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A slow or spotty internet connection is one of the most frustrating experiences, whether you work from home or are a dedicated gamer.
Rather than struggle and suffer needlessly, why not choose a Wi-Fi extender?
These small devices will take over where your router fails to deliver a fast, reliable, and strong signal to every nook and cranny in your home.
You can even use them to send a strong to your backyard so you can lounge in your pool or hammock and surf the internet to your heart’s content.
If you have no idea how Wi-Fi extenders work or which one is worth the money or which extender will work the best or offer the fastest speeds, you’re not alone.
Technology is just confusing. But we’ve done the research for you to bring you a list of the best Wi-Fi extenders on the market today.
We looked at 51 different Wi-Fi extenders and reviewed 1701 customer reviews over a period of 43 hours to intimately get to know every Wi-Fi extender available.
We are confident you’ll find the Wi-Fi extender for your household needs on our list.
Following our last update, we recommend the TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender for its ease of installation, powerful signal, and high max speeds.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Wi-Fi Extender Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450)
|
|
9.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000
|
|
9.7/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter
|
|
9.1/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Wi-Fi Extender
TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450) Review
The Balanced Choice
TP-Link
The TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi range extender (RE450) offers a combination of user-friendly features, powerful technology, and appealing design to make it one of the best Wi-Fi extenders on the market and our top choice.
TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450) Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450)
The TP-Link AC1750 range extender is built for ultimate performance with 3 individual antennas for greater coverage. The extender has maximum speeds of 1750 Mbps; thanks to the dual band, you get 450Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1300Mbps on 5GHz. The dual band prevents lags in your entire home. These high speeds also allow for 4K streaming, gaming, and several simultaneous device connections.
This Wi-Fi extender has an intelligent signal indicator that alerts you to the best location for the extender to give you ultimate coverage. This signal paired with RE button for one-touch setup makes installation of the extender as simple as can be for immediate coverage and faster speeds in your home upon unboxing. The extender plugs directly into your wall socket and has universal compatibility to match any router or access point you have in your home.
I used this Wi-Fi extended to enhance the range of my apple router. We used to have marginal Wi-Fi but now have a solid 5-bar signal strength and a download speed of 15Mbps per second. There are two installation guides included to make set-up incredibly simple and the dual band system gives a strong signal that works for the many devices on our second floor.
Steven W.
TP-Link’s extender has a single gigabit ethernet port for wired connectivity for your gaming console, desktop computer, or tv that needs faster, reliable internet. You can initiate access point mode to directly connect the extender to any ethernet port in your home to act as a Wi-Fi hotspot. The extender can also be paired with a mobile app so you can manage guest privileges, your devices, and scheduling all from your phone.
TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450) Specifications
- Dimensions: 3.0” x 6.4” x 2.6”
- Weight: 0.75 lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 1750 Mbps
- Antennas: 3
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: 2 years
TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450) Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Fast connection
- Very lightweight
- Long warranty period
Cons
- On the expensive side
- Only one ethernet port
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE450)
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Wi-Fi extender by TP-Link is a powerful signal booster with an excellent ease of use and all the features you need for the strongest, fastest Wi-Fi you’ve ever used. Dead zones and slow speeds are a thing of the past with this dual band Wi-Fi extender.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Wi-Fi Extender
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 Review
The Advanced Choice
Netgear
The Netgear Wi-Fi mesh range extender EX7000 is an incredibly powerful Wi-Fi extender designed for Fresh Prince-sized mansions and commercial/industrial use. Wi-Fi troubles flee before its might.
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 Video Review
What We Think of the NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000
The Netgear mesh Wi-Fi extender has a total coverage area of 1800 sq. ft. and can deliver reliable and fast internet speeds in your entire home, backyard, garage, or commercial office space. The unit can also connect and support up to 30 devices at once. The extender has maximum speeds of up to 1900Mbps, making it one of the fastest extenders on the market.
Through dual band technology and a patented FastLane technology, you can game online, stream and watch HD movies, and surf the internet on dozens of devices without experiencing any lags or buffering times. The seamless smart roaming functionality of this device uses your original network SSID name and will flawlessly jump between one connection and the next to provide maximum speeds as you move throughout your home.
My router is located in the basement and I nearly never could get a bar on my third floor, and when I could it was excessively slow. This Wi-Fi booster only took a couple of minutes to set up with a really easy process and then it gave my internet new life. I never have any buffering and can get internet in my garage and backyard too.
Misha L.
The unit has 3 antennas and 5 gigabit ports so you can connect up to 5 wired devices at once while broadcasting a strong Wi-Fi signal in all directions. You can use the Wi-Fi analyzer to determine the best location for the device and the WPS button makes setup simple and instantaneous. This is a desktop extender so it will take up some desk space, but offers faster speeds and a stronger connection to make up for the inconvenience.
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 Specifications
- Dimensions: 12.1” x 10.2” x 3.3”
- Weight: 1.4lbs
- Color: Black
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 1900Mbps
- Antennas: 3
- Ethernet Ports: 5
- Warranty: 1 year
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very fast connection
- Many ethernet ports
Cons
- Expensive
- Bulky
Our Final Opinion About the NETGEAR Wi-Fi Mesh Range Extender EX7000
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Wi-Fi range extender from Netgear is a great choice for larger families or businesses needing a serious Wi-Fi boost. The large coverage, amazing device connectivity, and incredibly fast speeds make it well worth the higher price tag in our opinion.
Our Budget Pick for a Wi-Fi Extender
TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter Review
The Runner Up
TP-Link
The TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender is the best runner up on this list. In other words, it is a great all around product if you are not sold on our top recommendation, the NETGEAR. We decided that the NETGEAR has better reliability, though.
TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter
In many respects, the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter is a top WiFi extender. It has a data transfer rate of 1000 megabits per second and offers great power saving abilities.
Because it has such a great data transfer rate and extending capabilities, most of what we said about the NETGEAR product applies here too. So, we want to focus on what makes this product unique instead of repeating ourselves.
One thing that makes the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter different from the NETGEAR is that you can plug it into your wall.
Though this comes with the disadvantage of being limited by proximity to an outlet, it potentially makes the device more convenient as well. For example, you don’t have to worry about the battery dying, and it can be placed inconspicuously in just about any room.
Another great feature about this product is that it automatically saves power because it can reduce power consumption by up to 85%. So, you get to save money and help the planet at the same time.
I love how easy this was to set up. It even copied my WiFi security so that my phone automatically connects to it when I walk out my garage. I was surprised that it carries signal from my house to my detached garage even through two electrical panels. I’m unsure how it will work long term in my subzero temperature garage, but so far so good!
brody t.
The main reason we ranked the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter below the NETGEAR is that some people have issues with reliability and WiFi strength in large homes. Multiple customers noted that the speed dropped immensely between the first floor and the 2nd floor.
Because the speed and reliability of this product are less consistent, it isn’t quite as impressive as the NETGEAR in our opinion, but some users may prefer the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter.
TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter Specifications
- Brand: TP-Link
- Hardware Interface: Ethernet
- Weight: 544 g
- Data Transfer Rate: 1000 Megabits Per Second
TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Easy to use
- Good range
- Efficiency and power saving
- Decently priced
Cons
- Limited by outlet proximity
- Range and speed decreases with distance
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.4 Price:4.7]
The TP-Link AV1000Mbps Powerline WiFi Extender, Powerline Adapter offers great features comparable to our best overall pick. Although we prefer the NETGEAR, there are plenty of reasons why you would prefer this product over our favorite.
Alternative Products to Consider
TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305 Review
The Budget-Friendly Alternative
TP-Link
The TP-Link RE305 Wi-Fi range extender is another lower-end extender with a great price for high speeds for its price point, dual band technology, and universal compatibility. This device is suited to medium-sized households who need a boost on a budget.
TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305 Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305
The TP-Link AC1200 Wi-Fi range extender is a powerful mid-range extender that offers speeds of up to 1200Mbps on a dual band connection; you get 300Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5Ghz. The unit uses two antennas to distribute the signal throughout your home and is universally compatible with all routers and devices to ensure an effective pairing no matter your network. You can also use the Tether app by TP-Link to control your settings and manage your network.
The access point mode creates a new wireless access point anywhere in your home and is equipped with an ethernet port for devices that require a wired rather than wireless connection, or for downloading and uploading faster than a wireless connection allows. The extender is easy to set up with the help of a signal light that alerts you to the strongest signal so you know where to place the device for the best coverage in your home.
We wanted to extend our Wi-Fi to our backyard entertainment area so we bought the TP-Link AC1200 and it is really effective. It seems to be as fast as our regular internet and we never lose the signal or have a dead zone. It is strong enough to give us a signal in our entire backyard which is just great.
Julia P.
The unit is designed to plug into a wall socket, which is great, but you have to choose between blocking the bottom socket when it is plugged in the top outlet or losing access to your indicators if plugged into the lower socket. The design fails if another cord is using the top socket since the antennas are meant to stick up straight and the lights and control button are on the top rather than the front of the unit.
TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305 Specifications
- Dimensions: 3.1” x 3.1” x 2.4”
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 1200Mbps
- Antennas: 2
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: 2 years
TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Great price
- Long warranty period
- Plugs directly into the outlet
Cons
- Only 1 ethernet port
- Slower speed than other extenders
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender RE305
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
In the end, the TP-Link Wi-Fi extender offers a great speed, excellent coverage, and an optimal ease of use and installation for a very reasonable price. It is one of the better mid-level Wi-Fi extenders out there and will fix your Wi-Fi problems in a few minutes.
TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point Review
The Outdoor Alternative
TP-Link
With extended dual antennas, flexible deployment, and high transmission power, the TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wi-Fi wireless access point is the best choice for outdoor Wi-Fi coverage in large spaces without dead zones or slow speeds.
TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point
The TP-Link Omada Wi-Fi extender is designed with dual extended antennas and a dual band system to boost your Wi-Fi signal up to 300m in all directions. The device is capable of maintaining speeds up to 1200Mbps through the dual band and reaches 200m at 2.4GHz and 300m at 5GHz. This unit possesses advanced transmission power to offer an extended coverage area and is ideal for outdoor use.
This is also a great solution for large outdoor gatherings since you can control guest connections through a free windows Omada Controller software that can manage hundreds of EAPs and the captive portal also allows for guest authentication to ensure no misuse of your network will occur. The unit uses a simple mounting design for convenient and flexible installation anywhere you need it.
I bought this extender to gain better and further Wi-Fi coverage on my farm and it works great. It is very quick to install and it maintains 300Mbps speeds as far out as I need it to – about 80m from the router. I can stream videos and music easily and my social media scrolling is never interrupted. It works perfectly.
Michael E.
The antennas on this unit are detachable and entirely maneuverable for a customized signal to meet all of your connection demands. Plus, you can attach other antennas to the unit to better meet your needs if necessary. The entire unit is water and weather proof so you can enjoy a strong signal during any type of weather. You can use an Omada mobile app to manage your users, oversee your network, and configure your settings to suit your purposes.
The unit also has an ethernet port to connect wired devices anywhere you need them. Though extenders at this price point typically have faster speed capabilities, you’re paying more for the coverage area than the max speeds supported by the device.
TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.5” x 1.8” x 1.1”
- Weight: 0.4lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 1200Mbps
- Antennas: 2
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: Unknown
TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Designed for outdoor use
- Dual band
- Waterproof
Cons
Cons
- Expensive
- Slow speed for the price
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link Omada AC1200 Gigabit Wireless Access Point
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
All things considered, the TP-Link Omada is the ideal Wi-Fi extender for large outdoor spaces, but isn’t recommended for normal home use given the slower speeds for the price of the device. But to give you up to 300m2 of outdoor coverage, this is a much cheaper option compared to the alternatives.
TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE Review
The Economy Choice
TP-Link
If you’re looking for an affordable and portable Wi-Fi extender for that dead zone in your home, the TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi extender TL-WA850RE is the best choice with a convenient design and low price tag.
TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE
The TP-Link N300 offers maximum speeds of 300Mbps on a single band connection. An intelligent signal light on the device helps you choose the most effective location for the Wi-Fi extender to be placed for maximum coverage. It is a compact and portable device that easily plugs into any outlet I your home. It is an affordable solution for hard-to-wire areas of your home or for a little extra boost to your signal on a second floor.
The Wi-Fi extender is also equipped with a single ethernet port to offer a wired connection if desired or necessary for devices without wireless capabilities. The device can also be controlled on your personal device via mobile Tether app that allows you to manage your devices and network settings for guests, among other things.
We needed to get a Wi-Fi extender for our house since our basement tenants were complaining of the Wi-Fi dropping randomly. We considered getting a router but this small device was definitely the right call. We set it up within a minute and it’s been a week so far and the tenants haven’t had a single issue with their connectivity.
Jamie R.
The extender copies your networks name and password for seamless connections in any room of your home and is very easy to set up, requiring only a power source and a couple of buttons before it is ready to go. This Wi-Fi extender features a sleek aesthetic with zero antennas for an inconspicuous appearance on any wall. Since the unit is an economy model, you won’t get the same high speeds or advanced functionality of higher-end units, but it competes well with others of its price point.
TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.5” x 8.5” x 6.7”
- Dimensions: 6.2” x 4.0” x 3.3”
- Weight: 0.2 lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: No
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 300Mbps
- Antennas: None
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: 2 years
TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Long warranty period
- Great price
- Small and lightweight
Cons
- Low speed
- No dual band
- Only 1 ethernet port
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Extender TL-WA850RE
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
As is expected for the price, you’ll receive lower speeds and a single-band connection, but the TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi extender still boosts your Wi-Fi signal enough to skip all of those irksome loading screens in any room of your home.
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 Review
The Best Mid-Level Alternative
Netgear
If you need Wi-Fi coverage on an entire floor or for over a dozen devices for a reasonable price, the Netgear EX3700 Wi-Fi range extender is the model for you. It has mid-level coverage area, mid-level connection speeds, and mid-level device connectivity for a mid-level price. (Should we say mid-level one more time?)
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 Video Review
What We Think of the NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700
The Netgear EX3700 Wi-Fi range extender covers up to 1000 sq. ft. and can connect to 15 devices at once. Two antennas and a wired ethernet port provide all the coverage you could need for your tv, phones, tablets, computers, IoT devices, and more. Plus, the dual band connection ensures you get reliable speeds and coverage in any room of your home.
This unit is capable of a maximum speed of 750Mbps, which isn’t as fast as many other units out there, but it is a bit more affordable. The device is also universally compatible with any router and network so you don’t have to worry about checking specs or anything on your router – it will work with whatever you have.
I struggled to find a Wi-Fi extender that works with Bell until this universal Netgear range extender. It is so easy to set up, just plug it in near the router, let it turn green, and then bring it where you need it to extend your Wi-Fi coverage. We don’t have a single slow spot in our house and it is more than fast enough for our several devices to be going at once.
Danica J.
This is a compact extender that plus into any outlet in your home and is easy to set up by using the Wi-Fi analyzer to pick the perfect location based on signal strength. The extender supports all security protocols to keep your network secure and devices protected. The unit is compact and portable so you can use it with any outlet and won’t block the accompanying outlet since it is designed to stay out of the way for optimal convenience, though you won’t be able to plug in bulkier cords since the antennas are in the way.
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 Specifications
- Dimensions: 5.6” x 7.0” x 3.9”
- Weight: 0.7 lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 750Mbps
- Antennas: 2
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: Unknown
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Good price
- Very lightweight
- Plugs directly into the outlet
Cons
Cons
- Slower speed than most other extenders
- Only one ethernet port
Our Final Opinion About the NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Netgear EX3700 Wi-Fi range extender meets all requirements for connectivity speeds and range without demanding a pretty penny for advanced features and functionality that you probably don’t need anyway. If you only need a mid-range, mid-speed extension of your Wi-Fi, we recommend this extender to you.
TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220 Review
The Space-Conscious Alternative
TP-Link
The TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi extender RE220 has a compact and portable design to allow you to install it in any outlet in your home – without blocking other outlets. If you’re pressed for space or just enjoy a nice clean look, this is the Wi-Fi extender for you.
TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220 Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220
The TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi extender operates without antennas for a more compact shape. For a small unit, it covers an impressive 1200 sq. ft. and can connect up to 20 devices at once while providing reliable speeds and a steady signal. The device is a dual band extender and reaches speeds up to 750Mbps, which is great for its price point. You’ll get 300Mbps on 2.4GHz and 433 on 5GHz.
You’ll always have the best signal available since the extender will switch your device between each band depending on which signal is best to ensure you never have to look at a loading screen again. Similarly, the ethernet port included on this extender allows for a wired connection in an area removed from your router so you can enjoy faster speeds and better downloading and uploading times whenever needed.
I live in a rental unit and the router is fixed in the basement and I don’t have the right to move it, so I was always dealing with super slow speeds, freezing, and inconsistent coverage. After installing this Wi-Fi extender on my main floor, I have full fast coverage in every room of my home. I’ve noticed a huge improvement and wish I’d gotten one of these sooner.
Alan S.
The unit is equipped with a smart indicator light that informs you when it is located in an optimal location for the strongest signal. Since it is a much more affordable extender than many others, you will have to settle for slower-than-average max speeds, but it is still a great choice for smaller homes that don’t have crazy demands for their network. The automatic switching may be annoying for some users as it might sacrifice speeds for a stronger signal as you move throughout your home, so make sure you aren’t in the middle of anything important when roaming your home.
TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220 Specifications
- Dimensions: 4.3” x 2.6” x 2.2”
- Weight: 0.2 lbs
- Color: White
- Dual Band: Yes
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 750 Mbps
- Antennas: None
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Warranty: 3 years
TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Long warranty period
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Comes with an ethernet cable
- Great price
Cons
Cons
- One ethernet port
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender RE220
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi extender offers a great balance of value, speed, coverage, and aesthetic appeal to make it one of the top budget-friendly choices out there. It is a pretty impressive unit for its price point which we always enjoy.
NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet Review
The Best Overall
Netgear
The NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet is the best overall WiFi extender because it does a great job at minimizing dead zones and improving connectivity, though it is a bit pricey.
NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet Video Review
What We Think of the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet
If you are looking for the best WiFi extender from all fronts, the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet is the product you are looking for. This product is a bit pricey, but it isn’t as expensive as some, yet it still delivers superb reach.
To begin, the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet extends your home’s WiFi with a data transfer rate of 750 megabits per second. It features a wireless standard of 802.11a/b/g/n/ac as well.
What this means is that the extender creates faster access for nearly all devices, not just phones or laptops. In fact, the sheer number of devices it can help is one of the main reasons we ranked it as our top choice.
It even comes with a gigabit ethernet port so that you can connect it to wired devices nearby. This addition isn’t found on all extenders, but it makes the device so much more useful for certain users.
We really like the fact you don’t have to plug the device into an outlet either. Most extenders need an outlet for power. This one requires a special battery, which means the extender’s location isn’t limited by proximity to an outlet.
Works really well once set up. It was challenging to get started because I didn’t know if it was working. It took a few tries before I confirmed it was working as it should.
jwh
As with most other technologies, there are some drawbacks of the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet. For starters, it is a bit pricey. It isn’t the most expensive product on our list, but it is definitely up there.
Some users also have issues with overlapping zones. Overlapping zones cause some devices to constantly connect and drop signals, making it difficult to use the device as you want. If you are careful about placement, you shouldn’t run into this issue.
Since you can avoid the biggest drawback of this product by being careful where you place it, the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet is a phenomenal WiFi range extender. Keep in mind it will be a bit expensive.
NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet Specifications
- Brand: NETGEAR
- Weight: 213 g
- Data Transfer Rate: 750 Megabits Per Second
- Wireless Standard: 11a/b/g/n/ac
NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Can connect to many devices
- Ethernet connectivity
- Quick data transfer rate
- Not limited by outlet location
Cons
Cons
- Expensive
- Some issues with overlapping zones
Our Final Opinion About the NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.7 Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price:4.4]
The NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender with Gigabit Ethernet is our best choice because it can connect to many devices with ease and deliver great WiFi extending capabilities, but it is expensive.
JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender Review
The High Performance Alternative
Joowin
The JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender is our high performance pick because it delivers phenomenal WiFi extension everywhere around your home, both inside and outside. It is expensive, but the results may be worth it for the right user.
JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender Video Review
What We Think of the JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender
In terms of quality and performance, we are downright shocked by what the JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender delivers.
This JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender offers dual band and high transmissions for indoor and outdoor use. Its outdoor capability is furthered because it is fully waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about weather breaking the device.
This extender comes with four modes and supports many devices. More specifically, it provides AP, router, bridge, and repeater modes. Not to mention, it supports 64 devices in total. In other words, you can use this extender for just about any device or situation.
Like our top pick, we love this model because it isn’t limited by proximity to an outlet. If you are expecting to use the extender outside, this can be a huge benefit.
Unfortunately, the JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender is similar to our top product in some negative ways as well. Most notably, this extender is very expensive. It is the most expensive on this list, making it less than desirable for those on a budget.
I bought this for indoor use, but I decided to test it out anyways. I placed it by my WiFi router to test the original strength. Shockingly, it offered a stronger signal than my brand new router. It is completely waterproof too. You can put waterproof at the bottom of it and it doesn’t submerge. I strongly believe that it will hold up to any weather. Construction is fantastic. I cannot review about how long it will last since this is a new product, but it appears to have a really good build.
dave b.
Some customers complained about the instruction manual, saying that it left some to be desired. Luckily, these same customers said that the product works fantastically once they figured out how to set it up right.
All in all, the JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender is the perfect product if you are looking for a high performance extender. Its outdoor capabilities are what really sets it apart from other models.
JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender Specifications
- Brand: JOOWIN
- Weight: 540 g
- Wireless Standard: 802.11bgn
JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- High performance
- Waterproof
- Strong signal
- Suitable for 64 devices
Cons
Cons
- Expensive
- Lacking instructions
Our Final Opinion About the JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.7 Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Price:4.1]
The JOOWIN AC1200 High Power Outdoor Wireless Access Point Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender delivers exceptional outdoor use and strength, which is why we have rated it our high performance pick. Beware its expensive price tag.
TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter Review
The Budget Pick
TP-Link
The TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter is the perfect WiFi extender if you are on a tight budget. It is compatible with most common devices and comes with a top warranty, but it isn’t the most reliable option.
TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter Video Review
What We Think of the TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter
If you’re on a super tight budget, the best WiFi extender to checkout is the TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter. This product is really affordable and small, making it perfect for small homes and small budgets.
The TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter is equipped with a USB 2.0 hardware interface and is suitable for the most common operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. It has a pretty decent data transfer rate at 150 megabits per second as well.
What really makes this product stand out is its price. It is far more affordable than any other product on this list. Even college students will be able to afford this extender without any worry. It comes with a 2 year limited warranty for further value.
Another feature we love about this product is its size. Being only several centimeters long, it will not distract or take up too much space in your home. Once again, college students may like this product since it will easily fit into a dorm or small apartment.
Because of its highly affordable price tag, it’s probably not shocking to learn that it does not deliver the most impressive WiFi extending possibilities. It does not have the best range or speed, especially if you are trying to use it in a home or area with a lot of obstructions.
I use two of these adapters. It’s interesting that the one I just bought works phenomenally better than the one I bought two years ago. Range is great for its size, and it does not drop often. I only use 2G for gaming. I’m happy with the purchase for its price.
manny computers
There are also issues with it connecting with different Linux products. Although several Linux users found this product worked for them, many other users said the opposite. Because so many users had trouble with the Linux system, we will recommend opting for a different product if you use that operating system.
For everyone else, the TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter makes a great budget pick. As long as you know it doesn’t offer the most phenomenal range and speed, you will likely be pleased enough with its powers and price tag.
TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter Specifications
- Brand: TP-Link
- Hardware Interface: USB 2.0
- Weight: 181 g
- Data Transfer Rate: 150 Megabits Per Second
- Wireless Standard: 11b/g/n
TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very affordable
- Small and compact
- Suitable for most operating systems
Cons
Cons
- Does not offer the best speed or range
- Spotty history with Linux products
Our Final Opinion About the TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The TP-Link Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter is highly affordable and comes with a great warranty, but it doesn’t come with the most phenomenal capabilities. Linux users should especially be cautious when purchasing this product.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Wi-Fi Extender
What Does a Wi-fi Extender Do?
A Wi-Fi extender boosts your Wi-Fi signal so you can enjoy fast reliable coverage anywhere in your home. Businesses, hotels, and large homes are all common places to find a Wi-Fi extender since a single router cannot cover the entire building. They also come in quite handy in homes that have slower speeds or a spotty in certain rooms or if your router is located in the basement.
How Does a Wi-Fi Extender Work?
Your Wi-Fi extender will connect to your router and emit a Wi-Fi signal of its own to cover the targeted area of your home. The extender “grabs” the existing signal and re-broadcasts it on another channel. It essentially acts as a middle man between your device and your router to give you a stronger signal or faster speeds. Extenders connect to your router via ethernet cord or coaxial cable or a wireless connection and may boost the signal under the same network name or a new one.
Is it Difficult to Set Up a Wi-Fi Extender?
No, they are actually very easy to set up. They only take a few minutes to get it up and running. All you have to do is plug it in, connect it to your router, and enjoy a better signal. The trickiest part is determining where to set up your extender since it must be in range of your router but far away that it casts a strong signal to the area of your house that the router can’t cover effectively.
Do I Need a Special Router for the Extender?
No, you don’t. Most extenders are universally compatible with all routers so they’ll work whether you purchase through your ISP or buy separately. However, some extenders are dual band, which means they use both the 2.4GHz and 5 GHz bands, but your router may only support the 2.3GHz band. Of course, you can still use the extender with your router, but your performance may be different than advertised for the unit.
The speed of your extender is entirely reliant on the speed offered by your router, so don’t get a powerful extender expecting it to increase the speed of your internet connection – that is not what they are designed to do. If your router is capable of 750Mbps, an extender with max 750Mbps speeds is a great fit.
Can I Have More Than One Range Extender on One Router?
You absolutely can. You can connect as many Wi-Fi extenders to your router as you want, but keep in mind that you may sacrifice some speeds to do so. Also, you cannot piggyback extenders on other extenders with reliable coverage and regular speeds, so if you attempt this technique, be prepared for lower performance on any devices connected to that extender.
How to Properly Choose Your Wi-Fi Extender
- Ethernet Ports.
An ethernet port allows you to connect an ethernet cable into the Wi-Fi extender for a faster, more stable wired connection. Most socket-based Wi-Fi extenders have one or two ports while a desktop-based extender can have up to 5 ports, which would allow you to connect older cameras, printers, or desktops that don’t have Wi-Fi capabilities. Of course, the more ethernet ports the better since you’ll always have the option of connecting your devices through a wired connection when necessary.
- Connection Speed.
The performance of your Wi-Fi extender is probably your main concern, which is to be expected considering how frustrating a slow connection can be when you’re working or playing games. The bandwidth of your Wi-Fi extender is the best indicator of its performance, though your router must be able to support the speeds of your Wi-Fi extender as well. It goes without saying that a faster connection speed is always better, though you may pay more for it.
- Compatibility.
When choosing a Wi-Fi extender, you want to make sure that it will be compatible with your router. Standards compatibility is somewhat linked to the age and frequency of your router, but you can easily check the specs of your router to determine what standards it supports, or choose a universal extender that is sure to work with any 802.11 a/b/n/ac routers for guaranteed compatibility.
- Dual Band.
A dual band Wi-Fi extender goes beyond the regular extenders by covering both the 2.4 and 5 Ghz band, meaning you will almost always have a strong, fast, stable connection since it connects to the router using one band and outputs the Wi-Fi signal on the other. A dual band extender is typically much faster than a single band since it doesn’t overload a single band and reduce your speeds.
- Price.
Your budget is one of the main criteria to consider when purchasing a Wi-Fi extender. A good rule of thumb is to choose the best extender that you can comfortably afford. As long as it can give you the speeds and range you’re looking for, you don’t need something extravagant if you’re on a tighter budget, and you can find a great one for an affordable price easily with our help!
- Design.
The profile of your Wi-Fi extender can differ greatly depending on which type you get. It could have no antennas or 3 antennas, it may be socket-based or rest on your desktop, it might rest vertical or horizontal, it might be bulky or inconspicuous – you get the idea. Most of these elements will be chosen based on preference rather than performance, but you should consider where the extender will be located since a more advanced extender is probably larger and rests on your desktop rather than plug into a socket to be out of the way.
- Warranty Period.
The warranty of your Wi-Fi extender can range from one year to several years, or it may not have one at all. A Wi-Fi extender with a longer warranty period will better protect your purchase and ensure you can enjoy a working product for years to come. Typically, the higher-end extenders will feature a longer warranty period than others.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of Wi-Fi extenders allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
