The latest offering from Eero, the Pro 7, introduces Wi-Fi 7 technology with impressive performance and ease of use. However, its business model remains a contentious point. Despite delivering fast speeds and reliable connections, the company's aggressive push for a monthly subscription service undermines its appeal. This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of the Eero Pro 7, highlighting both its technical advancements and the limitations imposed by its software.
With the arrival of Wi-Fi 7, Eero aims to rectify past mistakes and provide users with an enhanced experience. The new hardware design, featuring a vertical orientation and larger dimensions, accommodates the advanced technology required for Wi-Fi 7. Each node is equipped with multiple wireless radios and smart home integrations, ensuring comprehensive connectivity. Installation remains straightforward, adhering to Eero's promise of a hassle-free setup process. Users can expect excellent performance across various devices, even in challenging environments like offices or living rooms far from the nodes.
However, the real challenge lies in the accompanying app. While visually appealing and user-friendly, it serves as a platform primarily promoting Eero Plus, a subscription service that unlocks essential features. Basic functionalities such as traffic prioritization, device grouping, and detailed network insights are locked behind a paywall. This approach frustrates both novice and experienced users, who find their control over the network significantly limited. For instance, setting up parental controls or accessing historical data requires subscribing to Eero Plus, which costs $9.99 per month or $100 annually. Competitors offer similar features without additional charges, making Eero's pricing strategy less attractive.
The pricing structure for the Eero Pro 7 reflects its position as a premium product. Available in one, two, or three-node configurations, it ranges from $300 to $700. Although this price point aligns with other Wi-Fi 7 systems on the market, potential buyers should consider whether the added cost of a subscription justifies the investment. For those looking to upgrade from older Eero models, retaining previous hardware can enhance network coverage, albeit with some performance trade-offs. Ultimately, while the hardware excels, the overall value proposition is diminished by the need for a subscription to access critical features.
In conclusion, the Eero Pro 7 offers top-tier performance and ease of installation, making it a compelling choice for technologically inclined users. Yet, the relentless promotion of Eero Plus and the restriction of basic features create significant barriers. Prospective buyers must weigh the benefits of cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 against the ongoing financial commitment required to fully utilize the system. Despite its hardware prowess, the Eero Pro 7 falls short due to its restrictive business model, leaving much to be desired in terms of user satisfaction and overall value.