Google Nest Wifi
£149 FROM store.google.com
4
Google’s recently announced Nest Wifi Pro model arrived just too late for this round-up, but it gave us an opportunity to check out the original mesh option, now a budget choice if you have no compelling need for Wi-Fi 6 support. Our speed tests confirmed that while it’s competitive over the older 802.11ac network, its more limited coverage does adversely affect its performance at the edge of its range.
The satellite node serves double duty as a home assistant and smart speaker (you can disable its voice recognition if you don’t buy into the smart home ethos). Set-up is straightforward through the Google Home app, although advanced settings are hidden away a few taps from the main screen. WPA3 support isn’t enabled by default, and there’s no compatibility fallback for older devices. It’s fantastic value, but remember you’re investing in yesterday’s technology.
VERDICT
Easy set-up and use Satellite serves as smart speaker So-so performance No support for Wi-Fi 6