The best Wi-Fi extenders in 2024
Say goodbye to buffering videos and dropped calls due to patchy Wi-Fi. In 2024, a plethora of powerful Wi-Fi extenders ensures a seamless internet experience throughout your home, no matter how many corners your signal needs to bend around. Choosing the right one, however, can be overwhelming. Worry not, intrepid web surfer! This guide dives into the top contenders, catering to diverse needs and budgets.
Best Overall:
- TP-Link RE715X: This dual-band champion boasts Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 3,000 Mbps, blanketing your home in blazing-fast internet. Its sleek design and mesh capabilities seamlessly integrate into your existing network, while smart features like beamforming and MU-MIMO optimize performance for multiple devices.
Best Budget:
- TP-Link RE315: Don’t let the price tag fool you. This little powerhouse delivers AC1200 Wi-Fi speeds up to 1,200 Mbps, perfect for everyday browsing and streaming. Its compact size makes it ideal for discreet placement, while the easy setup process gets you online in minutes.
Best for Speed:
- NETGEAR Nighthawk EAX80: This Wi-Fi 6 beast unleashes internet fury with speeds reaching a staggering 6,000 Mbps. Power users and large households will rejoice in lag-free gaming, smooth 4K streaming, and instant downloads. Four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide wired options for even faster connections.
Best for Range:
- Linksys RE9000: Break free from the shackles of short range! This Wi-Fi 6 extender boasts a powerful AC3200 system that blankets even the most sprawling homes in reliable signal. Tri-band technology minimizes interference, while MU-MIMO ensures efficient data transfer for multiple devices.
Best for Wi-Fi 5:
- TP-Link RE550: Not everyone needs the bleeding edge of Wi-Fi technology. This AC1900 extender delivers solid Wi-Fi 5 speeds up to 1,900 Mbps, making it a budget-friendly option for casual internet users. The dual-band setup caters to both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz devices, ensuring compatibility with most home networks.
Bonus Features to Consider:
- Mesh capabilities: For seamless whole-home Wi-Fi coverage, consider extenders that integrate with mesh systems like Google Nest Wifi or TP-Link Deco.
- Guest network: Create a separate network for guests to protect your main network from unauthorized access.
- Parental controls: Manage your children’s internet access with built-in parental controls.
- Easy setup: Look for extenders with user-friendly apps or web interfaces for hassle-free configuration.
Remember: Before making your choice, consider your:
- Internet speed: Choose an extender that can handle your existing internet plan’s bandwidth.
- Home size and layout: Opt for a powerful extender with wider range for larger homes or those with thick walls.
- Number of devices: If you have multiple devices using Wi-Fi simultaneously, prioritize extenders with MU-MIMO technology for efficient data transfer.
- Budget: Wi-Fi extenders range in price from budget-friendly options to premium powerhouses. Choose one that fits your needs and wallet.
With this guide and a little research, you’ll be surfing the web in Wi-Fi bliss, no matter where you roam in your home. So ditch the buffering blues and conquer those dead zones with the perfect Wi-Fi extender for your 2024 internet adventures!