ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System

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87%
89%
Performance
94%
Coverage Area
91%
Ease of Setup
88%
Device Management Features
87%
Gaming Performance
90%
Parental Controls
85%
App Usability
86%
Speed Stability
83%
Reliability
92%
Value for Money
84%
Smart Home Integration
80%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System offers robust, high-speed internet coverage for large homes. This Wi-Fi 6 system delivers AX7800 speeds, ensuring seamless connections throughout spaces as large as 6,000 sq ft. With a dedicated gigabit backhaul, the system ensures stable and fast connections, even when multiple devices are active. By utilizing a tri-band setup, it optimizes the network to avoid congestion and ensure smooth internet performance across all connected devices. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or browsing, this mesh system can handle your household's most demanding tasks.

Features & Benefits

This Wi-Fi mesh system stands out for its ease of setup and management via the SURFboard Central app. The app lets users control the network, set parental controls, and manage devices effortlessly. The tri-band design consists of a 2.4GHz band for older devices and two 5GHz bands for high-performance devices. This ensures minimal interference and maximum speed. The system is designed with heavy-duty activities like 4K streaming and online gaming in mind, providing a high-speed network that can support demanding applications across multiple devices at once.

Best For

The ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 is an excellent choice for large homes up to 6,000 sq ft that need reliable Wi-Fi coverage. It’s perfect for gamers and streamers who require low-latency, high-speed connections, ensuring a smooth experience even with multiple devices in use. Additionally, its advanced parental controls make it a strong option for families, offering a simple way to manage internet access and screen time. This Wi-Fi mesh system is ideal for those seeking strong, consistent performance in smart homes with many connected devices.

User Feedback

Users appreciate the simplicity of setting up and managing this Wi-Fi mesh system, with many highlighting the intuitive app and network management features. However, some reviews mention occasional connectivity issues in very large homes with multiple floors or walls, which can impact performance slightly. On the plus side, the parental controls have received praise for their flexibility in managing children’s internet access, with several users noting that it’s easier to limit screen time and ensure safety online. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those prioritizing control and speed.

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Pros

  • This WiFi mesh system provides seamless coverage up to 6,000 sq ft, making it ideal for large homes.
  • Users report that the setup is straightforward and can be done in minutes, even for beginners.
  • With AX7800 speeds, it supports 4K streaming and online gaming with minimal lag.
  • Parental controls via the SURFboard Central app are highly praised for being flexible and easy to use.
  • The system’s tri-band configuration ensures reliable speeds for both high-demand and slower devices.
  • Dedicated gigabit backhaul helps maintain stable and fast connections across all devices in the network.

Cons

  • Some users have mentioned occasional connectivity drops, especially in large, multi-story homes.
  • The device is on the pricier side, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
  • A few reviewers found that the mesh system struggles when handling a very high number of simultaneous devices.
  • The system might be overkill for smaller homes or apartments, where simpler solutions would suffice.
  • There are occasional reports of setup issues when expanding the network beyond the base unit.
  • Some users feel that the design is bulky and takes up more space than simpler alternatives.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, the scores for the ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System reflect authentic user experiences, including both strengths and common pain points. Reviews from diverse regions, with careful filtering of spam, bot, and incentivized feedback, inform these results, providing a balanced view of the product's performance and usability.

Performance
89%
Users are impressed with the overall performance, especially for tasks like 4K streaming and gaming. The device handles multiple high-demand applications simultaneously without noticeable lag or buffering, providing a seamless experience in most cases.
However, some users have noted occasional drops in performance, particularly when there are many connected devices in larger homes. This is sometimes seen when multiple users are streaming or gaming simultaneously in large spaces.
Coverage Area
94%
The coverage area is one of the standout features, with many users finding that it easily covers homes up to 6,000 sq ft. This ensures that all rooms receive strong and reliable WiFi, eliminating dead zones and reducing the need for additional extenders.
A few buyers have reported that the coverage doesn't quite reach the furthest corners of very large homes with thick walls, requiring some manual adjustments or additional equipment to optimize signal distribution.
Ease of Setup
91%
Setting up this WiFi mesh system is praised for being simple and intuitive. Users love the clear instructions and the ease of configuring the network through the app, making it accessible even for those with limited technical experience.
Despite the straightforward setup, some users did face challenges with the initial pairing process, especially with the app syncing properly. A small number of users also mentioned a need for multiple attempts to complete setup.
Device Management Features
88%
Many users value the device management features, particularly the ability to prioritize certain devices and manage internet access through the app. This is especially useful for families and home offices, ensuring high-priority devices get the bandwidth they need.
However, some users felt that the device management features could be more robust. A few mentioned that the interface could be more intuitive, and managing devices sometimes feels a bit clunky or unresponsive in certain situations.
Gaming Performance
87%
Gamers appreciate the low-latency connections and smooth performance during gaming sessions. The WiFi system provides reliable speeds, making it ideal for online gaming without lag, even in large homes with multiple users connected.
Some users have pointed out that while the system performs well, occasional slowdowns or connection interruptions can occur when too many devices are active, which can be frustrating during intense gaming sessions.
Parental Controls
90%
The parental controls are a standout feature, providing flexibility and customization. Parents find it incredibly useful for managing their children's internet access, with the ability to set time limits and block inappropriate content.
While the parental controls are generally well-received, a few users mentioned that it can take some time to get the settings dialed in, and the app interface for managing these controls could be more intuitive.
App Usability
85%
The app for managing the network is highly rated for its user-friendliness. Many users find it simple to monitor and control their WiFi settings, making it easy to troubleshoot, update settings, and check device connections.
A small number of users have experienced some glitches with the app, such as slow load times or difficulty connecting to the system. While these issues are rare, they do create frustration for users trying to access or change network settings on the go.
Speed Stability
86%
Users generally report stable speeds with minimal fluctuation, even when multiple devices are connected. The system is designed to handle high-speed internet activities like streaming and gaming without dropping speeds.
Some users, especially in larger homes with many devices, noted that while the speeds were fast, occasional drops in stability can occur, particularly during peak usage times when the network is under heavy load.
Reliability
83%
For the most part, this WiFi mesh system is highly reliable, providing consistent internet access throughout the home. Many users find it to be a dependable solution for their daily internet needs, from browsing to working from home.
However, a few users have reported intermittent connectivity issues, particularly in homes with very large floor plans or multiple floors. These drops are rare but can be annoying, especially in larger setups with multiple routers.
Value for Money
92%
Many users feel that the performance and coverage offered by this WiFi system justify the price. It offers excellent value for money, especially for those who need strong WiFi coverage over a large area without paying for extra equipment.
A few users feel that while the system performs well, the price point could be slightly lower considering the competition. However, most still agree that the features and performance make it worth the investment.
Smart Home Integration
84%
Smart home users appreciate the system’s ability to integrate seamlessly with Alexa and other smart devices. This makes it easy to control the network and access features via voice commands, enhancing the smart home experience.
Not all users find the smart home integration flawless. A few have experienced connectivity issues or glitches when connecting to voice assistants or other smart home devices, which can be frustrating during setup.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Some users reported positive experiences with customer support, particularly when troubleshooting connectivity issues. The support team is generally responsive and helpful in guiding users through setup and other concerns.
On the flip side, others had less favorable experiences, with complaints about slow response times and unresolved issues. While this is not a widespread problem, some users feel the support could be more efficient and better equipped to handle advanced troubleshooting.

Suitable for:

The ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System is ideal for large homes where consistent and high-speed internet coverage is a priority. Users with homes up to 6,000 sq ft will appreciate its ability to eliminate dead zones and provide fast, reliable WiFi throughout the entire space. It's also perfect for gamers and streamers who need low-latency connections for uninterrupted gaming or smooth 4K streaming. Families looking for robust parental controls will find the device’s app-based network management and customizable settings especially useful for monitoring screen time and internet access. This mesh system is a great solution for those who need reliable performance in high-demand environments, such as remote workers, smart home users, and heavy internet users across multiple devices.

Not suitable for:

However, the ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 may not be the best option for smaller homes or apartments where a less powerful WiFi system would suffice. Users in homes with thick walls or particularly large, multi-floor layouts may encounter occasional connectivity issues, especially when using the system’s coverage at full capacity. While it excels at handling multiple devices, some users with extremely high device counts or frequent heavy usage reported occasional slowdowns or instability. Additionally, those looking for a more affordable entry-level WiFi mesh system may find this device’s price tag a bit high for their needs. If you don't need WiFi coverage across a large area or advanced features like dedicated backhaul and Wi-Fi 6 support, this system may be overkill.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Standard: Supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for improved speed, capacity, and efficiency.
  • Tri-Band: Offers three Wi-Fi bands: one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz bands for better performance and less interference.
  • Speed: Delivers AX7800 speeds, providing up to 7.8 Gbps for fast and stable connections.
  • Coverage Area: Designed for large homes, covering up to 6,000 sq ft with reliable Wi-Fi.
  • Backhaul: Features a dedicated gigabit Ethernet backhaul for enhanced performance and stability.
  • Device Management: Provides easy device management through the SURFboard Central app for monitoring and control.
  • Parental Controls: Includes flexible parental controls to manage children's internet access and limit screen time.
  • Router System: Comes as a three-router mesh system, expandable up to three units for larger coverage.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with any existing modem, offering easy integration into your home network.
  • Streaming Optimization: Optimized for high-demand activities like 4K streaming and gaming, providing a seamless experience.
  • Alexa Support: Supports Alexa, allowing for voice control and smart home integration.
  • Wi-Fi Streams: Supports 8 simultaneous Wi-Fi 6 streams for efficient and fast device communication.
  • Bands Configuration: Includes one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands, catering to different device needs.
  • Backhaul Speed: Supports up to 4,000 Mbps backhaul speeds for high-performance data transfer between routers.
  • Form Factor: Compact and sleek design suitable for home or office use.
  • Expansion: The mesh system is expandable, allowing for increased coverage with additional units.
  • App Control: Network management and control are handled through the user-friendly SURFboard Central app.
  • Ethernet Ports: Includes multiple gigabit Ethernet ports for wired device connections, ensuring fast speeds.
  • Modem Compatibility: Works with any existing modem, making it a versatile addition to your network.

FAQ

The ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 is a tri-band mesh WiFi system that provides high-speed internet coverage for large homes up to 6,000 sq ft. It uses Wi-Fi 6 technology (AX7800) to offer fast speeds up to 7.8 Gbps and stable connections via a dedicated gigabit backhaul, ensuring consistent performance even with multiple devices connected.

Setting up this device is straightforward using the SURFboard Central app. Simply plug in the main router, follow the on-screen instructions in the app to connect to your modem, and then add the satellite units for mesh coverage. The app will guide you step-by-step, making it easy even for beginners.

The system covers up to 6,000 sq ft, which is ideal for large homes, multi-story houses, or spaces with many walls and obstacles. If your home is within this range, this mesh system should provide strong, reliable WiFi across all rooms.

The tri-band system offers three separate Wi-Fi bands: one 2.4GHz band for slower devices and two 5GHz bands for faster devices. This setup reduces congestion by distributing devices based on their bandwidth needs, leading to improved performance, especially for high-demand activities like gaming and 4K streaming.

Yes, this WiFi system is compatible with any existing modem, making it easy to integrate into your current home network setup. Whether you're using an older or newer modem, as long as it's connected to the internet, the ARRIS mesh system will work with it.

The system includes flexible parental controls via the SURFboard Central app, allowing you to set internet time limits, block certain websites, and even pause the internet for specific devices. These features are particularly useful for managing children's internet access and ensuring a safe browsing environment.

This WiFi system is designed to handle multiple devices simultaneously, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 capabilities. While there isn't a strict device limit, users have reported strong performance even with a large number of devices connected, such as smart home gadgets, computers, and streaming devices.

Yes, this mesh system is optimized for high-demand activities such as gaming and 4K streaming. The AX7800 speeds and tri-band technology ensure low latency and minimal buffering, providing a smooth experience for these data-heavy tasks.

Some users have noted occasional connectivity issues in extremely large homes with many devices connected. While the system is generally reliable, large, multi-story homes or setups with numerous devices may experience sporadic drops in speed or connection strength in certain areas.

Yes, the ARRIS Surfboard mAX W130 is part of a system that is expandable up to three units. If you need more coverage, you can easily add additional routers to your network through the SURFboard Central app, ensuring even more seamless WiFi coverage throughout your home.