Netgear R6700 V2: Ethernet vs WiFi - Understanding the Performance Difference

Understanding the Netgear R6700 V2 Performance

The Netgear R6700 V2, while not without its drawbacks, remains a formidable router in the realm of home networking. Compared to its predecessor, the original R6700, the V2 offers a slight reduction in performance, but this is often negligible for most users. Despite this minor dampening, the overall speed and stability provided by the R6700 V2 ensure that it remains a top choice for many households. However, a notable aspect is its hardware limitations when it comes to integrating alternate firmware options like DD-WRT or Tomato.

How Does the Netgear R6700 V2 Compare with Its Predecessor?

One of the most significant changes in the R6700 V2 is the lack of support for popular open-source firmware alternatives such as DD-WRT or Tomato. These firmwares offer advanced customization options and features that many tech enthusiasts and power users appreciate. Without the ability to flash these custom firmware options, users must accept the default capabilities of the Netgear R6700 V2. This limitation can be seen as a trade-off for the convenience and cost savings.

However, for users who do not have a strong need or desire to modify their router’s firmware, there is significant value in the R6700 V2. The router is generally reliable and provides excellent performance, especially when it comes to wireless connectivity. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a straightforward and hassle-free networking solution.

Performance Comparison: Ethernet vs WiFi

The primary performance differentiator between the Netgear R6700 V2 and its WiFi capabilities is quite telling. While the Ethernet ports on the R6700 V2 are designed to provide consistent and high-speed connectivity, there is no denying that the WiFi performance is its standout feature. The R6700 V2 supports gigabit speeds on its wired connections, making it a solid performer for users who heavily rely on wired connectivity.

Conversely, the WiFi performance of the R6700 V2 is particularly impressive. It supports 802.11ac technology, offering significantly higher speeds and better range compared to earlier standards. This makes it an excellent choice for users who are wireless-dependent or have coverage issues. The R6700 V2’s high-speed WiFi capabilities ensure seamless streaming, gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities without the frustration of dropped connections or slow speeds.

Conclusion: An Evaluation of the Netgear R6700 V2

In conclusion, the Netgear R6700 V2 is a solid router that offers a well-rounded performance profile. While it may not match the open-source firmware flexibility of the earlier R6700, its default configuration provides excellent performance both for wired and wireless connections. The R6700 V2 is particularly strong in its WiFi capabilities, making it a great choice for users who prioritize wireless performance over firmware customization.

Overall, the Netgear R6700 V2 strikes a good balance between cost, performance, and ease of use, making it a worthy investment for home networks. For those who want a reliable, high-speed router without the complexity of custom firmware, the R6700 V2 is a top choice. However, for power users or those with specific network requirements, the lack of support for DD-WRT or Tomato may be a deciding factor against this router.