The ability to adopt it to a dream machine is more of a forward looking thing, I’d say. Let’s say you have no Unifi devices and you buy the Express. Later, you have the need for something more complex so you get a UDM. You can repurpose the express as an AP so it’s not left sitting in a box somewhere.
Yeah, it's just a bonus feature for flexibility. If you want to adopt to a cloud/local controller that's not a dream machine, you just get the new Gateway lite instead, which I believe has the firewall features that are missing on this.
Exactly the reason I've bought it. I've got a DM Pro at my old home, and I'm currently renovating my new home. While the work is being done, I've bought two U6 Lites, and the Unifi Express, safe in the knowledge that I can repurpose this as an AP down the line, perhaps in the guest apartment we are building. Love it.
I think it’s designed to compete with tp link and other mesh systems that are prominent for houses without wired Ethernet. It’s an enormous market segment that UniFi is missing out on because of the other options on the market being so targeted to home owners
As an ISP this is the perfect device for it. It allows a single stock item to have for both the router, as well as multiple AP setups. And I'll have to look in to it but if it can adopt to a CK-E it would be extremely helpful.
I was about to buy a U6 and adapt it to my UDR so that my 2nd floor could have a better WiFi. I ended up buying a Unifi express and plug it to my UDR via an Ethernet cable. Love it. Is discret and it design was validated by wifey!
Installed one of these in a friends apartment when it came out. Paired with an 8 port lite poe switch, a flex camera on the patio and the 5 port flex mini in the entertainment center. It’s all they needed and works perfectly for them.
My interest in adopting this to a UDMse is to repurpose it from an AP to a temporary router in case the UDMse takes a dump. I haven't tested yet, but I'm thinking you should be able to hit reset on the Unifi Express and set it up, doing a controller/network restore of the failed UDMse site controller and when a replacement arrives, reverse it. Would love to see a test on this.
This is exactly what I was going to say. This is a great way to get to learn about the Unifi ecosystem being that you can get started for only $150. If you like what you see and decide you want to dive further into the ecosystem you can simply then buy a UDM and set this up as an access point somewhere without wasting your investment. I also think it is simply an extension of what they are doing by allowing you to mesh them together. If you can mesh multiple Unifi Express devices together I don't see why they would limit you from meshing it to a UDM.
@@LAWRENCESYSTEMS I want to have a device around when my UDM will crash. Having an Express device available will allow me to create a working network in no time.
I’m curious to know whether the UDX has the capability to continue to route traffic at layer 3 when used as an AP (adopted by UDM). Might lead to some neat capabilities.
I’ve bought it to be adopted by my UDR and use as a wireless access point to serve my office. I’ve got a few weird dead spots in my office and unlike the U6 Pro I have in the kitchen no easy way to router Ethernet cable. Found a perfect spot in the office using WiFiman that gets full signal from my UDR. This way I’ll have max WiFi everywhere in the house. In the future I’m planning to build a separate office extension so it will also work well for that (I’ve done a similar thing hardwired and wireless using the old AirPort Express these are based on!)
I really wish they made a gateway+AP device that was capable of being adopted to a self hosted controller. The UXG-Lite, which appears to be a similar form factor is apparently adoptable by a self hosted controller but it lacks the access point.
So I just received and set up my Unifi Express. First off the cuff, it's a great little device, and it sets up just a DM Pro. However, after that, you notice something which sticks out like a sore thumb. The speed of the device. My goodness, it's SLOW!!!! Boot up takes about 5 minutes, and then another 5 minutes to "settle". During that time, it's impossible to use the device, but after boot up, the Wi-Fi comes alive so you can connect fairly quickly. I also noticed the OS is limited to 3.1.26, as opposed to The DM Pro which runs on 3.2.9 so full device inventory reporting is not available. I imagine this update will eventually come, but for now, it's missing. Otherwise, I think it's a fabulous little device, and linked up with three U6+ AP's, it'll work wonders until I migrate my DM Pro to my new home.
I bought one when they came out. I wanted to go unifi for a while and this was the cheapest way to start. I use it with 2 switches and a u6+. In a few moths i'm getiing probably a udm-se and then this unit is going to be an acces point, or i'll install it at my mothers house. I love it for now. It's the best way to see if unifi is good for you and a great beginning point to more :P .
i have a use case where i want to have these installed and connected to a "main" UDMPSE via VPN, they are for monitoring a town water supply. They currently have 18 merakis for this right now, the replacement cost to switch to these devices would be pratically half the cost of the licence renewal for the Merakis.
I have a holiday home with an ER-X which i would be tempted to replace with one of these. Perhaps bringing one of my spare AC-LR APs there to make it a UniFi system. The thing that might push me over the edge to buying is if the site-to-site with Teleport works without me needing to open ports. So far i gave had limited success with Tailscale because i can't get routing working between sites.
How would this integrate with a cloudkey if i wanted multisite and protect support? Would the mgmt all be moved to the cloudkey? I use the UX for internet routing, wifi etc
Had some WiFi issues with a TP Link Archer, was going to go with a USG since I've deployed a few, decided to give this a try. I ran a number of speed/latency/stress tests on my TP Link (Which is a few years old) on a wired connection before switching...and was very surprised to find that the Unifi Express simply did not perform as well. I'm on Verizon fiber and have NEVER had wired network issues in the past. Latency, jitter, and latency deviation were all up compared to the old TP Link...oddly enough my upload tests perform MUCH worse, and (This may be a Ubiquiti specific setting causing the issue) Discord has become absolutely terrible, which again...I've never had issues with. While it may be great for "some"...I'm very surprised at my early testing results compared to an old $75 TP Link router.
Extremely attractive pricing as it costs just a bit more than a standalone wifi 6 access point. Also a much easier entry point for most people rather than having to install unifi os on a separate machine.
Why adopt into a Dream Machine? I've been wondering to get one for that use. I have a room in my house where I have a 3D printer and a regular printer both with ethernet port. I don't want to run cable there, wifi signal is strong in that room. I've been wondering if I could use the Unifi Express as a bridge and join it to my home wifi.
The UX looks a great device for us techies to put into our families houses. Until UBNT have policy based routing & DHCPv6 prefix delegation for down stream L3 devices there's no way I'm moving off pfSense for home.
Hoping to get your help on this. Moving into a new home and I currently have a plethora of smart devices, work and home devices, etc. I’m new to IT but learning more everyday. I’m looking to segment the various devices on my home network utilizing VLAN. Originally I had in mind to purchase the Edgerouter X, a lite 8 Poe switch and 2 ap. 1 Ap for all my smart devices and guests. The other for my personal devices like my wife’s iPad etc. my pc/work devices will be connected to the switch. Each all in their own vlan. For the vlan segmentation would this setup be solid or should I get an express, lite switch for expansion and an extra AP. Can the express act an access point as well as the controller? Saving me the $$ of buying 2 extra ap? Mind my knowledge if I’m getting things mixed up here. I’m just not sure which set up would be better.
I have been eyeing the UCG-Ultra. I am curious how good the "NGFW" is compared to their other offerings. Is it the same minimalist design, or is it imporved?
Hi, would be good to know if they would have an option to adopt it to a virtual network controller or at least if I can "migrate" the devices from my current network controller to the Express GW without too many "issues". I'm currently running a setup with USG-3P, US-8-60W and a UAP-AC-Lite. It would be cool if I could get rid of the AP and just use Express as an Wifi 6 and as an GW... Would you please also test the Gateway Ultra - as I'd like to know the differences between them except the Wifi 6 capability that the express has. Thx! Thx for the great tutorial!
There is only one plausible use case scenario to adopt a Unifi controller to another Unifi controller that I can think of, and that would be some new feature that Ubiquiti is going to introduce in the near future. Otherwise, any access point functionality is better served by an actual access point (for the most part), and I cant think of any (good) reason to physically separate VPNs. VPN offloading is the only other reason I can think of but that would be not very efficient (ie: stupid) given there are much better solutions out there. So, if Ubiquiti thought that feature through at all, they have some new feature coming down the pipeline. Otherwise its just a feature for sake of another feature.
If you adopt the Express to a Dream Machine it may allow you to connect a wired switch to the Express to expand a network to a space without infrastructure if it's meshed to the Dream?
I am new to Unifi networking and would like to know if I will be able at least analyze Wi-Fi traffic and see wireless devices info on the dashboard for example IP addresses etc. using Unifi Express as an access point only since I am already using Edge Router 4 as a gateway and it can not be replaced and I am using CK2 plus as Unifi controller.
Heads up that these are finally in stock again on their online store for at least a few hours now! I now many people have been trying to get one for a few months or so.
If you would like to set this up in "bridge mode" so that you can have an AP with an available ethernet port it will not do that. Confirmed by Ubiquity support.
My biggest issue is the 4 device limit. 1 POE switch and 3 APS any more and you are screwed. need to remove device and keep re adopting to configure them. I suggested the express to a friend but he needs 4 APS minimum and this causes the need for a POE Injector for every device and rules out the small 8 port POE switch.
It's very disappointing that this can only be managed by a UDM. According to their FAQ the device can only manage 4 other UniFi devices, and between switches and access points I have more than 4 UniFi devices on my network that I manage with a standalone controller. This would otherwise be an excellent choice for me but instead I would have to use it as a standalone device without the management benefits of the ecosystem.
The online Ubiquiti store. Well, when they aren't sold out... Ubiquti seems to be moving to mostly selling from only their store. When they can't even keep it stocked, I guess there's no point in selling anywhere else.
Once i tasted a real FW, I threw up such toys from home, not mentioning small businesses or companies. APs, SWs (L2) are fine. Like you said Tom, it has a lack of features, especially those easy of use. Cuz keep in mind its just L3 with some poor L4 capabilities. For home for someone whos not advanced is fine. All rest just nope. ;)
good content but please could you speak slow and breath, is kinda annoying after 3-4 min hear someone speak so fast without pause, all info is acumulatin g and no time to hear anything else than noise, Good Channel by the way
I set one of these up for my uncle recently, love it. While the controller is a bit slow, it is a GREAT option for someone with basic needs. They were using it on a 1Gbps connection and it was fine.
I bought one of these and adopted it to my Dream Machine SE. I purchased it because of its size and the cool LCD for status but more importantly because it has a LAN port for connecting a non-wifi enabled device. I wasn't able to find another Ubiquiti AP that was as small AND had a lan port for an external device at such a low price.
Just FYI, any unifi access point with a wireless uplink and a POE injector can be used as a wireless to wired bridge. In a pinch I had to use an AC lite with an injector to stream to a wired tivo box set up in the back yard for a party.
I have 3 sites with the USG-3s with the oldest Cloud Keys now, and I would love to use this, but the max "4 additional Unifi devices" limitation makes it impossible. Too bad.
@@williamp6800 I know that. When my USG-3s eventually break down I will have to get new UXG-Lite devices instead. BUT.. I would much rather have a device with the Unifi controller built in, so that I wouldn't need to have a separate cloud key or hosted controller running somewhere else, but with the (dare I say ridiculously low?) 4-device limit I can't. All the installation locations are in tight spaces in private homes, so large rack units and R2D2-type devices won't fit.
I got my parents a USG wit a raspberry pi controller several years ago. The pi has been a bit unstable, so this looks like an awsome upgrade to that setup!
I got Unifi Express expressly for this purpose as it was becoming more and more obvious that Ubiquiti is not updating Amplifi line any more. Without Express around there wasn't a reasonably priced and compact enough Unifi option (I really want the device to fit under the corner of my TV on my TV cabinet in my living room, so UDR is right out!) for my 45 square metre apartment where one access point is more than sufficient, but Unifi Express solved my problem. Only real problem with the device could be that it's a bit too configurable for an average home user (in comparison to an Amplifi solution) although relatively little work is needed to bring it up as a simple router and firewall. Probably many home users would be fine with absolutely minimal amount of setting up, but with 500+ Mbps Internet speeds one probably wants to pick wider WiFi channel widths than what are set up as default, and it requires digging into the scary configuration settings. It's really a significant upgrade from Amplifi HD feature-wise for an user not scared of the configuration possibilities, and Amplifi HD is apparently still selling at similar price to the new Unifi Express...
A comparison with the UDR would be interesting. The UDR is but $50 more (when available, is it ever) and to my mind offers a much better SOHO starting point. Neither are suitable for placement in a comms cupboard without crippling the wifi, where a pure gateway device is needed without resenting paying for an unusable built in WAP.
I used UDR and this is a great device however it was very noisy. I put it in my living room and heard a fan. And I used only Networking without any other app. I will wait for another gen and will stay with UX for now. + it uses less electricity (I live in Germany and here it's expensive)
@@Pingwinator I think you must mean the UDR Pro ($379) or UDR Special Edition ($499),ie the rack mounted variants.The UDR ($199), as in the “dalek,” doesn’t have a fan and is silent.
Hello Lawrence Systems, The way you show internet traffic in Ubiquiti's network topology is incredibly cool. I've had the UniFi UDM Pro for nearly a year now, and I never knew it had this feature. What you're doing for the UniFi community with your RUclips channel is truly amazing. Without your guidance, many of us might not even own this remarkable network equipment. Thank you from New Zealand.
glad to see you take a look at this, I've been eyeing it but it seemed like all the videos people put out they didn't really put it into real use. Thanks for the great content as always and happy holidays Tom!
I have a question as it was not clear to me. I use pfsense as my gateway and a unifi controller running in docker. Can I use the express just as my unifi controller? I have a 16 port switch and 3 APs.
Yes I am also very interested in this device (if it was available for purchase lol) because if I understand correctly, you can use it as a controller box but you don’t necessarily have to use it as your router/gateway. Like if you already have pfSense or a Netgate device. If this is the use-case you’re capped at the number of Unifi devices it can manage. But that’s true no matter what. This would replace an Ubuntu box for me
Does anyone have any more info on how to setup the Express in just controller mode (and not act as a gateway/router)? Is it possible to do controller/AP mode where it runs as a controller and also an AP? There are many mixed messages on this subject and I didn’t want to purchase then return it if it didn’t work. For instance, I have a much more powerful router between the internet/home network and ONLY want to use the Express as a controller for my other Unifi devices but also as an AP for some exclusive iot devices.
I had an Express & just recently bought a Dream machine Pro. I could not adapt it in the first place but after installing UniFi OS v3.2.7 & Network Version 8.0.26 I manage to adopt it as an access point. Also after that it is better with the WiFi.
I feel this would be a great unit for use as a travel router as well as a backup router or even something to throw into a tech bag to have on hand for the times of temp setup
I would have to agree. This is like buying netgear routers and meshing the routers together instead of having true AP meshing. Way too limited unless you have a small home. UDR all day over this uh thing. @@verlicht
This wouldn't be a great travel router for a lot (dare I say most) people IMO because it cannot simultaneously connect to an existing WiFi network (e.g. hotel or cruise ship WiFi) while also broadcasting its own WiFi network for your devices to connect to. As far as I can tell, that is probably one of the most commonly used features of a travel router. Something like the Gl-iNet Beryl AX can do the above, while also doing WireGaurd VPN at 300mbps (as opposed to the UniFi Express being limited to 80mbps). The ability for the Beryl AX to be able to tether to a phone via USB (or WiFi) and share that connection with your other devices over both WiFi and ethernet simultaneously can also be useful for some people (which the UniFi express cannot do). I say this as someone who does not own any Gl-iNet products (but will probably get one later this year when I travel) and have a UDM Pro, multiple UniFi APs, and UnFI Protect cameras setup at home.
@@pkennethv I wouldn't trust those wifi networks in hotels and on cruise ships especially the wifi networks because of how congested with devices as it is by other people that are connected to them which in return you get really slow speeds. they don't even completely cover the area as it is I still stand on my point of it still being a great little router to add to your network installer/ IT tech bag when you need a simple small router (I had been there at a point when I needed a small router for setting up something that required a network and didn't have one)
This is the Unifi gateway drug. Anyone leery about whether Unifi is too complicated for them now has a simple and affordable way to experience Unifi. In partcular, they don't have to figure out how to run a separate controller, or whether they need to buy one, which seems to be a common point of confusion for those moving up from consumer grade wifi routers. Just plug it in, watch a few RUclips videos, set it up, and they're done.
It's not just "they don't have to figure out how to run a separate controller" - it's also about paying for a separate piece of hardware, and such a device consuming electricity for no obvious benefit to the home user, even an advanced home user. I'm not exactly afraid of complex configurations when they are necessary, I've worked professionally developing a network security platform (and devices) with setups scaling to thousands of remote installations, complicated redundant cluster setups etc. - but apart from maybe UDR I simply didn't see an Unifi offering making sense for my compact European home before Express came out. Immediately I ordered one with an eight-port switch when it was in stock here and this far I've been happy with it. Of course there's *always* something to complain about, but when I'm approaching 50 I've learned that often it's much more sensible to seek a painless compromise than immaculate perfection by some rather narrow measure.
@@foobar1500 right, and if they aren’t already knee deep in learning about Unifi, they’ll have no idea that they don’t even need to buy that seemingly useless piece of hardware. They won’t know that they can run the controller on any computer. This reminds me, at least one of the Unifi competitors doesn’t require a separate controller. You can configure each of their devices directly on the device via a web interface. It’s only when you want to integrate management of devices that you need a separate controller. Can’t remember whether it’s Engenius, Alta Labs, or somebody else.
I paired one of these with a UDR in a mesh to cover a deadzone in the driveway. Pairing with the UDR was simple and I can see it, and manage it like any other AP. It doen't run the OS, it basically becomes an AP with the mesh. Have had zero issues with it.
@@bernhardtfam I don’t want to use mesh ideally. I’ve got a UDR and one U6 Pro none mesh configuration. Is that possible? If not I guess I can use mesh but on research it seemed general consensus was to not use mesh and have each point running on a different WiFi range.
You could run this as a wired AP as well. This thing is so flexible that it really is a good option for a number of uses. I used the wireless mesh as I did not have the option to run a cable.
@@bernhardtfam thank you. Yeah it looks like wirelessly has to be mesh. I’m debating to hardwire it into the Homeplug I have in the office. As they are newer versions I actually get 230 Mbps vs 300-500 Mbps 6Ghz wireless but the upload speed takes a big hit. As you say these are so flexible (like my older much loved AirPort Express) I’ve got a few options now of in the future so worth the investment. Will try the mesh option and see.
I have a UDM, USW Lite 16 PoE, and two Nano-HD access points. Is it fair to say that in a pinch, I could replace the UDM with an UX to maintain existing connectivity? Would I still have the same IPS/IDS protections?
Hi, Did you update the UniFi OS or the UniFi Network Application? There are some people complaining about slowness after this update. Mainly for Unifi Express. Did you experience this?
I'd love to get this in my home network so I can retire my Raspberry Pi 4 as a controller AND then mesh my WiFi 5 AP I got as a hand me down through work.
Another great unbiased review Tom, thanks! Too many people on YT get things sponsored to them (Ubiquiti works with tons of YTers as well) and they have nothing to say except positive things which is always BS. This is an excellent home router option for those with basic needs who want to get in to the Unifi ecosystem as I think they crippled the UDR too much.
The main problem with unifi is that great sections of the store are permanently sold out particularly in the UK and Europe . If a device breaks you won't be able to replace it and will be without service for months which is unacceptable especially if you have a number of devices and wish them all to work together.
I deploy Omada now opposed to Unify. I have it at dozens of sites working really well overall and they’re more affordable. TP link still has some quirks and things to work on but as far as reliability they have been a good alternative to Ubiquity for a while now.
Yep. Actually had to order the Unifi express and the UDR a while back from Europe site as the U.K. one never has the good stuff! Then just ordered power cables from Amazon.
@@tiloalo yeah I have done for the access points but when I got the UDR they were asking £100-150 more then directly. My express arrived in two days from EU and a £9 raspberry pi usb c port is working well. Mind it did cost me more than the U.K. store but as it comes with a U.K. plug we could be waiting months!
I would love if this had the option to be a Wi-Fi client and still be a router. I would love to be able to go to a hotel or somewhere that doesn't offer ethernet connections in room and use this to connect to the hotel network and then hardwire in my device after it tunnels home
ooc, does this have the same thermal issues as the UDR? From what I've heard, Ubiquiti's had quite a few problems with thermals in their lower-end gateways :/
THANK YOU!!! Just got my hands on these. Going to use the Express for work from home user that needs VPN back home whilst traveling, and 2 others for new client I am replacing SonicWall with UDM Pro at the shop and these at home for site to site VPN. Very good price point!
Would this be ok standalone in a 3 bedroom brick home range wise looking at this for my dad. All he needs is connections to the net for emails and minimal streaming cheers
@@RobertoCarlos-tn1iq Many hotels I stay at have some hospitality box mounted to the back of the TV. It's a DOCSIS modem with an ethernet port. It's open fairly often. Occasionally, there's a jack hiding behind the desk. Either way, I don't think I've ever paid for ethernet.
For $50 more, why not just get the dream router? The express is a total fart without the ability to deploy it to clients. Thanks for letting us know… I had misunderstood that feature and now have to go edit my initial blogpost that came out in favor of the device
The UXG Lite is the devce for deploying to clients. It can be remotely managed. It can also do ~900 with IPS and IDS turned on. IIRC, that’s well beyond what a UDR or UDM can do.
Would this allow me to run multiple SSIDs and also maybe different ones for each band? Or even vLAN? I've never used a unifi device, always been confused by the controller, cloud key etc etc. I just want solid wifi across the house, make use of the cable I've managed to run around the house, and maybe replace my provider's router, and have some more advanced features to maybe segregate IoT devices from the rest of the network.
@LAWRENCESYSTEMS Do you still recommend this? Use case would be to connect two college students away from home back to the house running a UDM Pro. So they could access NAS and Plex.
How do you think this would work as a road warrior or work from home employee connecting back to an enterprise? Or potentially for small remote sites, using the magic site (SDWAN) solution?
I have an Edgerouter and two Ubiquiti APs and I would like to replace the Edgerouter with something more "modern". Should I go for the Unifi express or the UXG lite? Are there any reasons to not buy the Express?
If you already have some Unifi APs at home this might make sense, otherwise spending $150 on a basic home router (because this is all you need) makes no sense at all. There are plenty of good choices on Amazon under $100.
This would be perfect for small SMB clients that need more than just the ISP modem but not a full fledged UTM from Sonicwall, fortinet, etc. The one thing stopping it is the lack of being able to manage it from our controller.
Not sure about medium business as I like to build in some scalability, but maybe some small business. However, I would really elect to pay the extra 50 bucks and get just the dream machine. Although I'm they don't play well in racks usually.
The ability to adopt it to a dream machine is more of a forward looking thing, I’d say. Let’s say you have no Unifi devices and you buy the Express. Later, you have the need for something more complex so you get a UDM. You can repurpose the express as an AP so it’s not left sitting in a box somewhere.
Yeah, it's just a bonus feature for flexibility. If you want to adopt to a cloud/local controller that's not a dream machine, you just get the new Gateway lite instead, which I believe has the firewall features that are missing on this.
Exactly the reason I've bought it. I've got a DM Pro at my old home, and I'm currently renovating my new home. While the work is being done, I've bought two U6 Lites, and the Unifi Express, safe in the knowledge that I can repurpose this as an AP down the line, perhaps in the guest apartment we are building. Love it.
Thank you so much! All the more reason to buy it
I think it’s designed to compete with tp link and other mesh systems that are prominent for houses without wired Ethernet. It’s an enormous market segment that UniFi is missing out on because of the other options on the market being so targeted to home owners
As an ISP this is the perfect device for it. It allows a single stock item to have for both the router, as well as multiple AP setups. And I'll have to look in to it but if it can adopt to a CK-E it would be extremely helpful.
I was about to buy a U6 and adapt it to my UDR so that my 2nd floor could have a better WiFi. I ended up buying a Unifi express and plug it to my UDR via an Ethernet cable. Love it. Is discret and it design was validated by wifey!
Installed one of these in a friends apartment when it came out. Paired with an 8 port lite poe switch, a flex camera on the patio and the 5 port flex mini in the entertainment center. It’s all they needed and works perfectly for them.
What are you using to run protect?
@@millergramno idea I didn’t install the camera for them. I think they think it’s a Unifi.
My interest in adopting this to a UDMse is to repurpose it from an AP to a temporary router in case the UDMse takes a dump. I haven't tested yet, but I'm thinking you should be able to hit reset on the Unifi Express and set it up, doing a controller/network restore of the failed UDMse site controller and when a replacement arrives, reverse it. Would love to see a test on this.
I'm thinking the ability to adopt into a Dream Machine is simply a upgrade path. You have the Express and you don't want to also buy a new AP.
This is exactly what I was going to say. This is a great way to get to learn about the Unifi ecosystem being that you can get started for only $150. If you like what you see and decide you want to dive further into the ecosystem you can simply then buy a UDM and set this up as an access point somewhere without wasting your investment. I also think it is simply an extension of what they are doing by allowing you to mesh them together. If you can mesh multiple Unifi Express devices together I don't see why they would limit you from meshing it to a UDM.
Exactly what i tought and thus am doing now :D .
As an upgrade path makes sense.
@@LAWRENCESYSTEMS I want to have a device around when my UDM will crash. Having an Express device available will allow me to create a working network in no time.
I’m curious to know whether the UDX has the capability to continue to route traffic at layer 3 when used as an AP (adopted by UDM).
Might lead to some neat capabilities.
I’ve bought it to be adopted by my UDR and use as a wireless access point to serve my office. I’ve got a few weird dead spots in my office and unlike the U6 Pro I have in the kitchen no easy way to router Ethernet cable. Found a perfect spot in the office using WiFiman that gets full signal from my UDR. This way I’ll have max WiFi everywhere in the house. In the future I’m planning to build a separate office extension so it will also work well for that (I’ve done a similar thing hardwired and wireless using the old AirPort Express these are based on!)
I really wish they made a gateway+AP device that was capable of being adopted to a self hosted controller. The UXG-Lite, which appears to be a similar form factor is apparently adoptable by a self hosted controller but it lacks the access point.
So I just received and set up my Unifi Express. First off the cuff, it's a great little device, and it sets up just a DM Pro. However, after that, you notice something which sticks out like a sore thumb. The speed of the device. My goodness, it's SLOW!!!!
Boot up takes about 5 minutes, and then another 5 minutes to "settle". During that time, it's impossible to use the device, but after boot up, the Wi-Fi comes alive so you can connect fairly quickly.
I also noticed the OS is limited to 3.1.26, as opposed to The DM Pro which runs on 3.2.9 so full device inventory reporting is not available. I imagine this update will eventually come, but for now, it's missing.
Otherwise, I think it's a fabulous little device, and linked up with three U6+ AP's, it'll work wonders until I migrate my DM Pro to my new home.
I bought one when they came out. I wanted to go unifi for a while and this was the cheapest way to start. I use it with 2 switches and a u6+. In a few moths i'm getiing probably a udm-se and then this unit is going to be an acces point, or i'll install it at my mothers house. I love it for now. It's the best way to see if unifi is good for you and a great beginning point to more :P .
i have a use case where i want to have these installed and connected to a "main" UDMPSE via VPN, they are for monitoring a town water supply. They currently have 18 merakis for this right now, the replacement cost to switch to these devices would be pratically half the cost of the licence renewal for the Merakis.
I have a holiday home with an ER-X which i would be tempted to replace with one of these. Perhaps bringing one of my spare AC-LR APs there to make it a UniFi system.
The thing that might push me over the edge to buying is if the site-to-site with Teleport works without me needing to open ports. So far i gave had limited success with Tailscale because i can't get routing working between sites.
How would this integrate with a cloudkey if i wanted multisite and protect support? Would the mgmt all be moved to the cloudkey? I use the UX for internet routing, wifi etc
Good review, thanks. I feel this is a good entry product for non-techies.
Just bought an Orbi system a few months ago. Wish I knew this was coming out.
Had some WiFi issues with a TP Link Archer, was going to go with a USG since I've deployed a few, decided to give this a try. I ran a number of speed/latency/stress tests on my TP Link (Which is a few years old) on a wired connection before switching...and was very surprised to find that the Unifi Express simply did not perform as well. I'm on Verizon fiber and have NEVER had wired network issues in the past. Latency, jitter, and latency deviation were all up compared to the old TP Link...oddly enough my upload tests perform MUCH worse, and (This may be a Ubiquiti specific setting causing the issue) Discord has become absolutely terrible, which again...I've never had issues with. While it may be great for "some"...I'm very surprised at my early testing results compared to an old $75 TP Link router.
Extremely attractive pricing as it costs just a bit more than a standalone wifi 6 access point.
Also a much easier entry point for most people rather than having to install unifi os on a separate machine.
Why adopt into a Dream Machine? I've been wondering to get one for that use. I have a room in my house where I have a 3D printer and a regular printer both with ethernet port. I don't want to run cable there, wifi signal is strong in that room. I've been wondering if I could use the Unifi Express as a bridge and join it to my home wifi.
The UX looks a great device for us techies to put into our families houses. Until UBNT have policy based routing & DHCPv6 prefix delegation for down stream L3 devices there's no way I'm moving off pfSense for home.
Love form factor, but want a true replacement (size and ports) for the USG3 (two WAN ports). USM pro size not a great fit size wise.
Hoping to get your help on this. Moving into a new home and I currently have a plethora of smart devices, work and home devices, etc. I’m new to IT but learning more everyday. I’m looking to segment the various devices on my home network utilizing VLAN. Originally I had in mind to purchase the Edgerouter X, a lite 8 Poe switch and 2 ap. 1 Ap for all my smart devices and guests. The other for my personal devices like my wife’s iPad etc. my pc/work devices will be connected to the switch. Each all in their own vlan. For the vlan segmentation would this setup be solid or should I get an express, lite switch for expansion and an extra AP. Can the express act an access point as well as the controller? Saving me the $$ of buying 2 extra ap? Mind my knowledge if I’m getting things mixed up here. I’m just not sure which set up would be better.
I have been eyeing the UCG-Ultra. I am curious how good the "NGFW" is compared to their other offerings. Is it the same minimalist design, or is it imporved?
Hi,
would be good to know if they would have an option to adopt it to a virtual network controller or at least if I can "migrate" the devices from my current network controller to the Express GW without too many "issues". I'm currently running a setup with USG-3P, US-8-60W and a UAP-AC-Lite. It would be cool if I could get rid of the AP and just use Express as an Wifi 6 and as an GW...
Would you please also test the Gateway Ultra - as I'd like to know the differences between them except the Wifi 6 capability that the express has. Thx!
Thx for the great tutorial!
There is only one plausible use case scenario to adopt a Unifi controller to another Unifi controller that I can think of, and that would be some new feature that Ubiquiti is going to introduce in the near future.
Otherwise, any access point functionality is better served by an actual access point (for the most part), and I cant think of any (good) reason to physically separate VPNs. VPN offloading is the only other reason I can think of but that would be not very efficient (ie: stupid) given there are much better solutions out there.
So, if Ubiquiti thought that feature through at all, they have some new feature coming down the pipeline. Otherwise its just a feature for sake of another feature.
I wonder if this will work well with a UCK-G2-PLUS?
Can this be used as an access point with a Cloudkey ?
I would like to build a network with two U6 mesh Acces Points, witch Hardware still i needs?
If you adopt the Express to a Dream Machine it may allow you to connect a wired switch to the Express to expand a network to a space without infrastructure if it's meshed to the Dream?
I am new to Unifi networking and would like to know if I will be able at least analyze Wi-Fi traffic and see wireless devices info on the dashboard for example IP addresses etc. using Unifi Express as an access point only since I am already using Edge Router 4 as a gateway and it can not be replaced and I am using CK2 plus as Unifi controller.
Heads up that these are finally in stock again on their online store for at least a few hours now!
I now many people have been trying to get one for a few months or so.
For small home user like me, I will stick with the dream router.
Lawrence Systems,
Is it possible to adopt this to my UDM-Pro, then deploy it at my parents house configured for Site-to-Site to my home network?
Can Unifi Express take over from an existing Windows self-hosted network controller (in addition to adopting the 2 existing Unifi APs UAP AC Lite)?
More likely that you would have to release them from the current controller adopt them the express.
Can you wire backhaul these devices? Thanks
Did you test the VPN speed limitation you mentioned? What speed did you achieve? Thank you.
The test and results are in the video.
If you would like to set this up in "bridge mode" so that you can have an AP with an available ethernet port it will not do that. Confirmed by Ubiquity support.
what about VLANs? does it have any serious limitations there?
A slightly more limited version than Mikrotik’s $60 hAP ax lite but for a UniFi device I guess you could call it “cheap”
Can this be used as a travel router on a cruise or hotel?
Is the DNS Shield function available with the latest firmware?
Is it possible to adopt this into a cloud controller and not use the embedded OS?
My biggest issue is the 4 device limit. 1 POE switch and 3 APS any more and you are screwed. need to remove device and keep re adopting to configure them. I suggested the express to a friend but he needs 4 APS minimum and this causes the need for a POE Injector for every device and rules out the small 8 port POE switch.
It's very disappointing that this can only be managed by a UDM. According to their FAQ the device can only manage 4 other UniFi devices, and between switches and access points I have more than 4 UniFi devices on my network that I manage with a standalone controller.
This would otherwise be an excellent choice for me but instead I would have to use it as a standalone device without the management benefits of the ecosystem.
Where can I buy it? Online store preferably.
The online Ubiquiti store. Well, when they aren't sold out...
Ubiquti seems to be moving to mostly selling from only their store. When they can't even keep it stocked, I guess there's no point in selling anywhere else.
Once i tasted a real FW, I threw up such toys from home, not mentioning small businesses or companies. APs, SWs (L2) are fine. Like you said Tom, it has a lack of features, especially those easy of use. Cuz keep in mind its just L3 with some poor L4 capabilities. For home for someone whos not advanced is fine. All rest just nope. ;)
Does it support something similar to ASUS VPN Fusion, and VLAN?
VLAN Yes, never used ASUS VPN Fusion
I've got the device for a month now and it gets VERY hot, to the point that I am afraid it might be damaged. Anybody else facing the same issue?
good content but please could you speak slow and breath, is kinda annoying after 3-4 min hear someone speak so fast without pause, all info is acumulatin g and no time to hear anything else than noise, Good Channel by the way
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@6:56 Big What?!
Well done Ubiquiti for not pushing Cloud only Signup ...
I set one of these up for my uncle recently, love it. While the controller is a bit slow, it is a GREAT option for someone with basic needs. They were using it on a 1Gbps connection and it was fine.
This is getting mildly ridiculous. Will it take them until 2030s to finally offer WiFi 6e?
I bought one of these and adopted it to my Dream Machine SE. I purchased it because of its size and the cool LCD for status but more importantly because it has a LAN port for connecting a non-wifi enabled device. I wasn't able to find another Ubiquiti AP that was as small AND had a lan port for an external device at such a low price.
Just FYI, any unifi access point with a wireless uplink and a POE injector can be used as a wireless to wired bridge. In a pinch I had to use an AC lite with an injector to stream to a wired tivo box set up in the back yard for a party.
I have 3 sites with the USG-3s with the oldest Cloud Keys now, and I would love to use this, but the max "4 additional Unifi devices" limitation makes it impossible. Too bad.
That'a why the UXG Lite exists. It also has the benefit of being able to be remotely managed.
@@williamp6800 I know that. When my USG-3s eventually break down I will have to get new UXG-Lite devices instead. BUT.. I would much rather have a device with the Unifi controller built in, so that I wouldn't need to have a separate cloud key or hosted controller running somewhere else, but with the (dare I say ridiculously low?) 4-device limit I can't. All the installation locations are in tight spaces in private homes, so large rack units and R2D2-type devices won't fit.
I got my parents a USG wit a raspberry pi controller several years ago. The pi has been a bit unstable, so this looks like an awsome upgrade to that setup!
Pi was disabled in latest update that's why it's unstable. Don't work anymore
@@slipknot31286sic6What do you mean by, the pi was disabled?
Let us know your thoughts on the UXG-Lite if you can get one, I was eyeballing that one as I have no problems running my own network controller.
Looks like a good replacement for those using the older wifi 5 Amplifi setups.
I got Unifi Express expressly for this purpose as it was becoming more and more obvious that Ubiquiti is not updating Amplifi line any more. Without Express around there wasn't a reasonably priced and compact enough Unifi option (I really want the device to fit under the corner of my TV on my TV cabinet in my living room, so UDR is right out!) for my 45 square metre apartment where one access point is more than sufficient, but Unifi Express solved my problem.
Only real problem with the device could be that it's a bit too configurable for an average home user (in comparison to an Amplifi solution) although relatively little work is needed to bring it up as a simple router and firewall. Probably many home users would be fine with absolutely minimal amount of setting up, but with 500+ Mbps Internet speeds one probably wants to pick wider WiFi channel widths than what are set up as default, and it requires digging into the scary configuration settings.
It's really a significant upgrade from Amplifi HD feature-wise for an user not scared of the configuration possibilities, and Amplifi HD is apparently still selling at similar price to the new Unifi Express...
What is your most active client lol. BF....
Probably a reference to the BFG in Doom
A comparison with the UDR would be interesting. The UDR is but $50 more (when available, is it ever) and to my mind offers a much better SOHO starting point. Neither are suitable for placement in a comms cupboard without crippling the wifi, where a pure gateway device is needed without resenting paying for an unusable built in WAP.
I used UDR and this is a great device however it was very noisy. I put it in my living room and heard a fan. And I used only Networking without any other app. I will wait for another gen and will stay with UX for now. + it uses less electricity (I live in Germany and here it's expensive)
@@Pingwinator I think you must mean the UDR Pro ($379) or UDR Special Edition ($499),ie the rack mounted variants.The UDR ($199), as in the “dalek,” doesn’t have a fan and is silent.
@@flowntn1989UDR has a fan. Not particularly noisy but it’s definitely noticeable in a quiet room.
Does the UDR support being managed by a separate self-hosted controller?
@@BurntToast1 You are right! Totally inaudible to me, needed a stethoscope to hear it! Only 3 months old might explain that.
Hello Lawrence Systems,
The way you show internet traffic in Ubiquiti's network topology is incredibly cool. I've had the UniFi UDM Pro for nearly a year now, and I never knew it had this feature. What you're doing for the UniFi community with your RUclips channel is truly amazing. Without your guidance, many of us might not even own this remarkable network equipment. Thank you from New Zealand.
it was kinda new I believe
@@SimonOwO Yep the topology being active is a recent update
When will there be a 2.5 Gbit+ model of such thing? :(
glad to see you take a look at this, I've been eyeing it but it seemed like all the videos people put out they didn't really put it into real use. Thanks for the great content as always and happy holidays Tom!
I have a question as it was not clear to me. I use pfsense as my gateway and a unifi controller running in docker. Can I use the express just as my unifi controller? I have a 16 port switch and 3 APs.
Yeah it does not "need" to be a router, you can get it for just the controller function
Yes you can, it would be at the limit of this controller as that's 4 other devices
Yes I am also very interested in this device (if it was available for purchase lol) because if I understand correctly, you can use it as a controller box but you don’t necessarily have to use it as your router/gateway. Like if you already have pfSense or a Netgate device. If this is the use-case you’re capped at the number of Unifi devices it can manage. But that’s true no matter what. This would replace an Ubuntu box for me
@@kevro29 are you still capped at four other devices if it's not acting as a gateway, and only a controller?
Does anyone have any more info on how to setup the Express in just controller mode (and not act as a gateway/router)?
Is it possible to do controller/AP mode where it runs as a controller and also an AP?
There are many mixed messages on this subject and I didn’t want to purchase then return it if it didn’t work.
For instance, I have a much more powerful router between the internet/home network and ONLY want to use the Express as a controller for my other Unifi devices but also as an AP for some exclusive iot devices.
I had an Express & just recently bought a Dream machine Pro. I could not adapt it in the first place but after installing UniFi OS v3.2.7 & Network Version 8.0.26 I manage to adopt it as an access point. Also after that it is better with the WiFi.
I feel this would be a great unit for use as a travel router as well as a backup router or even something to throw into a tech bag to have on hand for the times of temp setup
The Dream router is a lot better for this. You have a poe switch build-in directly.
I would have to agree. This is like buying netgear routers and meshing the routers together instead of having true AP meshing. Way too limited unless you have a small home. UDR all day over this uh thing. @@verlicht
This wouldn't be a great travel router for a lot (dare I say most) people IMO because it cannot simultaneously connect to an existing WiFi network (e.g. hotel or cruise ship WiFi) while also broadcasting its own WiFi network for your devices to connect to. As far as I can tell, that is probably one of the most commonly used features of a travel router.
Something like the Gl-iNet Beryl AX can do the above, while also doing WireGaurd VPN at 300mbps (as opposed to the UniFi Express being limited to 80mbps). The ability for the Beryl AX to be able to tether to a phone via USB (or WiFi) and share that connection with your other devices over both WiFi and ethernet simultaneously can also be useful for some people (which the UniFi express cannot do).
I say this as someone who does not own any Gl-iNet products (but will probably get one later this year when I travel) and have a UDM Pro, multiple UniFi APs, and UnFI Protect cameras setup at home.
@@pkennethv I wouldn't trust those wifi networks in hotels and on cruise ships especially the wifi networks because of how congested with devices as it is by other people that are connected to them which in return you get really slow speeds. they don't even completely cover the area as it is
I still stand on my point of it still being a great little router to add to your network installer/ IT tech bag when you need a simple small router (I had been there at a point when I needed a small router for setting up something that required a network and didn't have one)
Totally agree. @@pkennethv
This is the Unifi gateway drug.
Anyone leery about whether Unifi is too complicated for them now has a simple and affordable way to experience Unifi. In partcular, they don't have to figure out how to run a separate controller, or whether they need to buy one, which seems to be a common point of confusion for those moving up from consumer grade wifi routers. Just plug it in, watch a few RUclips videos, set it up, and they're done.
It's not just "they don't have to figure out how to run a separate controller" - it's also about paying for a separate piece of hardware, and such a device consuming electricity for no obvious benefit to the home user, even an advanced home user.
I'm not exactly afraid of complex configurations when they are necessary, I've worked professionally developing a network security platform (and devices) with setups scaling to thousands of remote installations, complicated redundant cluster setups etc. - but apart from maybe UDR I simply didn't see an Unifi offering making sense for my compact European home before Express came out. Immediately I ordered one with an eight-port switch when it was in stock here and this far I've been happy with it.
Of course there's *always* something to complain about, but when I'm approaching 50 I've learned that often it's much more sensible to seek a painless compromise than immaculate perfection by some rather narrow measure.
@@foobar1500 right, and if they aren’t already knee deep in learning about Unifi, they’ll have no idea that they don’t even need to buy that seemingly useless piece of hardware. They won’t know that they can run the controller on any computer.
This reminds me, at least one of the Unifi competitors doesn’t require a separate controller. You can configure each of their devices directly on the device via a web interface. It’s only when you want to integrate management of devices that you need a separate controller. Can’t remember whether it’s Engenius, Alta Labs, or somebody else.
Looks perfect for my parents house, I'll have to grab one when they come back in stock
I paired one of these with a UDR in a mesh to cover a deadzone in the driveway. Pairing with the UDR was simple and I can see it, and manage it like any other AP. It doen't run the OS, it basically becomes an AP with the mesh. Have had zero issues with it.
Do you have to enable mesh or can you just use it as an AP (wireless AP piggy back off my UDR as I’ve got a dead zone in my office)
@@richarddcrossley If mesh is enabled on the UDR, the app can pick it up an set it as an AP over mesh.
@@bernhardtfam I don’t want to use mesh ideally. I’ve got a UDR and one U6 Pro none mesh configuration. Is that possible? If not I guess I can use mesh but on research it seemed general consensus was to not use mesh and have each point running on a different WiFi range.
You could run this as a wired AP as well. This thing is so flexible that it really is a good option for a number of uses. I used the wireless mesh as I did not have the option to run a cable.
@@bernhardtfam thank you. Yeah it looks like wirelessly has to be mesh. I’m debating to hardwire it into the Homeplug I have in the office. As they are newer versions I actually get 230 Mbps vs 300-500 Mbps 6Ghz wireless but the upload speed takes a big hit. As you say these are so flexible (like my older much loved AirPort Express) I’ve got a few options now of in the future so worth the investment. Will try the mesh option and see.
Fail Over WAN (min) is a deal killer. Would have been a great remote branch router (where VPNs arent needed)....
Adopting the Express makes sense as an upgrade path, if you add a UDMPro, either in a large/complex home or small satellite office.
I have a UDM, USW Lite 16 PoE, and two Nano-HD access points. Is it fair to say that in a pinch, I could replace the UDM with an UX to maintain existing connectivity? Would I still have the same IPS/IDS protections?
Hi, Did you update the UniFi OS or the UniFi Network Application? There are some people complaining about slowness after this update. Mainly for Unifi Express. Did you experience this?
I'd love to get this in my home network so I can retire my Raspberry Pi 4 as a controller AND then mesh my WiFi 5 AP I got as a hand me down through work.
Another great unbiased review Tom, thanks! Too many people on YT get things sponsored to them (Ubiquiti works with tons of YTers as well) and they have nothing to say except positive things which is always BS. This is an excellent home router option for those with basic needs who want to get in to the Unifi ecosystem as I think they crippled the UDR too much.
That dual core 1GHz CPU seems super weak to be running router/unifiOS/unifiNetwork
The main problem with unifi is that great sections of the store are permanently sold out particularly in the UK and Europe . If a device breaks you won't be able to replace it and will be without service for months which is unacceptable especially if you have a number of devices and wish them all to work together.
I deploy Omada now opposed to Unify. I have it at dozens of sites working really well overall and they’re more affordable. TP link still has some quirks and things to work on but as far as reliability they have been a good alternative to Ubiquity for a while now.
Yep. Actually had to order the Unifi express and the UDR a while back from Europe site as the U.K. one never has the good stuff! Then just ordered power cables from Amazon.
I mostly buy from third party website as nothing is available on the official website, and often it's cheaper too
@@tiloalo yeah I have done for the access points but when I got the UDR they were asking £100-150 more then directly. My express arrived in two days from EU and a £9 raspberry pi usb c port is working well. Mind it did cost me more than the U.K. store but as it comes with a U.K. plug we could be waiting months!
I would love if this had the option to be a Wi-Fi client and still be a router. I would love to be able to go to a hotel or somewhere that doesn't offer ethernet connections in room and use this to connect to the hotel network and then hardwire in my device after it tunnels home
ooc, does this have the same thermal issues as the UDR? From what I've heard, Ubiquiti's had quite a few problems with thermals in their lower-end gateways :/
THANK YOU!!! Just got my hands on these. Going to use the Express for work from home user that needs VPN back home whilst traveling, and 2 others for new client I am replacing SonicWall with UDM Pro at the shop and these at home for site to site VPN. Very good price point!
Looking for something to use as a travel router. Would be nice to VPN back to home and have access to a couple vLANs.
I would like to build a network with two U6 mesh Acces Points, Welsche Hardware still needs,
1gb speed is too slow...it is 2024, everything should start at 2.5
What band do they use to mesh? I assume all ui ap’s that support mesh use the same band for backhaul to the nearest wired ap?
Would this be ok standalone in a 3 bedroom brick home range wise looking at this for my dad. All he needs is connections to the net for emails and minimal streaming cheers
Sounds great as a travel router. Get home, adopt back into the home net just for the extra Wi-Fi.
it's kind of useless as a travel router. i don't think it can wirelessly repeat a signal.
@@RobertoCarlos-tn1iq Many hotels I stay at have some hospitality box mounted to the back of the TV. It's a DOCSIS modem with an ethernet port. It's open fairly often.
Occasionally, there's a jack hiding behind the desk. Either way, I don't think I've ever paid for ethernet.
For $50 more, why not just get the dream router? The express is a total fart without the ability to deploy it to clients. Thanks for letting us know… I had misunderstood that feature and now have to go edit my initial blogpost that came out in favor of the device
The UXG Lite is the devce for deploying to clients. It can be remotely managed. It can also do ~900 with IPS and IDS turned on. IIRC, that’s well beyond what a UDR or UDM can do.
The Dream Router can't do any more than roughly 700mbit/s, so if you have gigabit that's not ideal either.
if you bought the NVR system, would this not recognize it then and be able to control it?
Not enough supported devices, ill keep my discontinued standalone device 😢
I think does not support daisy chaining for mesh. It can be pretty nice.
Hoping you'll make a follow up video on test showing how good the mesh is.
I have a nighthawk r8000p is this ubiquity better?
What are people using for multi-gig networks?
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Would this allow me to run multiple SSIDs and also maybe different ones for each band? Or even vLAN?
I've never used a unifi device, always been confused by the controller, cloud key etc etc.
I just want solid wifi across the house,
make use of the cable I've managed to run around the house,
and maybe replace my provider's router, and have some more advanced features to maybe segregate IoT devices from the rest of the network.
Yes, you can have up to four SSID's
@LAWRENCESYSTEMS Do you still recommend this? Use case would be to connect two college students away from home back to the house running a UDM Pro. So they could access NAS and Plex.
yes
How do you think this would work as a road warrior or work from home employee connecting back to an enterprise? Or potentially for small remote sites, using the magic site (SDWAN) solution?
Depends on how much speed you need. As noted in the video the VPN is not that fast.
Is there any WAN bandwidth limit like in the Unifi Dream Router? (~700Mbps it was?)
I own am express as my router which runs into a switch with APs. I have maxed out my download (1gig) many times hardwired in.
I have an Edgerouter and two Ubiquiti APs and I would like to replace the Edgerouter with something more "modern". Should I go for the Unifi express or the UXG lite? Are there any reasons to not buy the Express?
If you already have some Unifi APs at home this might make sense, otherwise spending $150 on a basic home router (because this is all you need) makes no sense at all. There are plenty of good choices on Amazon under $100.
This would be perfect for small SMB clients that need more than just the ISP modem but not a full fledged UTM from Sonicwall, fortinet, etc. The one thing stopping it is the lack of being able to manage it from our controller.
Not sure about medium business as I like to build in some scalability, but maybe some small business. However, I would really elect to pay the extra 50 bucks and get just the dream machine. Although I'm they don't play well in racks usually.