4 best wireless repeaters

Wireless repeaters, also known as Wi-Fi repeaters or range extenders, are networking devices designed to enhance the coverage and signal strength of a wireless network. They are closely related to routers, networking products, computer accessories, and electronics. Here's what you need to know about wireless repeaters:

Purpose:
- Wireless repeaters serve the primary purpose of extending the coverage area of an existing Wi-Fi network. They can be particularly useful in larger homes or offices where the Wi-Fi signal may not reach every corner.
Signal Amplification:
- A wireless repeater works by receiving the existing Wi-Fi signal from the router and then retransmitting it, effectively amplifying the signal and extending its reach. This helps eliminate dead zones or areas with poor connectivity.
Setup:
- Setting up a wireless repeater typically involves connecting it to the existing Wi-Fi network. This is done through a configuration process where you select the network to extend and enter the network credentials.
Placement:
- Proper placement of a wireless repeater is crucial for optimal performance. It should be positioned within the range of the existing Wi-Fi signal but also close enough to the area where you need improved coverage.
Compatibility:
- Wireless repeaters are generally compatible with most standard Wi-Fi routers, regardless of the brand or model. However, it's essential to check for compatibility and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
SSID and Security Settings:
- When a repeater is set up, it may create a separate SSID (network name) for the extended network. Users can connect to this SSID with the same security settings as the original network.
Speed and Performance:
- While wireless repeaters can extend the coverage of a network, they may not provide the same speed and performance as the original router. This is because they essentially split the available bandwidth between the router and connected devices.
Dual-Band and Tri-Band Repeaters:
- Some repeaters offer dual-band or tri-band functionality, allowing them to operate on multiple frequencies simultaneously.This can help reduce congestion and improve performance in busy networks.
Wired vs. Wireless Repeaters:
- Wireless repeaters are the most common type, but there are also wired repeaters that use an Ethernet connection to extend the network. Wired repeaters can provide better performance but require physical wiring.
Limitations:
- Despite their usefulness, wireless repeaters have limitations. They can introduce some latency, and if not set up correctly, they may create interference or decrease overall network performance.
Alternative Solutions:
- In some cases, alternative solutions like mesh Wi-Fi systems may provide more robust and seamless coverage by using multiple access points strategically placed throughout the home or office.

Wireless repeaters are valuable tools for improving Wi-Fi coverage and addressing dead zones in your network. However, they should be used judiciously, and their placement and configuration are essential factors in achieving the best results.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best wireless repeaters on the market

NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 - Coverage Up to 1000 Sq Ft and 15 Devices with AC750 Dual Band Wireless Signal Booster & Repeater (Up to 750Mbps Speed), and Compact Wall Plug Design

NETGEAR

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender (EX3700-100NAS). System Requirements:2.4 and/or 5GHz, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless router or gateway, Microsoft. Internet Explorer. 8.0, Firefox. 20, Safari. 5.1, Google Chrome 25.0 browsers or higher. Troubleshooting tip- If you cannot get a WiFi connection working, you can use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the extender. Data throughput, signal range, and wireless coverage per sq. ft. may vary due to differences in operating environments of wireless networks, including without limitation building materials and wireless interference. Operating temperature: 32°to 104°F.

Extended wireless coverage: Adds WiFi range coverage up to 1000 square feet, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more
AC750 WIFI speed: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual band and patented FastLane technology
Universal compatibility: works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with wifi. The product may not be compatible with routers or gateways with firmware that has been altered, is based on open source programs, or is non standard or outdated
Wired Ethernet port: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one 10/100M port for maximum speed
Safe & secure: Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
Simple to setup: Press the WPS button to connect to your router. Use the NETGEAR WiFi Analyzer app for optimal location

User questions & answers

Question:	My family has two appartments next to each other, both separate electrical installations. Would this work if we wanted to split the internet bill
Answer:	Yes the EX8000 used as a wifi extender you have the option of having a guest network. You can use same SSID name as your main router or use a different SSID altogether. I did have issues with more than one extender on the same network using same SSID name as main router so I had to change one of the extenders to a different SSID.
Question:	Has anyone connected a ps4 of xbox one to the wifi from the range extender? if so, signal and game play any good
Answer:	If you mean an AT&T router signal, yes. If you mean cell tower signal, then no.
Question:	Does it create a new sid or does it exteneded your current sid, so one does not have to switch to differing networks when in range
Answer:	the input voltage is from 100 to 240 volts
Question:	I don't understand how some people give this 4-5 stars and others can't get it to work and give it 1 star
Answer:	there are 4 ports. I use multiple ones as this is the only system I can find that does not change the network name but once a year I also have one break and have to replace it or hard reset it myself.

Product features

Discrete Wall Plug Design

Plug into a wall outlet for a sleek solution that extends your router's range and stays out of sight.

Smart Connect up to 15 Devices

Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your smart wireless devices.

5-Minute Setup

Connect to your existing router with one button press, connect devices to your network, and you’re done.

Connect a Wired Device, Too

One 10/100M Ethernet port lets you easily connect a nearby wired device for faster transfer and uninterrupted connection.

Universally Compatible

Works with any WiFi router for hassle-free reliability.

WiFi Range Extender - 1200Mbps WiFi Repeater Wireless Signal Booster, 2.4 & 5GHz Dual Band WiFi Extender with Ethernet Port, Simple Setup

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Stable signal boosts: this WiFi range extender can automatically choose high-quality band for better performance and speed up to 1167Mbps
Full signal coverage: this WiFi repeater extends WiFi coverage 360 degree by up to 1292 sq ft with reliable data transmission rate
Easy setup: within 8 seconds this WiFi signal booster can easily expand the wireless coverage by press the WPS button
Compatible with 99% router: the wifi repeater has been tested and it is compatible with 99% routers in the market
Easily find the perfect setup location: smart signal indicator helps you to find the best location for this range extender, it can help you get rid of testing instantly

Product features

1292 sq. Ft 360 Degree Full Signal Coverage

How to set up access point mode in wifi extender with ethernet port

1.Power on, connect to wifi router with an ethernet cable.

2.Go through setup procedure by using website UI.

3.When it prompts you to set a password, click mode in the menu. Change the mode to be an access point.

Signal indicator helps you find the best extending location

The wireless network extender wifi signal light with different color means in this distance whether the internet repeater wifi signal is good or not, when the light is blue means it has the best connected status. So you can judge by the color of the indicator light.

WPS One Button Connection with wifi boosters that plug into the wall

This internet repeater can easily expand the wireless coverage by press the WPS button on your original router and this router extender for wireless internet only takes a few seconds. Very easy to set up.

rockspace AC1200 wifi booster and signal amplifier

This rockspace ac1200 wi-fi range extender offers up to 300Mbps for 2.4GHz and 867Mbps for 5GHz. Totally 1167Mbps is available for gaming, TV, ps4.

NOTE: A wireless booster range extender doesn't speed up the original Wifi, it extends the signal range.

How to Relocate Your rockspace Wifi Range Extender

To find the best extend location, you can use your cellphone or judge by the color of the indicator light to find a place where the original wifi signal (from your router) is good and in the middle between your router and the farthest place you want to extend.

And please avoid putting the wireless booster range extender wifi near bluetooth devices and large electrical appliances such as microwave oven or refrigerator. The wifi signal could be interfered easily by these.

Garden

Enjoy full WiFi signal in the garden.

Garage

Enjoy full WiFi signal in the garage.

Security Camera

Your security camera will performe better with full WiFi signal.

Bedroom

Enjoy full WiFi signal in the bedroom.

TP-Link N300 WiFi Extender(TL-WA855RE)-Covers Up to 800 Sq.ft, WiFi Range Extender Supports up to 300Mbps Speed, Wireless Signal Booster and Access Point for Home, Single Band 2.4Ghz Only

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Despite its compact size, it may be hard to ignore the TL-WA855RE due to the truly impressive way that it projects WiFi access into the areas of your home that your standard router simply cannot reach. The TL-WA855RE WiFi booster supports wireless speeds of up to 300Mbps and keeps all of your favorite devices running as fast as possible.

Extend Wi-Fi Coverage - Boost Internet Wi-Fi Coverage up to 800 Square feet - Compatible with any Wi-Fi Router, Gateway, Access Point
Eliminate Wi-Fi Dead Zones - Enjoy Lag-Free connection to any type of devices, including wired devices via Ethernet Port
Stay connected - Expand Wi-Fi coverage for your Smart Phones, Smart TV, Fire Stick, Google Chromecast, Web Browsing, Alexa Echo, Ring and more
Easy Set Up - Two simple taps and you are ready to connect, smart indicator light helps to install in best optimal location
Single Band 2.4GHz - Two external Antennas with MIMO technology for improved range versus standard range extenders
TP-Link is the world's #1 provider of consumer Wi-Fi for 7 consecutive years according to IDC Q2 2018 report
All Wi-Fi extenders are designed to increase or improve Wi-Fi coverage, not to directly increase speed. In some cases improving signal reliability can affect overall throughput.
If you Experience any trouble during or after set up, please contact us. TP-Link offers a 2 year warranty and Free 24/7 technical support

Product features

Expand WiFi and Connect Further

The TL-WA855RE range extender expands your router's signal to provide strong and stable WiFi to your home. Watch movies, stream music and listen to your favorite podcasts without worrying about dead zones or spotty signals.

The TL-WA855RE works best with routers that support N300 WiFi and above.

Designed for your Home

The TL-WA855RE features a sleek and compact design that blends in seamlessy with your walls and decor. Unlike other clunky range extenders, the TL-WA855RE range extender is sure to compliment any aesthetic.

TP-Link N300 Wireless Extender, Wi-Fi Router (TL-WR841N) - 2 x 5dBi High Power Antennas, Supports Access Point, WISP, Up to 300Mbps

TP-Link

Based on 49 reviews Check latest price

Product description

300Mbps Wireless N Router TL-WR841N is a combined wired/wireless network connection device designed specifically for small business and home office networking requirements. TL-WR841N’s exceptional and advanced wireless performance make it ideal for streaming HD video, making VoIP and online gaming. Also, WPS button on the sleek and fashionable exterior ensures WPA2 encryptions, preventing the network from outside intrusions.

Wireless N speed up to 300 Mbps ideal applications for video streaming, online gaming VoIP, web browsing and multi tasking
Two 5dBi antennas greatly increase the wireless robustness and stability. Easy Setup Assistant provides quick & hassle free installation
System requirements is internet explorer 11, firefox 12.0, chrome 20.0, safari 4.0 or other, java enabled browser or cable or DSL modem. Signal rate for 11n up to 300 mbps dynamic, 11g up to 54 mbps dynamic and 11b up to 1 mbps dynamic
Features parental control function managing the internet access of children or employee's computer
IP based bandwidth control allows administrators to determine how much bandwidth is allotted to each PC and internet devices
Fast ethernet ports(10/100 Mbps) allow you to directly connect your wired devices
Backward compatible with 802.11b/g products. TP LINK Live 24/7 Technical Support

Product features

Simple, Reliable WiFi

Experience N300 WiFi speeds to watch Youtube videos, stream music, and check email from the comfort of your couch.

Stable and Far-Reaching

No matter where you are, hop onto stable far-reaching WiFi for reliable connections everywhere in your home.

WiFi Access Controls

Create a safe and controlled browsing experience for your kids by setting internet access schedules and blocking inappropriate sites. You can also create a separate guest network with its own password to conveniently share WiFi with visitors.