NETGEAR R6700AXv3 WiFi 6 Router Review: Worth Buying?
Digging into user experiences reveals that the NETGEAR WiFi 6 Router (R6700AXv3) earns a solid 8.1/10 for everyday home use, but comes with a few caveats that prospective buyers should weigh carefully. While marketing frames it as a high-speed, reliable upgrade for small to mid-sized homes, actual reports show a mix of strong performance, easy setup, and occasional reliability hiccups—especially with long-term use and fiber ISP setups.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy—best for budget-conscious households needing a WiFi 6 upgrade without premium extras.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable entry into WiFi 6 | Advanced parental controls require subscription |
| Easy setup via Nighthawk app or web interface | Mixed reliability reports with fiber ISPs |
| Stronger coverage than ISP-provided routers | Occasional reboots needed to maintain performance |
| WPA3 security + free Netgear Armor trial | No USB port on some models |
| Can double as an access point | Nighthawk app can be slow and repetitive during setup |
Claims vs Reality
One of NETGEAR’s key marketing points is “blazing WiFi speeds up to 1.8 Gbps” for uninterrupted movies, gaming, and video calls. While many users confirm the router delivers smooth streaming, Reddit user u/anuj18 noted: “Supports up to 1.8 Gbps. Works great and range is really good too.” However, others found that in real-world conditions, speeds are constrained by their ISP plan and environmental factors.
Another claim is coverage “up to 1,500 sq. ft., 20 devices.” A verified buyer on Fakespot contradicted this, stating: “They say it is only good for 1500 sf but my house is 2800 and it covers all.” This suggests NETGEAR’s coverage estimates are conservative, though results vary with building layout.
NETGEAR also promotes the Nighthawk app as an easy setup tool. While setup is indeed straightforward for many, a Trustpilot reviewer complained: “The app detected the router but kept saying there was no internet connection… customer service does not exist, which I find very frustrating.” This highlights that app-based setup may leave less tech-savvy users stranded when problems arise.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Ease of setup is one of the router’s most consistent wins. Amazon buyers often mention getting online in “minutes” via the Nighthawk app, with one Trustpilot report detailing: “I had zero problems switching from the Arris router… got great WiFi functionality for my desktop, laptop, and smartphone.” For budget-conscious families, this simplicity means they can ditch ISP rental fees without hiring a technician.
Coverage and signal strength also earn high marks. Reddit user u/losthisdog praised its performance for VR streaming: “It’s flawless for Air Link so far,” while another buyer on Fakespot said, “My house is now fast fast fast everywhere.” Even those in larger homes sometimes report full coverage despite NETGEAR’s modest estimates.
Flexibility in deployment—using it as a router or access point—is valued by tech-savvy buyers. A Trustpilot user said, “Bought it as an access point for my garage, and it works better than expected. Coverage is so strong my TVs connect to it over my main router.” This adaptability makes it attractive for extending networks without full mesh systems.
Common Complaints
Reliability over time is a recurring sore spot. A Reddit user described their older R6700 as requiring “monthly power-off and power-on” to keep wireless stable, which worsened to weekly reboots after three years. They noted devices would “report good connections but won’t pass traffic,” showing potential for degradation over time.
The Nighthawk app’s setup process also frustrates some. Fakespot reviewers mention “a dozen config steps, rebooting the router at least 4 times, with 2-minute delays for each reboot.” If you prefer instant plug-and-play, expect a more involved onboarding.
Customer support quality draws criticism. The Trustpilot thread repeatedly highlights the absence of real-time help, with one user lamenting: “Netgear customer service does not exist… very frustrating.” For non-technical households, this lack of support can turn minor misconfigurations into prolonged outages.
Divisive Features
Parental controls are a sticking point. While NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls are marketed as a safety feature, advanced functions require a paid subscription after a 30-day trial. Some see this as a fair trade for ongoing updates; others, like Reddit user u/klp99, object to “the subscription model for features like parental controls.”
Range claims also spark debate. Some users surpass the 1,500 sq. ft. spec easily, while others find coverage drops near outer walls or in multi-story homes. This discrepancy often comes down to building materials and interference, making it wise to consider your layout before purchase.
Trust & Reliability
Long-term reliability is mixed. The Reddit IT professional’s account of multiple NETGEARs “crapping out at the 3-year mark” points to potential lifespan issues. Others have experienced random disconnects similar to older models, as noted in Fakespot: “The router gets disconnected randomly, just like my previous NETGEAR router.”
Trustpilot patterns reveal no widespread scam behavior, but the absence of responsive support is a recurring theme. NETGEAR Armor security trials are appreciated, yet some buyers suspect upselling tactics when features are locked behind subscriptions.
Alternatives
The TP-Link Archer AX21 comes up often in comparisons. It offers similar WiFi 6 speeds and coverage, but includes free DDNS and more VPN flexibility. However, Reddit users warn of “too many reported issues” with TP-Link, suggesting NETGEAR might still be safer for some.
Within NETGEAR’s own lineup, higher-end Nighthawk models like the RAX43 (AX4200) provide more streams and faster speeds, but cost significantly more. Buyers weighing range or device load may find these worth the premium, while the R6700AXv3 remains a value choice.
Price & Value
Current market listings show new/open box units around $59.95 on eBay, with used units fetching $54–$70 depending on condition. Amazon Warehouse deals sometimes drop to the $33–$40 range for “like new” items. This resale stability suggests the router holds its value reasonably well, especially for budget buyers.
Community tips include checking Facebook Marketplace or Amazon Warehouse for refurbished bargains. Reddit user u/cpnstumpy noted: “Most their ‘used’ stuff comes new in box… someone just returned it because reasons.”
FAQ
Q: Does the R6700AXv3 cover more than 1,500 sq. ft.?
A: While rated for 1,500 sq. ft., several buyers report full coverage in homes up to 2,800 sq. ft., though results vary with layout and building materials.
Q: Can it be used as an access point?
A: Yes, multiple users successfully deploy it as an access point to extend networks, with strong performance even in detached garages.
Q: Is the Nighthawk app required for setup?
A: No, you can use the web interface, but the app is recommended for non-technical users. Some find the app slow and repetitive during setup.
Q: Are parental controls free?
A: Basic controls are included, but advanced features require a paid subscription after a 30-day trial.
Q: How does it perform with fiber ISPs?
A: Mixed reports—some users experience smooth performance, while others face reliability issues or failed setups.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a small-to-mid household wanting an affordable WiFi 6 upgrade and can handle occasional troubleshooting. Avoid if you need premium features, rock-solid fiber reliability, or free advanced parental controls. Pro tip from the community: consider refurbished units from Amazon Warehouse for substantial savings without sacrificing quality.
