WiFi routers and mesh networks

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

November 2024

Spark

Smart Modem 2

Price

$150

Score

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

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This router can only be bought directly from Spark, on contract.

Test results

80
WiFi performance
62
Setup and ease of use
64
Security

Good points

Easy to set up.
Good performance through a concrete wall.
Good wired performance.
Supplied by Spark/Skinny.
Supports 4G internet.
Supports WPA3 encryption.

Bad points

No obvious bad points.

Model

Provided by internet company

Spark/Skinny
Cost when provided by internet company

$150
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

70
Obstructed performance

80
Long-range performance

56
Wired performance

77

Specifications

Highest WiFi version

WiFi 6
Weight of main unit

1320g
Ethernet LAN ports

3
USB port

Yes
Physical power button
Other buttons/switches

WiFi, WPS, Reset
Aerials

Internal only
Wall mountable
Quick start guide included
Ethernet cables included

2

Features

Can create guest networks

Yes
WPS available
Supports WPA3 encryption
Firewall
Quality of service (QoS)

No
Parental controls

Yes
USB drive sharing

Yes

Member reviews

1 Member review

Smart Modem 2 WORKS with Smart Mesh 2

Pros

I found the Spark Smart Modem 2 with WiFi 6 worked very well in our large concrete wall flat using a fibre 300/100 plan. When I added the Smart Mesh 2 in a far corner, connected with 1gb wired Ethernet, I had near wire speeds, ie, 300/100, on WiFi throughout the flat. I also changed to a fibre 900/500 for about 6 months and again got near wire speeds, ie, 900/500.

I did try using a wireless connection between the Smart Modem 2 and Smart Mesh 2. It was easy to setup but, as expected, the WiFi coverage was very good but not as good as when the connection was wired.

Cons

The Smart Modem 2 offers 4G cellular data service but not 5G.

The Consumer review incorrectly says mesh networking (wireless or wired) is not available with the Spark Smart Modem 2. This information is on the Spark website and confirms my experience.