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The Best Wifi Extenders — Reviewed and Ranked

Wireless Technology, Router, Wall - Building Feature, Antenna - Aerial, Communication

The Best Wifi Extenders — Reviewed and Ranked

Wifi extenders are a valuable asset for home use, outdoor use, and gaming. The average modem’s range is usually fine for a small home or apartment, but a large home will definitely benefit from some form of range booster. Netgear, TP-Link, and Linksys are all capable companies, each with its own line of interesting products. These companies all boast an impressive range of products, but today we’ll specifically focus on Wifi Extenders.

  1. Linksys WiFi Extender, WiFi 5 Range Booster, Dual-Band Booster, Compact Wall Plug Design, 1,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Speeds up to (AC750) 750Mbps - RE6300
    $39.99
    • ELIMINATE DEAD ZONES: Easily expand your home WiFi to enjoy uninterrupted streaming, smooth online gaming, and more with the Linksys AC750 BOOST WiFi Range Extender (RE6300). The AC750 BOOST extends your existing WiFi range up to 1,000 square feet so you can enjoy a stronger WiFi signal--even outdoors.
    • WORKS WITH ALL WIFI ROUTERS: The AC750 BOOST is compatible with all WiFi routers, including your existing unit or those from service providers. Easily expand WiFi without the need to modify any of your router's settings.
    • EASY SETUP OPTIONS FOR OPTIMAL PLACEMENT: Simply press the Push Button Connect feature on the AC750 BOOST to automatically sync it to your router. Simple setup from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
    • STRENGTHENS WIFI CONNECTION WITH DUAL BANDS: Stream movies, play games online, and browse the Web without interruptions, thanks to the range extender's simultaneous wireless dual bands. The AC750 BOOST features data transfer speeds up to N300 + AC433 Mbps* and can also focus the WiFi signal directly to your connected devices for optimal performance, thanks to Beamforming Technology.
    • CROSSBAND TECHNOLOGY MAXIMIZES WIFI: Crossband Technology maximizes the simultaneous use of both bands for high-speed data transfer and uninterrupted streaming and gaming
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    03/10/2024 03:07 pm GMT
  2. NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender
    $62.99
    • Extends Wi-Fi range coverage up to 1000 sq. ft.
    • Connects as many as 15 devices
    • Performance up to 750Mbps
    • Universally compatible with any Wi-Fi router, gateway, or modem
    • Wired 10/100M Ethernet port
    • Support for WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
    Buy on Amazon

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    03/12/2024 08:22 am GMT
  3. NETGEAR Nighthawk Wi-Fi 6 Modem Router Combo (CAX30S)
    $317.00
    • Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more
    • NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
    • Best for cable provider plans up to 2 Gbps
    • Coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. and 25 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX2700) speed (up to 2.7Gbps)
    • Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, storage drive, and more with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 USB 3.0 port
    • DOCSIS 3.1 and 32x8 channel bonding
    Buy on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/10/2024 03:07 pm GMT
  • Best for Affordability: Linksys
  • Best for Effectiveness: TP-Link
  • Best for Ease of Use: Netgear
  • Best for Versatility: Netgear
  • Best Overall: Netgear

Best For Affordability: Linksys

The prices are closely comparable, but Linksys has the widest base of affordable options in relation to the services provided by each extender. Each of their corresponding counterparts from TP-Link and Netgear is priced faintly higher. For example, the Linksys AC750 covers 1000 square feet and costs less than $40.

Best for Affordability
Linksys WiFi Extender, WiFi 5 Range Booster, Dual-Band Booster, Compact Wall Plug Design, 1,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Speeds up to (AC750) 750Mbps - RE6300
$39.99
  • ELIMINATE DEAD ZONES: Easily expand your home WiFi to enjoy uninterrupted streaming, smooth online gaming, and more with the Linksys AC750 BOOST WiFi Range Extender (RE6300). The AC750 BOOST extends your existing WiFi range up to 1,000 square feet so you can enjoy a stronger WiFi signal--even outdoors.
  • WORKS WITH ALL WIFI ROUTERS: The AC750 BOOST is compatible with all WiFi routers, including your existing unit or those from service providers. Easily expand WiFi without the need to modify any of your router's settings.
  • EASY SETUP OPTIONS FOR OPTIMAL PLACEMENT: Simply press the Push Button Connect feature on the AC750 BOOST to automatically sync it to your router. Simple setup from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
  • STRENGTHENS WIFI CONNECTION WITH DUAL BANDS: Stream movies, play games online, and browse the Web without interruptions, thanks to the range extender's simultaneous wireless dual bands. The AC750 BOOST features data transfer speeds up to N300 + AC433 Mbps* and can also focus the WiFi signal directly to your connected devices for optimal performance, thanks to Beamforming Technology.
  • CROSSBAND TECHNOLOGY MAXIMIZES WIFI: Crossband Technology maximizes the simultaneous use of both bands for high-speed data transfer and uninterrupted streaming and gaming
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/10/2024 03:07 pm GMT

TP-Link doesn’t need to overwhelm its competitors with endless variations of the same device. They offer a full line of devices that are affordable and thoroughly effective. Other companies like Netgear have very specific products for very specific needs at a very specific price. TP-Link offers fewer products, but the devices that they do sell are well above board for a reasonable price. The TP-Link AC1900 can cover 2800 square feet and 35 devices. It is a very effective unit.

Best For Ease of Use: Netgear

Linksys came in at a close second place, but Netgear wins for ease of use. They both have very simple set-up instructions for their basic units, but it seems that Netgear has significantly better support options. Their UX design helps to guide you to an answer whereas Linksys only has contact options. The most basic devices need only to be plugged into the wall and then connected to the system through an app. The Netgear EX3700 is simple to use and easy to set up while still being effective.

Boost Wi-Fi Speeds
NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender
$62.99
  • Extends Wi-Fi range coverage up to 1000 sq. ft.
  • Connects as many as 15 devices
  • Performance up to 750Mbps
  • Universally compatible with any Wi-Fi router, gateway, or modem
  • Wired 10/100M Ethernet port
  • Support for WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 08:22 am GMT

Best For Versatility: Netgear

A Wifi extender doesn’t necessarily need a lot of options. Most people are happy if all it does is extend the Wi-Fi. Netgear wins the versatility category for the sheer depth of options. There are so many different variations of each product that you can really fine-tune your shopping experience to exactly meet your needs. For example, the Netgear EX 7300 covers 2300 square feet and 40 devices.

NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 - Coverage up to 2300 sq.ft. and 40 devices with AC2200 Dual Band Wireless Signal Booster & Repeater (up to 2200Mbps speed), plus Mesh Smart Roaming
$123.75
  • Extends WiFi range coverage up to 2300 square feet, and connects up to 40 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, Iot devices, and more.Connectivity...
  • Uses your existing network SSID name so you never get disconnected as you move around your home or office
  • Provides up to 2200 Mbps wireless speed performance using dual-band and patented FastLane(TM) technology for demanding HD streaming and online gaming.
  • Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with Wi-Fi.
  • Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other wired devices into the one Gigabit port for maximum speed.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/11/2024 07:32 am GMT

Best Overall: Netgear

Not to belabor the point, but Netgear is the clear winner due to the depth, range, and reliability of its products. TP-Link and Linksys are both solid choices, but Netgear just overwhelms them with choice and support. The Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S may cost a bit more, but you definitely get what you pay for.

Best Overall
NETGEAR Nighthawk Wi-Fi 6 Modem Router Combo (CAX30S)
$317.00
  • Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more
  • NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
  • Best for cable provider plans up to 2 Gbps
  • Coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. and 25 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX2700) speed (up to 2.7Gbps)
  • Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, storage drive, and more with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 USB 3.0 port
  • DOCSIS 3.1 and 32x8 channel bonding
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/10/2024 03:07 pm GMT

How to Pick the Best Wifi Extenders: Step by Step

Choosing the right Wifi extender for you is simple if you do your research. Understanding your budget, your coverage needs, and the complexity of the device you choose are the most important things to focus on when making this purchase.

  • Price
  • Coverage
  • Usability

Let’s look at these aspects in closer detail.

Price

For any purchase, it’s good to decide how much you expect to spend on said item. A realistic budget can help to guide you to the unit that best suits your needs. You’ll have to ask yourself what you need to accomplish with a Wifi extender in your current situation. Obviously, everyone would like to have a strong internet connection where they can, but that’s not currently the case for most people. These same people will buy a Wifi extender to cover as much area that they regularly occupy as possible. Any extender for home use should easily fit into the average person’s budget.

Coverage

If you don’t have Wifi anywhere other than the room with the modem, then you would benefit from a Wifi extender. However, you’ll have to decide how much coverage you need. Do you want more coverage just for gaming in a small home, or do you need a serious range booster for outdoor service or connection throughout a large home? Wanting to text on an outdoor patio is different than using that same patio for gaming. You’ll need to anticipate your needs so that you don’t waste time and money by purchasing a model that falls short. Conversely, you don’t want to overspend on coverage that you will never use.

Usability

A large home and a small home have different needs when it comes to Wifi extenders. A large home is usually looking to maximize distance while a small home is regularly looking to get a signal booster to maximize strength through walls and floors. When looking for the best wifi extender for your situation, you should focus on satisfying your current needs first. Then, you can always reevaluate your decision if you feel like you missed the mark. The most important point is that your problem has been solved in a satisfactory way.

What to Know Before Buying a Wifi Extender

It’s important to buy the right device for your specific home. There’s no need for you to go over budget for something that you don’t need and won’t use. Understanding your personal budget and personal needs will help to guide you when you decide to purchase a Wifi extender. Be sure to have the desired range in mind while shopping for an extender.

Using a Wifi Extender: What It’s Like

Having a Wifi Extender simply makes things a lot easier when it comes to connecting to the internet. It’s like adding wings to your WiFi signal, effortlessly extending it to every corner of your home or office. No longer will you have to deal with frustrating dead zones or weak connections that slow down your streaming and browsing experience. With a WiFi extender, you’ll be able to enjoy seamless connectivity from the comfort of your couch or bed. It gives you the freedom to work, play, and connect with ease.

The setup process is also simple and easy, making it accessible to anyone who wants to enhance their WiFi signal strength. Once you have it set up and it’s functional, you’ll wonder how you survived without it. It can strengthen and extend your internet connection which allows you greater effectiveness and freedom with your internet connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wifi extender?

A Wifi extender is a device that amplifies the wireless internet signal throughout a specific area. They are generally used for home or office use. It duplicates the original signal from its location and thereby extending the range of the original signal.

When were wifi extenders invented?

The wifi extender was invented shortly after wireless networks were developed in 1971 at the University of Hawaii.

How do wifi extenders work?

Wifi extenders are devices that take an existing signal and rebroadcast it to create a second network. Doing this enhances the strength and distance of the internet signal. These extenders are placed throughout the house or office to expand the area of internet availability for the structure. They are normally small, plug-in devices that are then connected to by their apps. After that is all set up, then you have access to all of the functional information about the processes of your internet connection and the ability to alter any aspect of the system at any time.

What is the best wifi extender?

The best of anything is always the option that works best for you and your specific needs. Price, coverage, and usability are the three most important factors in determining which system is right for you, but they each have their own unique meaning to each person. The ratios can vary wildly for each situation. I personally like Netgear because of its versatility and how easy it is to work with them. Those points might not be your main focus when making this decision. Rationally decide what you expect to happen, and examine how you can make that happen within budget.

How far do wifi extenders reach?

Each extender has a different reach, but that’s not what to focus on. The extenders add to the existing internet area. So, these extenders can be used in sets to extend your coverage as much as you would like. However, a standard extender can spread the signal about 2,500 feet. IF your goal is to eliminate dead zones, then you might need a few extenders working in tandem. This collection of devices will work together to cover your entire living area.

How do I choose a wifi extender?

Choosing the right Wifi extender for you is fairly straightforward. You need to understand your goals and you need to understand your budget. As soon as those are aligned, you’ll have a specific group of options. You’ll then have to decide amongst a few very similar choices. At this point, you should go with your instinct. You should already know the answer based on your available choices.

Where can I buy a wifi extender?

Buying a Wifi extender is simple. Netgear, TP-Link all sell their devices on their respective websites. You can also use Amazon or go to your local electronics store. Finding a place to buy an extender won’t be difficult. Deciding on which extender to buy is the real question.

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