Лучшие увеличители wi-fi 2024

Wi-Fi networks operate on different channels within certain frequency bands, and sometimes changing the channel or band can help improve your Wi-Fi speed at home. Most routers use a default channel, which can get congested if there are many other networks using the same channel nearby.

To change the channel on your router, youll need to access your routers settings. This can usually be done by typing the routers IP address into your web browser and logging in with your username and password. Once youre in the settings, look for the wireless settings section where you can choose a different channel.

Similarly, some routers can broadcast on different bands, like 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 5GHz band is typically faster but has a shorter range, while the 2.4GHz band has better range but may be more crowded. Switching between bands can sometimes improve the speed and stability of your Wi-Fi connection.

4. Update Your Router Firmware

Like any other piece of technology, routers need to be updated regularly to keep them running smoothly and securely. Manufacturers release firmware updates that can improve performance, fix bugs, and patch security vulnerabilities.

To update your routers firmware, log into your routers settings and look for the firmware update section. You may need to download the latest firmware from the manufacturers website and manually upload it to your router.

5. Invest in Wi-Fi Range Extenders or Mesh Systems

If you have a large home or multiple floors, its possible that your routers signal doesnt reach everywhere you need it to. In this case, investing in a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh system can help boost your Wi-Fi signal throughout your home.

Range extenders amplify the existing signal from your router, while mesh systems use multiple access points to create a seamless network. Both options can help eliminate dead zones and provide better coverage for all your devices.

6. Limit Interference from Other Devices

Interference from other devices can have a significant impact on your Wi-Fi speed and stability. Devices like baby monitors, cordless phones, and even microwave ovens can disrupt your Wi-Fi signal.

To reduce interference, try to keep your router away from these devices and other electronics that emit electromagnetic waves. Additionally, you can try using devices that operate on different frequency bands to minimize conflicts.

By following these tips, you can improve the quality of your Wi-Fi connection at home and enjoy faster speeds and better coverage for all your devices. Start by moving your router to a central location, using an Ethernet cable for high-priority devices, and optimizing your routers settings for optimal performance. With a few simple tweaks, you can transform your home Wi-Fi network into a high-speed powerhouse.

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Оптимизация домашней Wi-Fi сети: 6 способов улучшить скорость и стабильность подключения

Переместите свой роутер

Один из лучших способов улучшить качество Wi-Fi в доме – переместить роутер ближе к основным устройствам, которые требуют высокой скорости интернета. Обратите внимание на расположение устройств и решите, где будет наилучшее место для роутера. Учтите также, что лучше избегать размещения роутера рядом с другими устройствами, испускающими электромагнитные волны.

Используйте Ethernet-кабель

Проводное подключение к роутеру бывает быстрее и стабильнее Wi-Fi, поэтому для устройств, требующих высокой скорости, стоит рассмотреть подключение через Ethernet. Для удобства и аккуратности рекомендуется использовать специальные крепления для кабелей.

Измените канал или диапазон

Попробуйте изменить канал или диапазон на вашем роутере, чтобы улучшить скорость и стабильность Wi-Fi соединения. Это может помочь избежать конфликтов с другими близкими сетями и устройствами.

Обновите прошивку роутера

Регулярные обновления прошивки роутера помогут улучшить его производительность и безопасность. Следите за новыми обновлениями и устанавливайте их для оптимальной работы вашего устройства.

Инвестирование в усилители сигнала Wi-Fi или сети Mesh

Для больших домов или многоквартирных домов может потребоваться использование усилителей сигнала Wi-Fi или сетей Mesh для лучшего покрытия сети. Эти устройства помогут устранить мертвые зоны и обеспечить стабильное подключение ко всем устройствам.

Ограничение помех от других устройств

Устройства, испускающие электромагнитные волны, могут мешать работе вашей Wi-Fi сети. Попробуйте держать роутер подальше от таких устройств, как детские мониторы или микроволновки, чтобы избежать помех.

Следуя этим советам, вы сможете улучшить качество вашего домашнего Wi-Fi подключения и наслаждаться быстрой скоростью и стабильностью для всех ваших устройств. Путем небольших настроек и оптимизации расположения роутера вы создадите мощную домашнюю Wi-Fi сеть.

Улучшите сигнал Wi-Fi дома

Улучшение Wi-Fi сигнала: 5 дополнительных способов

Использование силовой линии

Альтернативой усилителям является сетевой адаптер. Цифровые сигналы могут проходить через электрическую проводку, и устройства силовой линии предназначены для использования этой возможности. Несколько производителей выпускают наборы силовой линии для сетей, включая Netgear ($120, Amazon) и TP-Link ($60, Amazon).

Работает это так: подключите силовой адаптер к маршрутизатору, затем вставьте адаптер в розетку. Добавьте еще один адаптер силовой линии в любую другую комнату в вашем доме, и он может обеспечить проводное или беспроводное подключение к этой комнате. Будет некоторое замедление скорости, но это простой и эффективный вариант. Если ваш дом особенно старый, то, вероятно, он имеет электрическую проводку, которая поддерживает это, но лучше всего покупать набор у продавца с надежной политикой возврата, на всякий случай.

Добавьте пароль к своему Wi-Fi

Мы, вероятно, не должны вам напоминать об этом, но у вас должен быть пароль на вашей сети Wi-Fi. Это помогает держать хакеров подальше и не позволяет соседям смотреть Netflix на вашей полосе пропускания, что замедляет ваше подключение. Убедитесь, что вы используете шифрование AES, которое является как самым безопасным, так и самым дружелюбным к скорости вариантом безопасности.

Отключите неиспользуемые устройства

Подключение десятков устройств к Wi-Fi одновременно может быть проблематичным. Подключите все, что можете, к Ethernet, и отключите все, что у вас подключено, но вам не нужно (например, тот умный чайник, который вы ни разу не смогли заставить работать). Убедитесь, что интернет получают только те устройства, которым это нужно.

Проверьте ваш ПК

Этот совет относится к компьютерам: если интернет на вашем ПК или ноутбуке постоянно медленный, а другие устройства кажутся нормальными, откройте диспетчер задач или монитор активности и посмотрите, какие программы работают в фоновом режиме. Некоторые программы могут быть настроены на автообновление, которое не нужно. Если они всегда обновляются в фоновом режиме, это может быть причиной вашего медленного интернета. Проверьте это и настройте параметры.

Перезапустить ваш маршрутизатор?

Мы читали этот совет много раз в Интернете, но были скептическими. Регулярный перезапуск маршрутизатора звучит как продление векового псевдорешения для всего цифрового: перезагрузите его. Да, мы знаем, что перезапуск маршрутизатора иногда помогает в случае поломки интернета, но мы спросили у производителя роутеров Netgear: помогает ли регулярное перезагрузка маршрутизатора улучшить скорость? Короткий ответ — вероятно, нет.

Сандип Харпалани, вице-президент по продуктам в Netgear, говорит, что компания не рекомендует регулярно перезагружать свои роутеры, пока вы действительно не столкнетесь с проблемами с подключением или замедлением из-за помех радиочастоты. Он добавляет, что если вы все еще используете 2,4 ГГц Wi-Fi и у вас возникают проблемы со скоростью, перезагрузка может помочь, поскольку она заставит роутер выбирать лучший канал с наименьшим количеством помех при включении. Если вы перешли на 5 ГГц, он автоматически переключится на канал с наименьшим количеством помех.

В обоих случаях нет необходимости регулярно перезагружать. Если у вас постоянные проблемы, то возможно стоит перезапустить ваш роутер, но в большинстве случаев придерживайтесь наших других советов.

AJUK® WiFi Range Extender – доступное и надежное устройство для расширения сигнала WiFi. Со скоростью до 300 Мбит/с и двумя внешними антеннами, этот усилитель WiFi обеспечивает стабильное и быстрое подключение к Интернету для ваших устройств. Компактный дизайн для установки на стену облегчает процесс установки, а индикаторы помогут найти оптимальное место для сильного сигнала.

The AJUK® wireless WiFi signal booster is a compact and easy-to-use device to boost your existing WiFi signal. With speeds up to 300 Mbps, this WiFi signal booster can provide fast and stable Internet speeds for your devices. The device features an Ethernet port, allowing you to connect your wired devices to the WiFi network. It supports AP (Access Point) and Repeater modes and has a WPS function for easy setup.

Product Dimensions: 30 x 50 x 80 mm

Special Feature: It supports AP and Repeater modes

It is incorporated with an Ethernet port to connect wired devices.It has a lower speed as compared to other models.

You get the WPS function for easy setup

5. Muvit® WiFi Booster

The Muvit® WiFi Booster is a high-performance device to enhance your home WiFi network. Its 2 antennas and 360° full coverage can extend your network’s coverage up to 2640 Sq. ft, ensuring a fast and secured connection. The network booster features an easy setup process and a compact wall-plug design, making it easy to install and use.

Product Dimensions: ‎8 x 5 x 3 cm; 80 grams

Special Feature: You get 360° full coverage with 2 antennas.

It has easy set-up process. It is limited to a single band.

6. TP-Link AX3000

Product Dimensions: 6.6 x 6.1 x 1.78 cm; 380 grams

Special feature: It comes with a Gigabit Port and 160 MHz channels.

It is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 devices.It does not have stable signal strength.

You get a built-in access point.

The product is easy to use and install.

7. NETGEAR Nighthawk

The NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Mesh Range Extender EAX80 is a top-of-the-line solution for enhancing the coverage of your wireless network. This range extender offers seamless roaming, making it easy to enjoy your Internet connection without interruptions.

Product Dimensions: 19.7 x 10.6 x 27.9 cm; 860 grams

Special Feature: You get a WiFi coverage area of up to 2,500 sq. ft. and multiple-device connectivity.

It offers 6 Gbps speed for a speedy connection. The setup process is complex.

The device has seamless roaming technology for uninterrupted service.

8. VONETS VAP11G-300

Product Dimensions: ‎9 x 4.5 x 1.5 cm; 59.82 grams

Special Feature: The device comes with a portable design and offers a 300 Mbps Multi-Functional AP Signal booster

The installation is easy with the plug-and-play design.It only supports the 2.4GHz frequency band.

It supports multiple modes like AP, Repeater, and Bridge.It has a limited network range compared to other WiFi boosters.

9. WAVLINK AC1200

The WAVLINK AC1200 WiFi extender is a versatile, high-speed device that boosts your WiFi signal and extends its coverage. With dual-band technology, this device provides maximum speeds of up to 1200 Mbps and lets you connect multiple devices simultaneously. Its compact and portable design makes it an ideal solution for tiny homes and apartments.

Product Dimensions: 17.5 x 10.8 x 8.2 cm; 253 grams

Special Feature: You get a three-in-one device that can be used as a wireless router, access point, or repeater.

It provides multiple functions in one device.The booster has a limited coverage area

The device setup is easy.

10. ASUS AX1800

The ASUS AX1800 Dual Band WiFi 6 (RP-AX56) is a powerful and efficient solution to boost your home WiFi coverage. With support for dual-band technology, it provides a maximum speed of up to 1800Mbps and extends the WiFi signal to an area of up to 2200 square feet. The device is designed to be easy to set up and can be used as an AiMesh node for even better coverage.

Product Dimensions: 15.01 x 7.19 x 8.71 cm; 190.51 grams

Special Feature: It comes with WiFi 6 technology for better connectivity and faster network support.

You get a network bandwidth of 80 MHz for better efficiency.The antenna is weak.

The booster setup is easy with the ASUS Router and ASUS extender apps.

ProductsFeature 1Features 2Features 3

TP-Link TL-WA850REIt has an in-built Access point modeYou get the facility of an Ethernet port.It is best suitable for homes and offices.

NETGEAR EX6110You can connect up to 20 devicesIt is designed with Dual-band technologyIt has a wall plug design.

TP-Link AC1750The device installation is easy. It has three external antennae.You get stable internet connectivity.

AJUKWiFi Range ExtenderYou get a proper Ethernet port. IIt has AP and Repeater modesThe booster features 300 Mbps speed.

MuvitWiFi BoosterThe product has a compact wall-plug designIt gives you 360-degree coverage.The setup process is easy.

TP-Link AX3000It supports 160 MHz channelsIt has a dedicated Access Point Mode.It supports WiFi 6 technology.

NETGEAR NighthawkIt supports 160 MHz channelsYou get good WiFi coverage.The device has seamless roaming technology.

VONETS VAP11G-300It has a multi-functional Signal booster.Product installation is easy. The device is designed with a USB facility

WAVLINK AC1200The device can be installed easily. It offers 1200 Mbps speedThe product has a portable design.

ASUS AX1800It has a good network bandwidth.The device has WiFi 6 technology. It comes with an AiMesh node for better coverage.

Best value for money

The TP-Link TL-WA850RE offers the best value for money, delivering good performance and functionality at an affordable price. Its compact design and easy installation can extend the coverage of your existing WiFi network while improving its stability and speed.

Best overall product

The NETGEAR Nighthawk offers the best features in the category, with its powerful performance, advanced security features, and sleek design. With its high-speed WiFi and enhanced connectivity, this product provides a smooth and reliable Internet experience for all your devices.

Get the most out of your Internet connection using one of these 10 WiFi signal boosters. Improve your Internet speed today!

How to choose the best network booster?

Consider your specific requirements when choosing a WiFi booster from the products listed in this article. Consider the coverage area you need to extend, the speed of your existing WiFi network, and the number of devices you want to connect. Analyse the features of every product, including the design, ease of use, and security features, to determine which product is right for you. Each product has its advantages and disadvantages, so weigh these factors carefully before choosing the best network booster for your needs.

Wifi boosters

What is the average price range for a WiFi booster in India?

The average WiFi extender price range in India can range from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 8,000

What are some standard features of WiFi boosters?

Are there any newest releases in the WiFi booster category in India in 2023?

Yes, there have been several new releases in the WiFi booster category in India in 2023, including products from brands such as TP-Link, NETGEAR, and ASUS.

How effective are WiFi boosters in improving Internet connectivity?

WiFi boosters can improve Internet connectivity, especially in areas with weak or unstable signals. They work by receiving and amplifying the existing WiFi signal, extending the coverage.

What is the recommended WiFi booster for a home with multiple devices and a large coverage area?

A WiFi booster with dual-band connectivity speeds up to 1800Mbps or higher and coverage up to 2,500 square feet or more is recommended for a home with multiple devices and a large coverage area.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

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Wi-Fi has become a necessary part of everyday life. With more and more people working from home, having a poor Wi-Fi connection is increasingly becoming a serious issue. But if you have a bad signal, don’t buy a new router just yet. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to improve your internet connection with the equipment currently in your home.

Factors that Cause Poor Wi-Fi Connection

Not all routers are created equal. Some routers simply don’t have the capacity or bandwidth to handle large amounts of data. There are routers suited for use with multiple person households or offices. Sometimes a single router can’t handle the internet usage of more than five people. In the case of an office, you will definitely need internet service specifically suited for a large number of people.

High Bandwidth Usage

If you’re using an application that requires a lot of bandwidth, it will slow down the functioning of your router. This means other applications will not be allotted the bandwidth they need to run. Controlling how much bandwidth certain applications are allowed to use is a great way to ensure other applications have enough to operate.

Proximity

How close your Wi-Fi router is to the electronic devices that use the internet can strongly determine the strength of your signal.

Router Age

Bandwidth throttling is among the many reasons you’ll have a poor Wi-Fi connection from time to time. However, it is one that you have little to no control over. Bandwidth throttling is when your internet service provider deliberately slows down your internet speed to manage network congestion, limit how much high-speed data you can use per month or allocate greater bandwidth to paying services. Although bandwidth throttling does not affect everyone, if your videos are beginning to lag or your downloads are particularly slow, you may be subject to bandwidth throttling by your internet service provider.

Blockages

The number one way you can improve your Wi-Fi signal is by simply moving your router closer to you. The further away you get from your router, the weaker your signal will be. It’s an easy fix, but try this tip first if your connection is poor.

Purchase a Stronger Antenna for Your Router

Internet companies send standard antennas with their routers, but you can increase your signal by getting a stronger antenna. Antennas that offer greater signals are often larger and more cumbersome — they can be up to 15 inches. But if you have the space, they can be a great option for boosting your Wi-Fi.

Certain Materials Can Disrupt Your Signal

Placing your router near metal, or appliances that give off electromagnetic waves, could interrupt your Wi-Fi signal. Improper router placement could create a dead zone inside of your home.

Change Your Wi-Fi’s Channel

If your Wi-Fi doesn’t have a password, make sure you secure your network. If neighbors have connected to your Wi-Fi, they may be using some of your allotted bandwidth, which can slow down your internet speeds. If you already have a password, consider making it stronger to prevent people from connecting.

Purchase a Wi-Fi Extender

Ideally, your Wi-Fi router should be placed near where you most frequently use your computer. But if your home is large, or there are multiple members of your household, it may not be possible to accommodate everyone. In this case, a Wi-Fi extender can be a great option.

A Wi-Fi extender takes your existing Wi-Fi signal then broadcasts it as a new one. It can increase the strength of your signal in spots where it’s weak.

Prioritize Certain Applications

From your router being too far away from your devices to data caps established by your internet provider to how old your router is, there are countless reasons why your Wi-Fi signal could be bad. But you can do a few things on your end to help establish a better Wi-Fi connection and increase your internet speed, such as:

Router Needs to Be Restarted

Once you notice your Wi-Fi connection has slowed, an excellent first step to reestablish a signal is to reset or restart your router. Although it sounds simple, rebooting your wireless router can alleviate internet connection problems and boost your speeds.

Your ISP Has Data Caps

Another item to consider when your internet connection is slow is data caps. If you choose an internet plan that does not offer unlimited data, you must be mindful of your monthly data allowance. If you were to go over that allowance, not only could you be charged an extra fee by your provider, but they also might have slowed your connection for going over it. To be sure it is a data cap, contact your provider when you notice an apparent Wi-Fi connection lag.

Wi-Fi Equipment Needs Updates

Issues loading websites and consistent download lags may indicate that your internet speed is slow and your equipment may need a software update. You can quickly remedy the situation by connecting your router to a computer with an ethernet cable or visiting your provider’s website to install software updates. If you have an older router, it may be wise to contact your provider for an upgraded replacement.

$95 at Amazon

A solid second choice for best Wi-Fi extender

$45 at Amazon

D-Link EaglePro AI

Best Wi-Fi extender to balance performance and value

$100 at Amazon

Best performance for a Wi-Fi extender (with a big caveat)

Your internet is only as fast as the equipment it’s running through. In many homes, a single router is too weak to generate a stable signal reaching every room, resulting in dead zones and glitchy connections. There are a number of things you should try to eke out a better signal from your router, but if tweaks like those aren’t doing enough, you could also try using a Wi-Fi extender.

What is the best Wi-Fi extender overall?

The best Wi-Fi signal boosters can speed up your internet connection in a troublesome room without requiring a hefty investment. The best Wi-Fi extender for most people is the TP-Link RE605X. While it’s slightly more expensive than other models at $100, it delivered significant speed boosts in every room I tested, and it offers full support for Wi-Fi 6 speeds.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, there are plenty of options for under $50, although not all of them have Wi-Fi 6 support. I’ve spent the past few years regularly testing them out to find the best of the bunch. After countless tests, my data identified the range extenders that reigned supreme. Let’s get right to them.

Best Wi-Fi extenders for 2024

Best overall Wi-Fi extender

TP-Link makes some of the most popular picks in the range extender category, with a fairly wide variety of options to choose from at various price points. If you’re buying one in 2024, I think you should put the TP-Link RE605X right at the top of your list. At $100, it’s far from the most affordable extender on the market (keep reading for the value picks), but with a highly capable AX1800 design, full support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 speeds and features, adjustable antennas and a helpful, easy-to-use control app with strong reviews on both Android and iOS, it’s about as well-rounded as range extenders get.

The performance is particularly sharp, too. In my tests at the CNET Smart Home, an RE605X in the basement was able to extend the router’s signal from upstairs just fine, giving my upload and download speeds a significant boost in every room I tested. Throughout the entire 5,800-square-foot-home, among all the extenders I tested, the RE605X delivered the fastest average upload speeds to both Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 devices, the fastest average download speeds to Wi-Fi 6 devices and the second fastest average download speeds to Wi-Fi 5 devices.

By default, the extender puts out its own separate network when you first pair it with your router, and that network will use the same password as your original network, and the same SSID with "-EXT" added to the end. That’s better than extenders that put out an unsecured network by default — and if you use the app to delete that "-EXT" bit, it’ll automatically sync up with your original network and work invisibly to keep you better connected, which is ideal. All of that makes this extender an easy recommendation.

$100 at Best Buy $85 at Target $75 at eBay

TP-Link took the top spot, but the Linksys RE7310 was very close behind it, and would be almost equally as good on most home networks. In the CNET Smart Home, where we have a fiber internet plan with uploads and downloads of up to 150Mbps, the RE7310 returned average Wi-Fi 6 downloads throughout the entire multistory house of 132Mbps. That’s only 4Mbps behind that top pick from TP-Link. As for the uploads, Linksys finished with an average whole-home speed to my Wi-Fi 6 test device of 124Mbps. That’s only 2Mbps behind TP-Link.

The only thing keeping me from saying that the two finished in a virtual tie is that the RE7310 was slightly less impressive with earlier-gen Wi-Fi 5 devices, particularly with respect to upload speeds. Still, the performance was solid across the board, and strong enough for me to take video calls in the Smart Home’s basement dead zones, something I would have struggled with using just the single router I ran my tests on. It’s a bit bulky-looking, but the RE7310 is the best Linksys range extender I’ve tested yet, and it’s an especially great pick if you can catch it on sale.

Also, keep an eye out for the Linksys RE7350, which features a nearly identical design and specs. It’s only available at full price right now, but earlier this year it was on sale for $20 less than the RE7310 at Best Buy, which is a pretty good deal given the specs. I haven’t tested that variant out just yet, but I’ll update this post when I have, and I’ll keep an eye out for another sale, too.

The best budget Wi-Fi extender

The TP-Link RE220 was the least expensive range extender during my first run of at-home tests in 2020, but that didn’t stop it from outperforming everything else I tested at every turn. As Wi-Fi extenders go, it’s fast, it’s reliable, it works with just about every Wi-Fi router out there and it’s easy to use. And, as of writing this, it costs even less than I paid for it initially — down to less than $20 on Amazon.

Plug it in and press the WPS button to pair it with your home network, and it’ll begin broadcasting its own networks on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Both offered steady Wi-Fi speeds throughout my home, including average download speeds on the 5GHz band of at least 75Mbps in every room access point I tested, along with strong upload speeds. The RE220 never once dropped my connection, and its speeds were consistent across multiple days of tests during both daytime and evening hours.

It’s a little long in the tooth at this point, and it won’t wow you with Wi-Fi 6 speeds, but the strong ease of use and the steady, dependable level of performance it offers mean it’s still an absolute steal. It’s not as fast as the top models I’ve tested in the years since, and I haven’t had a chance to retest it at the CNET Smart Home just yet — but it’s still a great choice if you want to boost the signal from the Wi-Fi router to a back room that sits beyond the router’s reach, but you’d like to pay as little as possible to get the job done.

$17 at Amazon $29 at Walmart $17 at B&H Photo-Video

It was never the speed leader in my tests, but it was never too far behind — and at $40, the D-Link EaglePro AI costs a lot less than the top picks listed here. That’s a good deal, especially on a Wi-Fi 6 model that boasts a newly designed control app on Android and iOS, plus adjustable antennas and a design that automatically syncs up with your router to put out a single, unified network as soon as you first set the thing up. I even appreciate the touch of color with those pale blue accents, a nice break from boring white plastic.

Speed-wise, the EaglePro AI brought up the rear in my tests, but it was still able to return average download speeds of 114Mbps for Wi-Fi 6 devices and 112Mbps for Wi-Fi 5 devices across every room I tested it in, which is terrific for a multistory home with a 150Mbps fiber plan. Uploads were lower, including a somewhat concerning single-digit average of just 8Mbps to Wi-Fi 5 devices in the home’s most difficult dead zone, but I can forgive that given that the 5,800-square-foot Smart Home is a lot bigger than this AX1500 extender was designed to cover. If your home is any smaller than that then the EaglePro AI should do just fine, and it’ll save you some cash, too.

TP-Link and Linksys each put in strong performances during this latest round of tests, but it was arguably Asus that led the way with the RP-AX56, a Wi-Fi 6 range extender that retails for under $90. However, a poor approach to device security keeps me from recommending it.

Let’s start with the good. The RP-AX56 finished in a virtual tie with TP-Link for the fastest average download speeds to my Wi-Fi 6 test laptop, and it led all range extenders when I reran my tests with a Wi-Fi 5 iPad Air 2. On top of that, the RP-AX56 delivered the fastest average download speeds to both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 devices in the CNET Smart Home’s basement guest bedroom, which was the most persistent dead zone throughout my tests.

Once you’ve done that, you can change the SSID and password to match your router, at which point the extender will work seamlessly within your existing network. Still, that’s a pretty low level of default security for a plug-and-play device that most people won’t want to futz with at all. I’ll keep an eye out for updates on this one — if Asus makes some changes to the app and to the default settings, the RP-AX56 could jump right up into the top picks.

Netgear Nighthawk X4S (EX7500)

Great ease-of-use, so-so performance, poor value for a Wi-Fi extender

As soon as you plug the Netgear Nighthawk X4S range extender in and pair it with your router, it’ll start working with your router to put out a single, unified network, one that automatically routes your device between the router and extender as needed. That’s great, and the extender offers a well-featured app for quick controls, too.

The main problem is that this model doesn’t support Wi-Fi 6, but still costs more than $70. It features a tri-band design that’s quite fancy by range extender standards, and the performance was better than every other Wi-Fi 5 range extender I’ve tested. Even so, it couldn’t quite keep up with the dual-band Wi-Fi 6 models I tested, and it costs more than some of them, to boot. If you catch it on sale for less than $50, it might be worth a look, but in most cases, I think Wi-Fi 6 is worth prioritizing at this point.

$78 at Amazon

Wait for a sale for this Wi-Fi extender

Another strong model from my tests, the D-Link DAP-X1870 is an excellent performer that does a great job of creating a single, unified network as soon as you pair it with your router. That keeps things easy, but at a retail price around $70, it feels a bit too expensive here in 2024.

I’d probably stick with the $20 TP-Link RE220 if I were just looking for the best value pick. I’ll keep an eye out for any other good sales and update this post as I spot them.

$67 at Amazon $120 at Walmart

Solid Wi-Fi extender performance for the price

That leaves the RE505X as a bit of a middle child at this point, but I’d pounce on it if the price dropped substantially below its current price of $90, as it was an extremely capable and consistent performer in my earlier tests.

$70 at Best Buy $84 at Walmart $90 at Target

What is a Wi-Fi range extender?

Also called a Wi-Fi signal booster, a range or Wi-Fi extender is a compact, plug-in device that is simple and hassle-free to implement. Wi-Fi extenders use built-in Wi-Fi radios and antennas to pair wirelessly with your router. No Ethernet cable is required. Plug in one near the edge of your router’s wireless range and pair it with the network, and it’ll start rebroadcasting the signal farther out for significantly faster internet speeds throughout your home.

Should I buy a Wi-Fi extender?

Wi-Fi extenders are great options when you have a single room that you want to give a speed boost. Wi-Fi extenders are generally less expensive than upgrading to a full-fledged mesh router with its own mesh Wi-Fi systems and range-extending satellite devices. Plus, they are generally a cinch to set up, they’ll work no matter what brand of router you’re using, and you can typically use the same SSID and password as your original router. That creates a single, seamless connection that will give you the best Wi-Fi range available with your current setup — all without you needing to think about it too much.

However, signal boosters can’t extend your Wi-Fi signal to an entire floor or side of the house like a mesh router can. An extender is also only as good as the router it’s connected to, which means you won’t see huge improvements if your router is failing, outdated or in the wrong spot.

I spent weeks testing these range extenders at the CNET Smart Home.

How CNET tests Wi-Fi extenders and signal boosters

Like a lot of people, I spent much of the past few years working from home, and that included my yearly roundup of range extender tests. I’ve put dozens of extenders through my controlled tests by this point, and that’s generated a lot of useful data for comparison purposes.

In 2022, I was able to resume tests at the CNET Smart Home, a 5,800-square-foot multistory home in the outskirts of Louisville, Kentucky, that served as a living lab for our product tests. It’s a much better environment for testing wireless devices at range than my somewhat cramped, shotgun-style house — and with more ground to cover, it offered a much bigger challenge for these extenders.

This is the control graph, showing you the average speeds in each room I tested with no range extenders in play at all. On its own, a single, entry-level Wi-Fi 6 router in the laundry room was able to deliver decent speeds on the main floor of the home (the first four rooms in this chart), but speeds plummeted in the basement (the last four rooms), especially the upload speeds.

Testing Wi-Fi extenders in the CNET Smart Home

The CNET Smart Home has a fiber internet connection with matching upload and download speeds of up to 150Mbps. That’s a far cry from the more and more of us have access to (not to mention the new, blazing-fast multi-gig internet plans emerging in some parts of the country). However, it’s in line with the average internet speed in the US, which makes it a great place to test how home networking products will work for the average consumer.

For my purposes, I started by setting up a router in the Smart Home’s laundry room, which is where the modem is set up. I went with the , a perfectly decent model I reviewed last year. It offered reliable performance but limited range when I tested it — and that’s exactly what I wanted for these range extender tests.

I ran all of this year’s range extender tests with a Netgear R6700AX router running the network. It’s a low-power, budget-price Wi-Fi 6 model that offered consistent performance when I first tested it out, making it an ideal control router for these tests.

Sure enough, the router was able to deliver strong speeds on the home’s main floor, but as soon as I headed down to the basement level, speeds started to fall. That includes single-digit upload speeds in the bourbon room and the mud room. (Yes, the Smart Home has a bourbon room that the previous owners used to age their own barrels. We don’t have any barrels of our own, but it smells amazing in there. Kentucky, folks!)

Running the range test

With my control speeds established, it was time to start adding in the range boosters and seeing which ones improved things the best. Pairing each one with the router only required me to plug it in nearby and press the WPS button on both devices — after that, I relocated them downstairs, to the basement rec room, which was the farthest point from the router that still had a decent signal and speeds. Whenever you’re using a Wi-Fi range extender, that’s typically the best place to put it: just shy of the edge of your router’s range, where it will still receive a strong enough signal to put out a strong signal of its own. The best way to find that spot? Grab your phone or laptop and run some speed tests.

In the end, I ran a total of at least 96 speed tests for each extender, two rounds of 24 tests to find its average speeds to a Wi-Fi 5 client device (an iPad Air 2 from 2015) and another two rounds of 24 tests to check its speeds to a Wi-Fi 6 client device (a 2021 Lenovo ThinkPad laptop). In each case, I started the first round of tests with a fresh connection in the laundry room, closest to the router, and then started the second round of tests with a fresh connection in the mud room, farthest from the router. With each test, I logged the client device’s download speed, its upload speed and the latency of the connection.

Wi-Fi extender test results for 2023

Ready to see how the range extenders did in terms of upload and download speeds? Let’s take a look.

These graphs show you the average download speeds by room (left) and average upload speeds by room (right) for a Wi-Fi 6 laptop connected to each extender. All five models I tested were able to deliver noticeable improvements to the connection, but some did a better job than others.

On the left, this first set of graphs shows you the average download speeds by room for each extender I tested. On the right, you’re looking at the average upload speeds. All of these speeds are to my Wi-Fi 6 test device, a Lenovo ThinkPad laptop from 2021.

So what jumps out? First, all five of these extenders did a decent job of boosting speeds in those last four rooms, down in the basement. With all of them, I had a faster connection throughout the house than I had when I connected through the router alone. The D-Link EaglePro AI struggled a bit with upload speeds in the basement, but still kept things above a minimum of 20Mbps or so.

That was with a Wi-Fi 6 device, though. How did the performance look with an older Wi-Fi 5 device from several years ago?

Again, this is average download speeds by room on the left, average upload speeds on the right — this time, to an older Wi-Fi 5 device.

Things get interesting here — you can see a greater gulf between download and upload performance, as well as some more distinct weak spots and dead zones throughout the house. Each of the five extenders struggled to keep uploads speedy in the upstairs dinette, for instance. With Wi-Fi 6, we barely saw any issues there at all, save for the Netgear Nighthawk X4S.

Meanwhile, in the basement, our top picks from TP-Link and Linksys (as well as the high-performing Asus RP-AX56) were each able to keep download speeds above 100Mbps, which is great. Uploads were another story, as all of the extenders struggled. None of them failed to deliver a usable upload connection outright, though the D-Link EaglePro AI came close with single-digit upload speeds in the basement’s farthest reaches.

Another key takeaway from these tests is that Wi-Fi 6 delivers some of its most noticeable speed boosts on the upload side of things. If you’re looking to make lots of video calls, upload lots of large files to the web or anything else requiring sturdy upload performance, then upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 hardware should be high on your list of priorities (assuming you haven’t already made the jump).