WiFi extenders can help eliminate dead zones, but their effectiveness depends on your needs and home setup. Here's what to know before purchasing one:
What WiFi Extenders Do
- Functionality: WiFi extenders relay your router's signal to areas with poor coverage.
- Placement: For optimal results, position the extender halfway between the router and the dead zone.
- Limitations: Extenders reduce speed—by about 50%, as they use the same frequency band to rebroadcast the signal.
When a WiFi Extender Works Well
- Best Use Case: Fixing a single dead spot for light tasks like browsing or checking email.
- Cost Range: Extenders priced around $50 perform adequately.
Testing Insights from Consumer Reports
- Performance: Models under $30, such as TP-Link RE220 ($20) or Netgear EX6120 ($36), show poor speed and versatility in tests.
- Reliable Options: Spend $50 or more for a noticeable improvement in performance.
When to Opt for a Mesh Router
- For Larger Homes: Mesh routers create a seamless network using multiple units to cover your entire home.
- Minimal Speed Loss: Mesh systems reduce speed by only about 10% compared to extenders' 50%.
- Cost: Prices for mesh systems have dropped significantly, starting around $150 for dependable models.
Top Recommendations
WiFi Extender:
- Budget Option: TP-Link RE315 (~$50).
- Best for one-room fixes and basic web browsing.
Mesh Router System:
- Affordable Pick: TP-Link Deco W6000 (AX3000, 2-Pack) (~$150).
- Great for streaming, gaming, and multiple users.
Summing it up
- Buy a WiFi Extender if you need a quick, cost-effective fix for a single dead zone.
- Upgrade to a Mesh Router if you require faster, more reliable coverage throughout your home.
Invest based on your home’s needs and the online activities you prioritize.
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