Don't you just hate it when you only have a limited area in your house or office where you have a Wi-Fi connection? Fortunately, Wi-Fi extenders offer a brilliant solution to this problem! They are affordable, wireless, and extremely easy to set up!
But with so many options available online on e-commerce sites like Shopee and Lazada, it can be challenging to choose one. To help you out, we have curated a list of the 10 best Wi-Fi extenders from brands like TP-Link, Xiaomi, and Netgear. We even have a detailed buying guide for you!
Quick List - Top Wi-Fi Extenders
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
You may wonder why sometimes it takes forever for a photo or a video to load, even if you're connected to the Wi-Fi. It might be because of low signal strength or not enough coverage. To solve that, you need a Wi-Fi repeater or an extender. These two are frequently interchanged because they both can extend the Wi-Fi range but note that they are different devices.
Compared to a repeater, a Wi-Fi extender delivers stronger signals in dead spots or areas that are hard to reach. It retains the signal strength of the router, so if originally you have a strong internet connection, the same connection will be extended to other areas.
If your router is placed on the first floor of your house, there are cases wherein Wi-Fi signal can only cover rooms on the first floor and the room on the second floor adjacent to where the router is placed. But if you install an extender, all the rooms on the second floor will also get the same connection strength and speed as the first floor.
A Wi-Fi repeater picks up the signal from the existing router and then transmits it to other devices. In most cases, the repeater must be close to the router to pick up the signal properly. Because the further the repeater is from the device, the less signal it picks up and transmits.
Another difference with extenders is that Wi-Fi repeaters usually cannot penetrate through thick walls and floors. There are instances as well that other electronic devices may interfere with its signal.
Choosing the right Wi-Fi extender can significantly improve your internet experience. From spec selection to device compatibility and coverage area, the right Wi-Fi extender ensures seamless connectivity for work and entertainment. This guide will walk you through the key features and options, helping you find the best Wi-Fi extender that suits your needs and budget.
There are two types of extenders that determine the method of connection to the main router. The first type is a plug-in extender that is entirely wireless, and the second type is a desktop extender that requires a wired connection. Read on further to know more about these two types!
A plug-in extender is a wire-free device that is directly inserted into an outlet, making it convenient and easy to use. It also takes the least amount of space. And depending on the brand or model, it may also have an internal or external antenna.
A desktop extender looks just like your typical router with antennas and different ports for connecting devices such as game consoles, TVs, and more. By directly connecting your device via the ethernet port, it is ensured that you will get the maximum speed of your internet.
To get the maximum performance of your current Wi-Fi router, it is recommended that the extender you choose matches its specs so that it can properly work. For example, if your router's standard is 802.11ac, selecting an extender with the same standard would be best.
When in doubt, there are universal extenders that work with 802.11a/b/n/ac. These are extremely common, so you won't have a hard time looking for one. Another option is to select an extender from the same manufacturer of your router.
There are two frequency bands used by extenders: 2.5GHz and 5GHz. The main difference between these two is that an extender with a 2.4 GHz covers a large area with a slower internet speed, while an extender with 5 GHz covers a small area with a faster speed. If your extender supports dual-band, it could work simultaneously to get the optimal coverage and speed for your Wi-Fi.
Admit it or not, we are not all tech-savvy, and some of us just couldn't be bothered to go through a lengthy and complicated process of setting up a device. For a fast installation, there are devices that simply need the WPS button of the extender and the main router to be simultaneously pressed to be connected. On the other hand, some extenders come with software to be installed.
Wi-Fi routers are usually equipped with more than one antenna to allow a more extended coverage area. With Wi-Fi extenders, it is also essential to choose one with multiple antennas so you can eliminate as many dead zones as possible. An extender with three antennas should be sufficient enough.
However, aside from the number of antennas, you should also take their positioning into consideration. Make sure to align them in a way that each one addresses an axis (x, y, and z) for improved signal rate and range.
As mentioned earlier, a desktop extender is a type of Wi-Fi extender that allows you to connect your device to an ethernet port. This guarantees faster internet speed for your devices through a wired connection. If you're looking to buy a desktop extender, make sure to consider the number of ports you need for all your devices.
Wi-Fi extenders are highly vulnerable to security hacks. These attacks work by sending malicious pages to the device, which allows the hacker to take over the router and steal the owner's bandwidth. To prevent this from happening, pick out an extender with solid encryption, preferably an extender that is at least WPA2-PSK AES or WPA3 compatible.
Range extenders can be beneficial, but they can also take up a lot of your precious space. With that said, before you buy anything, make sure that you consider the size of your Wi-Fi extender. If you're working with tight spaces, then a plug-in type might be the best choice as it only takes up a small area around your outlet.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Wireless Standards | Dual Banded | Installation Process | Antennas | Ethernet Ports | Wireless Security | Dimensions | |||||
1 | TP-Link AX1800 Wi-Fi Range Extender|RE605X | ![]() | Seamless Wi-Fi 6 Coverage for Every Corner | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax (5 GHz), IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ax (2.4 GHz) | WPS Button, TP-Link Tether Mobile Application | 2 Antenna/s | 1 Port/s | 64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK | 2.9 × 1.8 × 4.9 inches | ||
2 | Wavlink Wifi 6 AX1800M|WL-WN573HX1 | ![]() | Reliable Outdoor WiFi Coverage, Rain or Shine | Outdoor Access Point | IEEE 802.11ax/ac/a/b/g/n | WPS Button, PoE (Power over Ethernet) | 4 x 8dBi Omnidirectional External Antennas | 1 Port/s | WPA2-PSK, WPA3/WPA2-MIX | 10.2 x 3.4 x 1.5 inches | ||
3 | Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Range Extender Pro|R03 | ![]() | Simple WiFi Boost for Every Corner | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11b/g/n | Mi Home app, WPS button | 2 Antennas | 0 Port/s | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK | 3.15 x 2.13 x 2.76 inches | ||
4 | ASUS TUF Gaming Dual Band WiFi 6 Gaming Router|AX4200 | ![]() | Powerful WiFi 6 Router for Smooth Gaming | Desktop Gaming Router | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, IPv4, IPv6 | WPS Button, ASUS Router App | 4 Antenna/s | 5 Ports | WPA2-PSK, WPA3, WPA2-Enterprise, WPS support | 9.1 x 6.1 x 2.6 inches | ||
5 | TP-Link Wi-Fi Repeater Range Extender|TL-WA855RE | ![]() | Extend Your WiFi Easily and Reliably | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11n/g/b | WPS Button, Web UI | 2 Antennas | 1 Port | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, 64/128/152-bit WEP | 3.15 x 3.06 x 3.04 inches | ||
6 | Mercusys ME30 Dual Band Wifi Repeater 5G|AC1200 | ![]() | Fast, Simple WiFi Boost for Every Home | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11a/n/ac (5 GHz), IEEE 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz) | WPS Button, MERCUSYS App | 2 Antenna/s | 1 Port/s | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK | 4.41 x 3.33 x 1.54 inches | ||
7 | NETGEAR Dual Band WiFi Range Extender|EX6120-100NAS | ![]() | Compact Dual-Band WiFi Range Extender | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | WPS Button, Web UI | 2 Antenna/s | 1 Port/s | WPA/WPA2-PSK, WEP | 2.17 x 2.64 x 1.54 inches | ||
8 | Mercusys Wi-Fi Range Extender|MW300RE | ![]() | Easy WiFi Boost With Strong 2.4 GHz Signal | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11b/g/n | WPS Button | 3 Antennas | 0 Ports | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK | 3.98 x 2.94 x 2.98 inches | ||
9 | Rock Space AC1200 Dual Band Wi-Fi Repeater|RSD0608 | ![]() | Dual-Band WiFi Boost for Seamless Coverage | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | WPS Button, Web Browser Setup | 2 Antenna/s | 1 Port/s | WPA/WPA2-PSK | 2.95 x 2.95 x 3.15 inches | ||
10 | NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender|EX3700-100NAS | ![]() | Compact Dual-Band WiFi Extender for Seamless Coverage | Plug Extender | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | WPS Button, Web UI | 2 Antenna/s | 1 Port/s | WPA/WPA2-PSK, WEP | 2.17 x 2.64 x 1.54 inches |
Users appreciate how this extender effectively eliminates Wi-Fi dead zones and improves connection stability throughout their homes. Many highlight the easy setup process and compatibility with various routers as major plus points. Some note that optimal placement is key to maximizing performance, as indicated by the signal light feature.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax (5 GHz), IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ax (2.4 GHz) |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, TP-Link Tether Mobile Application |
Antennas | 2 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | 64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK |
Dimensions | 2.9 × 1.8 × 4.9 inches |
Users appreciate the strong outdoor signal reach, making it ideal for extending WiFi to gardens and large properties. Many find the installation straightforward, but some note that optimal placement is crucial for optimal performance. A few users note that the PoE adapter should be kept indoors to avoid weather-related issues.
Type | Outdoor Access Point |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11ax/ac/a/b/g/n |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, PoE (Power over Ethernet) |
Antennas | 4 x 8dBi Omnidirectional External Antennas |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA2-PSK, WPA3/WPA2-MIX |
Dimensions | 10.2 x 3.4 x 1.5 inches |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users find this extender effective in eliminating WiFi dead zones around the house, especially in rooms or balconies far from the router. Many praise its straightforward setup process, but advise placing it carefully between the router and weak signal areas for best results. Some note that it works best on 2.4 GHz networks and may not support dual-band speeds.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11b/g/n |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | Mi Home app, WPS button |
Antennas | 2 Antennas |
Ethernet Ports | 0 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
Dimensions | 3.15 x 2.13 x 2.76 inches |
Users praise this router for its consistent low-latency gaming experience and strong WiFi coverage even in larger homes. Many highlight the easy setup and useful gaming features like Game Boost, though some suggest firmware updates could improve stability further. A few notes, the router’s size and design may require careful placement.
Type | Desktop Gaming Router |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, IPv4, IPv6 |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, ASUS Router App |
Antennas | 4 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 5 Ports |
Wireless Security | WPA2-PSK, WPA3, WPA2-Enterprise, WPS support |
Dimensions | 9.1 x 6.1 x 2.6 inches |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users find this extender effective at eliminating WiFi dead zones in homes and small offices, appreciating the clear LED guidance for placement. Many highlight its easy plug-and-play setup, but advise that performance depends on proximity to the main router. Some note it is best suited for 2.4 GHz networks and may not support faster dual-band speeds.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11n/g/b |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, Web UI |
Antennas | 2 Antennas |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port |
Wireless Security | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, 64/128/152-bit WEP |
Dimensions | 3.15 x 3.06 x 3.04 inches |
Users appreciate the reliable WiFi extension that covers hard-to-reach areas effectively, making it ideal for medium-sized homes. Many find the setup process straightforward and the LED signal indicator helpful for placement. Some mention it works best on 2.4 GHz networks and suggest positioning it carefully for optimal performance.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/n/ac (5 GHz), IEEE 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz) |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, MERCUSYS App |
Antennas | 2 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
Dimensions | 4.41 x 3.33 x 1.54 inches |
Users commend this extender for significantly improving WiFi coverage in homes, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Many find the setup process straightforward and appreciate the compact design that fits discreetly in outlets. Some note that performance depends on placement and recommend positioning it midway between router and the dead zones.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, Web UI |
Antennas | 2 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA/WPA2-PSK, WEP |
Dimensions | 2.17 x 2.64 x 1.54 inches |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users find this extender effective in eliminating WiFi dead zones around the home, praising its reliable signal boost and easy setup. Many appreciate the clear LED guidance for placement, but recommend positioning it where the original signal is still strong. Some note it is best suited for basic internet use rather than heavy streaming or gaming.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11b/g/n |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button |
Antennas | 3 Antennas |
Ethernet Ports | 0 Ports |
Wireless Security | WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK |
Dimensions | 3.98 x 2.94 x 2.98 inches |
Users praise this extender for effectively eliminating WiFi dead zones, especially in multi-story homes and townhouses. Many appreciate its compact design and straightforward setup process, though some mention limited customization options. Performance is generally reliable, but placement is crucial for best results.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, Web Browser Setup |
Antennas | 2 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA/WPA2-PSK |
Dimensions | 2.95 x 2.95 x 3.15 inches |
Users highlight this extender’s effectiveness in expanding WiFi coverage throughout their homes, praising its compact design and straightforward setup. Many appreciate the improved connection stability for streaming and gamin,g but note that placement is key for best performance. Some mention it works best within a moderate range from the main router.
Type | Plug Extender |
---|---|
Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Dual Banded | |
Installation Process | WPS Button, Web UI |
Antennas | 2 Antenna/s |
Ethernet Ports | 1 Port/s |
Wireless Security | WPA/WPA2-PSK, WEP |
Dimensions | 2.17 x 2.64 x 1.54 inches |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Wi-Fi extenders make our lives easier by giving us access to the internet even if we're far from the router. If you live in a spacious home with many dead zones, Wi-Fi extenders can be highly beneficial. The good news is, you can use as many as you need!
However, keep in mind that you should connect each extender to the main router and not to another extender. Also, both extenders should not broadcast the same SSID as the primary router. When this happens, the extenders will try to connect to each other and not to the router, so you'll end up with no internet connection.
Your Wi-Fi extender might be disconnecting from your device for several reasons. The first is improper placement of your range extender. You might also be connected to a different Wi-Fi network other than your primary router. The last reason is that your Wi-Fi extender's firmware could be outdated.
To deal with this problem, make sure that your extender is placed strategically. Make sure it's not too far from the main router as well as your device. Also, check if the extender is connected to the main router and not another extender. Finally, keep your Wi-Fi extender's firmware up-to-date and check if it's plugged into a stable power source.
A router reboot can do wonders for your internet connection. By rebooting it, you are basically clearing its short-term memory or cache so it can keep running smoothly. Also, rebooting is a good security practice for protecting your internet from malware attacks.
If you have a relatively new unit, it is good enough to reboot it once a month or even less frequently. On the other hand, if you have an old and outdated unit, then it might be best to reboot it weekly or even daily if you run into connectivity issues all the time.
Looking to upgrade your Wi-Fi router? Interested in purchasing a Wi-Fi USB adapter for your laptop? Here are some of our articles on those topics featuring a list of the top 10 products and a buying guide to help you decide!
Author:I. Honda
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: TP-Link|AX1800 Wi-Fi Range Extender|RE605X
No. 2: Wavlink|Wifi 6 AX1800M|WL-WN573HX1
No. 3: Xiaomi |Mi Wi-Fi Range Extender Pro|R03
No. 4: ASUS|TUF Gaming Dual Band WiFi 6 Gaming Router|AX4200
No. 5: TP-Link|Wi-Fi Repeater Range Extender|TL-WA855RE
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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