NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 WiFi 6E Router

86%

WiFi Coverage

Speed Performance

Setup and Installation

Security Features

Device Support Capacity

App Experience (Nighthawk App)

Build Quality

Gaming and Streaming Performance

Reliability/Connection Stability

Price/Value for Money

Network Congestion and 6GHz Band

Long-term Performance

Customer Support and Warranty

Overview

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 WiFi 6E Router is a tri-band router designed to offer lightning-fast speeds up to 10.8Gbps. With the ability to cover 3,500 sq. ft. and support up to 60 devices simultaneously, it’s well-suited for larger homes or busy households. The router includes a new 6GHz band, which is a game changer for reducing network congestion and improving performance in high-demand situations. Whether you’re streaming in 4K, gaming, or working remotely, this WiFi 6E router promises reliable, high-speed connectivity for all your devices.

Features & Benefits

Equipped with a 1.8GHz quad-core processor, the Nighthawk RAXE500 ensures smooth and responsive performance across multiple connected devices. The router offers 4 x 1G and 1 x 2.5G Ethernet ports for wired connections, which are ideal for high-speed internet activities like gaming and video streaming. Additionally, the integrated NETGEAR Armor security provides advanced protection from online threats, making this router a strong choice for households concerned about privacy and security. Thanks to technologies like beamforming and MU-MIMO, it’s optimized for a seamless WiFi experience.

Best For

This WiFi 6E router is perfect for large homes or spaces up to 3,500 sq. ft., where multiple devices need reliable internet access. Families with many connected devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home gadgets, will find it especially beneficial as it supports up to 60 devices at once. Gamers and streamers will appreciate the ultra-fast speeds and low latency, which are crucial for a smooth, lag-free experience. Its ability to handle high demand without slowing down makes it an excellent choice for those needing consistent performance in a busy network environment.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the Nighthawk RAXE500 for its strong signal strength and extensive coverage. Many report that setup is straightforward, especially with the Nighthawk app, which simplifies the process significantly. However, some have mentioned occasional instability with the 6GHz band, particularly in certain home layouts or crowded WiFi environments. While most users are happy with the router’s performance, a few feel that the router’s price point might be a bit high compared to other models with similar features. Still, for those needing top-tier performance, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

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Pros

This WiFi 6E router offers robust coverage, handling up to 3,500 sq. ft. and supporting 60 devices simultaneously.
The new 6GHz band improves speed and reduces network congestion, providing faster connections for multiple users.
With its 1.8GHz quad-core processor, the router ensures fast performance for gaming, streaming, and other high-demand tasks.
Multiple Ethernet ports (4 x 1G, 1 x 2.5G) provide versatile wired connectivity options for devices requiring stable connections.
Many users report easy setup using the Nighthawk app, making it simple even for less tech-savvy individuals.
NETGEAR Armor security features protect users from online threats, enhancing safety for all connected devices.

Cons

Some users report occasional instability with the 6GHz band, especially in environments with thick walls or heavy interference.
This device may be overkill for smaller homes or apartments where less powerful routers would suffice.
At a higher price point, this router may not justify the investment for users with fewer than 20 devices.
The large physical size of the router may be cumbersome for those with limited space or less organized setups.
Although the setup is generally easy, some users experience difficulty during advanced configurations or troubleshooting.
A few users mentioned that the router can get hot under heavy use, especially during long gaming or streaming sessions.

Ratings

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 WiFi 6E Router has received diverse user feedback from multiple platforms, including reviews from various countries and languages. After filtering out any spam, bot-generated, or exaggerated comments, we've compiled an overall analysis based on authentic and high-quality insights. Both strengths, such as its excellent performance, and weaknesses, like occasional instability with the 6GHz band, have been reflected in the scores below. These ratings are a balanced representation of real user experiences worldwide, giving you a comprehensive view of this router’s performance across different use cases.

WiFi Coverage

92%

Many users are pleased with the router’s expansive coverage, which reaches up to 3,500 sq. ft. This wide range is especially appreciated in larger homes where seamless connectivity is often a challenge, ensuring stable connections across multiple rooms and floors.

A few users reported that while the router covers a large area, there were occasional dead zones in certain parts of their homes. These issues were more noticeable in areas with dense walls or interference from other electronics.

Speed Performance

89%

The high-speed performance of this router is a standout feature for most users. Many buyers mentioned how it supports ultra-fast speeds of up to 10.8Gbps, delivering excellent results for streaming, gaming, and heavy internet usage, with minimal lag or buffering.

However, some users felt that achieving maximum speed required optimal conditions and direct placement of devices close to the router. Others pointed out that certain environments, like those with multiple devices or thick walls, could hinder the highest possible speeds.

Setup and Installation

90%

The setup process is praised by many for being straightforward and user-friendly, especially with the Nighthawk app. Most buyers appreciated the ease of getting the router up and running in just a few minutes, even for users without advanced technical knowledge.

A few users did encounter minor setup issues when trying to connect the router with certain third-party devices or when configuring more advanced settings. However, these problems were typically resolved through customer support or by updating the firmware.

Security Features

86%

The NETGEAR Armor security system is a big plus for many users, offering real-time protection against online threats. Buyers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with automatic malware blocking and the added layers of security, particularly in households with many devices.

Some users feel that the security features, while solid, can be a bit intrusive at times, with notifications popping up frequently. Additionally, a few buyers mentioned that they would prefer more granular control over security settings.

Device Support Capacity

91%

Supporting up to 60 devices simultaneously, this router is perfect for households or offices with many connected devices. Users highlighted how this router efficiently manages multiple connections without noticeable slowdowns or drops in performance.

Despite its impressive capacity, some users mentioned that the performance could occasionally dip when too many devices were actively using bandwidth-heavy applications, such as gaming or streaming, especially during peak hours.

App Experience (Nighthawk App)

85%

The Nighthawk app is widely praised for its intuitive interface and ease of use. Users enjoy having full control over their network, including features like guest WiFi management, device prioritization, and firmware updates, all from a mobile device.

However, a few users reported occasional glitches with the app, particularly with connectivity issues when trying to manage the network remotely. These issues seem to occur less frequently with updates but can be frustrating at times.

Build Quality

88%

The build quality of the router is solid and durable. Many users commented on the sleek, modern design and the sturdy feel of the device, which fits well in most home settings without being an eyesore.

A few users noted that the router is quite large and might be challenging to place in smaller spaces. Additionally, some people feel that the antenna design, while functional, could be improved to be more discreet or less bulky.

Gaming and Streaming Performance

93%

This router excels in gaming and streaming scenarios, with many users raving about its ability to maintain low latency and smooth performance even during high-demand activities. The tri-band technology, including the new 6GHz band, is particularly appreciated for reducing congestion and boosting speeds.

However, a small number of users experienced occasional dips in performance when the router was placed too far from the devices or in areas with interference. These issues were mostly resolved with repositioning the router, but it’s something to consider for optimal performance.

Reliability/Connection Stability

82%

18%

When it works well, this router provides a stable and reliable connection across the home, with most users praising its performance under normal conditions. It's particularly reliable for everyday browsing and moderate usage.

A few buyers experienced occasional drops in connection or instability with the 6GHz band, particularly in certain environments or when many devices were connected. This was noted as a minor issue but one that affects some users' experiences, especially with high-demand applications.

Price/Value for Money

83%

Considering the range of features, such as WiFi 6E, tri-band support, and security, many buyers feel the router offers good value for its price. It’s seen as a solid investment for those looking to future-proof their home network.

Some users believe the router is priced slightly higher compared to similar models, especially when considering the occasional issues with performance. For users on a budget, there are less expensive alternatives that provide similar performance without the premium cost.

Network Congestion and 6GHz Band

80%

20%

The 6GHz band provides excellent performance in reducing network congestion, especially in environments with multiple devices. This additional band offers more bandwidth, allowing for faster speeds and more stable connections in crowded areas.

Despite its benefits, some users mentioned that the 6GHz band doesn’t always deliver stable performance in certain environments, especially in large homes or places with heavy interference. This can lead to occasional drops in connection or slower speeds than expected.

Long-term Performance

85%

Over time, the router continues to deliver stable and high-speed performance, even as more devices are added. Users feel confident in its ability to support heavy internet usage in the long run without significant degradation in speed.

A few buyers have raised concerns that after prolonged use, the router’s performance may slightly decline, especially if firmware isn’t regularly updated or if there are excessive device connections. However, these cases are relatively rare and can often be mitigated with routine maintenance.

Customer Support and Warranty

78%

22%

Some users have shared positive experiences with NETGEAR’s customer support, especially when dealing with technical issues or warranty claims. The support team is seen as helpful and responsive in most cases.

However, others have expressed frustration with slow response times or difficulty in getting timely solutions for more complex issues. While warranty coverage is solid, some feel the customer service experience could be more efficient.

Suitable for:

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 WiFi 6E Router is ideal for large households or offices where multiple devices need to be connected simultaneously. With the ability to support up to 60 devices and a coverage range of 3,500 sq. ft., it’s perfect for families or users with many connected smart devices. Gamers and streamers will benefit from its fast, low-latency performance, especially with the new 6GHz band that reduces network congestion. If you're looking for seamless connectivity across multiple rooms and need robust performance for demanding activities like gaming or video conferencing, this router is a great choice. Its ease of setup through the Nighthawk app also makes it suitable for those who want a straightforward, no-hassle installation process.

Not suitable for:

However, the NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 may not be the best choice for users in smaller homes or apartments, where a router with lower range and fewer features might suffice. Its large size and high price point may not justify the investment for users with limited device connectivity or modest internet needs. Some users also reported occasional instability with the 6GHz band, particularly in environments with thick walls or heavy interference. If you live in such an environment or have a smaller home, this router may offer more power and coverage than necessary, leading to potential inefficiencies.

Specifications

WiFi Standard: Supports WiFi 6E for faster speeds and better performance across multiple devices.
Max Speed: Provides speeds up to 10.8Gbps, ideal for high-bandwidth applications like gaming and 4K streaming.
Coverage: Covers up to 3,500 sq. ft., making it suitable for large homes and multi-floor setups.
Device Support: Supports up to 60 devices simultaneously, ensuring stable connections even in households with many smart devices.
Ethernet Ports: Includes 4 x 1Gbps Ethernet ports and 1 x 2.5Gbps port for fast wired connections.
Processor: Equipped with a 1.8GHz quad-core processor for fast and efficient performance.
Security: Includes NETGEAR Armor security to protect against cyber threats and malware.
Tri-Band: Offers tri-band WiFi with 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands for improved network efficiency.
MU-MIMO: Supports MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous communication with multiple devices.
Beamforming: Utilizes beamforming technology to improve the range and reliability of WiFi connections.
Compatibility: Compatible with cable, DSL, fiber, and satellite internet connections for flexible setup options.
App Setup: Setup is simplified through the Nighthawk app, allowing easy configuration and management.
Band Steering: Automatically assigns devices to the best available band for optimized performance.
6GHz Band: Includes a dedicated 6GHz band for reduced interference and faster speeds, especially in congested environments.
WiFi Features: Supports advanced WiFi features like QoS (Quality of Service) and traffic prioritization for gaming and streaming.
Form Factor: Compact, sleek design that fits well in most home setups without taking up too much space.
Power Supply: Powered by an AC adapter with standard power input requirements for home routers.
Operating System: Runs on NETGEAR's proprietary operating system for easy customization and network management.
Warranty: Comes with a standard one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

FAQ

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE500 WiFi 6E Router is a tri-band router that supports WiFi 6E, offering speeds up to 10.8Gbps. It includes a new 6GHz band for reduced congestion and faster performance, particularly beneficial for large homes with many connected devices.

Setting up this router is simple with the Nighthawk app. After connecting the router to your modem, you can follow the step-by-step instructions in the app to complete the setup, including naming your WiFi networks and securing your connection.

This router is compatible with most broadband services, including cable, DSL, fiber, and satellite. It supports devices using WiFi 6, 5, and 4 standards, and works well with WiFi 6E-enabled devices to take full advantage of the 6GHz band.

The Nighthawk RAXE500 can support up to 60 devices simultaneously. This makes it ideal for large households or environments where multiple devices, like smart TVs, gaming consoles, and smartphones, are in use at once.

No, the 6GHz band is only supported by WiFi 6E-enabled devices. Older devices that are not compatible with WiFi 6E will still work on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

Yes, this router is designed with gamers and streamers in mind. Its tri-band WiFi, high-speed capabilities, and low latency ensure a smooth experience for high-demand activities like online gaming and 4K streaming.

The router includes NETGEAR Armor, which provides advanced security features to protect your devices from online threats like malware and hackers. It also supports WPA3 encryption for added WiFi security.

You can connect wired devices to the Nighthawk RAXE500 using one of the four 1Gbps Ethernet ports or the 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for faster wired connections. This is ideal for devices like desktops, gaming consoles, or smart TVs.

Some users have reported occasional instability with the 6GHz band, particularly in environments with thick walls or interference from other electronics. If you experience issues, try adjusting the router's placement or use the 5GHz band instead.

The Nighthawk RAXE500 offers coverage of up to 3,500 sq. ft., making it suitable for large homes. It is capable of maintaining strong signals throughout the space, even with multiple devices connected at once.