CHF479.–
Zyxel NR5103
Product ratings
Pros
Cons
8 reviews
Fast 5G despite only 1 bar - but there is an audible fan in the router
The appearance is just modest, but the router was able to get 170 to 350 Mbit/s download in the living room despite only 1 bar.
The router supports a maximum of 32 devices in the 2.4 and 32 devices in the 5 GHz WLAN, you can also reduce the number of devices per band. I have not checked whether, if you enter 10 for the 2.4 GHz band, more than 32 devices would be available in the 5 GHz band.
The firmware update didn't work for me at all, and I couldn't find out anywhere how to change the DNS name. There is a function for registering new DNS servers, but the project failed because the interface wanted a DNS name and whatever I entered was not accepted.
Unfortunately, there is a small fan at the bottom of the router, which does not run at first, but later spins pernanently to cool the device. The fan produces a rather annoying noise, not a light whispering breeze. In a quiet room, I could still hear the fan very well from 2 - 3 m away. Unfortunately, this was too much for me and I had to send the router back.
If you buy the router, you should definitely pay attention to where you place it, as this can make an audible difference with the built-in fan.Pro
- Fast internet via 5G
- Multiple users can be set up
- Control lights on top of the unit
- Two 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports available
- USB 3.0 interface for hard disk connection
- With the latest firmware 4.19(ABYC.3)C0 there are regular reboots in the menu.
- A maximum of 64 WLAN devices are supported (32 each for 2.4 and 5 GHz by default)
Contra
- Audible fan installed at the bottom of the enclosure
- Antenna extension somewhat cumbersome, as special connections are required
- Configuration extensive but very cumbersome
- Requires Micro SIM (Nano SIM would be better)
- Appearance is more average and the router is quite large.
- Firmware update function did not work (error message)
- No documentation available for the router (not even from the manufacturer)
Fascinating product and simple Internet for single households!
The product can be set up easily via an app and even helps you to determine the best field strength (= strongest signal to the nearest 5G antenna). The QR codes make setup even easier.
However, please enquire about the 5G coverage at the location where the product is to be used before purchasing.
In my opinion, this is also a simple solution for people who want to equip several locations with Internet and want to take the device with them everywhere. In my opinion, access with many devices also works excellently!
For gamers, streamers and larger families, this product is rather on the lower end of the scale, but for singles who have average expectations of the Internet, I can warmly recommend this product.Bof
Pro
- Works well
Contra
- N obviously manages to support a server on a home network
All good so far
Cheaper and faster Internet with the router and Salt than via cable. Practical helpers to find the optimum position (unbelievable what a difference 20 cm can make ...) or to measure speed. Everything OK but no German menu.
Pro
- 5G
- 2× LAN
- 1× USB
Contra
- Information material difficult to find
"Worth the price"
I've tested a few 4G routers and always balked at the cost of a 5G router. But the Zyxel was right at my pain threshold and I didn't regret the change.
Especially in upstream I noticed a clear improvement compared to the previous 4G router from TP-Link. I get ~200/75 MBits
It was set up in 2 minutes
It's a chunky lump that you certainly can't miss. But otherwise I can recommend it.Pro
- Quickly set up
- Reliable
- Sufficient performance for me
- "Worth the price"
Contra
- Quite large and clunky
Easy to install. Good app.
Pro
- Easy installation
- Good instruction
- Several settings possible e.g. which bands for guest
Contra
- Size
Brilliant, can do everything you need.
Pro
- Can 5g
- Nat
- Dmz
- IP Passthrough
- External antenna can be connected
Positively surprised
Before you buy the device, you should consider whether a 4G LTE system would be sufficient. Depending on the structure of the building, 5G may have problems getting through the walls into the home and is therefore significantly slower than 4G. You may be able to see what reception is possible with a 5G mobile and an internet speed test in your own home.
Max. Transmission rate in the home: approx. 80 - 100 MBit/s (no 5G reception)
Max. Transmission rate on the balcony without roof and walls: approx. 260 - 350 MBit/s (5G reception - 1 bar)Pro
- Fast hardware setup
- Own intuitive app for the product available
- Fast configuration
Contra
- The location of the device determines the internet reception (20cm difference is decisive)
