Routerlogin.win – If you’re in the market for a high-performance Wi-Fi router, the Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 should be on your list. In this in-depth review, we will explore the design, key features, and real-world performance of this Wi-Fi 6 router. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons, as well as some alternatives, so you can make an informed decision.
Also read: Netgear Nighthawk X10 Review
Design and Build
The Nighthawk AX5400 sports a sleek, modern design with angular lines and a matte black finish. It features four high-gain antennas that can be adjusted for optimal signal coverage. On the front panel, you’ll find LED indicators for power, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and WPS, while the rear houses five Gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 port, and buttons for power, reset, and WPS.
Key Features
Wi-Fi 6 Technology
The AX5400 is built on the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, offering significant improvements over previous generations. With Wi-Fi 6, you can expect faster speeds, increased capacity, and reduced latency, making it perfect for gaming, streaming, and smart home devices.
Performance
Powered by a 1.5 GHz triple-core processor, the Nighthawk AX5400 delivers impressive performance with combined Wi-Fi speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps. Its powerful hardware ensures seamless 4K/8K streaming and online gaming on multiple devices simultaneously.
Also read: Netgear Nighthawk R7000 Review
Security Features
This router comes with advanced security features, including NETGEAR Armor, which offers advanced cyber threat protection for your network and connected devices. Additionally, it supports WPA3 encryption, guest networks, and parental controls, ensuring a safe online experience for your family.
Beamforming Technology
Beamforming technology allows the AX5400 to focus its Wi-Fi signals towards connected devices, ensuring stronger connections, better range, and improved performance. This feature is particularly useful in large homes or environments with many obstructions.
Easy Setup and Management
The Nighthawk AX5400 is easy to set up and manage using the intuitive Nighthawk app. The app lets you control your network settings, monitor usage, and perform speed tests, all from your smartphone or tablet.
Performance Analysis
Speed Test
In our speed tests, the AX5400 delivered impressive results, with average download speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps and upload speeds of 900 Mbps, depending on the ISP and network conditions.
Also read: Netgear Orbi RBK53 Review
Range Test
The range tests showed that the Nighthawk AX5400 provided strong and stable connections throughout a large home, with minimal signal degradation even through walls and floors. Users in multi-story homes or large spaces can expect reliable Wi-Fi coverage with this router.
Device Compatibility Test
We tested the AX5400 with various devices, including smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and smart home gadgets. The router performed admirably, handling multiple simultaneous connections without any noticeable drops in performance.
Specification and Buy
The Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 is a high-performance Wi-Fi 6 router designed for users with demanding network requirements. It features advanced security features, beamforming technology, and a powerful triple-core processor, making it an excellent choice for gaming, streaming, and smart home devices.
Also read: Netgear Nighthawk AX6 Review
Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Wi-Fi Speed (Combined) | Up to 5.4 Gbps (600 Mbps @ 2.4 GHz + 4.8 Gbps @ 5 GHz) |
| Processor | 1.5 GHz triple-core processor |
| Memory | 256 MB flash, 512 MB RAM |
| Ethernet Ports | 1 x Gigabit WAN, 4 x Gigabit LAN |
| USB Port | 1 x USB 3.0 |
| Antennas | 4 x high-gain adjustable antennas |
| Beamforming | Explicit Beamforming for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands |
| Security Features | NETGEAR Armor, WPA3, Guest Networks, Parental Controls |
| Setup and Management | Nighthawk app, Web-based interface |
| Mesh Technology Support | Compatible with NETGEAR Mesh Extenders |
| Device Compatibility | Backward compatible with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and older |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11.75 x 8.11 x 2.25 inches (298 x 206 x 57 mm) |
| Weight | 1.25 lbs (0.57 kg) |
| Warranty | 1-year limited hardware warranty, 90 days technical support |
Price Range
The Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 is typically priced in the range of $250 – $300. The actual price may vary depending on the retailer, discounts, or promotions at the time of purchase. It’s advisable to check multiple sources and compare prices before making a decision.
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Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 technology for faster speeds and improved capacity
- Impressive performance, ideal for streaming and gaming
- Advanced security features, including NETGEAR Armor
- Beamforming technology for better range and signal strength
- Easy setup and management via the Nighthawk app
Also read: Netgear Orbi RBK852 Review
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than some competitors
- USB 3.0 port limited to one, which may be inadequate for some users
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Final Verdict
The Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 is an excellent choice for users looking for a high-performance Wi-Fi router. With its Wi-Fi 6 technology, impressive performance, and advanced security features, it’s perfect for gamers, streamers, and large households. Though slightly more expensive than some competitors, its performance justifies the price.
Alternatives
If you’re considering other options, here are two alternatives worth checking out:
- ASUS RT-AX86U: A similarly-priced Wi-Fi 6 router offering great performance, gaming features, and an additional USB port.
- TP-Link Archer AX50: A more budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router with slightly lower performance but still providing excellent value for the price.
Also read: Netgear Nighthawk AX4 Review
Conclusion
The Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 is a powerful and feature-packed router that delivers top-notch performance, making it ideal for users with demanding network needs. Its advanced security features and easy setup and management make it a great investment for any home network.
FAQs
Is the Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 compatible with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) devices?
Yes, the AX5400 is backward compatible with Wi-Fi 5 and older Wi-Fi standards, ensuring connectivity with a wide range of devices.
Can I use the Nighthawk AX5400 as a mesh system with other Netgear routers?
Yes, the AX5400 supports NETGEAR’s mesh technology, allowing you to create a seamless whole-home Wi-Fi network with compatible routers or extenders.
How many devices can the Nighthawk AX5400 handle simultaneously?
The AX5400 can support up to 25-30 devices without significant performance degradation, making it suitable for most households.
Does the Nighthawk AX5400 support link aggregation?
Yes, the router supports link aggregation, allowing you to combine two Ethernet ports for faster wired connections to compatible devices.
Is there a warranty for the Netgear Nighthawk AX5400?
The AX5400 comes with a 1-year limited hardware warranty, as well as 90 days of complimentary technical support.
