I replaced my high-end Wi-Fi 7 router with a more affordable option – and didn’t regret it

Technology

for two weeks, and the results have been surprising. I recently upgraded my home network with a pair of Eero Max 7s and one Eero Outdoor, which has been highly effective. I have a lot of connected devices, between 90 and 130 on any given day, between smart home devices, laptops, tablets, and streaming TVs. 

When I began testing my two Eero Pro 7 units, I decided to disconnect the Eero Max 7 and Eero Outdoor for some time to see how they would perform independently.

Eero Pro 7

Also: Slow Wi-Fi at home? 3 things I always check first for faster internet speed

Ultimately, the two Eero Pro 7 mesh routers weren’t enough to handle my smart home setup, which has more complicated network requirements than the average home. I test smart home devices daily, so I’m always adding new devices to my network. 

While the Eero Pro 7 should be able to handle up to 200 devices, that bandwidth depends on the type of connected devices and their type of connection. 

A quick speed test on a Mac and 1 Gbps home internet plan.

Maria Diaz/ZDNET

You could likely connect dozens of smart bulbs to your Wi-Fi network, as they don’t create too much interference, and connect more demanding devices, like a gaming console or streaming device wired through your router’s Ethernet port. 

This type of strategic network management makes it easier for your mesh network to maintain consistency throughout the day without excessive interference and gets you closer to the device’s limitations. 

is perfect for midrange shoppers looking to upgrade a congested network to Wi-Fi 7 without many devices that create a lot of chatter. It performs even better when considering strategic planning for your home network and using wired connections for demanding connected devices through the two 2.5 GbE ports.

Also: Sick of internet outages? How I easily set up a backup connection in my home office

as an alternative to the Pro 7.