NETGEAR
NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Dual-Band Gigabit Router (WAX204)
Bottom line: The NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Dual-Band Gigabit Router: AX1800 WiFi 6 at 1.8 Gbps across both bands; main trade-off: 1,500 sq. ft. ceiling is small for multi-floor homes.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ AX1800 WiFi 6 at 1.8 Gbps across both bands
- ✓ 4 x 1G Ethernet ports for consoles and desktops
- ✓ Covers 1,500 sq. ft. and up to 40 devices
- ✓ Works with any ISP up to 1Gbps: cable, fiber, DSL, satellite
Cons
- ✗ 1,500 sq. ft. ceiling is small for multi-floor homes
- ✗ Dual-band only, no 6 GHz WiFi 6E band
- ✗ No multi-gig WAN port, so 1Gbps is the cap
- ✗ Four LAN ports fill up fast in a wired setup
Manufacturer description
The NETGEAR WAX204 is a 4-stream WiFi 6 dual-band router built for people who want AX1800 speeds without paying for a mesh system. It covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. and handles as many as 40 connected devices, which is enough headroom for a small apartment, dorm room, home office, or a cafe running a guest network alongside a point-of-sale terminal. AX1800 throughput tops out at 1.8 Gbps combined across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, and the router pairs with any ISP plan up to 1 Gbps, whether you are on cable, fiber, DSL, or satellite. Four gigabit Ethernet ports on the back let you hardwire a…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Dual-Band Gigabit Router using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the networking category. NETGEAR's networking lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for networking of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the WAX204 cover my whole house?
NETGEAR rates it for up to 1,500 sq. ft., so it suits apartments, dorm rooms, small offices, and single-floor homes. Larger or multi-floor spaces will likely need a mesh system or an added access point.
Do I still need my modem?
Yes. The WAX204 connects to your existing cable modem and replaces only your WiFi router. It works with any internet service provider up to 1Gbps, including cable, satellite, fiber, and DSL.
How many devices can it handle at once?
NETGEAR rates the WAX204 for up to 40 devices, covering phones, laptops, consoles, TVs, and smart-home gear on a typical household or small-business network.
Is this router fast enough for gaming and 4K streaming?
AX1800 delivers up to 1.8 Gbps of WiFi 6 throughput, which NETGEAR positions for HD video gaming, streaming, and web conferencing. Four 1G Ethernet ports let you wire a console directly for the lowest latency.
How hard is the setup?
NETGEAR advertises setup in minutes, and the companion app manages WiFi settings, runs internet speed tests, and monitors data usage after install.
Is the WAX204 a good pick for a small business?
NETGEAR markets it specifically for small businesses, home offices, cafes, and retail, with security features for employee and guest access.
Key Features
- Coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft. for 40 devices
- Fast AX1800 Gigabit speed with WiFi 6 technology for uninterrupted streaming, HD video gaming, and web conferencing
- Connects to your existing cable modem and replaces your WiFi router. Compatible with any internet service provider up to 1Gbps including cable, satellite, fiber, and DSL
- Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and more with 4 x 1G Ethernet ports
- Sets up in minutes; easily manage WiFi settings, test internet speed, and monitor data usage
Full Specifications
| Brand | NETGEAR |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Weight | 1g |
| Coverage | Up to 1,500 sq. ft. |
| Model Name | WAX204-100NAS |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Antenna Type | Fixed |
| Connectivity | Wireless, WiFi |
| Model Number | WAX204-100NAS |
| Built-In Media | WiFi 6 AX1800 Dual Band Wireless Access Point (WAX204), Ethernet cable, 12V DC,1.5A; power adapter, Installation guide |
| Control Method | App |
| Connection Type | Wireless |
| Mfr Part Number | WAX204-100NAS |
| Number of Ports | 6 |
| Special Feature | WPS |
| Antenna Location | Gaming |
| Wi-Fi Generation | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Security Protocol | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
| Compatible Devices | Phone, Mac, PC, Wireless Devices, Media Streaming Devices, Laptops, Computers, Tablets |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1.8 Gigabits Per Second |
| Full listing title | NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Dual-Band Gigabit Router (WAX204) – AX1800 Wireless Speed (Up to 1.8 Gbps) | Coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft, 40 Devices |
Ready to buy?
NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Dual-Band Gigabit Router (WAX204) – AX1800 Wireless Speed (Up to 1.8 Gbps) | Coverage up to 1,500 sq. ft, 40 Devices is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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