Orbi speedtests showing higher than other apps

[ThePablo]

So I’ve been noticing as of late that when running the included Speedtest within the Orbi app I consistently get 114mb, but am running the app by Ookla and get 8-10mb. Why such the difference? Aren’t they both testing the same thing, or is the Orbi one not checking actual internet. Confused. Thanks for any help.

[tucsontico · Accepted solution]

Not sure why the built-in test shows a higher number but I do know that using the built-in Speedtest has caused problems with Orbi for some folks. Several threads recommend NOT using the built-in Speedtest due to WiFi anomolies showing up after running that test. I'm still running firmware 2.0.74 and NEVER do a Speedtest from Orbi's built-in. I would not trust the built-in numbers. Cannot say if latest firmware solved this issue.

[tucsontico · Accepted solution]

Not sure why the built-in test shows a higher number but I do know that using the built-in Speedtest has caused problems with Orbi for some folks. Several threads recommend NOT using the built-in Speedtest due to WiFi anomolies showing up after running that test. I'm still running firmware 2.0.74 and NEVER do a Speedtest from Orbi's built-in. I would not trust the built-in numbers. Cannot say if latest firmware solved this issue.

[ThePablo]

Thanks for the tips and suggestions of not running in-app.  I confirmed I am using 2.0.74, so I just rebooted my network and will continue to keep an eye on the connection.  I will validate, and possibly restart my cable router as well.  

[tucsontico]

If you connect directly to your modem (no router) what download speed do you get?

[ThePablo]

With an ethernet connection?  I haven't tried that, but I definitely will.  I've usually had pretty decent numbers, but again, I've only ever done them using the Orbi speedtest, so maybe in fact I haven't.  I will begin going back to the Ookla app for my speedtests.  I should have known or at least been questioning things, when for the life of this network (July '17) I've only ever gotten a reading of 114mb from the Orbi speedtest app.

[tucsontico]

Just thought of one more thing: Be certain your measuring the same values. Sometimes the speed tests are reported in megabytes (MB) versus megabits (Mb) . 

[ThePablo]

Thanks, yes, definitely comparing apples-to-apples.  

[tucsontico]

Definitely do a direct connectvia ethernet to your modem to see your "true" download speed. Remember, the speed will change depending on the upstream load from your ISP. The advertised speed is a theoretical maximum and not a static value.

[ThePablo]

So I tried the hardwire vs wifi, using speedtest.net, and very simliar speeds.  I will continue using this site or app on my iPhone and no longer use the in-app version of the speedtest as suggested.  Thanks for the tips.  Posted the details below, the earlier one in the day is wifi and latest via ethernet.