Ever tried to catch a decent WiFi signal only to find yourself roaming around the house, desperately searching for a sweet spot? Or worse—sitting through the agony of buffering while your favourite show stalls mid-scene? If that sounds all too familiar, you’re not alone. The solution is simple: a WiFi extender. These handy devices amplify your current network, ensuring every corner of your Home gets a strong, reliable signal. But with so many choices available, how do you find the one that’s right for your home and needs?
Don’t worry—we’ve done the legwork to help you find the perfect fit, so you can stop worrying about WiFi dead zones and enjoy a seamless connection.
What Makes a Good WiFi Extender?
A WiFi extender does just what the name suggests: it extends your WiFi coverage. It picks up your existing signal and boosts it, spreading the internet love across areas your router can’t reach. However, not all extenders are built the same. Some are better at covering large spaces, while others focus on maintaining high speeds. Depending on your home size, internet habits, and budget, you’ll want to find one that suits you best.
When selecting a WiFi extender, you should consider a few key factors:
Speed and Range: These are the most important considerations. A powerful extender can stretch your signal across a bigger area, but if the speed drops significantly, it could hinder activities like streaming, gaming, or even simple browsing. Dual-band models (2.4GHz and 5GHz) offer better performance compared to single-band ones.
Device Compatibility: Ensure the extender is compatible with the WiFi standards used by your router, like 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), for optimal performance.
Setup and Ease of Use: Some extenders are easier to set up than others. Features like a mobile app or web interface make setup smoother.
Security: Most modern extenders support WPA2 encryption, but always check the security features to ensure your network is protected.
Speed and Range: The Basics
When shopping for a WiFi extender, speed and range are what matter most. A powerful extender can stretch your signal across a bigger area, but it’s no good if the speed drops so much that streaming or gaming becomes impossible. Some extenders only broadcast on a single 2.4GHz band, while others offer both 2.4GHz and 5GHz for better performance. If you need the range and speed to handle multiple devices, a dual-band model is your best bet.
TP-Link RE650: A Heavyweight in Performance
For those who need power, the TP-Link RE650 is hard to beat. It covers up to 90 square metres and supports speeds up to 2600Mbps, making it a strong contender for large homes or heavy internet users. The four external antennas ensure solid range, and the easy setup via the TP-Link Tether app makes it straightforward for anyone. If you need a bit more stability, you can plug devices directly into the Gigabit Ethernet port for a wired connection.
This device is a top pick for anyone looking for a balance between speed, coverage, and reliability, especially if you have multiple floors or a spacious home. Its robust performance and wide coverage make it perfect for larger households with multiple devices in use simultaneously. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or simply browsing the web, the RE650 ensures you get a stable and fast connection.
Netgear EX3700: A Compact and Cost-Effective Option
If you’re working with a smaller space or need a more budget-friendly option, the Netgear EX3700 is a great choice. Don’t let its size fool you—it provides solid coverage of up to 70 square metres and supports speeds up to 750Mbps. With dual-band support, it helps you manage traffic and keep things running smoothly. Setup is a breeze with a simple push-button method, and there’s even an Ethernet port for wired devices.
Though it’s not meant for heavy users, the EX3700 handles basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and streaming with ease, making it perfect for smaller homes or flats. It’s compact enough to be discreet, and its reliable performance ensures you won’t experience slow speeds or dropped connections while handling everyday internet tasks.
Linksys RE7000: Seamless Streaming
The Linksys RE7000 stands out thanks to its “Seamless Roaming” feature, which lets your devices automatically connect to the strongest available signal as you move around the house. If you’re constantly walking around with your phone or laptop, this feature is a life-saver. It’s ideal for those who need reliable, consistent coverage throughout a medium-sized home.
With dual-band support offering speeds up to 1900Mbps, the RE7000 is a solid choice for HD and 4K streaming. Plus, its sleek, minimal design means it won’t be an eyesore in your living room. Setup is simple, too, and it’s designed to blend seamlessly with your existing network. If you’re into streaming movies or gaming, the RE7000 ensures smooth performance without buffering or lag, making it an excellent choice for a household with multiple users.
D-Link DAP-1610: Great for Smaller Budgets
If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much performance, the D-Link DAP-1610 delivers. It offers dual-band speeds up to 1200Mbps, which is more than enough for browsing, emailing, and moderate streaming. It’s compact, easy to set up, and covers smaller to medium-sized homes.
The DAP-1610 is the perfect choice for those who want to eliminate WiFi dead zones without spending too much. While it lacks some of the advanced features of pricier models, it’s a reliable, straightforward extender. For those who live in smaller homes or need basic WiFi coverage in a few rooms, the DAP-1610 is a budget-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying
Before picking your WiFi extender, think about your internet connection and how you use it. Some extenders might not be compatible with fiber broadband or extremely high-speed connections, so double-check the specifications. Consider where you need coverage—a more powerful extender may be necessary if your home has thick walls or multiple levels.
Additionally, pay attention to your specific needs. If you’re someone who frequently streams high-definition content or plays online games, look for a model that supports high speeds and offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. If you’re simply browsing the web or sending emails, a basic model might suffice.
Also, don’t forget about security. Most modern extenders support WPA2 encryption, but it’s worth confirming. You want to make sure your extended network is safe from unwanted guests, so always check that your extender is using the latest security protocols to protect your personal data and devices.
No More Weak Signals
The best WiFi extender for you will depend on what you need. Whether it’s a heavy-duty model for a large home or a more affordable one to fix that one dead zone, there’s an option that fits your space, budget, and internet habits. A good WiFi extender should simply work without drawing attention to itself, delivering strong, steady signals wherever you need them.
WiFi extenders should be installed strategically around your home. For optimal performance, place them in areas where your router’s signal starts to weaken, but not too far from the router itself, as the extender needs a strong initial signal to work effectively. Experiment with placement to find the ideal spot for maximum coverage.
Once you’ve got the right extender, you can enjoy uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and gaming. The right WiFi extender will help eliminate weak signals and ensure that your home network is strong and reliable in every room.
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