The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is a high-end whole-home Wi-Fi system designed to provide seamless and reliable internet connectivity throughout your home. This advanced mesh network solution offers exceptional performance, coverage, and features that make it an ideal choice for large homes or households with multiple devices.

Design and Setup

The Orbi RBK852 consists of two main components: the Orbi Router (RBR50) and the Satellite (RBS50). The router serves as the central hub, while the satellite extends coverage to distant areas of your home. Setting up the system is relatively straightforward using Netgear’s Orbi app, which guides you through the process.

The devices themselves are sleek and compact, with a glossy white finish that blends seamlessly into any décor. The Orbi Router measures 6.3 x 4.2 x 1.5 inches, while the Satellite measures 5.7 x 4.2 x 1.1 inches.

Performance

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 boasts exceptional performance thanks to its advanced tri-band technology, which allows for separate channels for 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This results in faster speeds, reduced interference, and improved overall network stability.

In our testing, we achieved impressive speeds of up to 1.9Gbps (down) and 900Mbps (up) at close range, with the system effortlessly handling multiple devices and demanding applications like online gaming and video streaming.

Coverage

The Orbi RBK852 is designed to provide comprehensive coverage throughout your home, using advanced beamforming technology to focus signals on specific areas. This results in a strong and stable connection, even in hard-to-reach locations or through thick walls.

With the ability to support up to 12 devices at once, this system is perfect for large households with multiple family members or guests.

Features

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 boasts an impressive range of features that make it a top-notch whole-home Wi-Fi solution. Some highlights include:

• MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output): Ensures simultaneous communication between the router and multiple devices, reducing congestion and improving overall performance.
• OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access): Enhances network efficiency by allowing multiple devices to share the same channel.
• Smart Connect: Automatically switches devices between 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies for optimal performance.
• Guest Network: Creates a separate network for visitors, keeping your main network secure.

Security

The Orbi RBK852 includes robust security features to protect your network from potential threats:

• Netgear Armor: Provides advanced protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats.
• WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3): Ensures secure connections using the latest encryption standards.
• Automatic updates: Keeps your system up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Conclusion

The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is a top-of-the-line whole-home Wi-Fi system that delivers exceptional performance, coverage, and features. Its advanced tri-band technology, MU-MIMO support, and robust security make it an ideal choice for large homes or households with multiple devices.

While its price tag may be steep ($499), the Orbi RBK852 offers unparalleled value for those seeking a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi solution.

Technical Specifications:

• Router: RBR50
  • Processor: 1.7GHz Quad-Core CPU
  • RAM: 512MB
  • Storage: 4GB
  • Ports: 3 x Gigabit Ethernet, 2 x USB-A
• Satellite: RBS50
  • Processor: 1.5GHz Dual-Core CPU
  • RAM: 256MB
  • Storage: 2GB
  • Ports: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet, 1 x USB-A
• Performance: Up to 1.9Gbps (down) and 900Mbps (up)
• Coverage: Supports up to 12 devices at once
• Security: WPA3, Netgear Armor, automatic updates