If you are thinking about getting Bell Wi-Fi you must compare Bell Home Hub 4000 vs 3000.
The Bell HH4000 is the new version of their internet device, which replaces the BHH 3000. If you have been using the 3000, you are probably used to it.
As a matter of fact, the BHH 3000 has proven effective in offering decent speeds for most home devices.
Bell Home Hub 4000 is better than 3000 in terms of range and speed. The new version supports Wi-Fi 6, which is much faster than Wi-Fi 5 on BHH 3000. Further, the BHH 4000 enjoys more range on 2.4GHz compared to 3000.
Besides the issues of range and speed, there are also key hardware changes. However, these changes could completely affect the way you enjoy your internet.
Keep reading to find out more.
Reasons Why BHH 4000 is Better For the Future
It is not easy to pick between BHH 4000 and 3000. The main reason is that one is better for the present while the other suits the future. That is how technology works.
The Bell HH 3000 was made to offer users more freedom. However, that freedom is being taken away with the more advanced BHH 4000.
The 3000 version is much slower in terms of Wi-Fi speed. However, it is more compatible with third-party hardware.
To fully understand what this means, we must look at the differences between the BHH 4000 and BHH 3000.
Difference #1 BHH 4000 Uses Wi-Fi 6 While 3000 Uses Wi-Fi 5
The first noticeable difference between Bell Home Hub 3000 vs 4000 is the Wi-Fi speed. One thing that the new version brings to the table is more speed.
Unfortunately, the improvement in speed is not for all. You will only be able to enjoy Wi-Fi 6 if you have Wi-Fi 6-ready devices.
This means that, if you are still using your old TV that is only compatible with Wi-Fi 5, buying the new BHH 4000 won’t make any difference.
However, if you have Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices, you will enjoy:
- Faster speeds of up to 10Gbps
- Wider range
- No congestion
Note: if your devices are still not compatible with Wi-Fi 6, you will still operate on Wi-Fi 5. There will be not much difference with BHH 3000 speed.
Difference #2 BHH 4000 Has no Battery Backup
The biggest deal breaker for anyone thinking about getting BHH 4000 is the lack of battery backup. The BHH 3000 has an internal battery backup.
What this means is that you do not have to stop working just because power is interrupted. Your BHH 3000 continues working giving you chance to round up your business.
The new version, BHH 4000 does lack battery backup. Although you have a chance to purchase a UPS, it is an extra cost. On this point, the BHH 3000 wins.
Difference #3 BHH 4000 Has a Wide Range Than 3000
The other major factor to consider when comparing Bell Home Hub 3000 vs 4000 is range.
In terms of range, the BHH 4000 stands out. The new version has an extended range of over 300ft, which is way more than BHH 3000.
In the BHH 3000, there were connection issues even within the same backyard.
However, 4000 does not even need pods to connect in your backyard. Most users have confirmed that it has a better reach compared to 3000.
The main benefit in terms of range for the BHH 4000 is that:
- You do not need pods if you have a small backyard
- You can access a fast and stable Wi-Fi connection several meters from the hub
- It is much faster than BHH 3000 at close range
Remember that for those who are targeting Wi-Fi 6, you should not expect to use it at a distance.
The BHH 4000 is designed to select between Wi-Fi 6 and 2.4GHz automatically. When you are a long distance from your hub, the best option is 2.4GHz and not Wi-Fi 6.
Tip: You can use Wi-Fi 6 throughout your home by getting the latest Wi-Fi 6 pods.
Difference #4 SFP on 4000 is Permanent
When it comes to the hardware, the BHH 3000 is much better for most users.
Besides having an internal battery, the BHH 3000 also has removable SFP hardware.
This means that you can use your preferred modem or router with BHH 3000.
On the other hand, the SFP on BHH 4000 is permanent. If you choose to go this way, you must be willing to use the Bell Home Hub alone.
Note: You can not use third-party equipment with BHH 4000.
Difference #5 Multi-Gig Port is Ready to Go
The BHH 4000 has a 10GbE multi-gig port. Now, this port makes a big difference.
For those who have 1GB ready devices that use ethernet, you can enjoy much faster speeds on BHH 4000 than on 3000.
Difference #6 BHH 4000 Can Operate Without Extender Pods
You can actually use your BHH 4000 without extender pods. Most users have confirmed that the range attained by the new device is impressive.
For a device that can attain 300ft at good speeds, you may not need your pods.
With that in mind, there are still a few scenarios where you will need your pods. For homes with concrete walls and many rooms, you may need to use pods.
The Best Pods for BHH4000
If you will be using extender pods for your BHH 4000, be ready to buy new ones.
You cannot use your BHH 3000 pods on BHH 4000. While technically they will work, they could lower your Wi-Fi 6 speed back to Wi-Fi 5.
The previous pods that were used on BHH 3000 were designed to support Wi-Fi5. The good news is that there are new Wi-Fi 6 supporting pods from Bell.
When you order our new pods, specify that you want the new Wi-Fi 6 supporting pods.
Newer Version of Bell Home Hub 4000 vs 3000 is Better
If you will go buying a BHH 4000, make sure you get the latest version. There is a newer version that has the wording “Gigabit” on the front.
If you are ordering online, specify that you want the “Gigabit” version.
Benefits of BHH 4000 Gigabit
- Speed: This version of BHH 4000 is much faster because it supports Wi-Fi 6E
- Wi-Fi 6E is much faster than Wi-Fi 6 which is available on the new BHH 4000
- The Gigabit modem also supports 8GBps FTTH service that was recently unveiled by Bell
In theory, Wi-Fi 6 supports speeds of up to 10Gbps and is seen as a superior connection. However, this is usually not the case in real-time.
In real performance, congestions, lags and many other factors affect your internet speed.
Why Gigabit Stands Out
The Gigabit version of BHH 4000 uses the 6GHz band. This is a band that expands your bandwidth and increases internet speed.
On 6GHz, there is no congestion. There is less traffic on the router hence your device can enjoy unlimited access to your bandwidth.
The only catch with Wi-Fi 6E is that many devices are not compatible.
As a matter of fact, most homes do not have Wi-Fi 6-ready devices. Going for BHH 4000 consequently calls for an upgrade to your devices.
Bell Home Hub 4000 Vs 3000 Which is Better
At this point, you have already taken a position as to which of the two you prefer. There are those who will prefer BHH 3000 while others will go for 4000.
It is a tough call to make considering the different aspects. However, the BHH 4000 stands out given that it is geared towards the future.
The BHH 3000 is good in terms of freedom and hardware. However, if your goal is to have a better internet connection, BHH 4000 is the way to go.
Summary
In a comparison of the Bell Home Hub 4000 vs 3000, we can say that the Bell Home Hub 4000 offers better internet services. However, this device has some shortcomings.
The lack of a backup battery is one of its major undoings. Even so, it is still better in terms of range and speed compared to the BHH 3000.
Read Next: Why is My Bell Internet So Slow?
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.