Nokia has strengthened its position in the consumer networking market with the introduction of two new Wi-Fi 7 routers designed to meet the growing demand for high-speed wireless connectivity. As multi-gigabit fiber networks continue their global expansion, these new additions to Nokia's router portfolio aim to bridge the gap between enterprise-grade performance and home user accessibility.
Beacon 4 Targets Mainstream Users with Dual-Band Performance
The Beacon 4 represents Nokia's entry-level Wi-Fi 7 offering, featuring a dual-band configuration that operates across 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This compact router measures 126.5 x 160 x 43mm, making it suitable for shelf or desk placement without dominating living spaces. The device utilizes 2x2 MIMO technology to achieve maximum wireless speeds of 3.6Gbps, which should satisfy most household streaming, gaming, and work-from-home requirements. Its coverage extends up to 250 square meters, providing adequate range for typical residential layouts.
Beacon 9 Delivers Premium Features with Tri-Band Architecture
Nokia's higher-tier Beacon 9 introduces significant performance enhancements through its tri-band design, incorporating the newer 6GHz frequency band alongside traditional 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels. This configuration enables the router to reach peak speeds of 9.4Gbps while supporting ultra-wide 320MHz channels, a feature that remains uncommon among non-flagship consumer routers. The device's coverage area expands to 280 square meters, and its slightly larger dimensions of 173.5 x 140 x 71.5mm accommodate the additional hardware required for tri-band operation.
Nordic Design Philosophy Emphasizes Minimalist Aesthetics
Both routers embrace Nokia's commitment to Nordic design principles, featuring clean lines and neutral color schemes that blend seamlessly into modern home environments. The minimalist approach prioritizes functionality while avoiding the aggressive styling often associated with gaming routers. This design strategy reflects Nokia's understanding that many consumers prefer networking equipment that remains visually unobtrusive while delivering robust performance.
Connectivity Options Cater to Modern Networking Demands
The Beacon 4 provides practical connectivity through one 2.5GbE WAN port and two 1GbE LAN ports, supporting 160MHz channel bandwidth for enhanced throughput. The Beacon 9 offers more versatile options with one 2.5GbE WAN port, one 2.5GbE LAN port, and one additional 1GbE LAN port. These configurations acknowledge the increasing prevalence of multi-gigabit internet plans and the need for high-speed wired connections to support demanding applications.
Nokia Beacon 4 vs Beacon 9 Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Beacon 4 | Beacon 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 Dual-band | Wi-Fi 7 Tri-band |
| Frequency Bands | 2.4GHz, 5GHz | 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz |
| Maximum Speed | 3.6Gbps | 9.4Gbps |
| MIMO Technology | 2x2 MIMO | 2x2 MIMO |
| Channel Bandwidth | 160MHz | 320MHz |
| Coverage Area | 250 square meters | 280 square meters |
| Dimensions | 126.5 x 160 x 43mm | 173.5 x 140 x 71.5mm |
| WAN Ports | 1x 2.5GbE | 1x 2.5GbE |
| LAN Ports | 2x 1GbE | 1x 2.5GbE, 1x 1GbE |
| Software Platform | Nokia Corteca | Nokia Corteca |
Corteca Platform Enables Remote Management and Service Expansion
Both models operate on Nokia's proprietary Corteca software platform, which serves dual purposes for consumers and service providers. The platform allows telecommunications operators to perform remote network management, deploy software updates, and reduce the need for on-site service calls. For end users, Corteca provides access to an app store where additional networking services and features can be purchased, potentially extending the routers' capabilities over time.
Market Strategy Focuses on Carrier Partnerships
Nokia has chosen not to announce retail pricing for either model, instead positioning both routers for bundled distribution through telecommunications carrier partnerships. This strategy aligns with Nokia's broader approach to the consumer networking market, where professional installation and ongoing support services add value beyond the hardware itself. The Beacon 4 and Beacon 9 join the previously announced Beacon 19 and Beacon 24 models, completing Nokia's comprehensive Wi-Fi 7 router lineup designed to address various performance requirements and deployment scenarios.