While there are many modern routers that offer long-range, reliable connections, sometimes you just can't seem to get rid of the dead spot in your home. Rather than investing a lot of money into purchasing a new router, opting for a Wi-Fi extender is a low-cost alternative to extend the range of your wireless network.

With more people working from home and more devices being used in our households, Wi-Fi extenders can provide a stable amount of bandwidth via a boosted signal.

Here are the best Wi-Fi extenders for a range of budgets.

The NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 supports MU-MIMO data streaming, which allows your Wi-Fi router to connect with multiple simultaneous devices, in turn speeding up your network.The wireless throughput in performance testing with this Wi-Fi extender is very good but isn't a match for a cheaper alternative like the TP-Link AC1750, considering the price point.Using the same SSID is very useful but isn't a deal-breaker given the cost. However, the 5GHz radio band is hugely appealing, freeing up the remaining two bands.

Key Features
  • Large coverage and up to 55 devices
  • Smart roaming
  • Parental controls
Specifications
  • Brand: NETGEAR
  • Ports: 5
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
  • Speed: 3,000 Mbps
  • Range: Up to 2,500 square feet
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Can use one SSID
  • Offers MU-MIMO support
Cons
  • Very expensive
Buy This Product
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000

The TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450) is an excellent choice if you're looking to extend your network's wireless reach. One of the most appealing features of this Wi-Fi extender is how easy it is to install and setup, along with TP-Link's helpful Tether app.Compared to other Wi-Fi extenders, the TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450) doesn't offer many LAN ports---just one---and it doesn't have a pass-through outlet. However, it is a great performer with an attractive price tag.

Key Features
  • TP-Link Tether App for easy installation
  • Gigabit ethernet port for high-speed wireless connectivity
  • Universal compatibility
Specifications
  • Brand: TP-Link
  • Ports: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11ac
  • Speed: 2.4GHz @ 450Mbps, 5GHz @ 1,300Mbps
  • Range: Up to 2,000 square feet
Pros
  • Very easy setup
  • Good range and throughput
  • LED indication lights
Cons
  • Big and bulky
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TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450)

The TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender (RE220) offers a stylish and simple design without the bulky nature of the TP-Link AC1750 while providing a reliable 2.4GHz performance.With one-button installation, even those less comfortable with technology will be able to install this affordable Wi-Fi extender so that you can enjoy high-performance Wi-Fi all-around your home.While the 5GHz performance is less than desirable, the price attached to this Wi-Fi extender is hard to grumble at. However, you won't find advanced features like MU-MIMO or beamforming support.

Key Features
  • Dual Wi-Fi bands
  • Signal indicator
  • Management via Tether app
Specifications
  • Brand: TP-Link
  • Ports: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11n, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
  • Speed: 2.4GHz @ 300Mbps, 5GHz @ 433Mbps
  • Range: Up to 1200 square feet
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Easy installation
  • Stylish
Cons
  • Average 5GHz performance
Buy This Product
TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender (RE220)

The Amped Wireless AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender is an all-around decent Wi-Fi extender with a hefty price tag. However, it may be worth the investment as the unit offers decent 2.4GHz performance and high-quality 5GHz connections. This Wi-Fi extender is easy to install and setup for all experience levels, with a web-based management tool with plenty of settings for those who are tech-savvy.The main appeal here is the generous amount of ports the Amped Wireless AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender offers, as well as USB 2.0 connectivity.

Key Features
  • USB file sharing
  • Five Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Adjustable and removable antennas
Specifications
  • Brand: Amped
  • Ports: 5
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11n, 802.11g
  • Speed: 2.4GHz @ 450Mbps, 5GHz @ 1,300Mbps
  • Range: Up to 12,000 square feet
Pros
  • Easy setup and installation
  • Decent 2.4GHz throughput performance
  • Wide range of ports
Cons
  • Average 5GHz throughput
Buy This Product
Amped Wireless AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender

The NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 can offer wireless connections in hard to reach places. Its easy one-click installation is a real selling point and makes an excellent choice for many users.Professional tests often put this Wi-Fi extender's 5GHz output above many more expensive extenders. Consequently, it offers reliable performance and MU-MIMO streaming.Although the product itself is a little bulky and less stylish than some of its counterparts, it doesn't shy away from serving up great value for money coupled with fast speeds.

Key Features
  • Connect up to 35 devices
  • Universal compatibility
  • Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
Specifications
  • Brand: NETGEAR
  • Ports: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11ac
  • Speed: 2,200Mbps
  • Range: Up to 2300 square feet
Pros
  • Solid throughput
  • MU-MIMO support
  • Easy setup
Cons
  • No pass-through outlet
Buy This Product
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300

The D-Link AC1200 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Range Extender is a mid-range extender with a low cost and mediocre performance. Given the price, you shouldn't expect mind-blowing speeds.However, if you're looking to extend your existing Wi-Fi reach to dead zones in your home, the D-Link AC1200 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Range Extender will do the job, and it's very easy to setup.For beginners or users looking to provide Wi-Fi in hard to reach places, you'll be able to create a stable bridge connection with the D-Link AC1200.

Key Features
  • Dual-band performance
  • One-touch easy setup
  • Smart LED signal
Specifications
  • Brand: D-Link
  • Ports: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11n/g/b/a
  • Speed: 2.4GHz @ 300Mbps, 5GHz @ 867Mbps
  • Range: Not available
Pros
  • Easy setup
  • Antennas are adjustable
  • WPA2/WPA wireless encryption
Cons
  • Poor 2.4GHz performance
Buy This Product
D-Link AC1200 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Range Extender

The Linksys RE7000 AC1900 Gigabit Range Extender offers seamless roaming for those with a compatible Linksys Max-Stream router. It's a solid choice compatible with any router if you're looking to extend your Wi-Fi reach.The helpful Spot Finder allows its users to find the optimal plug-in location for the best performance possible. In close proximity, the Linksys RE7000 outperforms many other Wi-Fi extenders but unfortunately lacks in range performance.At a slightly higher than average price for a mid-range device, you'll still be able to enjoy MU-MIMO streaming and easy installation with the Linksys RE7000 AC1900 Gigabit Range Extender.

Key Features
  • Seamless roaming
  • Spot finder technology
  • Works with all Wi-Fi routers
Specifications
  • Brand: Linksys
  • Ports: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11a/g, 802.11b
  • Speed: 2.4GHz @ 300Mbps, 5GHz @ 1733Mbps
  • Range: Up to 10,000 square feet
Pros
  • Easy setup
  • Good close proximity throughput
  • MU-MIMO support
Cons
  • Mid-range performance
Buy This Product
Linksys RE7000 AC1900 Gigabit Range Extender

FAQ

Q: What Is the Difference Between Wi-Fi Booster and Wi-Fi Extender?

Wi-Fi boosters, extenders, and repeaters are generally the same thing. Wi-Fi booster used to be a catch-all phrase that described devices that extended Wi-Fi signal but is now more commonly known as a Wi-Fi range extender or wireless range extender.

Q: Is Mesh Wi-Fi Better than an Extender?

If you want to extend the Wi-Fi in your home, you'll have a choice between a Wi-Fi range extender and a mesh system. A Wi-Fi extender connects to your existing wireless network with a new name. It repeats the Wi-Fi signal, which could slow your wireless connection down. Mesh systems are a complete replacement of your existing Wi-Fi network, replacing the router and extender setup you would have with a Wi-Fi extender. Instead, multiple identical units are placed across your home, creating a seamless wireless network with improved bandwidth and security.

Q: Are Wi-Fi Extenders Repairable?

Like any electronic product, Wi-Fi extenders can break. As a result, they may not power on or broadcast your network. The good news is that you can physically dismantle a Wi-Fi extender and fix the issue in some cases. However, locating the breakage or problem with Wi-Fi extenders can be more trouble than it's worth, especially considering you can get a decent replacement at an affordable price.