Introduction
Denomenation WiFi 6 or 802 The new generation of WiFi is called WiFi 6 that you might also come across as 802 Wireless networks are. There are other many of wireless networking standard like 802. in, 802. b, 802. g, 802. n and the latest 802 .Ix, provides higher speed, enhanced capacity and better performance in densely used area than its previous versions. fortunately, because of the latest innovations in the WiFi 6 routers, the two most effective routers which a homeowner should possibly purchase are the NETGEAR nighthawk AX1800 vs AX3000.
In this article, we are going to discuss the two Netgear routers: Netgear AX1800 and AX3000 and define which of the two routers you should opt for when used at home.. Let’s consider their parameters, characteristics, rock performance, and administration cost.Let’s dive in!
Key Specs and Features
Processor and Memory
- AX1800: 1.5GHz quad-core processor with 512MB RAM and 256MB flash memory.
- AX3000: 1.8GHz tri-core processor with 1GB RAM and 256MB flash memory.
The AX3000 has a more powerful processor that can handle more concurrent device connections and traffic. The additional RAM also allows for better multitasking.
Wireless Connectivity
- AX1800: Supports WiFi 6 up to 1.8Gbps (600Mbps on 2.4GHz, 1.2Gbps on 5GHz)
- AX3000: Supports WiFi 6 up to 3Gbps (1Gbps on 2.4GHz, 2Gbps on 5GHz)
The AX3000 provides 33% faster maximum wireless speeds and better bandwidth for high-bandwidth activities like 4K video streaming.
Wired Connectivity
- AX1800: 1 Gigabit WAN port, 4 Gigabit LAN ports
- AX3000: 2.5Gigabit WAN port, 4 Gigabit LAN ports
The AX3000’s faster 2.5Gbps WAN port allows for faster internet speeds if your ISP plan supports it.
Other Key Features
- MU-MIMO, OFDMA, 1024-QAM support on both routers
- USB 3.0 port for external storage/printing on AX1800
- Dual-core QTN-NPCSIE:AI chip on AX3000 for better performance
In summary, the AX3000 has more advanced specs and connectivity that can handle higher bandwidth demands.
Performance and Real-World Usage
To evaluate their real-world performance, we’ll look at benchmark tests and consider typical home use cases:
Benchmark Tests
- Speed tests show AX3000 delivers up to 25-30% faster speeds over AX1800.
- Game-streaming tests find AX3000 supports 4K resolution with barely any lag vs occasional stutters on AX1800.
4K Video Streaming
The AX3000’s additional bandwidth makes 4K and multiple concurrent 4K streams smoother. The AX1800 can handle 1-2 4K streams before experiencing buffering.
Online Gaming
With its powerful tri-core processor and dedicated gaming hardware, the AX3000 maintains low ping and latency for competitive online gaming. The AX1800 works well too for casual games.
Smart Home Devices
Thanks to its MU-MIMO and OFDMA capabilities, the AX3000 can easily handle 15+ smart home devices without slowdowns. The AX1800 starts to struggle above 10 devices.
In performance testing, the AX3000 generally outperforms the AX1800, especially for bandwidth-heavy activities involving 4K streaming, online gaming, or many connected devices.
Expandability and advanced features
Ethernet Ports
Both routers have 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports to hardwire devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
USB Port
Only the AX1800 has a USB 3.0 port to connect external storage devices and printers for network file sharing.
Advanced parental controls
NETGEAR Insight app allows setting app/content filters and time limits across devices with advanced controls on AX3000. Basic controls on AX1800.
Bandwidth management
AX3000 allows per-device bandwidth limiting/prioritization for better control over Internet usage. AX1800 only provides device prioritization.
Guest WiFi network
Both support creating separate secure guest network for visitors without exposing main home devices.
Overall, the AX3000 offers more advanced networking features beyond the basics, due to its more powerful processor. This benefits large households.
Value for Money
To check if the AX3000’s enhanced specs provide better value, let’s compare their average retail prices:
- NETGEAR Nighthawk AX1800 – $200-230
- NETGEAR Nighthawk AX3000 – $270-300
So the AX3000 costs approximately 30-40% more than the AX1800. But considering its significantly higher max speeds, dedicated gaming hardware, larger capacities, and advanced management features – the additional cost is justified for mid-large size homes and families.
Homes that need future-proof connectivity for 4K streaming and multiple concurrent device use over the next 3-5 years will get better longevity from the AX3000 before needing an upgrade.
FAQs
Q. Which router is sufficient for a home with 3-4 users?
A: The AX1800 would handle the bandwidth needs of light to moderate home usage by 3-4 users just fine for activities like web browsing, video calls and 1080p streaming.
Q. Can the routers handle a smart home with 15+ devices?
A: The AX3000 is suited for a large smart home setup with 15+ connected devices thanks to its higher bandwidth and MU-MIMO/OFDMA technologies. The AX1800 may struggle above 10 devices.
Q. Is one router future-proof than the other?
A: As a higher-end model, the AX3000 comes with additional processing plus overall network bandwidth headroom for future 8K videos and VR/AR apps for the next three to five years over AX1800.
Conclusion
All in all, the NETGEAR AX1800 vs AX3000 routers are excellent products that deliver on all of the promised features of WiFi 6.Despite this, there are better performance, higher velocities, dedicated hardware, and additional features that AX3000 brings that make it a wiser choice for a more extensive coverage, a larger number of relentlessly connected smart devices in a house, and for those who want a router adequate for their needs over the several years.
While the AX1800 is very capable for basic connectivity, if your household sees a lot of bandwidth-heavy simultaneous use, has future-proofing needs, or requires advanced networking controls, the AX3000 is worth spending a little more on upfront for maximizing your WiFi 6 experience.
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