Two in one router
While RBK50 is the pricier option, but it's capable of extending your WiFi coverage while also offering better backhaul and wireless performance.
For
- Up to 5,000 sq ft coverage.
- Better backhaul.
- Parental controls though Circle with Disney Smart.
Against
- Buying the whole package is pricey.
Budget option
The RBK40 edition covers 1,000 less square feet, but it's great if you're on a budget since it's about $100 cheaper than RBK50. Circle by Disney is also available, for parents who want parental controls on their internet options.
For
- Cheaper than the RBK50.
- Router still compatible with expansions.
- Parental controls though Circle with Disney Smart.
Against
- Up to 4,000 sq ft coverage.
Looking at the two options of the Orbi Home routers and satellites you might say they look pretty similar (and they definitely do). The real work is behind the plastic of the device, so let's see what's under the hood.
NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 vs. NETGEAR Orbi RBK40 tech specs
| Header Cell - Column 0 | NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 Router & Satellite | NETGEAR Orbi RBK40 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | AC3000(1733 + 867 + 400Mbps) | AC2200(866+866+400Mbps) |
| Coverage | 5,000 sq ft | 4,000 sq ft |
| Wireless standards | Radio 1: IEEE®, 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz, 256QAM supportRadio 2: IEEE®, 802.11a/n/ac 5GHz, 256QAM supportRadio 3: IEEE®, 802.11a/n/ac 5GHz, 256QAM support | Radio 1: IEEE® 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz, 256QAM supportRadio 2: IEEE®, 802.11a/n/ac 5GHz, 256QAM supportRadio 3: IEEE®, 802.11a/n/ac 5GHz, 256QAM support |
| Front Haul Antena | 2x2 on 2.4GHz2x2 on 5GHz | 2x2 on 2.4GHz2x2 on 5GHz |
| Back Haul Antena | 4x4 (1.7Gbps) | 2x2 (867 Mbps) |
| Memory | 4GB Flash512MB RAM | 4GB Flash512MB RAM |
| Ports | Router: 1 WAN, 3 LANSatellite: 4 LAN | Router: 1 WAN, 3 LANSatellite: 4 LAN |
| Beamforming | 2.4 & 5GHz bands(1733+866+400Mbps) | 2.4 & 5GHz bands(866+866+400Mbps) |
Performance
Both of these options have the memory space for 4GB flash and 512MB of RAM so you don't have to worry about the stability of your internet connection with either of these routers, especially since they both support beamforming. If you look further into it, the RBK50 has a backhaul antenna that supports up to 1.7Gbps while the RBK40 supports only up to 867 Mbps. This is important when it comes to your bandwidth and will allow the RBK50 to transmit data at significantly higher speeds. Chances are if you're just getting a new router for your home, you won't need the added support unless you have a lot of company over or you do a bit of online gaming.
But that's not the only reason that Orbi RBK50 is about $80 more in price. The RBK50 offers an extra 1,000 square feet of coverage for your household. While the RBK40 only offers up to a total of 4,000 square feet, the RBK50 offers up to 5,000 square feet. So if you're working within a smaller house, or apartment, the RBK40 will do you just fine. For those of you with larger houses or multiple levels, I would spring for the RBK50 instead.
Features
All Orbi expansions are compatible with both of these routers. There is an indoor expansion to bring you another 2,500 square feet of coverage, as well as an outdoor expansion that is safe to hook up in your backyard that also offers up to 2,500 feet of extra coverage. If you want to watch some Netflix while relaxing in the pool, don't worry, Orbi's got your back.
There is also a speaker option called Orbi Voice. This speaker works basically the same way a Roku does, boosting and pulling its own signal to make sure you have the best connection for the music you want to hear. The Orbi Voice even has Alexa and Google Assistant built in. It acts as an add-on satellite for your device, so not only is it boosting the signal of itself, but it's making your WiFi better too.
Any of the Orbi devices, whether its the routers, satellites, Voice, or expansions are incredibly great looking. Their sleek design makes it very easy to blend in with any environment while also providing you with amazing coverage. So spread them out across your home and upgrade your internet and style.
Orbi RBK50 is for the best performance
If you're on the move to upgrade the WiFi and make your Home a little smarter the RBK50 might just be the one for you. Between Alexa and Google Assistant giving you voice control options, this is the best router of the two for a connection that will make sure everyone in your house is happy.
More space, better connection
With this mesh system, you get 5,000 square feet of coverage and up to 3.0Gbps on your internet speed. There are eight total Ethernet ports between the router and satellites, and even the ability to take it a step further with the indoor and outdoor expansions.
Orbi RBK40 is for the best price
Bottom line, if the lure of a larger square footage doesn't entice you than you'll be just fine getting yourself the RBK40 to save yourself a few bucks. You still get the parental control options and the connection is still great.
Less money without sacrificing too much performance
Faster internet speeds to fit the budget of your average home. Still compatible with Orbi expansions, or using it for yourself for some online gaming.
