Ubiquiti was beforehand a bit gradual in adopting WiFi 6, however they’re one of many first to undertake the most recent Wi-Fi 7 expertise.
The U7-Professional is a member of the UniFi 7, a brand new sequence of Wi-Fi 7 broadcasters. It provides an economical answer for companies and houses in want of dependable Wi-Fi connectivity.
The U7-Professional: A Pockets-Pleasant Wi-Fi 7 Answer
In contrast to the handful of competing choices, Ubiquiti has opted for a extra reasonably priced specification utilizing solely 2.5GbE for the uplink port and a 2 x 2 design throughout every band.
This considerably reduces the worth, with the U7-Professional costing simply $189.99/£171.60 VAT Incl.
The two×2 design could also be much less interesting, however in actuality, in properties and small companies, there can be no real-world distinction within the throughput. It additionally considerably reduces the ability consumption.
A Nearer Have a look at the U7-Professional’s Design and Options
The U7-Professional retains the trademark round-shaped design synonymous with Ubiquiti’s UniFi entry factors. It’s designed for ceiling or wall mounting, making it a flexible possibility for numerous areas. So far as dimension goes, it’s marginally bigger and weighs barely greater than its predecessor, the U6 Enterprise.
The U7-Professional additionally incorporates Energy over Ethernet Plus (PoE+), permitting it to be powered through an Ethernet cable, thus eliminating the necessity for a separate energy supply. Nonetheless, it doesn’t include any energy equipment, so customers might want to have a pre-existing PoE swap or buy an injector to energy it.
Evaluating the U7-Professional’s {Hardware} Specs
The U7-Professional, alongside the Zyxel WBE660S, is among the first Wi-Fi 7 entry factors in the marketplace. The desk beneath supplies an in depth comparability of the U7-Professional’s {hardware} specs in opposition to the U6 Enterprise and the Zyxel WBE660S.
| Mannequin | U7 Professional | U6 Enterprise | Zyxel WBE660S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Title | Ubiquiti UniFi U7 Professional Entry Level | Ubiquiti UniFi U6 Enterprise Entry Level | Zyxel WBE660S BE22000 Wi-Fi 7 Triple-Radio NebulaFlex Professional Entry Level |
| Wi-Fi Requirements | Tri-band BE9200 | Tri-band AXE11000 | Tri-band BE22000 |
| 1st Band 2.4GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: As much as 688 Mbps(20/40MHz) | 2×2 AX: As much as 600Mbps(20/40MHz) | 4×4 BE: As much as 1376 Mbps(20/40MHz) |
| 2nd Band 5GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: As much as 2882 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 AX: As much as 4800 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 BE: As much as 8646 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) |
| third Band 6GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: As much as 5765 Mbps(20/40/80/160/320MHz) | 4×4 AXE: As much as 4800 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 BE: As much as 11530 Mbps(20/40/80/160/320MHz) |
| Backward Compatibility | 802.11axe/ax/ac/n/g/a/b | 802.11ac/n/g/a/b | 802.11axe/ax/ac/n/g/a/b |
| Energy over Ethernet (PoE) | 802.11at (PoE+) | 802.11bt (PoE++) | 802.11bt (PoE++) |
| Energy Consumption | 21W | 22W | 41W |
| Community Port | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE | 1x 10Gbps Multi-Gig PoE | 1 x 1/2.5/5/10Gbps LAN 1 x 1Gbps LAN |
| Safety | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 |
| Cell App | UniFi | UniFi | Zyxel Nebula |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | Ø8.1 x 1.8″(Ø206 x 46 mm) | Ø7.76 x 1.38″ (Ø197 x 35 mm) | 12.21 x 7.01 x 2.21 in (310 x 178 x 56 mm) |
| Weight | 1.5lb (680 g) | 1.32 lbs (600 g) | 3.11 lbs (1412 g) |
| US Retail Price(at launch) | $189.99 | $290 | $599.99 |
As evident from the desk, the U7-Professional boasts mid-tier Wi-Fi 7 specs. Whereas it doesn’t fairly match as much as the Zyxel WBE660S, it’s a commendable providing, contemplating its worth level. The U7-Professional can help as much as 300 units and supply Wi-Fi protection for an space of roughly 1,500 sq. ft (140 sq. meters), making it appropriate for many properties and small workplaces.
Pricing and Availability
Ubiquiti has priced the U7-Professional at a lovely $189, making it significantly extra reasonably priced than the Zyxel WBE660S and even the U6 Enterprise. This aggressive pricing, together with its spectacular options, makes the U7-Professional a powerful contender for customers looking for a dependable, budget-friendly Wi-Fi 7 entry level.
It’s price noting that to take advantage of this entry level, you will have a 2.5GbE POE++ succesful swap. Fortunately, as a result of this entry level solely makes use of 802.11at (PoE+), you need to use the marginally extra reasonably priced Enterprise 8 PoE, which is presently listed at £459.60 VAT Incl.
The Enterprise 24 PoE is healthier worth for cash per port priced at £766.80 VAT Incl, with 24 ports in whole with 12 2.5GbE POE+ and the opposite 12 gigabit POE+.
In case you are comfortable to make use of a unique model, there are many reasonably priced multi-gig switches and a rising variety of these help POE.
Conclusion
Ubiquiti’s launch of the U7-Professional Wi-Fi 7 entry level marks a big milestone not only for the corporate but additionally for the broader Wi-Fi market. It provides a budget-friendly answer that doesn’t compromise on efficiency, making it an interesting selection for a variety of customers. Because the Wi-Fi 7 panorama continues to evolve, we will anticipate to see extra progressive merchandise from Ubiquiti and different business gamers.
I’m James, a UK-based tech fanatic and the Editor and Proprietor of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Enthusiastic about all issues expertise, my experience spans from computer systems and networking to cellular, wearables, and sensible house units.
As a health fanatic who loves operating and biking, I even have a eager curiosity in fitness-related expertise, and I take each alternative to cowl this area of interest on my weblog. My numerous pursuits permit me to deliver a novel perspective to tech running a blog, merging way of life, health, and the most recent tech traits.
In my tutorial pursuits, I earned a BSc in Data Methods Design from UCLAN, earlier than advancing my studying with a Grasp’s Diploma in Computing. This superior examine additionally included Cisco CCNA accreditation, additional demonstrating my dedication to understanding and staying forward of the expertise curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has persistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of many prime expertise blogs within the UK. With my dedication to expertise and drive to share my insights, I intention to proceed offering my readers with partaking and informative content material.
