Even the Top Wi-Fi Extender Isn’t Worth Your Time

Many people struggle with weak Wi-Fi signals in certain areas of their homes, making them consider buying a Wi-Fi extender. However, achieving the best performance with these devices can be tricky for several reasons.

Firstly, Wi-Fi extenders typically plug directly into power outlets. This design limits where you can place them, which can affect how well they work in boosting your internet speed. Additionally, these extenders can be quite large and may block other outlets nearby, making them less convenient for use in tight spaces.

Cost is another important factor. While cheaper Wi-Fi extenders often don’t work well and aren’t worth the investment, the better-quality extenders can be quite expensive compared to the price of modern routers and mesh systems, which are now more affordable.

If you’re looking for improved Wi-Fi coverage, consider some alternatives to extenders. One of the simplest solutions is to move your current router. Routers typically send out signals in a circular pattern, so placing your router in a central location in your home and elevating it can significantly improve coverage. If moving the router isn’t an option, try adjusting its position or height to see if that helps. A quick way to check if your changes are effective is to run a speed test on your device before and after making adjustments.

Running Ethernet cables throughout your home is another effective strategy for achieving a strong internet connection. This method, while potentially disruptive, provides the most reliable internet speed since the connection to your main router will be directly wired. If you have an older router or extenders lying around, these can be repurposed as additional access points if run through an Ethernet connection. Mesh systems benefit greatly from being wired as well, improving overall performance.

Consider upgrading your router, especially if you are still using the one provided by your internet service provider or an older model. Newer routers, particularly those that support Wi-Fi 6, can offer faster speeds and better coverage. Investing around $100 in a good quality router can often provide better results than relying on an extender.

Another option is to invest in a mesh Wi-Fi system. While these may be slightly pricier, they are becoming more budget-friendly and offer an efficient way to extend your Wi-Fi coverage. A mesh system consists of a primary router and one or more satellite nodes placed around your home. These systems are easy to set up and can be expanded over time by adding more nodes. Unlike extenders, mesh systems create a single, seamless network which allows for smoother connections as you move around your house. Even though there is a slight speed drop between the main router and the nodes, it’s generally less noticeable than with extenders.

In certain situations, purchasing a Wi-Fi extender can still make sense, particularly if you have a specific area in your home with poor connectivity. For instance, if your smart TV often buffers while trying to stream movies, an extender could help alleviate this issue. However, keep in mind that they are not ideal for tasks that require stable upload speeds or low latency, such as online gaming or video conferencing.

When choosing a Wi-Fi extender, ensure it matches your router’s features for the best results. For instance, if you have a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router, opt for a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 extender. For easier setup, it’s usually best to buy an extender from the same brand as your router. Some extenders can also offer mesh-like features when combined with compatible routers, although dedicated mesh systems typically provide superior performance.