If your devices are compatible with the 5-gigahertz range, then the Netgear R6700AXS is a reliable and predictable budget option, especially for families who need traffic monitoring and parental control.
Pros
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Good value for the price
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Consistently low latency
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Few wild swings in performance
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Traffic/use metering and controls
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Lots of access-control options available free
Cons
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Low 2.4 GHz throughputs
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Advanced security and parental controls require subscription
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No setup via QR code
Routers are not limited to gamers and experienced users, as they also cater to the wider population of technology consumers. Furthermore, their needs may be equally important as those of avid technology enthusiasts, albeit with potential differences. Given their relative lack of technical expertise, it is imperative for them to be informed about what they are receiving, and to verify that everything is functioning as intended.
Regardless of your needs, we have previously noted that a router utilizing the WiFi 6 standard appears to be the optimal choice for those seeking an affordable option for everyday use. Offering theoretical maximum throughput of up to 9.6 Gbps, it provides significantly greater speed than older standards, without increasing costs by spending on the luxury and additional expenses of newer WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 protocols.
Earlier this year, Netgear announced its WiFi 7 router - the Nighthawk RS700 - priced at $700. However, for those who do not require the latest model, the Netgear R6700AXS still represents a modern and affordable option.
Typically available for under $80, the Netgear R6700AXS AX3200 router provides reliable quality, consistent performance, and various controllable access parameters - even though the setup process and use of the 2.4-gigahertz range may leave something to be desired.
Design of Netgear R6700AXS
In terms of its physical dimensions, the Netgear R6700AXS is an almost entirely black router, weighing 1.1 pounds with dimensions of 9.27 x 7.26 x 2.25 inches. The front portion is smaller than the back, as the top of the router slopes downward.
At the frequency of 5 GHz, which you may choose to utilize for devices requiring high throughput (PCs, streaming devices), the R6700AXS provides truly strong speed both at close and far distances, with or without network traffic. Although the D-Link R32 is slightly faster in most scenarios, the Netgear router performs better at a distance when there is other traffic. Additionally, it has a reliable delay of 4 ms in all scenarios.
It is also worth noting that there was generally a small variability in delay across all tests at the 5 GHz frequency; in other words, there were no significant outliers distorting the mean values when testing delay at 5 GHz.
We also noted a very low amount of wild fluctuations in overall throughput across both frequency bands. Whether good or bad, the overall performance on the Netgear R6700AXS appears to be quite stable.
At the 2.4 GHz frequency, the throughput was decent, especially when we were experiencing congestion and were far away from the router. The delay was particularly average at longer distances with congestion. However, for your older and non-critical throughput devices, the Netgear R6700AXS at 2.4 GHz is more than sufficient.
Bottom Line
Considering its lower price, the Netgear R6700AXS AX3200 router has a lot to offer. Its overall consistency, especially on the 5 GHz frequency band, is remarkable. Tests at longer distances and with congestion showed some increased variability, but the performance in all other tests on the 5 GHz frequency band was very stable. You know exactly what you are getting with the Netgear R6700AXS.
We are disappointed that security features, support, and smart parental controls, among other things, are only available through a subscription. However, even without any subscriptions, users can do a lot with the available free access controls, especially in conjunction with traffic monitoring. In this regard, the Netgear R6700AXS seems particularly suitable for a small family with a limited budget - provided there are no demanding gamers in the house.
