Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 (5-port Gigabit Router): The Consensus

Exceptional Performance and Reliability

The Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 consistently earns high praise for its robust performance and remarkable long-term reliability. Many owners report the device running for years without needing a single reboot, often only restarting due to power outages or ISP issues. This exceptional endurance contributes to a notably stable network experience. Users upgrading to gigabit fiber connections frequently observe near line-rate speeds, with one owner reporting around 940/930 Mbps up/down and minimal CPU utilization during speed tests. Even with numerous firewall rules and complex configurations, the router maintains impressive throughput, often outperforming more expensive alternatives. Its ability to handle heavy network loads, including large numbers of connected devices and simultaneous bi-directional gigabit traffic, is a standout feature, making it a solid choice for demanding home or small office environments.

Advanced Features and Extensive Control

The hEX RB750Gr3 is celebrated for its powerful RouterOS operating system, which offers an extensive array of advanced features typically found in enterprise-grade equipment. Network professionals and enthusiasts appreciate the granular control over traffic, sophisticated firewall capabilities, VPN server options, VLAN support, and dynamic routing protocols. The tooling, including the Winbox desktop application and WebFig web interface, provides deep visibility and flexible configuration options, allowing users to implement intricate network designs, such as dual WAN failover or custom QoS rules. This level of programmability and control makes it an ideal device for home labs or users who want to fully customize their network security and functionality.

Outstanding Value and Connectivity

A recurring theme among owners is the router's outstanding value for money. Many express astonishment at the performance and feature set available at its accessible price point, often noting it rivals or surpasses devices costing several times more. The compact router features five Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing efficient wired connectivity for small networks. It also supports Passive PoE, allowing for flexible power options. While the device is wired-only, many users intentionally pair it with separate Wi-Fi access points, leveraging the hEX for its robust routing capabilities while optimizing wireless coverage independently. This combination is often cited as a superior and more cost-effective solution compared to integrated consumer routers.

Challenges and Setup Sensitivity

Despite its many strengths, the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 presents a significant learning curve, a point frequently emphasized by owners. While a basic internet connection can often be achieved quickly using the 'Quick Set' wizard, configuring advanced features demands a solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols. Several users, even those with technical backgrounds, report spending many hours or even days learning RouterOS and troubleshooting configurations. The documentation, while available online, can be scattered and challenging for novices, and the command-line interface, though powerful, is not standard Bash. Some users experienced initial connectivity issues or unexpected behavior, which required consulting online tutorials or community forums to resolve. Additionally, a few owners noted specific port bandwidth nuances related to the CPU's internal lanes, requiring careful placement of WAN and LAN connections to achieve optimal bi-directional gigabit speeds. The device also lacks built-in Wi-Fi, which some buyers initially overlooked, highlighting the importance of understanding its wired-only nature.