today’s most bandwidth-hungry applications and is ready for the innovations of tomorrow.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is a powerhouse router, it’s essential to consider its potential drawbacks and specific considerations before making such a significant investment.

No product is perfect for everyone, and understanding the limitations can help you make an informed decision.

High Cost

• The Sticker Shock: The most immediate consideration for many buyers will be the price. At $500-$600, the RAXE500 is firmly in the premium category, placing it out of reach or unnecessary for the average user. This price is largely due to the cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6E technology and the powerful internal hardware required to deliver multi-gigabit speeds.
• Subscription for Advanced Security: While Netgear Armor is a robust security suite, it requires an ongoing annual subscription after the initial trial period. This adds to the total cost of ownership, which might be a deal-breaker for those looking for a one-time purchase solution or who prefer free, open-source security tools.

Limited Wi-Fi 6E Device Availability Currently

• The Chicken and Egg Problem: The biggest selling point of the RAXE500 is its 6GHz Wi-Fi 6E band. However, as of its release and even currently, the number of client devices laptops, smartphones, VR headsets, etc. that support Wi-Fi 6E is still relatively limited compared to Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 5.
• Future-Proofing vs. Immediate Benefit: While the RAXE500 is excellent for future-proofing your network, if you don’t have any Wi-Fi 6E devices now or in the immediate future, you won’t be able to fully utilize its primary advantage – the uncongested 6GHz band. In such cases, a high-end Wi-Fi 6 router might offer comparable performance on the 5GHz band for less money.

Physical Size and Design

• Large Footprint: The RAXE500 is a physically large router, with its distinctive “wings” design. It requires ample space and isn’t something you can easily hide. For those with limited space or who prefer discreet networking equipment, its imposing presence might be an issue.
• Aesthetics: The aggressive, angular design is subjective. While some might appreciate its “gamer-esque” or “stealth fighter” look, others might find it too flashy or out of place in a more traditional home decor.

Potential Overkill for Average Users

• Unused Bandwidth: If your internet plan is 1 Gigabits per second Gbps or less, and you don’t have multiple users constantly streaming 8K content or transferring massive files locally, the RAXE500’s multi-gigabit capabilities and extreme speeds might be overkill. You’d be paying for horsepower you won’t fully utilize.
• Complexity: While Netgear has simplified the setup with the Nighthawk app, the sheer number of advanced features and settings especially in the web interface can be overwhelming for casual users who just want to plug in and go.

Firmware Updates and Stability

• Early Adopter Pains: As with any cutting-edge technology, early firmware versions for new Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6E can sometimes have minor bugs or require refinements. While Netgear is generally good with updates, early adopters might experience some quirks that are ironed out over time. It’s always advisable to ensure the router is running the latest firmware.

In conclusion, the RAXE500 is a top-tier router, but its niche audience means these considerations are important.

If you need the bleeding edge of Wi-Fi 6E and can justify the cost, it’s an excellent choice.

If not, there are many other capable and more budget-friendly options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500?

The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is a high-performance tri-band Wi-Fi 6E router, meaning it supports the new 6GHz frequency band in addition to the traditional 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

It’s designed to deliver multi-gigabit wireless speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity for modern home networks.

What is Wi-Fi 6E and how is it different from Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6E is an extension of Wi-Fi 6 that adds support for the 6GHz frequency band.

Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, focusing on efficiency and capacity. Tribit Stormbox Pro Review

Wi-Fi 6E extends these benefits to the 6GHz band, which offers significantly more bandwidth and less interference, leading to even higher speeds and lower latency for compatible devices.

Does the RAXE500 support multi-gigabit internet speeds?

Yes, the RAXE500 features a 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, allowing it to support internet plans exceeding 1 Gbps e.g., 2.5Gbps, 5Gbps, 10Gbps and provide high-speed wired connections to local devices like NAS or gaming PCs.

How fast is the Netgear RAXE500?

The RAXE500 is rated as AXE11000, meaning it offers a combined theoretical maximum speed of up to 11 Gbps across all three bands 4.8Gbps on 6GHz, 4.8Gbps on 5GHz, and 1.2Gbps on 2.4GHz. In real-world tests, Wi-Fi 6E devices can achieve speeds well over 1.5 Gbps in ideal conditions.

Is the RAXE500 good for gaming?

Yes, the RAXE500 is excellent for gaming, especially with Wi-Fi 6E compatible devices.

The 6GHz band offers significantly lower latency and reduced interference, providing a dedicated, high-speed “fast lane” for gaming traffic.

This can result in a more responsive and lag-free online gaming experience.

Does the RAXE500 have parental controls?

Yes, the RAXE500 offers basic parental controls through the Nighthawk app or web interface, allowing you to pause internet access for specific devices. For more advanced features like content filtering, time limits, and detailed usage reports, it integrates with Netgear Armor a subscription service.

What is Netgear Armor?

Netgear Armor is a comprehensive network security suite powered by Bitdefender, included as a trial with the RAXE500. It provides network-wide protection against malware, phishing, ransomware, and other cyber threats for all connected devices, including smart home devices.

It typically requires an annual subscription after the trial.

Can I connect a USB hard drive to the RAXE500?

Yes, the RAXE500 has two USB 3.0 ports. You can connect a USB hard drive or flash drive to create a simple network-attached storage NAS solution for file sharing across your network or to set up a media server. Huawei Matebook X Pro 2021 Review

Is the RAXE500 compatible with older Wi-Fi devices?

Yes, the RAXE500 is backward compatible with older Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 5 802.11ac, Wi-Fi 4 802.11n, and even older.

These devices will connect to the 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands.

How large of a home can the RAXE500 cover?

Netgear rates the RAXE500 for “very large homes,” typically over 3,500 square feet.

Its powerful antennas and beamforming technology provide excellent coverage, though very large or complex layouts might still benefit from a mesh system if dead spots occur.

Does the RAXE500 support mesh Wi-Fi?

The RAXE500 is a standalone router, not a mesh node itself. However, Netgear does offer mesh systems like Orbi.

If you need to extend coverage beyond the RAXE500’s capabilities, you would typically add a Wi-Fi extender or consider a dedicated mesh system.

How do I set up the Netgear RAXE500?

The easiest way to set up the RAXE500 is by using the Netgear Nighthawk mobile app. The app provides step-by-step instructions for connecting your modem, setting up your Wi-Fi network, and updating firmware. You can also use the web interface routerlogin.net.

Is the RAXE500 easy to use for beginners?

The initial setup through the Nighthawk app is designed to be user-friendly for beginners.

However, the router also has a wide range of advanced settings accessible via the web interface, which might be overwhelming for users who prefer minimal configuration.

What are the main benefits of the 6GHz band?

The main benefits of the 6GHz band are significantly reduced interference as it’s exclusive to Wi-Fi 6E devices, higher potential speeds due to wider channels, and lower latency. It acts as a dedicated, uncongested “fast lane” for Wi-Fi 6E compatible devices. Msi Cubi 5 10M Review

Do I need Wi-Fi 6E devices to benefit from the RAXE500?

To fully utilize the 6GHz band and its multi-gigabit speeds, you need Wi-Fi 6E compatible client devices.

However, older Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 devices will still benefit from the router’s powerful processor, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and overall network efficiency on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

What is OFDMA and MU-MIMO?

OFDMA Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously on different sub-channels within a single Wi-Fi channel, improving efficiency for low-bandwidth devices. MU-MIMO Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output enables the router to communicate with multiple compatible devices at the same time using multiple antennas, improving simultaneous throughput for multiple users.

Does the RAXE500 support WPA3 encryption?

Yes, the RAXE500 supports WPA3 encryption, which is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol, offering enhanced protection against cyber threats.

Can I access my home network remotely with the RAXE500?

Yes, the RAXE500 includes VPN server capabilities.

This allows you to create a secure, encrypted tunnel to your home network from a remote location, enabling access to your files or smart home devices as if you were physically at home.

How many devices can the RAXE500 handle?

Thanks to Wi-Fi 6E, OFDMA, and MU-MIMO, the RAXE500 is designed to handle a very large number of connected devices, often cited as over 100 devices, with optimal performance, making it suitable for modern smart homes.

What kind of processor does the RAXE500 have?

The RAXE500 is equipped with a powerful 1.8GHz Quad-Core Processor, which is essential for managing high data throughput, numerous connections, and advanced router features without performance bottlenecks.

Is the RAXE500 wall-mountable?

No, due to its size and unique “wings” design, the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is not typically designed for wall mounting and is meant for placement on a flat surface.

Can I disable specific Wi-Fi bands 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz on the RAXE500?

Yes, the Nighthawk app and the web interface allow you to individually enable or disable each of the three Wi-Fi bands 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz to suit your network needs. Guidedoc Review

Does the RAXE500 have a built-in firewall?

Yes, the RAXE500 includes a robust Stateful Packet Inspection SPI firewall that monitors network traffic and helps protect your network from unauthorized access and certain types of cyberattacks.

What is the power consumption of the RAXE500?

Like most high-performance routers, the RAXE500 can have relatively higher power consumption compared to basic routers, usually ranging from 15W to 25W under typical load. This can vary based on usage and connected devices.

Does the RAXE500 have QoS Quality of Service features?

Yes, the RAXE500 supports Quality of Service QoS, allowing you to prioritize network traffic for specific applications or devices e.g., prioritizing gaming consoles or streaming services to ensure smoother performance during periods of high network congestion.

How often should I update the RAXE500’s firmware?

It is highly recommended to keep your router’s firmware updated regularly.

Netgear often releases updates that improve performance, add new features, and, most importantly, patch security vulnerabilities. The Nighthawk app makes this process easy.

What are the dimensions of the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500?

The RAXE500 measures approximately 11.75 x 11.22 x 3.03 inches 29.85 x 28.5 x 7.7 cm with its wings extended. It is a large router that requires significant space.

Is the RAXE500 a good choice for professional video editing or large file transfers?

Yes, absolutely.

The RAXE500’s Wi-Fi 6E speeds, along with its multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, make it an excellent choice for professional video editing, large file transfers, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks, especially within your local network or if you have a multi-gigabit internet connection.

Can I connect multiple devices to the 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port?

The 10 Gigabit port is a single port.

It can function either as a WAN internet port or a LAN local network port. Pac Man 99 For Nintendo Switch Review

To connect multiple multi-gig devices, you would typically connect this port to a multi-gigabit network switch.

What is the warranty for the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500?

Netgear typically offers a 1-year limited hardware warranty for its Nighthawk routers, along with 90 days of complimentary technical support. It’s always best to check the specific warranty details at the time of purchase.