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Ubiquiti was previously a bit slow in adopting WiFi 6, but they are one of the first to adopt the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology.
The U7-Pro is a member of the UniFi 7, a new series of Wi-Fi 7 broadcasters. It offers a cost-effective solution for businesses and homes in need of reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.
The U7-Pro: A Wallet-Friendly Wi-Fi 7 Solution
Unlike the handful of competing options, Ubiquiti has opted for a more affordable specification using only 2.5GbE for the uplink port and a 2 x 2 design across each band.
This significantly reduces the price, with the U7-Pro costing just $189.99/£171.60 VAT Incl.
The 2×2 design may be less appealing, but in reality, in homes and small businesses, there will be no real-world difference in the throughput. It also significantly reduces the power consumption.
A Closer Look at the U7-Pro’s Design and Features
The U7-Pro retains the trademark round-shaped design synonymous with Ubiquiti’s UniFi access points. It is designed for ceiling or wall mounting, making it a versatile option for various spaces. As far as size goes, it is marginally larger and weighs slightly more than its predecessor, the U6 Enterprise.
The U7-Pro also incorporates Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+), allowing it to be powered via an Ethernet cable, thus eliminating the need for a separate power source. However, it doesn’t come with any power accessories, so users will need to have a pre-existing PoE switch or purchase an injector to power it.
Comparing the U7-Pro’s Hardware Specifications
The U7-Pro, alongside the Zyxel WBE660S, is one of the first Wi-Fi 7 access points on the market. The table below provides a detailed comparison of the U7-Pro’s hardware specifications against the U6 Enterprise and the Zyxel WBE660S.
| Model | U7 Pro | U6 Enterprise | Zyxel WBE660S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Ubiquiti UniFi U7 Pro Access Point | Ubiquiti UniFi U6 Enterprise Access Point | Zyxel WBE660S BE22000 Wi-Fi 7 Triple-Radio NebulaFlex Pro Access Point |
| Wi-Fi Standards | Tri-band BE9200 | Tri-band AXE11000 | Tri-band BE22000 |
| 1st Band 2.4GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: Up to 688 Mbps(20/40MHz) | 2×2 AX: Up to 600Mbps(20/40MHz) | 4×4 BE: Up to 1376 Mbps(20/40MHz) |
| 2nd Band 5GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: Up to 2882 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 AX: Up to 4800 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 BE: Up to 8646 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) |
| 3rd Band 6GHz(channel width) | 2×2 BE: Up to 5765 Mbps(20/40/80/160/320MHz) | 4×4 AXE: Up to 4800 Mbps(20/40/80/160MHz) | 4×4 BE: Up to 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 |
| Power over Ethernet (PoE) | 802.11at (PoE+) | 802.11bt (PoE++) | 802.11bt (PoE++) |
| Power Consumption | 21W | 22W | 41W |
| Network Port | 1x 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig PoE | 1x 10Gbps Multi-Gig PoE | 1 x 1/2.5/5/10Gbps LAN 1 x 1Gbps LAN |
| Security | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 | WPA, WPA2, WPA3 |
| Mobile 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 Cost(at launch) | $189.99 | $290 | $599.99 |
As evident from the table, the U7-Pro boasts mid-tier Wi-Fi 7 specifications. While it doesn’t quite match up to the Zyxel WBE660S, it’s a commendable offering, considering its price point. The U7-Pro can support up to 300 devices and provide Wi-Fi coverage for an area of roughly 1,500 square feet (140 square meters), making it suitable for most homes and small offices.
Pricing and Availability
Ubiquiti has priced the U7-Pro at an attractive $189, making it considerably more affordable than the Zyxel WBE660S and even the U6 Enterprise. This competitive pricing, along with its impressive features, makes the U7-Pro a strong contender for consumers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly Wi-Fi 7 access point.
It is worth noting that to make the most of this access point, you will want a 2.5GbE POE++ capable switch. Thankfully, because this access point only uses 802.11at (PoE+), you can use the slightly more affordable Enterprise 8 PoE, which is currently listed at £459.60 VAT Incl.
The Enterprise 24 PoE is better value for money per port priced at £766.80 VAT Incl, with 24 ports in total with 12 2.5GbE POE+ and the other 12 gigabit POE+.
If you are happy to use a different brand, there are plenty of affordable multi-gig switches and a growing number of these support POE.
Conclusion
Ubiquiti’s launch of the U7-Pro Wi-Fi 7 access point marks a significant milestone not just for the company but also for the wider Wi-Fi market. It offers a budget-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on performance, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of users. As the Wi-Fi 7 landscape continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative products from Ubiquiti and other industry players.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
