More UniFi Wi-Fi 7: U7 Pro Max, Pro Wall, and Outdoor Preview
Originally Posted: May 31st, 2024
Last Edited: June 2nd, 2024
On May 30th, 2024, Ubiquiti announced three new Wi-Fi 7 models:
These three join the U7 Pro, for a total of four different Wi-Fi 7 APs in the UniFi lineup. Since they were just announced and I don’t have any of the hardware in hand, this preview will summarize the news and the specs that were released. All three of these models are interesting in their own way, but we’ll start with the biggest and most expensive, the U7 Pro Max.
More UniFi Wi-Fi 7: Pro Max, Pro Wall, and Outdoor Preview
U7 Pro Max
From Ubiquiti’s store page for the U7 Pro Max
Ceiling-mounted WiFi 7 AP with 8 spatial streams, 6 GHz support, and a dedicated spectral scanning engine for interference-free WiFi in demanding, large-scale environments.
- WiFi 7 with 6 GHz support
- 8 spatial streams
- Real-time spectral analysis for enhanced channel selection*
- 160 m² (1,750 ft²) coverage
- 500+ connected devices
- Powered using PoE+
- 2.5 GbE uplink
- $279 US MSRP
- Note. 6 GHz operation is supported in these countries.
- Multi-Link Operation (MLO) capability is coming soon and will be provided via software update.
The U7 Pro Max is another in the “flagship” category, which are the normal disc-shaped omnidirectional APs you typically mount to a wall or a ceiling. These offer broad coverage for an indoor space, and are the default options for homes, businesses, and general use.
U7 Pro Max Key Specs
Networking interface: (1) 1/2.5 Gbps RJ45 port
Management interface: Ethernet
Power method: PoE+
Power supply: UniFi PoE switch (read: no PoE injector included)
Max. power consumption: 22W
Max. TX power
2.4 GHz: 23 dBm
5 GHz: 29 dBm
6 GHz: 23 dBm
MIMO
2.4 GHz: 2 x 2
5 GHz: 4 x 4
6 GHz: 2 x 2
Throughput rate
2.4 GHz: 688 Mbps
5 GHz: 8648 Mbps
6 GHz: 5765 Mbps
Antenna gain
2.4 GHz: 4 dBi
5 GHz: 6 dBi
6 GHz: 5.9 dBi
Claimed coverage: 160 m² (1,750 ft²)
Mounting: Wall, ceiling (Included)
Ambient operating temperature: -30 to 60° C (-22 to 140° F)
Environment: Indoor (no weatherproofing rating)
U7 Pro vs. U7 Pro Max
The U7 Pro Max is similar to the regular U7 Pro, with a few significant improvements.
5 GHz MIMO: 2x2 vs. 4x4
5 GHz Throughput: 2882 Mbps vs. 8648 Mbps
2.4 GHz TX power: 22 dBm vs. 23 dBm
5 GHz TX power: 26 dBm vs. 29 dBm
Claimed coverage: 1,500 ft² vs. 1,750 ft² (140 m² vs. 160 m²)
US MSRP: $189 vs. $279
The U7 Pro Max adds the spectral analysis radio
Arguably the biggest difference with the the Pro Max is the inclusion of a radio dedicated to real-time spectral analysis. We don’t have a ton of details about the function of this, but Ubiquiti says that this will help with enhanced channel selection, continuous background packet, and spectrum capture. From their YouTube announcement video:
Dedicated spectral engine for continuous background packet and spectrum capture. The engine is capable of providing real-time spectral analysis with impressive NEXT AI continuous packet capture capabilities soon to follow.
Many other vendors have similar features on their high-end APs, but we’ll have to wait to see the details of what Ubiquiti has planned outside of those few sentences and video preview. It looks promising and more fleshed out than the AirView feature was on the AC-SHD, but the software isn’t here yet.
The AC-SHD is a good reminder that you should never buy a product based on a promise. I have faith that Ubiquiti will deliver on their promises this time, but it’s wise to wait until the software is finished and these features are delivered before investing in the hardware.
Outside of the spectrum analysis radio and the upcoming software features that will leverage it, the U7 Pro Max is a reasonable step up in price and performance from the U7 Pro. It also compares well to the U6 Enterprise, which is the same price.
We are going to see more models in the future to flesh out the Wi-Fi 7 lineup. We’ll likely see a U7 Enterprise above the Pro Max, and probably a Lite and Long Range model below. Those considering the U6 Enterprise or any of the other Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E models should consider these two Wi-Fi 7 options, and keep an eye out for more models coming soon.
While we’re waiting, here is a comparison of all the Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 flagship omnidirectional UniFi APs you can currently buy. See my UniFi Network Comparison Charts and the rest of my Comparison Charts for more spec comparisons like these.
UniFi flagship Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 comparison
U7 Pro Wall
Next is the U7 Pro Wall, the first Wi-Fi 7 model meant to be mounted in a wall outlet.
From Ubiquiti’s store page for the U7 Pro Wall.
Wall-mounted WiFi 7 AP with 6 spatial streams and 6 GHz support tailored for home builders with seamless installation options.
- WiFi 7 with 6 GHz support
- 6 spatial streams
- 140 m² (1,500 ft²) coverage
- 300+ connected devices
- Powered using PoE+
- 2.5 GbE uplink
- Versatile deployment with optional Flush Mount and Table Stand accessories*
U7 Pro Wall Key Specs
Networking interface: (1) 1/2.5 Gbps RJ45 port
Management interface: Ethernet
Power method: PoE+
Power supply: UniFi PoE switch (read: no PoE injector included)
Max. power consumption: 22W
Max. TX power
2.4 GHz: 22 dBm
5 GHz: 26 dBm
6 GHz: 23 dBm
MIMO
2.4 GHz: 2 x 2
5 GHz: 2 x 2
6 GHz: 2 x 2
Throughput rate
2.4 GHz: 688 Mbps
5 GHz: 4324 Mbps
6 GHz: 5764 Mbps
Antenna gain
2.4 GHz: 4 dBi
5 GHz: 5 dBi
6 GHz: 6 dBi
LEDs: White/blue
Claimed Coverage: 140 m² (1,500 ft²)
Mounting:
Wall (Included)
Table stand, flush mount (Optional)
Ambient operating temperature: -30 to 60° C (-22 to 140° F)
Environment: Indoor (no weatherproofing rating)
U7 Pro Wall vs. other In-Wall models
UniFi offers many wall or in-wall APs, from the ancient AC-In-Wall to the U6-In-Wall and U6-Enterprise-In-Wall (Wi-Fi 6E) models. These have all come with built-in switch ports in the past, as well as PoE passthrough. You might see them in a bedroom or hotel room, or maybe behind an entertainment center with Ethernet running to a few bandwidth heavy devices. They’re a handy combination of switch and AP, but the U7 Pro Wall doesn’t include any switch ports.
Ubiquiti confirmed in the YouTube video comments that another wall model is coming that does, so keep waiting if that’s what you’re looking for.
A traditional In-Wall design with a built-in switch is in development for UniFi 7. The U7 Pro Wall is the first design in a series of UniFi 7 APs for wall-mount applications. It's tailored for seamless installation, especially with its Paintable Flush Mount accessory that enables near-invisible, recessed installation. Stay tuned for more UniFi 7 updates.
My assumption is that it is a size/cost/heat thing, and that's why they are splitting it into (at least) two models. Three radios generate a fair bit of heat, and you need room for all the required components and antennas.
Basically, it's tri-band, small/cheap, or built-in switch. Pick two.
U6-In-Wall = small/cheap and built-in switch, but dual-band.
U6-Enterprise-In-Wall = tri-band and built-in switch, but big and expensive.
U7-Pro-Wall = tri-band and small/cheap, but no built-in switch.
U7 Pro Max/Enterprise Wall = tri-band and built-in switch, but big and expensive.
Whatever it's called, the U7 Wall model with built-in switch ports is probably going to require a double-width enclosure like the U6-Enterprise-In-Wall. It'll probably require PoE++ for passthough, and be around $299 too.
If you’re OK without the extra ports, the U7 Pro Wall is similar to the U7 Pro from a radio and performance perspective. For $20 more than the U6-In-Wall and $100 less than the Enterprise version, you’ll have to consider what tradeoffs you want to make.
Below is a comparison of all of the wall and in-wall UniFi AP models. Note that the In-Wall HD isn’t listed in the store anymore, and the BeaconHD and U6-Extender don’t offer any Ethernet connections. The main models to compare against are the U6 In-Wall and U6 Enterprise In-Wall. The AC In-Wall is well past it’s expiration date. Even though it is still for sale, I wouldn’t recommend buying one new in 2024.
UniFi Wall AP comparison
U7 Outdoor
Finally, we have the U7 Outdoor, which follows on the heels of the release of the U6 Mesh Pro. While the U6 Mesh Pro was a drop in replacement for the AC Mesh Pro with the same enclosure and some newer radios, the U7 Outdoor is something new.
From Ubiquiti’s store page for the U7 Outdoor:
All-weather WiFi 7 AP with 4 spatial streams, an integrated directional super antenna, and versatile mounting options.
- WiFi 7
- 4 spatial streams
- 465 m² (5,000 ft²) open space coverage with the integrated directional super antenna
- Software-adjustable antenna beamwidth for balanced coverage with the included omni antennas
- 200+ connected devices
- Powered using PoE+
- 2.5 GbE uplink
- Versatile wall and pole mounting
- Weatherproof (outdoor exposed)
- US MSRP: $199, available June 17th.
U7 Outdoor Key Specs
Networking interface: (1) 1/2.5 Gbps RJ45 port
Management interface: Ethernet
Power method: PoE+
Power supply: UniFi PoE switch (read: no PoE injector included)
Max. power consumption: 19W
Max. TX power
2.4 GHz: 23 dBm
5 GHz: 26 dBm
MIMO
2.4 GHz: 2 x 2
5 GHz: 2 x 2
Throughput rate
2.4 GHz: 688 Mbps
5 GHz: 4324 Mbps
Antennas
(1) Directional internal antenna
(2) External omni antennas
(2) RP-SMA connectors for external antenna
2.4 GHz Antenna gain:
Directional internal: 8 dBi
External omni: 3 dBi
5 GHz Antenna gain:
Directional internal: 12.5 dBi
External omni: 4 dBi
Internal antenna beamwidth (configurable)
2.4 GHz: 90°
5 GHz: 45°
LEDs: White/blue, mesh signal
Claimed Coverage: 465 m² (5,000 ft²) open space coverage with the integrated directional super antenna
Mounting: Wall, ceiling, pole (Included)
Ambient operating temperature: -30 to 60° C (-22 to 140° F)
Environment: Outdoor
Pole mount diameter: 25–60 mm (1–2.36") on pipe outer diameter
Wind survivability: 74.6 N at 200 km/h (16.8 lbf at 125 mph)
Weatherproofing: IPX6
Before we get into the asterisks and open questions, here is a comparison of all the outdoor UniFi AP models:
UniFi Outdoor AP comparison
U7 Outdoor Initial Impressions
There’s a lot to discuss here, but we’ll start with the disappointing things. There is no 6 GHz radio.
My speculation is that outdoor 6 GHz operation is something a future model will have. Standard power and outdoor operation of 6 GHz is still a regulation headache, even if you only consider the US. The world is still working on adopting the specific rules. Outdoor 6 GHz operation and standard power APs also require using AFC and built-in GPS. We’ll get outdoor 6 GHz from UniFi eventually, but it’s not here yet. When it is here, it will probably cost more than $199. If 6 GHz is a deal breaker and you want to spend the extra money for it, you’ll need to wait.
Another odd thing is the recessed RP-SMA connectors at the top of the device. Since this is meant for outdoor use and is IPX6 rated, those should be waterproof. I’ve dealt with my fair share of rusted connectors and weathered APs though, so I’m curious what will happen to those connectors if you install it outdoors without antennas attached. It looks like there are little plastic caps in the installation guide images, but they aren’t shown in the other product images. Do you need to install antennas or use the caps for it to be waterproof? What happens if you uninstall the antennas and lose those little plastic caps? Will it all hold up over time?
For reference, as described in UniFi Device IP and IK Ratings, IPX5 means that it is not rated for dust resistance, but it has “water jets” level liquid protection. It should hold up to heavy direct rain, and it matches the IPX5 rating of the U6 Mesh. The U6 Mesh Pro and Swiss Army Knife Ultra are both IPX6 rated, though.
Now on to the good stuff. The U7 Outdoor has unique internal antennas. They are not meant for broadcasting over a broad area, they are directional and configurable. The spec list shows a 90° beamwidth and 8 dBi for 2.4 GHz, and 45° beamwidth and 12 dBi for 5 GHz. Antennas and beam patterns are 3 dimension things though, and they don’t specify the vertical beamwidth. They have not mentioned the specifics of how they are configurable, and they haven’t released their radiation patterns either. Add those to the list of details we’ll need to wait for.
Thankfully, they also include external 3 dBi / 4 dBi omnidirectional antennas, which you can switch to in a drop down menu. If you don’t want the directional high gain coverage pattern, pop on the omnidirectional antennas or other standard RP-SMA antennas if you prefer.
Despite the limitation of dual-band and lacking 6 GHz, the powerful and unique antenna configuration makes it a great choice for covering a large outdoor space. I can see a lot of people mounting these on a wall to cover their backyard, or mounting on a pole to cover a big outdoor area.
Zooming Out: Three Exciting Releases
Stepping back and looking at these three new APs and Wi-Fi 7 as a whole, there is a lot to be excited about.
The U7 Pro Max is a nice step up from the regular Pro, and I’m excited to hear more about what software features are going to be enabled by the spectrum analysis tool. The history of the AC-SHD gives me some pause, but I’m optimistic.
The U7 Pro Wall is a nice compliment to the U6 In-Wall and U6-Enterprise-In-Wall, especially if you don’t plan to leverage any of the built-in switch ports for downstream devices. If you want Wi-Fi and built-in switch ports or PoE passthrough, keep waiting.
Despite the lack of 6 GHz, the U7 Outdoor is the AP I’m most excited about. I love outdoor wireless, and UniFi APs are the foundation of a ton of cost-effective outdoor, public, or event Wi-Fi. The U7 Outdoor offers a lot of value, and features that are not found on any of the other outdoor models. It is a welcome addition to the outdoor line.
The U7 Pro Max, U7 Outdoor, and U7 Pro Wall. Image Credit: Ubiquiti
Note: Defending 2.5 Gbps Uplinks
Oh, and one last thing — I have seen a lot of commenters disappointed that these “only” have 2.5 Gbps RJ45 connections. Yes, Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 APs like these can offer more than 2.5 Gbps of throughput, but I would argue that 2.5 Gbps is more than enough for a single access point. Reliability, airtime utilization, and aggregate performance are more important in large wireless networks.
I wrote a bit about the realities of Wi-Fi data rates vs. real-world speeds in Understanding Wi-Fi Speed and How 6 GHz Compares, but it boils down to this. Quoted data rates are a speed limit, and you only get silly specs like “9.3 Gbps over-the-air speed” by combining all radios into one number. You’ll only achieve a fraction of these aggregate throughput claims. Even then, you’ll only get those multi-gigabit numbers in ideal conditions. Wi-Fi is almost never ideal.
Optimizing for the best-case scenario, with modern clients using the widest possible channels and highest possible data rates is not good engineering. In a typical multi-AP environment, the limit is not the speed of the wire between your switch an AP. It’s airtime, and likely the source of the bandwidth you are downloading from or uploading to.
Yes, in extreme scenarios, if you have a multi-gigabit WAN or LAN, modern Wi-Fi clients, clear and wide channels, no other users, and a bandwidth-heavy application, you’ll be limited by the 2.5 Gbps uplink. If that’s the case though, that device should probably be plugged into the network.
For the foreseeable future, wires will always win for reliability and speed. Increasing the cost and power draw of every AP to include 10 Gbps interfaces for this corner case is a losing argument. You can blame Ubiquiti, or Qualcomm, or the networking industry at large, but that’s the unfortunate reality. I’d love to see 10 Gbps Ethernet be more common, and it’s a shame that gigabit has stuck around as the default option for so long. Sadly, in most cases, it still is good enough. Some may argue that 2.5 Gbps is a pointless half-step, and I can’t say I disagree. That doesn’t make 10 Gbps components cheaper or more common.
Instead of arguing, I choose to enjoy wireless for the convenience it offers, and view these specifications and limits through a real-world lens. Wi-Fi is an amazing technology, and Wi-Fi 7 offers a lot of significant improvements to be excited about. It’s a good time to be a fan of wireless.
In my opinion, Ubiquiti is firing on all cylinders lately. There has been a lot of progress in UniFi software, and they are releasing more hardware than I can keep up with. The jury is still out on how their push into enterprise will go, or if they will deliver on their own spectrum analysis hype. I don’t have any doubts that these U7 APs are great additions to their lineup, though.
