Tyler RebmannWiFi extenders are a fairly new realm of technology that can alleviate your internet related issues. Tired of your phone or computer dropping from your network in your own home? Does your internet speed slow down drastically in one room in your house? The best WiFi range extenders may solve your problems.
Contents
- 1 Best WiFi Range Extenders to Buy in 2020:
- 1.1 NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000
- 1.2 ROCK SPACE WiFi Range Extender
- 1.3 Linksys AC1200 MAX Wi-Fi Gigabit Range Extender
- 1.4 TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender
- 1.5 NETGEAR AC1200 Wireless Range Extender (EX6200)
- 1.6 NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700
- 1.7 WavLink 1200Mbps Dual Band Wifi Repeater
- 1.8 NETGEAR EX7300 WiFi Range Extender
- 1.9 Setek 300 MBPS Wireless Internet Amplifier
- 1.10 D-Link Compact Wi-Fi Range Extender
- 2 What is a WiFi Extender?
- 3 Is a WiFi Extender Right for Me?
- 4 Getting the Most out of Your WiFi Extender
- 5 Final Thoughts
Best WiFi Range Extenders to Buy in 2020:
- NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000
- ROCK SPACE WiFi Range Extender
- Linksys AC1200 MAX Wi-Fi Gigabit Range Extender
- TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender
- NETGEAR AC1200 Wireless Range Extender (EX6200)
- NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700
- WavLink 1200Mbps Dual Band Wifi Repeater
- NETGEAR EX7300 WiFi Range Extender
- Setek 300 MBPS Wireless Internet Amplifier
- D-Link Compact WiFi Range Extender
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000
Features:
- WiFi coverage up to 2500 sq feet
- Connect up to 50 devices
- Up to 3000 mbps speed
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Dual Band Connection
- 4 Usable Ethernet Ports
Pros:
- High quality performance
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Price point
- Bulky hardware
Verdict
The Netgear EX8000 is a high powered device that does an excellent job as a WiFi extender. It covers a large radius, up to 2500 square feet, with a reliable high speed connection. The EX8000 is a larger device that allows for extra antennae and ethernet ports. Buy this heavy duty network booster if performance is your biggest concern.
- EXTENDED WIRELESS COVERAGE: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 2500 square feet, and connects up to 50 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
- SEAMLESS SMART ROAMING: Uses your existing network SSID name so you never get disconnected as you move around your home or office
- AC3000 WIFI SPEED: Provides up to 3000Mbps performance using tri band and patented FastLane3 (TM) technology for heavy duty 4K HD streaming and multi player gaming
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with WiFi
- WIRED ETHERNET PORTS: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other wired devices into the 4 Gigabit ports for maximum speed
ROCK SPACE WiFi Range Extender
Features:
- Up to 300Mbps for 2.4GHz and 867Mbps for 5GHz
- Extends WiFi coverage 360 degrees up to 1292 square feet
- Quick and easy set up
- Compatible with 99% of wireless routers
- Gigabit ethernet port to connect to wired devices
Pros:
- Large range and good WiFi coverage
- Easy to set up
- Compact design
Cons:
- Some customer worries about cyber security
Verdict
The ROCK SPACE WiFi Range Extender is a great choice for anyone who needs to fill dead space in their home. It’s easy to set up and affordable for the value it offers.
- 【Stable signal boosts】- with dual band technology, This Wi-Fi range extender can automatically choose high-quality band for better performance. It offers up to 300Mbps for 2.4GHz and 867Mbps for 5GHz. Totally 1167Mbps is available for your use, maximizing reduces the loss of data transmission.
- 【Full signal coverage】- equipped with dual external antennas, this Wi-Fi Repeater extends Wi-Fi coverage 360 degree by up to 1292 sq.Ft. Reliable data transmission rate up to 1167Mbps covering your bedroom, floors, restroom and garden. Gigabit Ethernet port also allow this Wi-Fi Booster function as a wireless adapter to connect wired devices.
- 【Quick & Easy set up】- only takes 8 seconds! This Wi-Fi signal booster can easily expand the wireless coverage by press the WPS button. Or set up via browser website based configuration in almost any device, including iOS and Android mobile platforms.
- 【Compatible with 99% router】- this Wi-Fi Repeater has been tested can compatible with 99% router on the market, and works with any standard router or gateway. Support extending to any devices like iOS, Android devices, Samsung devices, Echo/Alexa devices, PCs, PlayStation, smart plugs and so much more. Ideal for HD streaming & gaming experience.
- 【Easily find the perfect setup spot】 - smart Signal Indicator helps you to find the best location for Wi-Fi coverage. This Wi-Fi range extender can help you get rid of testing instantly and set up quickly. After extending successfully, you can relocate a perfect spot which can maintain a best extending Effect.
Linksys AC1200 MAX Wi-Fi Gigabit Range Extender
Features:
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Dual Band Connection
- Network audio streaming capabilities
- High speed network
Pros:
- Smart device compatibility
- Simple Installation
Cons:
- Complaints of speed loss over time
Verdict
The Linksys AC1200 range extender is a good middle ground WiFi booster. You can find less expensive extenders, but the AC1200’s strength is in providing a strong, reliable signal to a medium sized home. It also has built in capabilities that allow you to set up smart devices and wireless speakers for music streaming. Buy this WiFi extender if you’re looking for a reliable WiFi connection in a decent price range.
- 2.4GHz & 5GHz dual bands
- Eliminates dead spots & extends the existing Wireless AC coverage
- Works with WiFi router or Gateway
- System Requirements : Microsoft Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista SP1 or later, Windows 7, or Windows 8 operating system or the Mac OS X Leopard 10.5.8 or later, Snow Leopard 10.6.1 or later, Lion 10.7 or later, or Mountain Lion 10.8 or later operating system
- Simultaneous Dual band WiFi, Next generation wireless AC.Operating temperature: 32 to 104 F (0 to 40 C)
TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender
Features:
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Dual Band Connection
- LED light for ease of use
- Gigabit ethernet port access
- Speeds up to 1733 Mbps
Pros:
- High speed internet
- Ease of use
Cons:
- Only one ethernet port
Verdict
This high-end extender by TP-Link, the AC2600 Wifi Range Extender, has a light to spot dead zones in your home to ensure you get the most out of your device. It has high-speed gigabit ethernet port access, but only one port is available. The AC2600 provides internet at speeds up to 1733 Mbps, which is plenty for standard users. If you’re looking for a high end product that’s reliable and easy to use, this could be the perfect WiFi extender for you.
- FAR-REACHING COVERAGE - Expands wireless range across your home to eliminate coverage dead zones, drop outs and spotty signal
- FAST AND RELIABLE - Game, stream, and enjoy internet connectivity with Fast AC1200 Dual band Wi-Fi
- EASY SETUP - Intelligent signal indicator LED ring helps you find the best spot to set up for better Wi-Fi, turning red when signal strength is poor and Blue when it’s strong
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY - Works with any WiFi router or wireless access point
- BUILT-IN AP MODE - Plug the Ethernet cable into its Ethernet port, the RE350 can easily turn your wired Internet connection into a Dual-Band wireless access point
NETGEAR AC1200 Wireless Range Extender (EX6200)
Features:
- Speeds up to 1200 Mbps
- 5 gigabit ethernet ports
- Extended range
Pros:
- 5 different high speed ethernet ports
- Great range and speed
Cons:
- Bulky
Verdict:
This model by Netgear, the EX6200 has unique strengths and weaknesses. On the bright side, this model comes with a lot of high powered ethernet ports. You can use up to 5 wired connections utilizing the high speed gigabit ports at once. 1200 Mbps is a solid speed at this price, so if you’re looking for high ethernet capabilities on a reliable extender, this is a good option to consider.
- Range extenders eliminate dead zones and improves WiFi coverage in your home
- NETGEAR extenders are easy to set up with the push of a button or mobile responsive User Interface
- Combined speeds up to 1.2 Gbps (AC1200) for fast, reliable connections. Dual Band Extends 2.4 and 5 GHz WiFi signals from existing WiFi routers for better range, DLNA compatible Digital Media Server(DMS)
- Universal compatibility to easily extend your current WiFi with your existing gateway, router, or ISP provided gateway
- Connect wired devices like smart TVs and game consoles to the 5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700
Features:
- Up to 1000 ft range
- Speeds up to 750 Mbps
- Connect up to 15 devices
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Dual Band Connection
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- High speed for price point
Cons:
- No ethernet port access
- Potentially limited range
Verdict
This high speed WiFi extender has some of the best value available right now. At 750 Mbps, you’re not going to see many faster internet extenders in this price range. If 1000 feet of added range suits your needs, and you don’t need extra ethernet ports, we highly recommend this product to anyone in the market for an extender.
- EXTENDED WIRELESS COVERAGE: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 1000 square feet, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
- AC750 WIFI SPEED: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual band and patented FastLane technology
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with WiFi. The product may not be compatible with routers or gateways with firmware that has been altered, is based on open source programs, or is non standard or outdated
- WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one 10/100M port for maximum speed
- SAFE & SECURE: Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
WavLink 1200Mbps Dual Band Wifi Repeater
Features:
- Speeds up to 1200Mbps
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Dual Band Connection
- LED signal indicator
- Gigabit port access
Pros:
- Router functionality
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Only one ethernet port
Verdict
The WavLink 1200Mbps Dual Band WiFi Repeater also utilizes a smart LED light that will detect internet dead zones in your home. This makes it an easy to use device for users who have trouble with technology, as you can start using the extender almost immediately after plugging it in. Finally, the device doubles as a router, so if your original internet connection goes down, it can produce its own signal rather than only being a wifi extender.
- 【1200Mbps Stable Signal Boosts】--- This Dual Band Range Extender works with any standard Wi-Fi router and runs on dual bands at a combined speed of up to 1200Mbps, including 900Mbps on its 5GHz channel and 300Mbps on its 2.4GHz channel. 360 degree high-speed connection for happy Surfing HD video and online game.
- 【4 x High Gain External Antenna】--- The mini WiFi repeater equipped with 4 high gain external antenna which can eliminate dead area and improve the reach of your existing Wi-Fi coverage, extend wireless signal to previously unreachable or hard-to-wire areas for your home and office and creates reliable high-speed Wi-Fi without interruption.
- Quick & Easy Set Up】--- Simply plug and play, this Wi-Fi signal booster can easily expand the wireless coverage by press the WPS button. Or 3 minutes set up through browser website: 192.168.10.1. in almost any device, including iOS and Android mobile platforms. Easily install the extender even you are not a tech-savvy!
- Multi-mode Application】--- AP/Repeater/Router mode to meet different demand easily. Smart LED signal indicator helps you to find the best location, gigabit Ethernet port also allow this Wi-Fi Booster function as a wireless adapter to connect wired devices, such as smart TV, desktop, and so on.
- 【Confident Purchase】--- This wireless wifi extender can maximize the network security, ensure your network safety, prevent others stealing your net, prevent unauthorized access and protect your important data. It’s well suited for large homes with multiple devices and heavy online media usage. Please contact us freely if you need any further assistance.
NETGEAR EX7300 WiFi Range Extender
Features:
- Up to 2200 mbps speeds
- High range
- MU-MIMO network capabilities
Pros:
- Handles many devices
- High speeds
Cons:
- Price point
- Set up
Verdict
The NETGEAR EX7300 is another solid middle pack WiFi extender. Suitable for customers in the medium-high price range, the EX7300 uses MU-MIMO technology that allows many devices to connect to the extender at once. With high power and range, this extender isn’t quite as easy to set up as it’s competitors, but for tech-savvy customers this can be the perfect option, as it provides high speed internet.
- EXTENDED WIRELESS COVERAGE: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 2000 square feet, and connects up to 35 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
- SEAMLESS SMART ROAMING: Uses your existing network SSID name so you never get disconnected as you move around your home or office
- AC2200 WIFI SPEED: Provides up to 2200Mbps performance using dual band and patented FastLane technology for demanding HD streaming and online gaming
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with WiFi
- WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other wired devices into the one Gigabit port for maximum speed
Setek 300 MBPS Wireless Internet Amplifier
Features:
- Up to 300 Mbps speeds
- Range up to 2500 ft
- Ease of use
- Up to 15 devices
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- High range
Cons:
- Low traffic capacity
- No ethernet port access
Verdict
The Setek 300 Mbps Wireless Internet adapter has great range for its price point. It has a simple setup process, and is ready to use as soon as you connect it via ethernet. With a relatively low speed of 300 mbps, it won’t be able to support more than a few devices actively using the internet at one time. If you’re content with your current internet speed, but you need a cheap fix that will help it reach a deadzone on your property, this can be a strong buy.
- No more dead zones: extend your wireless network coverage to up to 2500 square feet for approximately 15 devices, including streaming, online gaming, Video conferencing, or with HD video. Universally compatible.
- 5 different modes: The Wi-Fi extender functions in 1) Wireless router mode; 2) repeater mode; 3) client mode; 4) access point mode; and 5) WISP client router mode. Side reset button helps you easily reset your connection when necessary.
- Fast, strong, stable signal: the high-performance 300 Mbps and 2. 4 GHz Processor can cover your most demanding devices including notebooks, tablets, IP cameras, speakers, Cell Phones and IoT devices.
- feel secure: with overvoltage protection and WEP/WPA/WPA2 security protection, you know the devices in your home or office have the best protection. Minimal interference between devices and easy to read LED indicator lights.
- Plug and play connection: Just press the WPS button to connect to your router. Connect your LAN and Ethernet cables by plugging them directly into the extender ports. One button and you're done!
D-Link Compact Wi-Fi Range Extender
Features:
- Up to 300mbps speed
- One button push setup
- Universal extender
- Multiple versions available
Pros:
- Very Inexpensive
- Small
Cons:
- Low speeds
- No ethernet ports
Verdict
The D-Link N 300 Compact Range Extender can be your simple solution to home network issues. If you don’t expect high traffic on your WiFi network, this affordable option can help boost your internet range. It’s inexpensive price point and simplicity are it’s strongest benefits. Not recommended for homes expecting more than a few devices actively using the internet at once.
- More Coverage: Extend the range of your existing WiFi network and eliminate dead zones
- Performance: Up to 300Mbps wireless performance for reliable, everyday performance
- Backward Compatible : Compatible with virtually all wireless devices and routers
- Simple Setup: Quickly setup your wireless range extender with the push of a button
What is a WiFi Extender?
A WiFi extender is a device you can install in your home to improve your wireless connection. They use electricity to extend the range of your internet connection. If you notice your devices have weak network connection in your own home, or even randomly drop signal entirely, you may be in need of a WiFi extender.
WiFi extenders have many names, such as internet booster, wireless extender, WiFi repeater, etc. For the most part these refer to the same product, but one of these things is not like the others.
WiFi Repeater vs. WiFi Extender
WiFi repeaters and WiFi extenders are very similar in functionality, but WiFi extenders are generally more reliable. In fact, most people think they’re the same thing. They both serve the purpose of extending your current networks range, but the way they do this is different.
WiFi repeaters connect to the original WiFi network wirelessly, and project it’s signal throughout your home. However, WiFi extenders connect to the original network using a wired connection and project the wireless signal throughout your home.
This may seem like a slight difference, but they both have their own benefit. A WiFi repeater is perfect for homes that have an internet deadzone that can’t be reached with a wire. For example, if you can’t drill a hole to another floor in your home that needs better WiFi coverage, a WiFi repeater is likely the best bet for you. WiFi extenders are the better option if this isn’t the case, as the ethernet wire keeps the extended internet connection stable.
This being said, many of these devices are capable of both extending and repeating. Make sure to check their product descriptions, as extenders are often marketed as repeaters, and vice versa.
What is Mesh Wifi?
Another common term used when talking about WiFi extenders is the mesh WiFi system. This is another way to improve internet coverage in your house, but it isn’t exactly the same as an extender. A mesh WiFi system is a router that comes with nodes to place throughout your home to ensure full coverage.
A mesh WiFi system can be the solution for your WiFi issues if you would be interested in upgrading your router entirely. These systems are highly reliable, but they aren’t the best option for everyone. If you’re happy with your current router’s speed, buying a mesh WiFi system may be unnecessarily expensive. That being said, it’s worth considering a mesh WiFi system if you don’t mind paying the extra money for a dependable, fast network.
How Much Does a WiFi Extender Cost?
WiFi extenders come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. For a small fix, you can easily get a low end WiFi extender for less than $30. High end extenders can cost over $150 if you need a powerful system. Mesh WiFi systems also generally cost around the $100-$150 range depending on the quality and brand.
There are a lot of WiFi extenders and repeaters to choose from, so we’ve compiled a list of the best internet range extenders available on the market today, for a high variety of price ranges.
Is a WiFi Extender Right for Me?
There are a lot of factors that can lead to a poor home internet connection. Before searching for a WiFi extender, inspect your router. Sometimes your router can be the root of the issue. If you’re already experiencing slow speeds directly next to your router setup, it might be time for an upgrade.
The placement of your router also plays a big role in your home’s internet coverage. Make sure your device is in a central location in your house where it can cover the most area.
If your router isn’t the problem, and it’s in a good location, you’re going to need a WiFi extender in order to see improvement. Some homes need this because they have thick walls that block internet signal, or some may simply be too large for one router to cover.
Getting the Most out of Your WiFi Extender
Now that you’ve been introduced to the best internet extenders on the market right now, the next step is to commit to a product. Setting up your WiFi range extender can vary in difficulty, but typically it’s not a complicated process. Either way, it’s important to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth, and the most out of your range extender.
Best WiFi Extender Placement
If your WiFi extender is set up, but your dead zones still exist, try moving the position of your extender before returning it. Some WiFi extenders have special LED lights that will tell you where the best spot to place it is for maximum range extension. Unfortunately this isn’t true for all extenders, so if yours doesn’t and you’re still having issues, it may be useful to test the connection.
If you’re in the market for a WiFi extender, you probably know where the internet dead zones are in your house. You’ll want to place your range extender roughly halfway between your router and the beginning of your deadzone. This is a good place to start, but experiment with different outlets between the dead zone and your router to see what works best for your home.
It can also be of use to check the WiFi booster’s manual for specific placement directions. Some products even have dedicated phone applications that will help you meter the internet connection and dead zones in your house. If this is available to you, use it whether or not you think your extender is in a good spot. You may be able to make your connection even faster if you use it correctly.
Even if your product doesn’t come with an app, there are programs that help people map the wifi coverage in their home. Sites like Net Spot offer online software that will map out your home and it’s WiFi zones, for a price. If you’re confident in your tech skill and are still having issues with wifi in your home, Net Spot can help you find your solution.
How Fast Should My WiFi Extender Be?
When buying a WiFi range extender, look for a device that’s roughly at least as fast as your router. If your internet extender puts out a significantly slower signal than the router it’s drawing from, the signal will be extended, but the old deadzone will have a slower connection than the rest of the house. That being said, if your extender is significantly faster than the existing network, you won’t be getting the full use out of it.
Final Thoughts
Choose the best WiFi range extender for your needs – whether it’s improving coverage over dead areas, boosting the speed in your whole home, or any other improvement to your wireless connection.
Erin
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