The Linksys Velop is the first WiFi system from Linksys to join the wireless mesh network systems niche, along with the older Eero , Luma, Ubiquiti AmpliFI HD and the more recent Google WiFi .

I purchased the Velop mesh system in 2017 replacing an aging router. Setup was easy and network access and speed consistent for a household with >10 devices. Wifi speed degrades after extended use but goes back to excellent when channels are re-scanned in the app or router rebooted.While the app...

Easy setup; high speed

Needs rebooting, channel scanning for consistent high Wifi speeds; Parental control function simply doesn't work

When I evaluate a new router's wireless performance, I always connect it in parallel with one of my existing routers, apply updates and configure it to my liking, and then replace the old router with the new one in the exact same physical location.

This ships as three identical devices which the Linksys app configures into a parent node and two child nodes; The parent node is the one that connects to the internet, replacing your existing wi-fi router.

I found throughput on the 2.4 GHz band to be lower than with my other wi-fi routers. I suspect the channel finder decided to use 20 MHz channel widths instead of 40 MHz; unfortunately there is no way to confirm or control that using the Linksys app

Ultimately, it's this performance and the high price that make the Velop a less tempting purchase than its competitors. If you can get by with two access points and want to replace your existing router, the Netgear Orbi has more features and better performance and is cheaper.

Flexible configuration; Good coverage and speed

High price; Not as fast as BT Whole Home Wi-Fi

When positioned correctly, Velop delivers great wireless speeds over a wide area, ensuring all your devices stay connected, and it's a doddle to configure. But this simplicity carries a high cost.

Simple; app-based setup; Fully modular mesh network; Inconspicuous design

Pricey in comparison; Performance too dependent on position

The Linksys Velop is an easy way to get reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. However, its high price means competing systems offer better value.

Easy to set up; Faster than a single router; Great coverage

Expensive; Third node reduces performance; Basic feature set; Slower than key rival