Overview

The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 RAX40 Wi-Fi 6 Router delivers high-performance wireless connectivity for modern home networks. With its dual-band Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, this router supports speeds up to 3 Gbps and utilizes 4 streams for efficient data distribution. Designed to cater to households with multiple devices, it provides a stable connection even in crowded environments. The setup process is simplified with the Nighthawk app, and WPS support ensures a quick, hassle-free installation. For users seeking reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi, this Wi-Fi 6 router offers a comprehensive solution that balances both power and convenience.

Features & Benefits

Equipped with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), the Nighthawk AX4 delivers faster and more efficient connections across your home. The dual-band system (2.4GHz + 5GHz) enhances coverage, ensuring strong signals throughout various areas. Gigabit Ethernet ports provide reliable wired connections, perfect for devices that require constant, uninterrupted data flow. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6 improves network efficiency, allowing for simultaneous usage of multiple devices without sacrificing speed. Whether you're streaming, working, or gaming, this router offers a stable and seamless experience for all your needs.

Best For

This Wi-Fi 6 router is ideal for large families or anyone with numerous devices connected at once. Whether it's gaming, streaming, or smart home operations, the Nighthawk AX4 handles heavy internet usage without compromising performance. The router excels in environments that demand high-speed and stable Wi-Fi for tasks like 4K streaming and online gaming. If you're looking for a router that can efficiently manage multiple devices in a medium-sized home, this Netgear router will meet your needs, providing both speed and reliability for various connected devices.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this router for its strong signal range and the overall stability it offers, especially in larger homes. Many have expressed satisfaction with its speed, particularly for gaming and HD streaming. However, some report that while the initial setup is straightforward, more advanced configuration might present challenges. A few users also note that the Nighthawk app's interface could be more intuitive, with mixed opinions on how easy it is to access some of the router's more complex settings. Overall, it’s seen as a solid performer with minor setup hurdles.

Pros

  • Easy setup through the Nighthawk app and WPS support.
  • Strong signal range, even for medium-sized homes.
  • Provides Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 3 Gbps for smooth streaming.
  • Dual-band feature offers flexible connectivity options (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
  • Ideal for gaming and streaming, offering fast, reliable connections.
  • Gigabit Ethernet ports support high-speed wired connections.
  • Great for homes with multiple devices, ensuring stable performance.
  • Wi-Fi 6 technology improves efficiency for simultaneous device use.

Cons

  • Advanced setup options can be tricky for non-technical users.
  • Larger homes may experience weak coverage in distant rooms.
  • The Nighthawk app may not be intuitive for managing advanced features.
  • No dedicated tri-band support for larger networks or heavy usage.
  • Some users reported occasional drops in connection stability during peak usage.
  • Not the best option for extremely large homes without additional extenders.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from various platforms and languages, the Netgear Nighthawk AX4 RAX40 Wi-Fi 6 Router shows a strong overall performance with some user-experienced nuances. Spam, bot-generated, incentivized, and duplicate reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic feedback. While the router excels in areas like speed and ease of use, some users highlighted occasional difficulties with advanced configuration. Both strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the scores, which were derived from feedback across diverse sources worldwide.

Wi-Fi Speed & Performance
92%
Many users praise the strong Wi-Fi performance, especially for bandwidth-intensive tasks like gaming and streaming. With speeds up to 3 Gbps, it handles multiple devices simultaneously without noticeable lag or interruptions, making it a great choice for busy households or home offices.
Some buyers report occasional drops in performance when the router is placed farther from devices. While it generally performs well, certain high-demand tasks or large homes may experience slower speeds at the outer range of coverage.
Ease of Setup & Installation
88%
Most users find the setup process straightforward, especially with the Nighthawk app and WPS support. The app guides users through configuration, making it simple for even non-technical users to get the router up and running in just minutes.
A few users mention that while basic setup is easy, more advanced configurations can be tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with network settings. Some felt the app could be more intuitive when adjusting more detailed settings.
Coverage Range
85%
The router's dual-band design offers excellent coverage for medium-sized homes. Users often highlight the improved range on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, which ensures a stable connection in multiple rooms and on several devices at once.
Some users report weaker signal strength in larger homes or areas farther from the router. This can be particularly noticeable when trying to cover multiple floors or long distances without additional network extenders.
App Usability
78%
22%
The Nighthawk app is praised for its simplicity in setting up and managing basic network functions. It's especially useful for quickly checking device connections and troubleshooting common issues without needing to dive into more complex router settings.
Several users express frustration with the app’s limitations, especially when it comes to advanced settings. Some felt that features like parental controls or advanced QoS (Quality of Service) were harder to find or lacked clear guidance.
Stability for Gaming & Streaming
90%
The router consistently delivers strong, stable performance for gaming and streaming, even in households with multiple active devices. Low latency and minimal buffering were frequently mentioned by users enjoying high-definition content or online gaming.
Some users reported occasional connection hiccups during peak usage times, particularly when multiple devices are engaged in high-demand activities like video conferencing or large downloads alongside gaming or streaming.
Dual-Band Performance
89%
The router's dual-band setup (2.4GHz + 5GHz) offers great flexibility, with the 5GHz band providing faster speeds and less interference for high-bandwidth tasks. This ensures efficient use of available spectrum across multiple connected devices.
While the dual-band feature is generally well-received, some users note that the 2.4GHz band can get congested in areas with many nearby networks, leading to potential interference and slower speeds, especially in densely populated areas.
Compatibility with Multiple Devices
86%
Users consistently report that this router can handle multiple devices at once without significant slowdowns, making it a solid choice for large families or tech-heavy households. It excels in managing several smartphones, laptops, smart home devices, and more simultaneously.
A few users mention that performance can dip when too many devices are connected and actively streaming or downloading large files. In these cases, the router may struggle to maintain optimal speeds across all devices.
Customer Support Experience
75%
25%
For the most part, users have had positive interactions with customer support, citing helpful responses to basic troubleshooting issues and hardware replacement requests. Support agents are generally responsive when issues arise.
Some users found customer support to be less helpful when dealing with more complex or persistent problems, leading to long wait times or unresolved technical issues. A few buyers felt that communication could be more efficient.
Advanced Configuration & Customization
70%
30%
Advanced users who are familiar with networking generally appreciate the customization options available for more tailored network management. Features like QoS, port forwarding, and security settings offer solid control over the home network.
However, less tech-savvy users find the advanced settings difficult to navigate. The interface can be overwhelming, and detailed configuration options aren’t as intuitive as they could be, which leads to confusion and frustration for some.
Value for Money
91%
Given its solid performance, ease of setup, and Wi-Fi 6 support, many users believe this router offers excellent value for the price. It's a great choice for households needing a reliable, fast connection across multiple devices without breaking the bank.
A small group of users felt the price was a bit high compared to other routers in the same category, especially if they didn't fully utilize the router’s higher-end features. Some might consider more budget-friendly options if Wi-Fi 6 isn’t a priority.
Firmware Updates
80%
20%
Most users are satisfied with the frequency of firmware updates, which help address performance issues and introduce new features. The router’s firmware is relatively stable, and updates are easy to install via the app or web interface.
A few users experienced problems after certain firmware updates, such as connectivity issues or loss of configuration settings. Although these problems were often resolved with subsequent updates, it still caused temporary frustration.
Build Quality & Design
83%
The router is often described as sturdy and well-built, with a design that feels durable. It’s also compact enough to fit in various spaces without being overly bulky, making it a good option for home offices or media setups.
Some users felt that the design was a bit plain and lacked the premium feel of other high-end routers. While it’s functional, it doesn’t stand out visually or offer additional features like wall mounting options, which some expect at this price point.

Suitable for:

The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 RAX40 Wi-Fi 6 Router is ideal for households with multiple devices, especially those engaged in bandwidth-intensive activities like gaming, streaming, or large file transfers. Families with several smartphones, laptops, and smart home devices will appreciate its dual-band Wi-Fi 6 performance, which ensures a stable connection across all devices. The router’s fast speeds of up to 3 Gbps and easy setup via the Nighthawk app make it a great choice for users looking for seamless internet coverage in medium-sized homes. It also suits tech-savvy users who want solid customization options and those who value quick, user-friendly installation processes without technical hassles.

Not suitable for:

While this router is great for most users, it's not ideal for larger homes or users with advanced networking needs. Those living in larger spaces may find that the coverage doesn’t reach farther rooms, especially without additional extenders. Some users also reported that more advanced configurations, such as QoS or port forwarding, can be difficult to manage through the app, which may frustrate non-technical users. Additionally, individuals with minimal internet usage or those on a tight budget might not benefit fully from this router's higher-end features, making it overkill for smaller homes or light browsing activities.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Standard: Supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster and more reliable connections.
  • Maximum Speed: Delivers speeds up to 3 Gbps for high-performance internet usage.
  • Streams: Operates with 4 streams to enhance bandwidth efficiency across multiple devices.
  • Frequency Bands: Dual-band operation with 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for improved coverage and speed.
  • Ethernet Ports: Equipped with Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections to devices like gaming consoles and desktop PCs.
  • App Support: Supports the Nighthawk app for easy setup and network management from your smartphone.
  • WPS Support: Includes Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) for quick and secure device connections.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for home networks with multiple devices, including smart home devices and media streamers.
  • Coverage Area: Designed for medium-sized homes with sufficient range for most living spaces.
  • Setup: Quick and easy setup via the Nighthawk app, minimizing configuration time.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.36 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to position in your home.
  • Security Features: Supports WPA3 encryption for improved network security and device protection.
  • MU-MIMO: Supports MU-MIMO technology, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple devices without sacrificing speed.
  • Beamforming: Includes beamforming for stronger, more focused Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
  • Port Forwarding: Supports port forwarding for gaming and remote access to devices on your network.
  • QoS: Quality of Service (QoS) features prioritize traffic to ensure a smooth experience for high-demand applications like streaming and gaming.
  • Dimensions: Compact form factor measuring 8.1 x 5.1 x 2.4 inches for easy placement in various home environments.
  • Firmware Updates: Automatic firmware updates through the Nighthawk app help keep the router up to date with the latest features and security patches.

FAQ

Setting up this device is simple and quick, especially with the Nighthawk app and WPS support. The app guides you through the process step by step, and WPS makes it easy to connect your devices without manual configuration.

The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 supports Wi-Fi speeds up to 3 Gbps, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 technology and four streams, ensuring fast and reliable performance for streaming, gaming, and multiple devices.

Yes, this router is a dual-band device, meaning it supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for longer-range, lower-speed connections, while the 5GHz band provides faster speeds for activities like gaming or HD streaming.

This router can easily handle multiple devices simultaneously, making it perfect for households with many connected devices, such as smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and smart home products.

The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 features Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing high-speed wired connections for devices that require stable and fast internet access, such as desktop computers or gaming consoles.

Yes, the router supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offers improved speed, efficiency, and reliability compared to previous Wi-Fi standards. It can handle more devices on the network at once while maintaining strong performance for bandwidth-intensive activities.

This router is suitable for medium-sized homes. While it provides excellent coverage for most areas, larger homes or those with multiple walls might require additional extenders for optimal performance in far-reaching rooms.

Absolutely. The Netgear Nighthawk AX4 offers fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 3 Gbps, making it an excellent choice for gaming and streaming. It ensures low latency and stable connections, even during bandwidth-heavy activities.

While the router is easy to set up initially with the app, some users report that configuring advanced settings through the web interface can be tricky. This might be challenging for those without technical experience.

The Nighthawk app is convenient for basic setup and network management. However, some users have mentioned that it can be unintuitive when managing more advanced features, such as parental controls or advanced security settings.