I am comparing between this one and netgear orbi and google wifi, any recommendation which one i should go for, in terms of robust performance/speed

I recently purchased this item from Office Depot. I was considering the Velop and the Netgear Orbi. Two factors that finalized my decision. I got a super price on this system and this system had 3 modules (which I thought would be better in my house. My internet enters through the bonus room above garage which is at one end. The bonus room is not connected with the remaining second story. I had to place one unit there with the modem. The second one is downstairs from that one (where my extender had been). The third was placed at bottom of stairs feeding the remaining 2nd level. I possibly could spread them further, but wanted to be sure at setup. I pay to have 100 mb service at modem and actually exceed this by 10-15 wirelessly throughout house. I no longer have dead spots (as I did even with my Netgear 1900 extender) and no longer lose connection with printers. Although, the Netgear Orbi may do the same, I am very pleased with my purchase. Only complaint that I had initially was that each module has only 2 Ethernet connections. When connecting the first unit with the modem, you only have one remaining. However, with the speed that I am getting wirelessly, it doesn't appear to be an issue. However, I would be more comfortable if at least one unit had 3or 4 Ethernet connections.

My existing Linksys wireless router has 5 Ethernet ports of which I use 4. Can I use a switch with the Velop to expand the number of ports?

Yes, any brand of Ethernet switch (Gigabit (1,000 Mbps) recommended) will work. For example, TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plastic Desktop Switch (TL-SG1008D) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001EVGIYG/ref=twister_B01DJXRKZM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. A 5-Port switch is available for $5.00 less, but it can be nice to have a few extra ports available.

Can this be configured to act as a wifi only, and disable the routing features?

There is an option to put it into Bridge Mode (basically acting as a wired AP), but it involves getting into the webpage based GUI, which is kept hidden. You would need to setup as normal with the app, connecting to your existing router, setup as a parent node (router) and any child nodes (access points), will temporarily create a double NAT, but will be resolved by changing to bridge mode later.

I have 2 additional ethernet jacks space in the right places, with the 2 velops hard wired should get more even wifi (house is wood frame 2 floors) ?

Sorry I am a user like you I don't believe that I am the right person to answer you that question, but I believe that if you wire node one with node two it should work one of they as access point for the same network. But the escentia or the value of this system is has a better wireless experience. If you say that you have a wood house just set the main node near by the second on the upper floor it should work perfect without any Ethernet connection. Anyway I suggest you to contact Linksys support to they give you a better recommendation in your case. Greetings

Brand	Linksys
Manufacturer	Linksys
Model	WHW0303
Model Name	WHW0303
Model Year	2017
Product Dimensions	7.87 x 23.62 x 18.54 cm; 489.88 g
Batteries	2 AA batteries required.
Item model number	WHW0303
RAM Size	512 MB
Memory Storage Capacity	512 MB
Compatible Devices	Laptop, Personal Computer, Smart Television, Smartphone, Tablet
Special Features	wps
Colour Screen	No
Aspect Ratio	Unknown
Voltage	240 Volts
Batteries Included	No
Batteries Required	No
Data Transfer Rate	2200 Megabits Per Second
Wireless Type	2.4 GHz Radio Frequency, 5 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11b/n/ac, 802.11bgn
GSM frequencies	2.4 GHz
Number of Ports	6
Connector Type	Wi-Fi
Does it contain liquid?	No
Includes Rechargeable Battery	No
Manufacturer	Linksys
Item Weight	490 g

Linksys Velop Triband AC2200 Mesh Wi-Fi 5 Router,MU-MIMO,Enhance Speed up to 2.2 Gbps per Router and Coverage up to 6000 sq ft,Replaces Router and WiFi Boosters,60+Devices,WHW0303-AH(Pack of 3),White

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