If you're thinking of upgrading to Wi-Fi 7, the mesh system I recommend is now 21% off

Eero 7 Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 Router

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The Eero 7 Dual Band Router retails for $180 per unit.
• Users won’t have to wait long to enjoy high-speed connectivity at home as the device is very easy to set up.
• However, this router model is light on features; it doesn’t offer much beyond its simple package.

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One of the biggest hurdles of any new technology is getting people to adopt it. In my opinion, the best way to see widespread adoption is to make onboarding really easy — eliminate that high barrier of entry. A device that exemplifies this ideal is the new Eero 7 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 7 Router.

Also: Should you upgrade your traditional Wi-Fi router to mesh? I compared the two, and here’s my take

In late February, Eero announced the device as an entry-level router to bring Wi-Fi 7 into homes. The standard promises lower latency, higher wireless speeds, and increased bandwidth to support multiple devices. This level of performance and other features are present in the Eero 7, enabling users to enjoy the next generation of connectivity.

Setting up the router

Before I discuss my experience with the Eero 7, let’s quickly explain this device to the uninitiated. As mentioned earlier, it is a compact dual-band router that supports 2.4 and 5Ghz channels to deliver “wireless speeds of up to 1.8Gbps and wired speeds of up to 2.3 Gbps,” according to Eero. Around the back are two 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports. Sandwiched between them is a USB-C input for the power adapter.

Also: The right way to run an internet speed test (and how I use the results for better Wi-Fi)

I had two review units, and the more time I spent with them, the more I couldn’t help but compare them to the Asus RT-BE86U router I recently tested. My experiences with the two products were quite different. In fact, I had a better time with the Eero 7.

Setting up the Eero 7 was much easier. I started by downloading the official Eero app on my phone per the instructions. Then, I unplugged my modem, connected it to the router, and plugged the two into the wall socket. I proceeded to open the app and, after navigating through the on-screen instructions, established a wireless connection. The whole process took less than five minutes.

What’s funny is that when I completed everything, I redid the process because I thought I missed a step. But I didn’t — it was just that fast.

Connecting the second router as an extender was even quicker. All I did was plug in the power adapter and use the same app to link it to the original device. There was no fuss or required software patch to install. Everything worked right out of the box.

Even faster speeds 

The company states that a single Eero 7 can cover up to 2,000 square feet and support over 120 devices. I happen to live in a perfect testing environment because the router delivered fast Wi-Fi 7 speeds all over my apartment — even to my kitchen, which is normally a dead zone. The signal did not falter once, even with multiple smartphones, computers, and TVs connected simultaneously. It all ran as smooth as butter. 

Also: Slow Wi-Fi at home? 3 things I always check first for faster internet speed

The Eero app includes an internet speed test. According to the results I received, the router provides download speeds up to a whopping 690 Mbps and upload speeds up to 24 Mbps. A line of text in the app states that this speed allows owners to stream 4K movies, hop on video calls, and play online games simultaneously. 

Third-party internet tests indicate that the Eero 7’s download speeds typically hover around 200 Mbps, while upload speeds are approximately 20 Mbps. Don’t be perturbed by the discrepancy in the numbers — this is still plenty fast.

Notes on build quality

As much as I enjoyed using the Eero 7, it does lack features others might want. You can create guest networks and screen time schedules, but the gadget doesn’t have parental controls or internet security. To get these features and more, you’ll need to subscribe to Eero Plus, which gives you malware protection, a VPN, and parental controls, among other things. Monthly subscriptions cost $10/month, while yearly plans cost $100.    

Because it lacks a third 6Ghz channel, power users might find its wireless speeds slow or inconsistent. During testing, there were a few instances where web pages would endlessly load, and I had to refresh the browser multiple times.

Also: Starlink just unveiled a $40/month unlimited data plan – but there are a few catches

I didn’t mind the router’s lack of features too much. The straightforward installation process and solid connection speeds overshadowed its limited offerings.

ZDNET’s buying advice

At the bottom of the Eero 7‘s box is the product’s tagline, which reads: “The way Wi-Fi should be.” And I have to agree. This little gadget sets a new standard for Wi-Fi in 2025. This router is a must-have for people looking to upgrade their at-home networks. 

There are three different ways to purchase the Eero 7. The 1-pack is on sale for $135. If you want multiple units, the company also has two-pack and three-pack options on sale for $220 and $280, respectively, for a limited time. People who want faster speeds should check out the Eero 7 Pro. It supports a third 6Ghz channel and promises wireless speeds of up to 3.8 Gbps.