Overview

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS90 WiFi 7 Router is a cutting-edge solution for those looking for high-performance home or office networking. Offering up to 3.6 Gbps speeds, it utilizes the latest WiFi 7 technology for faster, more reliable connections. This router delivers up to 2,000 sq. ft. of coverage, making it an ideal choice for medium-sized homes or small offices. With the ability to support up to 50 devices simultaneously, this router handles multiple devices, including smart home products, with ease. Whether streaming, gaming, or working remotely, this NETGEAR router is a solid option.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this WiFi 7 router is its 2.5 Gig internet port, which allows for ultra-fast connections, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming experiences. It leverages the latest WiFi 7 advancements, offering speeds up to 3.6 Gbps, which is significantly faster than previous generations. Additionally, it includes NETGEAR Armor for enhanced cybersecurity, protecting your devices from hackers and malware. The router's dual-band design provides flexibility, and with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, it's well-suited for wired connections too.

Best For

This router is best for users who demand high performance and reliable connections across multiple devices. Gamers and streamers will appreciate the low latency and fast speeds that keep them competitive and immersed in their favorite content. It’s also an excellent choice for households with numerous connected devices, including smart TVs, security cameras, and other IoT products. Small businesses can benefit from the robust network capabilities, ensuring scalability as their needs grow while maintaining a stable, fast connection.

User Feedback

User reviews for the Nighthawk RS90 are generally positive, especially when it comes to its performance and coverage. Many users report excellent speeds and a strong, stable connection, even in homes with many devices. However, some found the setup process a bit challenging, particularly for those who are not tech-savvy. A few users mentioned that the router could be more intuitive out of the box. Despite these minor issues, the built-in security features, especially NETGEAR Armor, have received high praise for offering peace of mind against cyber threats.

Pros

  • This WiFi 7 router offers ultra-fast speeds, reaching up to 3.6 Gbps, making it ideal for high-demand applications like gaming and streaming.
  • With a coverage range of 2,000 sq. ft., it provides reliable connectivity for medium-sized homes or small offices.
  • Supports up to 50 devices simultaneously, making it a great choice for households or small businesses with multiple smart devices.
  • NETGEAR Armor provides enhanced security, offering protection from malware, hackers, and other cyber threats.
  • The 2.5 Gig internet port ensures high-speed connections for demanding tasks, such as HD streaming or large file downloads.
  • This router is compatible with any ISP, offering flexibility for users with different service providers.

Cons

  • The setup process can be challenging for non-technical users, requiring some patience and technical know-how.
  • Some users found the device’s range insufficient in larger homes or spaces with thick walls, requiring additional range extenders.
  • Although it supports many devices, it may not handle very high traffic smoothly in extremely busy networks.
  • Its premium features may be overkill for users who only need basic internet connectivity, making it less cost-effective for those with minimal needs.
  • The router can get quite warm under heavy use, which might be a concern for long-term durability if not properly ventilated.
  • Not ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly solution, as the price may be steep for more casual users.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback across multiple languages and platforms, the ratings for the NETGEAR Nighthawk RS90 WiFi 7 Router reflect both its impressive performance and some challenges. We filtered out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews to focus on high-quality, authentic experiences from real users. Both strengths and pain points are represented in the scores, providing a comprehensive view of this product's real-world performance.

WiFi Performance
94%
Many users have praised the router’s impressive WiFi performance, especially its ability to deliver speeds up to 3.6 Gbps. Gamers and streamers in particular appreciate how it provides a stable connection even during high-demand usage, with minimal lag and buffering. The latest WiFi 7 technology is a standout feature that adds to its efficiency in handling multiple devices.
Despite its strong performance, a few users mentioned that the router's maximum speeds are difficult to achieve in larger homes or through thick walls. Some also found that the speeds weren’t as consistent in environments with heavy interference, impacting their overall satisfaction with the product.
Setup Ease
72%
28%
For most buyers, setting up this router was relatively straightforward. The included quick start guide helps get it up and running, and it works well with most ISPs. Users also noted that the process is fairly simple for those familiar with routers or tech setups.
However, some users, particularly those who are less tech-savvy, found the setup process more complicated than expected. They reported issues with getting everything configured correctly, particularly when setting up advanced features like NETGEAR Armor or optimizing settings for optimal coverage.
Security Features (NETGEAR Armor)
89%
The router’s security features, especially the integrated NETGEAR Armor, have received significant praise for keeping devices safe from malware and hackers. Many buyers appreciate the added peace of mind, especially in households with multiple connected devices. Its protection against cyber threats is considered a strong selling point.
On the downside, some users found the security settings to be somewhat restrictive at times, with a few reporting false positives or accidental blocking of legitimate websites. While the security features are robust, the initial configuration can be overwhelming for less experienced users.
Coverage Area
88%
With coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft., the router offers solid performance in medium-sized homes and small offices. Many users were impressed with its ability to maintain a stable connection throughout their space, even in areas that typically experience weak signals with other routers.
However, some buyers in larger homes or with challenging layouts reported that the coverage didn’t reach every corner as expected. They mentioned needing additional extenders or a more powerful router for expansive areas, which could be an issue for those seeking a one-router solution.
Device Support (Up to 50 Devices)
85%
This router excels in handling multiple devices simultaneously, making it ideal for households with many smart devices or for small businesses. Users noted that it maintained stable connections without noticeable slowdowns, even with 50 devices connected at once.
However, a few users reported occasional drops in connection when the router was maxed out with 50 devices, especially if some of those devices were high-bandwidth. While most users were satisfied, this can be a consideration for heavy users or those with many IoT devices.
Build Quality
90%
The Nighthawk RS90 is built with a solid, durable design that is both practical and attractive. Many users appreciated its sturdy construction, with most commenting that it feels premium and well-made, which contributes to its overall reliability over time.
However, a few customers mentioned that the router's size might be a bit bulky for certain spaces, particularly in more compact living rooms or offices. Some also felt it could have been designed to be more discreet for modern, minimalist home decor.
Speed Consistency (3.6 Gbps)
92%
Users were generally impressed with the consistency of the 3.6 Gbps speed, especially for activities like streaming HD content, gaming, and video calls. Many found that the router held strong speeds even when multiple devices were connected, enhancing the overall user experience.
While the speeds were solid, some users did report that achieving the advertised speeds was not always possible in environments with significant interference or physical obstructions. A few buyers noted they needed to adjust router placement to maximize the performance.
Compatibility with Devices
80%
20%
The router is compatible with a wide range of devices, from modern smartphones and laptops to older devices. Users were happy that they didn’t need to upgrade their entire network infrastructure to use the router, making it an easy choice for those with mixed-device homes.
That said, some users reported issues with certain older devices not connecting as smoothly as expected. While most modern tech worked fine, compatibility issues with legacy devices did cause frustration for a small number of buyers.
Software/Firmware Experience
75%
25%
The software interface is user-friendly for those who want to manage network settings and security features. Many found it easy to adjust settings like QoS or port forwarding, and the app provided convenient controls on the go.
However, some users expressed dissatisfaction with the firmware, mentioning occasional slow updates or minor bugs in the app. A few also found the interface to be somewhat basic compared to competing routers, with limited customization options for advanced users.
Customer Support
82%
18%
Many users had positive experiences with NETGEAR's customer support, reporting quick responses and helpful solutions to troubleshooting issues. The support team was praised for resolving issues like setup problems and performance concerns efficiently.
However, some users mentioned that customer support was slow at times, particularly during high-demand periods. A few also expressed frustration with long hold times or receiving unclear instructions from the support team.
Value for Money
90%
Most users felt that the router offers excellent value for money, especially given its performance, range, and security features. The combination of WiFi 7 speeds and robust security made it a competitive choice in its price range, with buyers appreciating the high-quality features at this price point.
While many were happy with the price, a few users felt that it could be more affordable, especially for those who don’t need the full capabilities of a WiFi 7 router. Some considered it a premium option that might be overkill for smaller or less demanding homes.
Long-Term Durability
85%
The router’s durability impressed most users, who noted that it maintained stable performance over time without any significant issues. The build quality and robust design make it a good option for long-term use in busy environments.
A small number of buyers reported that after several months of use, the router started showing signs of wear, particularly in performance under heavy use. Some users also found that the device heated up more than expected during extended periods of heavy traffic.

Suitable for:

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS90 WiFi 7 Router is ideal for users who demand high-speed, reliable internet across multiple devices. Gamers, streamers, and smart home enthusiasts will benefit from its WiFi 7 capabilities, providing up to 3.6 Gbps speeds and stable connections even under heavy load. Households with many smart devices or small businesses needing scalable, secure connectivity will appreciate its ability to support up to 50 devices simultaneously. Its excellent range of 2,000 sq. ft. ensures coverage for most medium-sized homes or offices, making it a strong choice for environments with multiple users or rooms.

Not suitable for:

While the Nighthawk RS90 performs well in many scenarios, it may not be the best fit for users in larger homes or with complex layouts. Its range, while impressive, may require additional extenders in very large or obstructed spaces. Additionally, those with limited technical expertise may find the setup process a bit challenging, especially when configuring advanced features like NETGEAR Armor security. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, entry-level router, this device may be overkill, as its premium features and WiFi 7 speeds are best suited for demanding users or tech enthusiasts.

Specifications

  • WiFi Technology: Supports WiFi 7, delivering faster speeds and lower latency compared to previous generations.
  • Max Speed: Offers up to 3.6 Gbps of wireless speed for high-performance activities like gaming and streaming.
  • Coverage Area: Provides coverage of up to 2,000 sq. ft., ideal for medium-sized homes and small offices.
  • Device Support: Can support up to 50 devices simultaneously, making it suitable for busy households or small businesses.
  • Internet Port: Equipped with a 2.5 Gig internet port for high-speed wired connections.
  • LAN Ports: Includes 4 x 1 Gig LAN ports for wired connections to devices like computers, consoles, and printers.
  • Dual-Band Frequency: Supports dual-band WiFi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for optimized performance across different devices.
  • Security Features: Includes NETGEAR Armor for comprehensive protection against cyber threats, including malware and hackers.
  • ISP Compatibility: Works with any ISP, providing flexibility for users to choose their preferred internet service provider.
  • Power Adapter: Comes with a 12V/1.5A power adapter for reliable power delivery to the router.
  • Ethernet Cable: Includes a 2-meter Ethernet cable for easy connection to your modem or networked devices.
  • Quick Start Guide: The package includes a quick start guide to assist with easy and efficient setup.
  • Dimensions: Measures approximately 8.2 inches (L) x 7.7 inches (W) x 2.7 inches (H), making it compact yet powerful.
  • Weight: Weighs around 1.2 pounds, making it easy to place or move around as needed.
  • Firmware Updates: Supports automatic firmware updates, ensuring the router stays up to date with the latest features and security patches.
  • User Interface: Includes an intuitive web-based interface and mobile app for easy management and configuration.
  • Advanced Features: Supports Quality of Service (QoS) and guest network features for enhanced control over network performance.

FAQ

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RS90 uses WiFi 7 technology, offering faster speeds (up to 3.6 Gbps) and reduced latency compared to previous WiFi generations. This allows for better performance, especially for high-demand activities like gaming and streaming.

Setting up this WiFi 7 router is fairly straightforward. You can connect it to your modem, then use the included quick start guide to complete the installation. For those less familiar with technology, NETGEAR offers an app that simplifies the process, though non-technical users might need a bit more patience.

This router can handle up to 50 devices simultaneously, making it a great option for households or small businesses with many smart devices or heavy internet usage.

The router covers up to 2,000 sq. ft., providing ample coverage for most medium-sized homes or small offices. However, larger spaces or environments with thick walls might require additional range extenders for optimal performance.

Yes, this WiFi 7 router is compatible with any ISP, giving you flexibility to use it with various internet service providers without compatibility issues.

Yes, the Nighthawk RS90 comes with NETGEAR Armor, which provides robust protection against malware, hackers, and other cyber threats. This feature is great for users who prioritize security in their home or office networks.

Absolutely! The router features a 2.5 Gig internet port, which ensures fast, high-speed connections. It is ideal for activities like HD streaming, gaming, and large file downloads that require strong, uninterrupted internet performance.

This router works with a wide range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other IoT devices. Its dual-band frequency ensures that multiple types of devices can operate efficiently at the same time.

While the setup process is generally easy for most users, some non-tech-savvy individuals may find it a bit tricky, especially when configuring advanced settings or connecting to multiple devices. However, the user-friendly mobile app can help streamline the process.

This router performs well in busy households, offering stable connections even with multiple devices connected at once. It’s especially good for environments where gaming, streaming, or heavy internet use is common.