If you have invested in Google Nest Wi-Fi, the latest mesh Wi-Fi system from Google, you have naturally wondered whether to buy routers for your mesh or point devices to extend range and connectivity.
This article will explore that very question. What are the benefits of using routers over point? We will compare nest wifi router and point in aspects of range, cost of hardware, and the technical differences between them.
The Nest Router is the principal device that facilitates network connections and enables mesh networking with Nest Points. The Router has a far better coverage range than the Nest Point and costs less than the latter. The Router also features Ethernet ports for wired connection, a provision absent on the Points.
| Criteria | Nest Router | Nest Point |
| Wired Backhaul connectivity | Yes | No |
| Range | 2200 sq ft | 1600 sq ft |
| Price | $60 | $99-$105 |
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Wired Backhaul connectivity
An important distinction that sets apart these two devices and the primary reason that most Nest Wi-Fi mesh users prefer routers over the point is the Wired Backhaul capability.
Wired Backhaul is the traditional wired connection that leverages ethernet or fiber cables to deliver the best Wi-Fi speeds throughout your desired area.
By choosing to use Nest Point, you will not be able to do a wired setup of your mesh system as they do not have ethernet ports for hardwiring.
The ability to connect multiple Nest WiFi Routers does make a difference in the performance of these devices. Hardwiring your mesh will definitely make your Wi-Fi system much faster.
Range
The routers win this point as well.
The range is the single most critical element that most users that want to expand their Wi-Fi network look out for.
The Nest Point is capable of covering around 1600 sq ft., while the Nest Router has a whopping 2200 sq ft range.
The Google Nest Router wins two for two.
Cost of hardware
The cost of the Google Nest Point is a bit higher than the Nest Router. It comes at around $99.99 - $105. You can check it out here:
On the other hand, a Nest Router costs about $74. Check it out on Amazon:
This disparity in price is difficult to explain owing to being short in range and lack of Wired Backhaul connectivity.
However, you can look up on eBay for used ones that are sold much cheaper. You can find offers that can help set up your mesh system for a much lower overall cost.
The cost of buying a router and two points is much higher than the cost of buying three Nest routers.
Technical Differences Between Nest Wi-Fi Router and Nest Wi-Fi Point
In terms of hardware, the Nest Router and the Point are two different devices entirely. The Nest Router is faster than the latter in terms of CPU, memory, and radio.
Although, network speeds depend not only on the Router but also on the Modem to which you connect the Nest Router to (yes, you will need a modem to make the Nest Router work!)
The added fact that the Nest Router is capable of connecting via an Ethernet cable is definitely a benefit.
With this provision, you can connect Nest Routers to existing Routers, a provision lacking on the Nest Point.
Another distinction that yet again favors the Nest Router over the Point is the fact that forcing Point devices to connect over the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band crowds the network.
The Nest Routers on the other hand can sync the mesh over Wired Backhaul which frees up the bandwidth making it available unencumbered for your devices.
Even without the crowding of Nest Point devices on the Wi-Fi network, the higher performance of the Nest Routers allows you to add many more devices to your network when compared to Point devices.
Most other mesh routers offer a Tri-band connection. However, the ability to link up your mesh routers via a wired connection surely compensates for the missing band.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, an informative guide on how the Nest Router differs from Nest Points.
Surely, the Nest Router ticks all the checks and stands leagues apart from the Nest Point in terms of connectivity, range, and performance.
Also, you'll need a Nest Router to pair and use Nest Point. So that's that!
Nest Routers are also great for satellite internet services like Starlink. A lack of premium features like Port forwarding on Starlink Router further accentuates the need for an external router.
Hopefully, this article has helped you answer your question and set up your mesh network in the optimum way possible.
Have a good day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Google Nest router need Point?
The only requirement for the mesh system from Google Nest to work is a Nest Wi-Fi Router. You can pair this device with other Nest Routers or with Nest Point devices. Owing to the lower range of the Point, it is best to keep them no more than two rooms away from each other.
What are the ports on the Google Nest router?
There are two Ethernet ports on the Nest Wi-Fi Router. The 'WAN' port is indicated by the icon of a globe and the 'LAN' port is indicated by '<->' icon. The cable from the Internet Service Provided or from the modem is connected to the WAN port.
Can You Have Too Many Nest Wi-Fi Points?
Having too many Nest Wi-Fi Points does not do you any good. This can lead to wireless problems. These devices could crowd the 5 GHz bandwidth, slowing the performance that you desire for your devices.
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