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When purchasing a WiFi extender, it can often become challenging to decide which item to purchase.
There are many details on every item, each offering its own benefits.
We look at and discuss the nine best WiFi extenders, what makes them the top picks, and whether the brand you choose makes an overall difference.
Comparison of the Best WiFi Extenders
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How to Choose the Right WiFi Extender
There are multiple things to consider while picking out the right WiFi extender. The most important items include the following.
Frequency
There are often two possible frequency options available for WiFi extenders. Most devices support a 2.4GHz connection, while newer models can function with a 5GHz connection that's faster but more prone to loss of signal. However, some WiFi extenders offer the ability to support both signals simultaneously at a higher price.
Ultimately the frequency you use is determined by your router. You’ll need to ensure that it offers dual-frequency.
Design
There are two main designs for WiFi extenders that you can pick from. One device fits into a wall plug and stays there, and the other needs to stand on a desk. Choosing from the various designs requires knowing where you want to set up your WiFi extender.
It's important to note that a desktop model offers better placement as you can fine-tune its positioning for optimal signal strength.
Ports
Older devices that don't have WiFi connectivity require an ethernet cable to connect to the internet. If you have devices such as these, you'll need an extender that offers ports. Fortunately, most products have at least two ports, allowing you to connect an older device through the WiFi extender quickly.
A port will allow the extender to receive its signal directly through the ethernet cable. Additionally, the port transfers the internet connection to your device along the line.
Performance
The range and the maximum download speed that an extender offers are essential points to consider. Ultimately, the bandwidth supported is limited to the highest rate that your router can handle.
Bandwidth listings for WiFi extenders are noted in codes. The number N300 allows for up to 300Mbs on a single band, AC750 is dual-band offering 300Mbs support, and AC1200 offers concurrent dual-band at 1,167Mbs support. The pattern continues with AC referring to dual-band support; the number after it represents the max bandwidth the device can handle.
Security
Most range extenders support the WPA2-PSK security protocol, a well-known and extremely well-used encryption. This option is popular and generally used by most routers over the older WPA and newer WPA3 that have more limited use.
Review of the Best WiFi Extenders
The following nine products are the best WiFi extenders currently available. The items come from various brands and cover a variety of specific needs.
Best Overall:
TP-Link AC750 RE220
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 750Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11n, 802.11a, 802.11g
Range Extended: 1,200 sq. ft
Review
The TP-Link AC750 RE220 is an excellent WiFi extender that's long-lasting and easy to set up. The product comes with a two-year warranty covering the item if there are issues before or after setting it up.
While the product can handle 20 devices connected to it at once, it covers a limited range of 1,000 square feet. This limitation makes the TP-Link AC750 RE220 best suited for a home office or as a small add-on extender to get the signal to dead zones in your house. However, the device's limited range is a disadvantage depending on the positioning of your router.
Bottom Line
Overall, the TP-Link AC750 RE220 is the best WiFi extender due to its decent reach and ability to support 20 devices. The item offers a dual-band connection that'll work regardless of the frequency your appliances use. The extender plugs into a wall socket using a sleek and discreet design that won't block other plugs.
Runner-up:
TP-LINK AC1750
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 1,750Mbs total speed
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11ac, 802.11g, 802.11a, 802.11n, 802.11b
Range Extended: 10,000 sq. ft
Review
The TP-LINK AC1750 is one of the best WiFi extenders offering a massive total area of coverage. The extensive range makes the device suitable for any home and even a small office as it should reach throughout your location. The design is small and compact while plugged directly into a wall, making it sleek and discrete.
The WiFi extender offers a high maximum bandwidth rate of up to 1,750Mbs when using dual-band technology. The device has one ethernet port that allows the product to function as a WiFi adapter. Additionally, you can easily find a location to set up the extender to receive a strong connection from your router using the built-in signal light.
Bottom Line
Overall, the TP-LINK AC1750 is a great WiFi extender that offers an extensive range of connectivity. The device allows for speeds of up to 1,750Mbs if you're using dual-band technology. With three antennas and a built-in display, finding an ideal spot to set up the extender is a quick and straightforward task.
Best for the Money:
NETGEAR EX3700
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 750Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g, 802.11a
Range Extended: 1,000Sq.ft
Review
As the best WiFi extender for your money, the NETGEAR EX3700 is a reliable but limited item. The device can only reach a maximum range of 1,000 square feet, which is ideal for a home, depending on where your router gets placed. Additionally, the product is secured with popular wireless encryption and security protocols such as WPA2, WPA, and WEP.
The NETGEAR EX3700 supports up to 15 devices, making it suitable for almost any home with your family's phones, computers, and other WiFi-enabled appliances. The device will function with virtually any router due to its universal design. However, you’ll need to install the mobile application to help you find the best spot to set up the extender.
Bottom Line
Overall, the NETGEAR EX3700 is a great purchase when constricted by a tight budget. It’ll reach across most homes and can support all the devices your family uses. The device functions with dual-frequency technology, allowing both new and old items to connect to it.
Best WiFi Extender for Fios and Best 5G WiFi Extender:
Rock Space WiFi Extender
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 1,167Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11n, 802.11g
Range Extended: 1,292 sq. ft
Review
The Rock Space WiFi Extender is an excellent piece of hardware that's best suited for homes and small apartments. The device has a limited range of 1,200 square feet coverage that will accommodate a standard house. The WiFi extender's maximum supported speed allows you to use 1,167Mbs if you're using dual-band technology.
As there is only one ethernet port on the device, you're limited if you need to connect multiple cables. The design is slightly bulky and stands out when both antennas are standing upright. This WiFi extender's build puts it at risk of getting kicked if inserted into a low wall socket.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Rock Space WiFi Extender is a decent choice for any small apartment or house. The design may appear bulky and obtrusive but ensures that the signal reaches as far as possible. However, there is only one ethernet port for connecting old devices.
Best WiFi Extender for Gaming:
NETGEAR EX3700
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 750Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g, 802.11a
Range Extended: 1,000 sq. ft
Review
As mentioned previously, NETGEAR EX3700 is a great WiFi extender for your budget. However, the device is also the best option to use if you're an online gamer and need a better connection. The dual antenna design allows you to find the perfect setup for a stronger WiFi signal.
However, before setting up, you'll need the official application to locate the area with the best connection. The device allows a maximum speed of 750Mbs while using both frequencies through dual-band technology. You can easily use 15 devices at the same time while connected to the extender.
Bottom Line
Overall, the NETGEAR EX3700 is an excellent option for any gamer due to the decent speed and affordability. The device's range is 1,000 square feet and most suitable for a small apartment or house. The product is worthwhile for gamers on a budget as it offers a 750Mbs maximum bandwidth.
Best WiFi Extender for Ring Camera:
AMAKE Super Boost WiFi
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: 2.4Ghz
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 300Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11n/g/b
Range Extended: 1,000 sq. ft
Review
MAKE Super Boost WiFi is an excellent option if all you need is an extender to allow your wireless connection to reach cameras around your house. The device isn't as small as other alternatives but has no antennas capable of breaking off. While the range provided isn't anything spectacular, it's suitable for a small apartment or house.
The device operates on 2.4 GHz, which is commonly used by many other devices, and provides a stable connection. The extender has a single ethernet port that allows you to use a cable during placement for optimal signal strength. The single frequency limitation only provides for a maximum speed of 300Mbs.
Bottom Line
The AMAKE Super Boost WiFi is an excellent option for a small home or apartment where you need WiFi to reach cameras. The speeds provided and single frequency are not ideal for usage with most computers. There's a singular ethernet cable that's best used if you're struggling to find a stable signal.
Best WiFi Extender for Spectrum:
NETGEAR EX2800
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: Dual
Ethernet Ports: None
Max Bandwidth: 750Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11ac & b/g/n
Range Extended: 1,200 sq. ft
Review
The NETGEAR EX2800 is the best WiFi extender for Spectrum due to its dual-band technology that offers both frequency types. The max range provided reaches over 1,200 square feet, making it an ideal choice for a small apartment or house. The dual-band also allows for the maximum speed of 750.
The WiFi extender offers a quick setup feature with its one-touch function that connects to your network. The device is small and compact, making it easy to plug into a wall socket without worrying about knocking it out. As an ideal for family use, the extender can support up to 20 devices.
Bottom Line
The NETGEAR EX2800 is a great device for using Spectrum. The WiFi extender has a range that covers a small house or apartment with a high speed of 750Mbs. While setting the gadget up, you’ll need to use its mobile application to find the best setup location.
Best Outdoor WiFi Extender:
TP-Link 5GHz N300 CPE510
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: 5GHz only
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 300Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11ac
Range Extended: 45,000 feet
Review
Thanks to its sturdy and well-constructed design, the TP-Link 5GHz N300 CPE510 is the best option available for outdoor use. The extender offers a range of over 45,000 feet across an open field without any obstacles. Due to this distance, it's useful to note that the device has a remote reset feature.
The TP-Link 5GHz N300 CPE510 uses a slim design while still receiving a strong connection. The ethernet cable port offers an easy way to ensure a stable connection to your router. However, the device only works through a 5GHz frequency that's limited as many older devices don't support it.
Bottom Line
The TP-Link 5GHz N300 CPE510 is an excellent WiFi extender for the outdoors with a sleek and durable design. The product covers a total range of over 45,000 feet if no walls or significant obstacles interfere with the signal. However, the frequency restriction of 5GHz only limits as many old devices only works with a 2.4GHz connection.
Best WiFi Extender for Comcast:
TP-Link N300 TL-WA855RE
PROS
CONS
Specs
Frequency: 2.4GHz only
Ethernet Ports: One
Max Bandwidth: 300Mbs
Wireless Communication Standard: 802.11bgn
Range Extended: 800 sq. ft
Review
The TP-Link N300 TL-WA855RE is an excellent choice for anyone using Comcast as it offers a stable 300Mbs speed. While the frequency option is limited to 2.4GHz, the signal is used across most devices, new and old. The WiFi extender features two adjustable antennas that help you receive the best possible connection once the product gets plugged into an electrical outlet.
The area of coverage is tiny, coming in at only 800 square feet. For larger homes, this smaller distance may become an issue in the furthest corners of your home. However, the device is extremely straightforward to set up and complete the process within two quick steps.
Bottom Line
The TP-Link N300 TL-WA855RE is a decent WiFi extender that has a limited range of 800 square feet. The product includes a two-year warranty should anything break, such as the adjustable antennas. The major drawback of this item is its limitation of only having a 2.4GHz frequency.
What is a WiFi Extender, and How Does It Work?
A WiFi extender, sometimes known as a wireless or WiFi range extender, is a tool that enhances the reach of your wireless internet connection. The device is often smaller than your router and can sit on a desk or plug directly into a wall socket.
A WiFi extender functions as a bridge from your modem to your device, receiving and retransmitting the wireless signal. The product can’t enhance your connection's strength or speed but allows you to reach a higher signal quality to a maximum of what the router provides.
Photo credit: dis-dot-dat.net
Top Brands in the WiFi Extender Space
There are many brands that make the best WiFi extenders available, each with its own history and specific aspects to consider. Three of the most prominent names you'll see when deciding on the model you want are TP-Link, NETGEAR, and Linksys.
TP-Link
TP-Link is a Chinese company that was founded back in 1996. The brand produces many networking accessories, from WiFi extenders to USB network adapters and more. Overall, the products are ideal and well-suited for home use.
TP-Link has a reputation for being reliable while delivering a quality product for a more affordable price. While still providing a rich and feature-heavy item, this cost difference continues with their range of WiFi extenders.
NETGEAR
NETGEAR has an extensive history that dates back to 1996 when it was founded in America. The company has a reliable reputation for producing excellent quality products. This reputation holds true with their line of WiFI range extenders.
The range extenders are high quality, with some of their latest models offering support for speeds as high as 6Gbs. The NETGEAR offered designs are sleek, and their more recent models are often slim.
Photo credit: Nytimes.com
Linksys
Linksys is an older American brand that was founded in 1988. However, over the years, the brand has remained a reputable and reliable manufacturing quality. Unfortunately, the company no longer offers the latest features as other brands have surpassed them through recent years.
While the brand has fallen behind, it's worth the purchase if it offers all the needed features and a pleasing aesthetic.
Price Points of WiFi Extenders
There is a large price gap between the cheapest and most expensive WiFi extenders. This gap shows a variety of items with different features and a changing level of quality.
Range of $20 - $50
This range presents the most budget-friendly options that often serve their purpose well enough to satisfy most demands. However, brands such as TP-Link and NETGEAR place lesser features and older technology in these models. The overall speed and range you can expect at this price point are 300Mbs to 750Mbs for 1,000 square feet.
Range of $50 - $100
Moving past the $50 range allows devices to offer higher speeds, such as 1,200Mbs. However, these WiFi extenders still limit the range they can cover from around 1,200 square feet to multiple kilometers across an empty field for outdoor models. Additionally, models from this price range are far better constructed and more durable.
Range of $100 - $200
WiFi extenders in this price range offer way more features and benefits than others. Often you'll find the range provided can reach over 10,000 square feet with speeds over 1,750Mbs.
These products are also more likely to offer more ethernet cable ports and better connectivity.
Devices Over $200
Any devices over $200 are masterpieces from their respective brands.
However, any device over this price limit is likely unneeded and will soon get replaced with cheaper alternatives as the technology becomes more widely used.
Photo credit: Nytimes.com
How Do Other WiFi Devices Compare?
Many products can serve a similar purpose, such as how an extender can function as an adapter for older devices.
What's the Difference Between a WiFi Extender, Booster, and Repeater?
A WiFi extender is similar to both a booster and a repeater in many ways. All three of these types of devices extend the WiFi signal. Overall, the significant difference between these items is how the manufacturer labels and sells them, as they all serve the same general purpose.
The extender and repeater function similarly, using a receiver and transmitter to broadcast a WiFi signal. Additionally, as they use the same transfer method, they offer the same level of security. Both the extender and repeater use the same manner as your router to stay secure, offering WPA, WPA2, and WEP.
Additionally, all devices will have models that support dual-band technology, providing for both signal types that your router transmits. Most importantly, if you already have one of these devices, it’s unlikely that you'll need to purchase a different one.
Photo credit: Signalbooster.com
Desktop vs Plug-In WiFi Extender
Overall, a desktop and a plug-in WiFi extender offer the same basic features. Both devices offer similar speeds for their cost, have a similar range, and typically have dual-band support. Each device connects and relays the same quality of the signal as the other.
However, a desktop WiFi extender allows you to position it most optimally. You can adjust antennas, move them on top of books or shelves, and extend the cable as needed. You'll have no issues locating the area with the strongest signal. However, you may need to apply tape or other adhesive or readjust it at times.
On the contrary, a plug-in WiFi extender is limited to where you can place it. You'll need to insert it into a wall plug directly. Fortunately, the design is sleek enough to not interfere with other appliances and is unlikely to move.
However, the sleek design of a plug-in model limits ethernet cable ports and antenna size.
Limitations of Your WiFi Range Extender
WiFi extenders have notable limitations that can act as a deciding factor before you purchase one.
How Far Can a WiFi Extender Reach?
While many cheaper models can easily cover a range of 1,000 square feet, it's possible to see extenders reach further. With the right device, it's possible to achieve a distance of 2,500 feet away from the extender.
On average, the weakest model will carry your signal for up to 800 feet. However, outdoor models can smoothly go past the 2,000 feet mark.
Does a WiFi Extender Need to Be Hardwired?
WiFi extenders don’t require a connection to your router through an ethernet cable. WiFi extenders simply repeat the signal they receive from your router and relay it to further distances.
However, most devices have at least one port that accepts an ethernet cable. This port allows a better connection to your router or enables the device to act as a WiFi adapter.
Does a WiFi Extender Slow Down the Internet?
A WiFi extender doesn’t affect the speed of your internet connection.
TP-Link AC750 RE220
The device will operate at the same bandwidth as your router if its specifications allow it. If you purchase an extender that only supports a maximum speed lower than your router provides, you'll suffer from a slower connection. However, aside from the device specifications, your internet speed won’t decrease. The only aspect that will affect your connection is signal strength based on where your WiFi extender is located.
Can a WiFi Extender Go Through Walls?
Ultimately, whether a WiFi signal can pass through a wall depends on its thickness and the material it's made out of. A thick wall made from bricks and plaster or has metal will prevent signals from breaching it. However, wood and drywall will carry a signal through more smoothly and without any significant issues.
Who Should Not Buy a WiFi Extender?
There are several reasons that you shouldn't purchase a WiFi extender. The options range from a lack of need to solving small issues in alternative ways. Occasionally, all you need to do is move items around without needing to buy an extender.
You Already Have an Ethernet Connection
If the only reason you're looking to purchase a WiFi extender is for a device, you can already plug an ethernet cable into, and it can be a waste. An ethernet cable that links directly to your router offers a fast and stable connection without worrying about low signal and connection issues.
Purchasing a WiFi extender solely to swap from a cable to a wireless connection may lessen your download speed. This result occurs as your repeater requires a storing signal before it can relay high download speeds.
Photo credit: Softwarehow.com
Your Router Is Old
If your wireless router is older than four years, it's likely time to replace it. Purchasing a WiFi extender won’t increase the speed you receive. However, replacing your router may increase its range while increasing the maximum bandwidth it supplies.
It's Only Needed in Small Areas
WiFi signals struggle to connect to devices through walls and across long distances. Due to walls and other obstacles, you may have small dead zones with low signal strength. Depending on where you've placed your router, the area your signal reaches changes.
If you're struggling with small dead zones, you can quickly adjust your router's position. However, if the places are tiny and dismissible, there's no need to adapt the router location or purchase a WiFi extender.
Conclusion
These are the best WiFi extenders and what to look for in a quality item. Using the points mentioned, you can easily decide which of the best WiFi extenders is ideal for your needs. However, if you don't need a WiFi extender, you're unlikely to benefit from purchasing one.
People Also Ask
The following are nine of the most commonly asked questions about WiFi extenders and their limitations. The questions are more concise and direct than the points mentioned earlier. Additionally, anything not answered by these nine questions is likely addressed earlier in the article.
Do WiFi Extenders Really Work?
WiFi extenders are useful and work well, enhancing your house's area that receives a WiFi connection. This added range can speed up downloads and ensure you stay connected during calls or online games. Having an extender strategically placed can bring a signal to the furthest corner of your home.
Where Should a WiFi Extender Be Placed?
There are a few ideal places to put your WiFi extender while setting it up. Placing one of these devices can take multiple tries until you find the perfect spot. Ideally, you want to see the halfway point between your WiFi router and the area you want your signal to reach.
However, this halfway point may not be ideal and will require some adjustment before the signal reaches the preferred spot.
Can You Use 2 WiFi Extenders at the Same Time?
It's entirely possible to use two WiFi extenders in your house at the same time. Doing so will boost the range further, helping you reach wherever you need an internet connection. Using two extenders doesn't interfere with your connection quality and doesn't lessen your devices' lifetimes.
How Do I Know if I'm Connected to My WiFi Extender?
To view the status of your WiFi extender and your connection to it, log into the web management page of the device.
From here, locate the website's settings section to view if the extender is connecting and transferring a signal.
How Do I Secure My WiFi Extender?
Having a secure password is always a great start to keeping your internet connection safe. Most WiFi extenders can have a different password than your router, making it easy to protect.
TP-LINK AC1750
Additionally, you can ensure you're using WPA2 instead of WPA or WPA3 as it's the most recognized and supported encryption format.
Does a WiFi Extender Need to Be the Same Brand as the Router?
In most cases, a WiFi extender can be any brand and isn't limited to your router brand. This versatility is ideal for finding a cheaper or more effective product as your router may be dated. However, the extender needs to match your router's specifications, such as the wireless communication standard.
Can WiFi Extenders Be Hacked?
Unfortunately, using a WiFi extender isn't without dangers, as the item may get hacked. The products only supply the same security level as your router, making it essential to use strong passwords on your internet connection. The extenders won’t stop threats to any network devices if they occur.
Will WiFi Extenders Work With Mobile Hotspots?
Using a WiFi extender is a great way to extend the range of your limited mobile hotspot. Most devices should support the option to carry a signal from your mobile phone. However, it’s essential to note that using an extender for your hotspot won’t enhance speed or anything aside from connection quality relative to your mobile's received quality.
Can You Connect an Ethernet Cable to a WiFi Extender?
It's entirely possible to plug an ethernet cable into a WiFi extender instead of a wireless connection. When plugging in an ethernet cable, you should ensure that you're inserting it into an input port and not an output port. Using a line can better connect to your extender if its signal is dropping over the distance placed.
Wifi Extender Reviews
To help you quickly find what you need, we have organized all of our wifi extender reviews into one place. Feel free to browse around. Thanks for reading!
