Google WiFi Router NLS-1304 Review

Google Wi-Fi System is a unique device assisted with new technology providing high-speed internet connection of 1200 Mbps. This Wi-Fi system has 1,500 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage. It is an expandable mesh Wi-Fi device that supports two Gigabit Ethernet ports. Also, Google Wi-Fi System supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac IEEE dual-bands. In this review article, we will tell you about our experience with the Google Wi-Fi system. Read on!

Also see: Google OnHub Wifi Router

---

Specifications

Size: 4.17 x 2.70 inches

Antennas: 5 hidden

Wi-Fi Spec: 5 GHz 802.11ac dual-band

Ports: USB-C

Peak Performance: 1200 Mbps

Range: 1,500 sqft.  

Check the latest price on amazon here »

---

Unbox Video

Google Wifi Unboxing And Quick Setup

Networking

The Google Wi-Fi system is not equipped with advanced technologies like its counterpart the Linksys Velop as it does not support 802.11ac standard. However, the Google Wi-Fi system supports the wireless mesh system, which is similar to Luma and Eero. It is a dual-band Wi-Fi mesh system and supports multiple clients or nodes.

The Google Wi-Fi system has an excellent wireless router but does not have the MU-MIMO technology. Most users think this is the downside of this system when it comes to networking capabilities. So, the lack of MU-MIMO technology means the system can’t serve multiple clients simultaneously.

We tested the device on both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz radio bands. First, we connected our PC as a client and laptop as a server on the 5 GHz radio band. At 5 feet, the device scored 694 Mbps speed. At 15 feet, the speed went down slightly to 613 Mbps. Also, at 30 feet, we measured the speed of 309 Mbps. This shows that the device works well at close and mid-range distances.

Then, we connected our laptop as a client on the 2.4 GHz radio band. We tested the performance of the router at different locations. From client to server, at 5 feet, the speed of the router was 105 Mbps. We measured the speed of 88.5 Mbps at 15 feet.

Besides, at 30 feet, we found that the router scored around 80.2 Mbps. Next, from the server to the client, we measured 88.2 Mbps at 5 feet and 83.1 Mbps at 15 feet. The speed of the router calculated at 30 feet was 77 Mbps.

Design

The Google Wi-Fi router has a small cylindrical case (white color). It is covered by the white matte finish. The Google Wi-Fi system has a narrow canal that halves the body of the device horizontally in 2 pieces that makes a good way for the LED light indicator.

The dimensions of the Google Wi-Fi system are 4.17 x 2.70 inches. The weight of the device is 12 ounces. It is a lightweight device. Some users have concerns about the device’s stability. However, we think the lightweight feature of the device is great.

Since it has a cylindrical shape, you cannot mount the Google Wi-Fi system on the ceiling or the wall. On the other hand, we think this is also advantageous as you can position this system anywhere in your home or office without worrying about space. Also, the design is aesthetically appealing. It features a modern look and matches the décor of any room.

There is a narrow LED light indicator in the middle of the case. The LED light indicator is responsible for the network status. It uses a few colors to show the status of the device. For example, if the light is solid greenish-blue color, it means the Google Wi-Fi system is working properly and ready to connect to the internet.

Also, if you see a blue color flashing of the LED light indicator, it means the device is ready for set up or update. Moreover, the solid blue light of the LED indicator shows that the device is restoring to its factory default settings. This setting takes 3-5 minutes.

On the bottom side of the Google Wi-Fi system, you will 2 feet that are circular in shape. The feet are responsible for keeping the device intact on the surface. Also, it gives you access to the Gigabit Ethernet ports. This Wi-Fi system uses 1 LAN port as well as a USB-C port. Likewise, you will see the setup code, the network, as well as the MAC address and serial number on the bottom of the Wi-Fi device.

Hardware

When it comes to hardware specifications of the Google Wi-Fi system, it has a powerful Qualcomm Atheros chipset (IPQ4019). The process of this device is quad-core ARM. It also an STM9615 controller, which is a trusted platform module. The CPU of the Google Wi-Fi system is supported by 4 GB flash storage memory and 512 MB of RAM.

Moreover, the 2.4 GHz radio frequency band uses the Qualcomm IPQ4019 chip with the Skyworks SKY8530 module. On the other hand, the 5 GHz radio frequency band uses the Qualcomm IPQ4019 chip with the Skyworks SKY85717-11 front-end integrated module.

The Google Wi-Fi system is one of the best devices for a reason – it supports the ZigBee technology with Silicon Labs Thread SoC (EM3581) along with Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology of the CSR102x family.

Installation

The setup of the Google Wi-Fi system is easy. First, you need to follow the simple steps. Make sure you find a good location for the Google Wi-Fi system in your home. Keep in mind that you can get a better wireless signal if you keep the device in the open. We recommend you to keep in the room’s center.

The next step is to connect the Google Wi-Fi device to the internet. Again, our recommendation is to connect it through a cable modem. Also, connect this device to a power source. Next, you need to download the Wi-Fi app by Google. It is available on both android and iOS platforms. After downloading the app, you will start the setup wizard and configure the device according to your requirements.

Also see: best wifi router under $100

---

What We Liked

• Modular design
• Excellent Wi-Fi coverage
• Easy setup
• Powerful Google Wi-Fi app

What We didn’t Like

• No advanced features
• Slower than other mesh systems