Click Here - Orb Audio Speaker SaleNetgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300
Manufacturer: NetGear Inc. Part number: WNDR3300-1BYNAS
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 is a basic Wireless-N router that only offers a taste of dual-band wireless networking. Its short range and limited feature set may override its decent mixed-mode performance.
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CNET editors' review
Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 price range: $99.99 - $121.90
- Reviewed by: Dong Ngo
- Reviewed on: 08/05/2008
The good: Supports both 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies; internal antenna design; intuitive and responsive Web interface; easy to set up; good mixed mode and range throughput speed.
The bad: Short range; not true dual-band; no Gigabit support; no print serving or NAS functionality, no USB.
The bottom line: The Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 is a basic Wireless-N router that only offers a taste of dual-band wireless networking. Its short range and limited feature set may override its decent mixed-mode performance.
The Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 features a rather misleading name. The router doesn't support true dual-band wireless-N, nor does it offer very good range. It's a basic router with two separate access points (AP), one of which supports Wireless-N and can operate in either 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequencies--similar to the D-Link DGL-4500--while the other is a regular 802.11G 2.4GHz-only AP. The result is that when in dual-band mode the router is able to offer Wireless-N only in the 5Ghz frequency, while the 2.4Ghz frequency is maxed out at the 802.11G speed. Still, if you have a growing stable of 5Ghz-based devices and want a router that supports both frequencies, the WNDR3300 is the cheapest router on the market (at about $100) that will suit your needs.
While its max throughput is relatively low, the router offered very consistent and considerably high throughput speeds on both our mixed-mode and long-range throughput tests. Unfortunately, its range is possibly the shortest among Wireless-N routers. If range is not important to you and your network primarily consists of 5GHz-based clients, the WNDR330 is a good bet. Otherwise, for the same price, we'd recommend the 2.4GHz-only Linksys WRT310N; or you can pay $50 more for the true dual-band Linksys WRT610n.
Design and setup
The Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 looks like others in Netgear's RangeMax series, with the sleek casing (that attracts fingerprints very easily) and the big, round, blue-glowing button on top. The button also activates the router's Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) feature, which instigates a short window of time wherein other WPS-compliant clients can enter the network without having to manually enter the encryption code. We like the blue light emitted from the button, but also found it a little too bright for certain locations, such as your bedroom, or beneath a television if you want to watch a film in a darkened room. In this case, you might want to cover it with a piece of black duck tape, as you cannot turn it off.
The best design feature of the router is its internal antenna, which helps make the router compact, though not as compact as the design of the latest Linksys routers, such as the WRT110. The WNDR3300 can also work in a vertical position and comes equipped with a base for just this purpose. It is, however, not wall-mountable.
The WNDR3300 is very easy to set up. The router comes with a software application that walks you through the setup process step by step, from setting up the hardware to creating the wireless network. Unlike the desktop application of the D-Link DIR-855, the WNDR3300's works well even if your computer has more than one network connection. If this is so, it prompts you to pick the one that's currently connected to the router; and if you pick the wrong one, you can go back and pick another.
Features
The WNDR3300 is the first router Netgear has sent us that supports both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies simultaneously. This is a significant move, because traditionally most routers (both Wireless-G and Draft N) were made to operate in the 2.4GHz frequency. With the proliferation of wireless networking in the last couple of years, the chances are that if you live in a city the 2.4GHz spectrum is saturated with signals from multiple routers. On top of that, other home electronics, such as cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and so on, also use this frequency to transmit their radio signal. Moving to 5GHz means the router works in a cleaner spectrum and, therefore, potentially offers better wireless performance. At the same time, router manufacturers don't want to completely shut out all of the existing 2.4GHz-based wireless clients because there are just so darn many of them. This is where dual-band wireless routers, like the WNDR3300 and a few others, come in to play.
Unfortunately, unlike the D-Link DIR-855 or the Linksys WRT610n, to our disappointment, the Netgear WNDR3300 doesn't offer true dual-band Draft N 2.0. It offers Wireless-N in the 5GHz frequency and it offers Wireless-G in the 2.4GHz frequency, which means that only 5GHz-based clients can take advantage of the high Wireless-N throughput (up to 270Mps), while the 2.4GHz-based clients are maxed out at the sluggish Wireless-G speed (up to 54Mps).
The WNDR3300 also has a few other shortcomings, including the lack of Gigabit and USB support. As a result, wired throughput maxes out at 100Mbps, and it won't work as a print server or offer a network storage feature.
On the brighter side, however, the router does offer Wi-Fi-Protected Setup, and its Web interface is very well-organized and intuitive. You can use this interface to configure the router's useful settings. For example, Content Filtering lets you block certain Web sites or services, while more advanced networking settings allow you to assign a fixed IP address to a computer in the network and forward certain services to it. This will come in handy if you want to set up a computer within the network to be an FTP or Web server.
Performance
The Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 offered mixed performance in our testing. We tested the router in dual-band mode, where the router operated in both frequencies at the same time.
On CNET Labs' max throughput test, the WND3300 disappointed us by coming in as the slowest amongst the 5GHz routers we've tested. At 57.2Mps, the router was almost half the speed of the D-Link DIR-855. Note that the DIR-855 was also tested in dual-mode and it was supporting Draft N 2.0 performance in both frequencies.
On the other hand, the WNDR3300's scores on our mixed-mode and long-range tests were much better at 52.7Mbps and 51Mbps, respectively. These scores were the second and the third best for each test on our charts for routers we've tested this year.
The WNDR3300's range was short. In our tests, the router could barely offer a stable connection at more than 200 feet. Further than 230 feet, there was no signal at all. This is a bad range for a Wireless-N router. Most other Wireless-N routers can easily offer range up to 270 feet or more.
Service and support
Netgear ships the RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 with a limited, one-year warranty, which is common for routers these days. The support pages on Netgear's Web site are somewhat elusive (you have to click through many layers of links to get to where you want), but nonetheless offers lots of support information, such as troubleshooting and manual downloads.
User reviews
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Known Issue with Firmware - Product is Defective
by TakenAdvantageOf on January 28, 2009
Pros: If you are only using one device at a time linked to this Wireless Router you can pull 270mbs through several walls.
Cons: Net Gear is aware of a known Firmware failure in this product. When you connect more than one device to the router it will intermittently drop your signal and disconnect every device on the router. Very rude customer service in India.
Summary: Net Gear is knowingly selling you a defective product. DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT. Save yourself a lot of time and money if you are going to attempt to connect ...
Summary: Net Gear is knowingly selling you a defective product. DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT. Save yourself a lot of time and money if you are going to attempt to connect more than one device to this router as it will drop your signal every 5 - 30 minutes with no known firmware upgrade to resolve the issue. The tech support will not admit to this and will make you re-install the network several times. Ask for the United States customer service department in CA if you hope to get any resolution to the problems you will experience with this defective equipment. First time buyer of Net Gear - and my Last Time as a buyer of Net Gear products. Who on this Earth sells product that they know is defective with no known way of resolving the issue? They cost me a Saturday and a work day and a couple of evenings of trouble shooting a problem that they are already aware of.
4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Nice and simple to hook up
by Tim De Lord on March 2, 2008
Pros: East Setup, and Tech support was nice, and understanding, when having any questions.
Cons: Tech support is ONLY 90 Days, afterwards, one must pay. LAME!!!
Summary: This is the first time I am not using a Linksys router, so, still trying it out. I purchased the WNDR330 Wireless / Router. It seems to work good. But time ...
Summary: This is the first time I am not using a Linksys router, so, still trying it out. I purchased the WNDR330 Wireless / Router. It seems to work good. But time will be the true test! Again, other then the short tech support, so far so good.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Same problems as everyone else!
by sdud22 on September 11, 2009
Pros: It's in the trash!
Cons: Drops constantly. Draft N doesn't work very well and then disconnects and has to be manually reconnected every time the computer goes into hibernation.
Summary: Horrible. Buy something else. Exercise our power as consumers.
Summary: Horrible. Buy something else. Exercise our power as consumers.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Dropps off every 3 to 5 minutes "JUNK"
by joemoesch on August 27, 2009
Pros: no pros with this product
Cons: can't work with this unit and from what I can tell there is no fix yet!
Summary: I'm returning it tyo try a different manufacturer
Summary: I'm returning it tyo try a different manufacturer
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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THIS ROUTER DROPS ALL CONNECTIONS EVERY HOUR..
Pros: NONE AS THIS ROUTER CONSTANTLY DROPS CONNECTIONS...
Cons: POOOOOOR RANGE WHEN IT IS WORKING.
CONSTANTLY DROPS ALL CONNECTIONS EVERY HOUR OR SO.....
NOT SURE WHY THE REVIEWERS HAVE NOT MENTIONED THIS PROBLEM, AS A SEARCH OF MOST WEBSITES REVEALS OTHERS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM?????Summary: KEEP YOUR MONEY IN YOUR POCKET.....
WIRELESS "N" WHILE IT IS FAST IT SEEMS TO NEED FURTHER DEVELOPMENT...Summary: KEEP YOUR MONEY IN YOUR POCKET.....
WIRELESS "N" WHILE IT IS FAST IT SEEMS TO NEED FURTHER DEVELOPMENT...1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Got to be the worst router on the market
Pros: After one month, there is absolutely nothing I like about this router
Cons: Regular disconnection of clients is annoying, as is the stupid flashing dome lights. The firmware needs updating to fix the disconnect problem.
Summary: Bottom Line.... Save yourself some money and go buy a different router. Tech Support will always start at the level one. Check the forums, the disconnect problem is apparently widespread ...
Summary: Bottom Line.... Save yourself some money and go buy a different router. Tech Support will always start at the level one. Check the forums, the disconnect problem is apparently widespread and there is no fix in sight.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Easy Setup, Great Connection and Range
by songvilay1 on September 10, 2008
Pros: Adjustable 2.4Ghz bandwidth, 8 antennas
Cons: It's a bit on the big side
Summary: I bought this dual band router to replace my old d-link wireless g router that kept dropping my internet connection. I would have to keep rebooting the router about once ...
Summary: I bought this dual band router to replace my old d-link wireless g router that kept dropping my internet connection. I would have to keep rebooting the router about once or twice every hour and waiting for the internet connection to come back up. I am running wireless to my PS3, 2 Rocketfish rear wireless speakers (one per rear surround each works on 2.4Ghz), PSP wireless and laptop wireless. I don't need wireless N yet, but my 2.4Ghz spectrum is pretty full. I hooked up the Netgear RangeMax Dual Band and after the easy setup, adjusted my 2.4Ghz channel to 2.46Ghz and I have not had a dropped wireless internet session yet. I tried it out on my PS3 with online games and my Playstation Home beta test and it was great. No more frustration from dropped connections in the middle of a game. The range for the wireless G is excellent. My PS3 is in my living room, about 60 ft. from the router, around corners and doors and I still get about 92 to 95% signal strength. I have read people complain about the blue light being bright and somewhat annoying, you can turn that off by simply tapping it once and it goes away. I think it's kinda cool though. Anyways, this is in my opinion, a very nice, inexpensive replacement for older wireless G routers stuck in a sea of 2.4Ghz products.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not Ready For Market
by tonyburke on November 11, 2009
Pros: Somewhat easier to install than previous Netgear wireless routers, especially security settings.
Cons: Everything else. Won't install using a Windows Vista 64 computer, probably won't with Windows 7 either. No manual. Connectivity issues. Freaking large and annoying blinking blue "Push and Connect" strobe light.
Summary: Purchased to replace a Netgear 834 that had worked well for several years and then just gave up the ghost one day. Inserted provided disc for the 3300 and it ...
Summary: Purchased to replace a Netgear 834 that had worked well for several years and then just gave up the ghost one day. Inserted provided disc for the 3300 and it refused to perform installation using a Windows Vista 64 computer even though box said it's Vista compatible. Fortunately I had a Windows Vista 32 computer to use. After that, installation program ran smoothly and automatically including setting up security. Then at the end it dumps you out on-line at their site. There is no included manual to tell you what to do next so you have to locate and download the documentation on-line and begin reading through it to figure out what to do next to connect wirelessly. I won't go into all the connectivity issues with both our computers and wireless printer, which all worked extremely well with our old router. To say the least, it was a nightmare. Only one computer would operate correctly including connecting with the wireless printer. Don't put this in a bedroom or livingroom where you will be sleeping or sitting because the big blue "Push and Connect" light will light up like a blue light special strobe light at K-Mart. Very annoying. But bottom-line is this product does not work as well as the previous Netgear wireless router that I had even though it is suppose to be the next generation. I would not recommend it to a friend and as soon as it can be replaced, it is going where it belongs, in the trash.
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Absurd Support
by gator749 on October 6, 2009
Pros: It worked for a while.
Cons: It no longer works and an attempted reinstall messed up two computers.
Summary: It no longer works. When I tried to reinstall, the reinstall messed up both of my computers. I had to hardwire to my desktop to get back online. Support wanted $...
Summary: It no longer works. When I tried to reinstall, the reinstall messed up both of my computers. I had to hardwire to my desktop to get back online. Support wanted $69 to solve the problem. I suggested that I'd rather use the money to buy another non-Netgear router.This is a bogus company and a bad product. Stay away.
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Good But A Bit Weak
by michiganbadger on October 5, 2009
Pros: Super easy setup and very consistant signal (no signal dropping). Making this unit password secure is simple and it's a high quality unit. Some other brands are very cheaply made.
Cons: I was sorry to see the Netgear doesn't put out a signal like Linksys and the internal antennas makes it difficult to boost the signal. But I will admit the weaker signal (1 bar) doesn't seem to affect the late night movie watching.
Summary: I'm glad I bought the Netgear WNDR 3300 and I don't see anything better out there in this price range.
My first review ...
Updated on Oct 10, 2009Summary: I'm glad I bought the Netgear WNDR 3300 and I don't see anything better out there in this price range.
My first review on this product was premature. After more testing I discovered it's worthless if one wants to watch online movies. I really like Netgear's routers but this adapter is a sad mistake. Too bad we have to pay the bill.
Updated on Oct 10, 2009
Specifications
- Manufacturer: NetGear Inc.
- Part number: WNDR3300-1BYNAS
- Description: The WNDR3300 offers more wireless channels, less interference and better connections using dual band Wireless-N. Enjoy faster downloads, high-quality media streaming, and better online gaming.
General
- Device Type Wireless router
- Form Factor External
- Width 8.8 in
- Depth 6 in
- Height 1.2 in
- Weight 1.1 lbs
Networking
- Connectivity Technology Wired, Wireless
- Integrated Switch 4-port switch
- Data Link Protocol Ethernet, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11n (draft 2.0)
- Switching Protocol Ethernet
- Remote Management Protocol HTTP
- Features DMZ port, NAT support, URL filtering, Firewall protection, DoS attack prevention, Quality of Service (QoS), Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), Wi-Fi Multimedia (WMM) support, Intrusion Detection System (IDS), Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)
- Compliant Standards IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED, IEEE 802.11n (draft 2.0)
Antenna
- Antenna Internal integrated
- Antenna Qty 8
- Directivity Omni-directional
Communications
- Type None
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces 1 x Network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX - RJ-45 ( WAN ), 4 x Network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX - RJ-45
Miscellaneous
- Included Accessories Vertical stand
- Cables (Details) 1 x Network cable
- Encryption Algorithm WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, 64-bit WEP, 128-bit WEP
- Microsoft Certifications Certified for Windows Vista
Power
- Power Device Power adapter - External
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included Drivers & Utilities
- OS Required UNIX, Linux, Apple MacOS, Microsoft Windows 2000 / ME / XP/ Vista
Manufacturer info
- NetGear Inc.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse NetGear Inc. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.netgear.com/
- Address:
4500 Great America Pkwy.
Santa Clara, CA 95054 - Phone: 408-907-8000
- Email: support@netgear.com
- Fax: 408-907-8097
