Wired, USB and Efficiency
The proof is in the pudding. Attach a cable and throughput is both fast and consistent, with practically identical results on every run.
The ability to double as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) is a useful feature for any router and Netgear's implementation works particularly well, with the XR500 Pro USB 3.0 ports delivering best-in-class performance.
Good performance is paired with decent efficiency. The at-the-wall readings are in line with our expectations of a router of this ilk, and we're pleased to find that the XR500 Pro chassis doesn't become overly warm during use.