The best Wi-Fi range extenders do exactly what they promise: extend your home’s Wi-Fi signal, eliminating dead spots and ensuring a robust network. With so many of us working from home, having a reliable wireless connection throughout your house is essential. Fortunately, Wi-Fi extenders offer an affordable solution by connecting to your existing network and broadening its reach. We’ve tested numerous extenders to help you find the ones worth your money. If you’re considering a complete upgrade, check out our best mesh Wi-Fi system guide.
How Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work?
Wi-Fi extenders plug into an AC outlet and connect to your existing network, rebroadcasting the signal to areas your router struggles to cover. For optimal performance, place the extender halfway between your router and the dead zone you want to fix.
Most Wi-Fi extenders create a new network, typically with your existing network’s name plus an “EXT” suffix. While this can be a minor inconvenience, it’s a small tradeoff for improved coverage. If you prefer a seamless network experience, consider upgrading to a mesh Wi-Fi system, which creates one large network across your home but at a higher cost.
What to Look for in a Wi-Fi Extender
Speed: Extenders support single, dual, or tri-band Wi-Fi, indicating maximum speeds across available bands. For instance, a dual-band extender might support 600Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1300Mbps on 5GHz. Opt for the highest speeds possible, keeping in mind extenders enhance coverage rather than speed.
Range and Device Support: Consider the extender’s coverage area and device support. For larger homes, look for extenders that cover 2,000+ square feet. If you have many devices, choose an extender that can handle multiple connections without performance drops.
Design: Most extenders are compact, plug-in devices with indicator lights and sometimes moveable antennas. Some come with extra Ethernet ports for wired connections, providing the fastest speeds for essential devices.
Best Wi-Fi Extenders
Best Overall: TP-Link AX3000 (RE700X and RE705X)
TP-Link’s AX3000 model, available as RE700X and RE705X, is a standout choice. Both support Wi-Fi 6, but the RE705X features pull-out antennas for better signal adjustment.
Setup: Easy setup through TP-Link’s Tether app, taking just minutes. The extenders automatically pair devices with the appropriate band for optimal performance.
Performance: Despite slightly slower speeds compared to the router, the extender provides reliable coverage, making it ideal for areas with spotty signals.
Features: The Tether app allows naming connected devices, and OneMesh support enables seamless network integration if paired with a compatible TP-Link router.
Price: $120 for RE700X and $130 for RE705X. The RE700X is perfect for straightforward setups, while the RE705X offers adjustable antennas for more flexibility.
Best Budget: TP-Link RE315
The TP-Link RE315 offers great value at $50, supporting up to 867Mbps on 5GHz and 300Mbps on 2.4GHz, covering up to 1,500 square feet.
Performance: Similar setup and user experience as higher-end models but without Wi-Fi 6 support. Ideal for small to medium homes with fewer devices.
Price: Affordable at $50, often on sale for $30. A budget-friendly option to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones.
Best Premium: Netgear EAX80
The Netgear EAX80 excels with features like “seamless smart roaming,” maintaining one network name across your home, eliminating the need to switch networks manually.
Performance: Dual-band, Wi-Fi 6 support with speeds up to 6Gbps, covering 2,500 square feet. Ideal for homes with heavy device usage.
Design: Standalone router-like design with a larger footprint, offering flexibility in placement. Includes four Ethernet ports and one USB-A port for wired connections.
Price: Premium at $250, but justifies the cost with superior performance and convenience. Similar options like the EAX20 provide a more affordable alternative with some features.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a Wi-Fi booster and an extender?
There’s no difference; both terms describe devices that extend Wi-Fi coverage within your home.
Is a Wi-Fi extender better than a mesh router?
Mesh routers provide a more comprehensive network solution with multiple nodes, while extenders are affordable, simple solutions for spotty coverage. Mesh routers are better long-term but more expensive.
Should I use multiple Wi-Fi extenders?
Using multiple extenders can help cover large homes but may cause interference and require manual network switching.
With these top picks and insights, you’re ready to eliminate Wi-Fi dead spots and enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your home.
