WiFi 7 Routers Promise More Than They Deliver
Consumers hunting for the fastest home WiFi might feel misled by the newest “WiFi 7” routers. Marketing materials boast features like Multi-Link Operation (MLO) that claim to boost speeds by combining multiple WiFi bands. Yet, independent tests reveal that most routers barely implement this technology. Even routers priced near $1,000 fail to meet the full potential of WiFi 7. Shoppers expecting dramatic speed improvements could be disappointed.
Multi-Link Operation: The Hype vs. Reality
Introduced by the WiFi Alliance, WiFi Certified 7 aims to revolutionize home networking with advanced features, particularly MLO. This function allows devices to send data simultaneously across 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands, theoretically delivering speeds of dozens of gigabits per second. Manufacturers have used this promise heavily in advertising, with claims like “Future-proof your home with WiFi 7 and enjoy faster speeds.” However, the reality is starkly different.
Independent Testing Shows Major Gaps
RTINGS.com recently tested 25 routers labeled as WiFi 7. Only three were officially Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7, and none fully delivered on MLO. Even premium models could not combine multiple bands into a single high-speed stream. “Multi-Link Operation remains far more aspirational than real,” the study concluded. For many consumers, this means the advertised “next-generation speeds” are mostly marketing talk rather than a technical reality.
Why Manufacturers Miss the Mark
Implementing full MLO is technically complex, requiring precise coordination across multiple radios. Many routers skip full compliance to cut costs or speed up time-to-market. This gap leaves buyers with hardware that looks advanced but doesn’t deliver the expected performance. Experts warn that customers should carefully check certification labels before paying top dollar for WiFi 7 devices.
How to Identify Genuine WiFi 7 Products
Shoppers seeking real WiFi 7 benefits should look for the official “Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7” logo. Certification guarantees that key features, including MLO, meet the standard. Beyond labels, independent reviews, like those from RTINGS.com, provide practical insights into real-world performance. Avoid relying solely on product descriptions or flashy marketing claims.
The Future of Home WiFi
WiFi 7 still has the potential to transform home networking, but early products often fall short. Full MLO implementation is rare, leaving consumers to rely on older WiFi standards or wait for genuinely compliant models. Experts predict that as the standard matures, more routers will meet expectations, bringing the high-speed performance that today’s marketing promises but rarely delivers.
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