A robust and dependable Wi-Fi connection is necessary for our everyday tasks in the current digital era. Unfortunately, a lot of homes have weak signals and Wi-Fi dead zones, which leads to incredibly slow internet speeds and sporadic connections. It might be time to get a Wi-Fi extension if you’re sick of putting up with these problems.
By extending and enhancing your current Wi-Fi signal, a Wi-Fi extender—also referred to as a range extender or signal booster—allows you to take advantage of improved coverage and quicker internet speeds across your house. We will examine the top Wi-Fi extenders on the market in 2023 in this post, taking into account features, performance, and usability.
1. TP-Link RE705X Wi-Fi Extender
A plug-in Wi-Fi extender with outstanding performance and adaptability is the TP-Link RE705X. It offers dependable and quick Wi-Fi rates because to its capacity to employ broad 160MHz data channels. For improved performance, it also supports the newest Wi-Fi 6 technology, which includes beamforming, MUMIMO, and 1024 QAM modulation.
For flawless coverage throughout your house, the RE705X may be connected to a mesh network and has a gigabit Ethernet connector for wired devices. Its LED status lights and movable antennae make it simple to set up and check the Wi-Fi signal strength. The TP-Link RE705X is a great option for anyone searching for a plug-in extender with outstanding performance, even though it gets a little hot when in operation.
2. Netgear Nighthawk AX8 WiFi Mesh Extender (EAX80)
With its many features and outstanding performance, the Netgear Nighthawk AX8 is a stand-alone Wi-Fi extender. It has four gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 interface for connecting storage devices, and wide 160MHz data channels. Based on Wi-Fi 6 technology, the Nighthawk AX8 provides beamforming, MUMIMO, and 1024 QAM modulation for optimum performance.
The Nighthawk AX8 has outstanding coverage and range because to its size. It can be utilized as an extension rather than a mesh node in an Orbi mesh network. The Netgear Nighthawk AX8 is an excellent option if you require a Wi-Fi extender with numerous ports for wired connections and wish to utilize Wi-Fi 6.
3. Linksys RE7310 Wi-Fi Extender
One plug-in Wi-Fi extender that is well-known for its simplicity and use is the Linksys RE7310. Thanks to Linksys’ Spot Finder technology, which assists you in determining the best location for the extender in your house, it is simple to set up and install. It makes up for its lack of extra ports with its powerful performance and range.
The RE7310 supports MUMIMO and beamforming for better performance and is compatible with a number of Wi-Fi protocols. It is a covert way to expand your Wi-Fi network because of its small size and concealed antennae. Consider the Linksys RE7310 if you’re searching for a dependable, user-friendly Wi-Fi extender with a good range.
4. Tenda A27 Wi-Fi Extender
One notable feature of the plug-in Wi-Fi extender Tenda A27 is its extensive configuration options. It provides several choices for adjusting and improving your Wi-Fi network, such as wired access point capabilities, time zone setup, and OFDMA support. Additionally, the A27 has a gigabit Ethernet port for wired device connections.
The Tenda A27 offers a powerful and dependable Wi-Fi signal thanks to its two antennae, beamforming, and MUMIMO technology. It has a respectable range and reasonable speeds, while not having the best performance on our list. The Tenda A27 is a good option if you’re searching for a Wi-Fi extender with a gigabit Ethernet connector and lots of customization options.
5. D-Link Eagle Pro AI E15 Wi-Fi Extender
AI technology is used by the D-Link Eagle Pro AI E15, a small plug-in Wi-Fi extender, to maximize data transfer and minimize latency. Performance and coverage are enhanced by its integrated AI, which continuously searches for the least crowded channels. Additionally, the E15 has a gigabit Ethernet port for wired device connections.
For people who want a covert extender, the D-Link Eagle Pro AI E15 is perfect because of its compact size. It provides good speeds and coverage even though its performance might not be the best among the competitors. Consider the D-Link Eagle Pro AI E15 if you’re searching for a Wi-Fi extender with a small form factor and AI-powered optimization.
6. NexusLink Wireless Gaming Bridge WB-1750
For gamers, NexusLink created the special standalone Wi-Fi extender known as the Wireless Gaming Bridge WB-1750. It functions as a wireless cable, providing a dependable and low-latency connection between your router and gaming devices with Ethernet. You can connect more than one device because each one has two gigabit Ethernet ports.
With its great coverage and range, the NexusLink Wireless Gaming Bridge is perfect for gaming setups in larger homes. For gamers, it offers a dependable and powerful connection, even if it needs two units to function and an Ethernet connection at both ends. The NexusLink Wireless Gaming Bridge is an excellent option if you’re a serious player searching for a dependable and committed connection.
Why Do You Need a Wi-Fi Extender?
Numerous things, like the distance between your router and the device, obstruction from walls or other objects, or interference from other electronic equipment, can result in a weak Wi-Fi signal. Slow internet speeds, lost connections, and spotty coverage around your house can all be caused by these problems.
By rebroadcasting the current Wi-Fi signal, a Wi-Fi extender serves as a bridge between your router and your devices, increasing the range of the signal. You may get rid of Wi-Fi dead zones and have a better, more dependable internet connection in previously unreachable places by strategically deploying a Wi-Fi extender throughout your house.
How Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work?
After receiving the Wi-Fi signal from your router, Wi-Fi extenders boost it before sending it again. By doing this, the Wi-Fi extender can increase the coverage area of your network and boost signal strength in previously unreachable or weak regions.
The majority of Wi-Fi extenders are simple to configure and set up. Usually, they have a straightforward installation procedure that includes connecting the extender to your router, determining the best location for it, and adjusting the settings using an app or online interface.
Considerations for Selecting a Wi-Fi Extender
To make sure you get the best Wi-Fi extender for your needs, there are a number of considerations to take into account. Here are some important things to remember:
The Wi-Fi Standard
The generation of Wi-Fi technology that the extender supports is referred to as the Wi-Fi standard. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) are the current standards. Compared to Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6 offers better support for numerous devices, quicker speeds, and better performance in congested locations. For optimum performance, it is advised to select a Wi-Fi extender that supports Wi-Fi 6 if your devices and router do.
Rating of Speed
The fastest speed that a Wi-Fi extender can provide is indicated by its speed rating. Usually, it is represented by a string of letters and digits, as AC750 or AX3000. The speed at which the extension can send data increases with the number. To guarantee optimal performance, look for a Wi-Fi extender with a speed rating that is equal to or higher than your router’s speed rating.
Range
The distance that a Wi-Fi extender can send and receive a signal is known as its range. Your home’s intended area, including any Wi-Fi dead zones or weak signal areas, should be covered by the range of the extender you select. Take into account elements like your home’s size, the arrangement of your furniture and walls, and any other sources of interference that can reduce the extender’s range.
Security of Wireless Networks
To prevent unwanted access to your Wi-Fi network, wireless networking security is a crucial factor. To make sure your network is secure, look for a Wi-Fi extender that supports the most recent security protocols, such WPA2 or WPA3. Furthermore, certain extenders could come with extra security features that might help you manage and secure your network, such parental controls or support for guest networks.
Bands
Wi-Fi extenders are capable of using a variety of frequency bands, most commonly 2.4GHz and 5GHz. While the 5GHz frequency delivers quicker speeds but a shorter range, the 2.4GHz band gives a greater range but slower speeds. Dual-band extenders offer a balance between speed and range by being able to use both bands at once. When selecting between single-band and dual-band extenders, take into account your unique requirements as well as the capabilities of your devices.
After learning more about the aspects to take into account when selecting a Wi-Fi extender, let’s examine the top models that will be on the market in 2023.
Configuring a Wi-Fi Extender
Although the precise steps may differ according on the model and manufacturer, setting up a Wi-Fi extender is usually a simple process. A general guide on configuring a Wi-Fi extender is provided here:
- Select the best location for the extender: Choose a spot in your house that offers better coverage in the regions you wish to expand while still being within range of your current Wi-Fi router. The extender should not be positioned near obstacles or sources of interference, such as electronic equipment or thick walls.
- Attach the extender’s power supply: Connect the Wi-Fi extender to an electrical outlet close to where you want it to be placed. Make sure the extension is powered on and switched on.
- Join the network of the extender: Find the Wi-Fi networks that are available on your device (such as a laptop or smartphone) and search for the network name (SSID) of the extender. Use the network key or password that has been provided to connect to this network.
- Go to the configuration page for the extender: Enter the default IP address or the web URL supplied by the manufacturer of the extender in a web browser on the device you are connected to. This will direct you to the configuration page of the extender.
- Observe the setup instructions: You will be guided through the essential steps to configure the extension by the setup wizard. You might have to choose your current Wi-Fi network, input the network password, and change any other settings or preferences.
- Test the extended Wi-Fi network by reconnecting to your primary Wi-Fi network after disconnecting from the extender’s network after it has been configured. To make sure the extender is making the required difference, check the internet speed and Wi-Fi signal in the places where coverage was previously poor.
- It’s crucial to remember that the particular procedures and settings may vary based on the Wi-Fi extender’s type and brand. For comprehensive setup and configuration instructions, always consult the manufacturer’s documentation and instructions.
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems versus Wi-Fi Extenders
Although they are a practical and affordable way to increase your Wi-Fi coverage, Wi-Fi extenders might not be the ideal choice in every circumstance. An alternate option that offers flawless coverage and excellent performance across your house is a mesh Wi-Fi system.
A main router and satellite nodes are two of the many components that make up mesh Wi-Fi systems. These devices cooperate to form a single, cohesive network. Mesh systems, as opposed to Wi-Fi extenders, employ dedicated channels for device-to-device communication, which improves coverage, speeds, and roaming as you move around your house.
Larger residences or multi-story buildings, where a single Wi-Fi extender might not offer enough coverage, benefit greatly from mesh Wi-Fi systems. They can give a steady and dependable connection in any area of your house and remove Wi-Fi dead zones.
Nevertheless, mesh Wi-Fi systems need a more complicated setup procedure and are typically more costly than Wi-Fi extenders. A Wi-Fi extender might still be your best option if your house is smaller or if you only need to increase the Wi-Fi coverage in a certain location. When choosing between a mesh Wi-Fi system and a Wi-Fi extender, take your home’s size, budget, and particular needs into account.
In conclusion
Your current Wi-Fi network’s functionality and range can be greatly increased with a Wi-Fi extender, giving you greater coverage and quicker internet speeds throughout your house. You can make sure you have a dependable and effective Wi-Fi connection in every room by selecting the appropriate Wi-Fi extender based on criteria like Wi-Fi standard, speed rating, range, and wireless networking security.
The top Wi-Fi extenders for 2023 have been examined in this post, including the NexusLink Wireless Gaming Bridge WB-1750, D-Link Eagle Pro AI E15, Linksys RE7310, Tenda A27, Netgear Nighthawk AX8 WiFi Mesh Extender, and TP-Link RE705X. To accommodate various demands and tastes, each extender has special features and performance characteristics.
A Wi-Fi extender can be a useful addition to your home network, regardless of whether you’re having trouble with slow internet speeds, Wi-Fi dead zones, or just wanting to increase your Wi-Fi coverage. You may have a quicker and more reliable internet connection across your house with the correct extender.
