Skip to content
Product review
November 2024

WiFi routers and mesh networks

Boost your internet performance by choosing a new router using our comprehensive test results and buying guide.

November 2024

Netgear

Nighthawk RAXE300

Price
$688
Score
80

Why is this free?

This report is free thanks to support from the Commerce Commission.

Donate
If you choose your networking equipment based on what looks most like a stealth bomber, this Netgear is the router for you. It's also the best standalone router in our test, at least when it comes to distributing data amongst multiple devices, so it's perfect for a medium-sized home that houses three or more people.

Test results

  • 81
    WiFi performance
  • 79
    Setup and ease of use
  • 80
    Security

Good points

  • Very easy to customise.
  • Good security.
  • Good multi-device performance.
  • Good performance through a concrete wall.
  • Supports WiFi 6E.
  • Wall mountable.
  • Supports WPA3 encryption.

Bad points

  • Poor long-distance performance.
  • Poor wired performance.

Model

  • Provided by internet company
    -
  • Cost when provided by internet company
    -
  • Mesh system
  • Number of units in pack
    1
  • Compatible with fibre
  • Compatible with ADSL/VDSL
  • Compatible with 4G/5G

More performance scores

  • Multi-device performance
    77
  • Obstructed performance
    89
  • Long-range performance
    48
  • Wired performance
    42

Specifications

  • Highest WiFi version
    WiFi 6E
  • Weight of main unit
    1060g
  • Ethernet LAN ports
    4
  • USB port
    Yes (USB-C)
  • Physical power button
  • Other buttons/switches
    WiFi, WPS, Reset
  • Aerials
    2 large fins on the side. Can be folded down
  • Wall mountable
  • Quick start guide included
  • Ethernet cables included
    1

Features

  • Can create guest networks
    Yes
  • WPS available
  • Supports WPA3 encryption
  • Firewall
  • Quality of service (QoS)
    Yes
  • Parental controls
    No
  • USB drive sharing
    Yes

Have you used this product? Share your opinion with Consumer members