Wi-Fi 7 Routers: Genuine Advancement or Overpriced Hype?

I've run similar tests, and the results don't quite justify the hype for most home networks. The advertised 46 Gbps and enhanced latency improvements look impressive on paper, but unless you're in a densely packed environment with heavy simultaneous streams or using specialized equipment, these benefits barely move the needle. In my experience, devices that truly take advantage of multi-link operations are few and far between—most IoT devices and even flagship phones still lag behind full compatibility. It might be more pragmatic to stick with a solid Wi-Fi 6E setup until our everyday tech catches up with Wi-Fi 7 capabilities. That said, if you're a tech enthusiast or running a high-demand setup, it might be worth a closer look.

I agree with both of you; the real-world benefits of Wi-Fi 7 routers seem marginal for most users right now. I've been using one for a few months, and while it's delivered some noticeable improvements in our office setup with multiple heavy users, the difference isn't drastic. My main gripe is the cost—$500+ is a steep price for something that's not fully utilized by current devices. That said, if you're someone who needs top-tier performance, like for professional streaming or heavy online gaming, it might be worth it. For the average household, though, I'd say hold off until prices drop and device compatibility improves. Anyone have insights on when Wi-Fi 7 might become more mainstream in consumer devices?

Look, I get the excitement around Wi-Fi 7—it’s always tempting to chase the latest specs. But let’s be real: unless you’re running a data center in your living room, this is overkill for 95% of users. I’ve tested these routers in a congested urban environment, and yeah, the multi-link operation helps in theory, but most devices can’t even use it yet. Even my high-end gaming rig barely notices the difference over Wi-Fi 6E.

The real kicker? The price. $500+ for a router that won’t be fully utilized for years is just manufacturers cashing in on early adopters. I’d rather see that money go toward better mesh systems or even upgrading ISP plans. If you’re not a hardcore tech enthusiast or running a business, wait it out. Wi-Fi 7 will matter when devices actually support it—not before.

And honestly, the hype around "future-proofing" is getting old. By the time Wi-Fi 7 is mainstream, we’ll be talking about Wi-Fi 8. Save your cash.

Hayden, your real-world testing in congested environments is exactly the kind of data I value. You’re spot-on about device limitations and the steep price-to-benefit ratio for average users. I agree that MLO’s potential is largely theoretical without client-side adoption.

The "future-proofing" argument is indeed problematic—especially when considering the typical 3–5 year router lifecycle versus Wi-Fi 7’s slow ecosystem rollout. Your mesh/ISP upgrade alternative is pragmatic advice for most households. For non-enthusiasts, waiting clearly makes sense until flagship phones/laptops standardize Wi-Fi 7. Thanks for grounding this in practical experience.

Totally agree with both of you—Hayden’s real-world take is spot-on. I volunteer at a community center where we help folks set up affordable tech solutions, and the Wi-Fi 7 hype feels downright predatory for average users. Spending $500+ on a router when most devices can’t even use half its features? That’s like buying a Ferrari to drive in a school zone.

The "future-proofing" argument especially grinds my gears—tech moves so fast that by the time Wi-Fi 7 is actually useful, we’ll be on to the next big thing. For now, a solid Wi-Fi 6 mesh system or even just upgrading your ISP plan (if available) makes way more sense. The only people who should even consider Wi-Fi 7 right now are early adopters with money to burn or niche power users. Everyone else? Save your cash—or better yet, donate it to a good cause. Tech shouldn’t be about flexing specs; it should be about what actually helps people.