Zyxel NWA50BE specifications and in-depth review

Zyxel NWA50BE

Manufacturer: Zyxel

The Zyxel NWA50BE is a versatile Wi-Fi extender designed to enhance your network experience. Featuring support for Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 4, and even the latest Wi-Fi 7 standards, it offers dual-band coverage and high-speed performance. This compact device is built to expand your existing network without adding external antennas, offering a clean, space-efficient design.

With a Wi-Fi speed of up to 5100 Mb/s, the Zyxel NWA50BE supports advanced features like MU-MIMO and mesh Wi-Fi, allowing for efficient and seamless network coverage. It also offers robust Wi-Fi security with WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 protocols, ensuring a safe connection. Despite its small form factor, it provides reliable performance with low operating power consumption of just 16W.

Pros
  • Supports multiple Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, ensuring compatibility with a range of devices.
  • Dual-band support allows for better flexibility and performance across different devices and usage scenarios.
  • MU-MIMO technology enables multiple devices to communicate simultaneously, improving overall network efficiency.
  • Supports mesh Wi-Fi, providing seamless coverage across larger areas and helping eliminate dead zones.
  • Compact design with no external antennas makes it easy to place discreetly in various locations.
Cons
  • Only has one LAN port, limiting wired connectivity options for multiple devices.
  • Does not include a WPS button, which might be inconvenient for users seeking a simpler, one-touch connection method.
Who is this for?

The Zyxel NWA50BE is ideal for users looking to extend their existing Wi-Fi network with a device that supports multiple standards such as Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, ensuring compatibility with the latest devices. Its dual-band support and mesh Wi-Fi functionality make it an excellent choice for large homes or offices, offering reliable and seamless coverage across multiple rooms. Additionally, the inclusion of MU-MIMO technology ensures multiple devices can efficiently use the network at once, which is perfect for households or workplaces with many connected devices.

Who is this NOT for?

This device may not be suitable for users who need extensive wired connectivity, as it includes only one LAN port. It also lacks a WPS button, which could be inconvenient for those who prefer a simpler, one-touch connection process. Users seeking a device with multiple wired ports or easier setup options might find this model lacking for their needs.

General info:

Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
Wi-Fi speed 5100 Mb/s
Wi-Fi bands Dual-band
release date August 2025
operating power consumption 16W
LAN ports 1

The Zyxel NWA50BE offers a range of versatile networking features with support for multiple Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), and the latest Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be). With a maximum Wi-Fi speed of 5100 Mb/s, this dual-band extender ensures fast and reliable connections. It operates efficiently with a low power consumption of just 16W and includes a single LAN port for wired connectivity.

Features:

has MU-MIMO
supports mesh Wi-Fi
has beamforming
Wi-Fi security protocols WPA, WPA2, WPA3
Has a dedicated smartphone app
has a WPS button

The Zyxel NWA50BE is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance your Wi-Fi experience. It supports MU-MIMO, enabling multiple devices to communicate simultaneously for improved efficiency. The device also supports mesh Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless coverage across your home or office. Additionally, it includes beamforming technology, which helps optimize signal strength to connected devices. For security, it supports WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 protocols, and it comes with a dedicated smartphone app for easy setup and management. However, it does not feature a WPS button for one-touch connection.

Design:

external antennas 0
volume 787.5 cm³
height 150 mm
width 150 mm
thickness 35 mm

The Zyxel NWA50BE features a compact design with no external antennas, contributing to its sleek and minimalist appearance. Its dimensions include a height of 150 mm, a width of 150 mm, and a thickness of 35 mm, with a total volume of 787.5 cm³. This makes the device easy to place in a variety of locations without occupying excessive space.

Final Verdict

The Zyxel NWA50BE is a versatile and compact Wi-Fi extender that excels in providing dual-band coverage and supporting the latest Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, making it a strong choice for users looking to enhance their home or office network. With features like mesh Wi-Fi and MU-MIMO technology, it offers excellent performance for multiple devices in larger areas. While its limited LAN port and lack of a WPS button may be drawbacks for some, it remains a solid option for those seeking reliable and seamless wireless coverage with modern features.