How to Extend WiFi Range and Get Rid of Dead Zones + The Top Reviewed Extenders





These days, almost every person I know complains about poor WiFi connection. Whether it’s your own apartment, your hotel room, or a public space such as an office or a mall, there are blind spots and dead zones almost everywhere. 


Often, it’s the technical incompetence on the part of your service provider that causes this problem. In other cases, there may be some issues in your device that you need to address. 


Here, we’ll walk you through the possible reasons you may want to extend WiFi range. You’ll learn about the different types of WiFi range extenders, and discover the best WiFi range extender you can get to cover those dead zones. 


From some common, no-fail fixes to a range of WiFi boosters, here’s everything to teach you how to extend WiFi range at home!


Contents
How Do WiFi Range Extenders Work?
For Dead Zones With Ethernet: Wireless Access Point
For Dead Zones in a WiFi Router: Powerline Adapter or Wireless Repeater
For Poor or Large Infrastructure: WiFi Mesh Network
Best WiFi Range Extenders at a Glance
Best WiFi Range Extender Full Reviews
1. TP-Link RE505X – Best Universal Compatibility
2. TP-Link RE220 – Best Buy on a Budget
3. D-Link DAP-X1870 – Highest Speed and Bandwidth Options
4. NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 – Best for Verizon FiOS WiFi
5. BrosTrend WiFi Range Extender – Favorite for Multiple Working Modes
6. NETGEAR Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home Mesh WiFi System – Top Speed Specs
7. Google Nest WiFi – Easiest to Use
8. TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender – Best Multipurpose Extender
9. Nova AC1200 Whole Home Mesh WiFi System – Most Effective Beamforming Technology
10. Amped Wireless AC1750 WiFi Range Extender (RE1750A) – Highest Coverage Without Speed Loss
FAQ Section
What’s the Difference Between a WiFi Booster/Extender/Repeater?
Do WiFi Extenders Really Work?
Do WiFi Extenders Slow Down My Internet Speed?
What Are Some Common WiFi Signal Issues?
How to Fix WiFi Dead Zones?
Will a WiFi Booster Work with an Xbox, PS4, or Other Gaming Systems?
Best Selling Top Range WiFi Extenders


How Do WiFi Range Extenders Work?


Simply put, a WiFi range extender catches signals from your WiFi router and amplifies, multiplies, and extends those signals further ahead of the existing coverage area. 


However, the exact manner in which your WiFi extender works depends on the type of booster, repeater, or extender you use. 


So, to figure out how to extend the range of your home WiFi network, you first have to pick the type of WiFi signal booster that’s appropriate for your router.


For Dead Zones With Ethernet: Wireless Access Point


You may install a wireless access point when you have an Ethernet cable connection at your house. This type of wireless connection repeater is integrated as a hardwired system and works only in connection with Ethernet access.


For Dead Zones in a WiFi Router: Powerline Adapter or Wireless Repeater


If you do not use Ethernet for Internet connection, you need to understand how to extend WiFi range using a powerline adapter. A powerline adapter is attached to the main electrical supply wires of your house. This adapter fills the role of an Ethernet cable and allows you to use a WiFi access point. 


However, if you want to figure out how to extend WiFi router range, it’s pretty simple. You can get a wireless repeater, and integrate it into your existing router arrangement. This will act as a second or third router, depending on the number of repeaters you use for a certain area.


For Poor or Large Infrastructure: WiFi Mesh Network


Sometimes, the way your house is built also has a role in degrading the WiFi quality in your house. So while you’re trying to figure out how to extend Verizon FiOS WiFi range, you should also figure out if your infrastructure is problematic. 


With tough building material and large spaces, you may find that a WiFi mesh network is an ideal solution for extending and improving WiFi service in your house.


Best WiFi Range Extenders at a Glance








OUR TOP PICK


The 
TP-Link RE505X
 makes a perfect buy for all your Internet-dependent devices, whether you’re a noob or a professional in the tech world. It’s easy to install, use, and understand and offers stealthy performance with minimal issues whatsoever.




 


View on Amazon






Best Universal Compatibility – TP-Link RE505X
Best Buy on a Budget – TP-Link RE220
Highest Speed and Bandwidth Options – D-Link DAP-X1870
Best for Verizon FiOS WiFi – NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 
Favorite for Multiple Working Modes – BrosTrend WiFi Range Extender
Top-Speed Specs – NETGEAR Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home Mesh WiFi System
Easiest to Use – Google Nest WiFi
Best Multipurpose Extender – TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender
Most Effective Beamforming Technology – Nova AC1200 Whole Home Mesh WiFi System
Highest Coverage Without Speed Loss – Amped Wireless AC1750 WiFi Range Extender (RE1750A)










#


Preview


Product


Rating


Price












1














TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450), PCMag Editor's Choice, Up to 1750Mbps, Dual...                    






No ratings yet






$59.99
 




View on Amazon
 






2














NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX2800 - Coverage up to 1200 sq.ft. and 20 Devices, WiFi...                    












$39.99
 




View on Amazon
 






3














TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender(RE650), Up to 2600Mbps, Dual Band WiFi Range Extender,...                    






No ratings yet






$87.21
 




View on Amazon
 






4














NETGEAR EX7000-100NAR Nighthawk AC1900 Desktop WiFi Range Extender                    












$54.95
 




View on Amazon
 






5














Netgear WN2500RP-100NAS N600 Desktop WiFi Range Extender (WN2500RP)                    












$29.99
 




View on Amazon
 






6














NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX3700 - Coverage Up to 1000 Sq Ft and 15 Devices with...                    












$43.00
 




View on Amazon
 






7














WiFi Extender Signal Booster | 2023 Release Up to 74% Faster | Broader Coverage Than...                    












$29.99
 




View on Amazon
 






8














TP-Link WiFi Extender with Ethernet Port, Dual Band 5GHz/2.4GHz , Up to 44% more...                    






No ratings yet






$19.99
 




View on Amazon
 






9














2023 WiFi Extender Signal Booster for Home - up to 9956 sq.ft Coverage - Long Range...                    












$59.75
 




View on Amazon
 






10














WiFi Extender 1200Mbps, WiFi Range Extender Signal Booster up to 12880sq.ft, WiFi...                    












$39.99
 




View on Amazon
 










Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Best WiFi Range Extender Full Reviews


WiFi range extension plays an important role in your experience with online interaction. From playing games to helping you set your dentist appointments, your WiFi system brings a lot to the table. Naturally, a spotty signal pattern can slow things down terribly. 


Therefore, you have to keep your eyes wide open when checking out the specs of any extender device you come across. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with the best of extenders right here. 


From their coverage area to pricing ranges, here’s everything you need to know to find the best WiFi range extender for your house:


Looking for more information on Wifi Boosters or Extenders? Check out our other articles:





Best Wifi Extender for Fios


Best Long Range Wifi Extenders 


Best Wifi Boosters for Laptop


Do Wifi Boosters Work?


Best PS4 Wifi Boosters


Best Wifi Extender for Spectrum Internet


Best Wifi Boosters for RVs






1. 
TP-Link RE505X
 – Best Universal Compatibility


Type: 
WiFi 6 Range Extender | 
Coverage Area:
 1500 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit:
 25 devices | 
Speed setting
: Dual band | 
Speed: 
1.5 Gbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 Yes






Sale












$33.92




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








The TP-Link RE505X extender comes with two powerful antennas to further the coverage area of your WiFi. While this blankets all those dead zones in your house, the RE505X extender also covers those parts where your router’s coverage doesn’t reach. 


The RE505X comes as a dual-band device, with a speed of 300 Mbps at 2.4 GHz and a speed of 1200 Mbps at 5 GHz. The extender is also fairly easy to use. It requires you to install the TP-Link application on your iOS or Android device. 


The TP-Link R505X can also be turned into a OneMesh router system for larger infrastructures. You can get a standard TP-Link router for this purpose and get even stronger connections at even the farthest and trickiest corners of your house.


 
 
Pros
 




 Allows multiple devices to stream, upload, and download high-quality multimedia simultaneously


 Easy to set up and operate from a single app


 Is universally compatible with several devices




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Coverage area is slightly lesser than counterparts


 OneMesh option can be pretty expensive




 
 
 


2. 
TP-Link RE220
 – Best Buy on a Budget


Type: 
AC750 WiFi Range Extender | 
Coverage Area:
 1200 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit:
 20 devices | 
Speed Setting: 
Dual band | 
Speed Limit:
 750 Mbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 Yes






Sale












$19.99




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








This TP-Link RE220 WiFi range extender delivers some of the most powerful results with its low-end price tag. Unlike many other options, you can get a decent boosted coverage at a space of 1200 sq. ft., which may be ideal for those who live in smaller homes that have structural anomalies. 


The AC750 WiFi extender runs on two frequencies: a 2.4 GHz at 300 Mbps and a 5 GHz at 433 Mbps. The RE220 Extender can also be connected with Ethernet cables. This way, this compatibility with routers and Ethernet services makes this product even more economically viable. 


You can use the TP-Link RE220 using Web UI controls as well as the Tether app. This way, the extender allows you to manage operational settings from any device, anywhere, and at any time. 


All things considered, this RE220 Extender from TP-Link is a pretty stellar investment for those who suffer from poor Internet services but can’t spare much for a full-fledged service upgrade!


 
 
Pros
 




 High-quality product and service at the lower end of the spectrum


 Sleek design that’s adjustable anywhere


 One-button setup allows you to shift between different modes quite easily




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Smaller coverage area, device limit, and speed specs


 The router might face noticeable speed loss in case you use both speed bands




 
 
 


3. 
D-Link DAP-X1870
 – Highest Speed and Bandwidth Options


Type: 
Wi-Fi Mesh Repeater | 
Coverage Area: 
N/A | 
Device Limit:
 N/A | 
Speed Setting:
 Dual band | 
Speed Limit:
 1.8 Gbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 Yes






Sale












$59.99




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








While getting access and eliminating dead zones in your WiFi coverage is a big achievement, replacing them with high-speed coverage sounds even more exciting. Luckily, the D-Link DAP-X1870 makes that possible and easily doable for you. 


With its WiFi 6 range extension technology, the D-Link extender can offer up to 38% faster speeds at 5G Hz and up to 90% faster at 2.4 GHz. This means exceptionally fast streaming from multiple devices at multiple places – with minimal buffering!


The D-Link DAP-X1870 has a pretty easy setup and usage, too. You can control the settings and observe performance with a single tap using the D-Link mobile app for Android and iOS. 


Not only this, but the extender also incorporates a variety of cutting-edge technologies to improve your router experience, such as OFDMA, BSS coloring, as well as battery-saving options for your devices. 


 
 
Pros
 




 Reduces networking congestion in your Internet service


 Can connect to any access point, router, or ISP gateway around the house as well as outdoors


 Improved speeds save on your screen time and the device’s energy consumption




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Leans a little toward the pricier side of extenders




 
 
 


4. 
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300
 – Best for Verizon FiOS WiFi


Type:
 Mesh Range Extender, Signal Booster, and Repeater | 
Coverage Area: 
2,300 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit:
 40 devices |
 Speed Setting: 
Dual band | 
Speed Limit:
 2200 Mbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 N/A






Sale












$137.00




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








As far as I’ve observed, NETGEAR services can also be pretty promising when it comes to extending your WiFi range or improving router signals. If you’re a Verizon FiOS user and want your WiFi signals to expand over a larger territory, the NETGEAR EX7300 Extender can be a pretty wholesome investment. 


Another impressive point which many of you would love is that this mesh extender can connect with as many as forty devices! Pair up this feature with NETGEAR’s smart roaming technology, and you get a handful of amazing access points all over the house. 


However, you can experience some speed loss if there’s too many devices connected. In that case, you may want to consider learning how to extend WiFi range with another router.


So, the next time it’s the holiday season and your house is swarming with guests, you won’t have to keep struggling for WiFi access!


 
 
Pros
 




 Smart and effortless roaming in the entire coverage area


 Mesh networking makes it easier to stream and browse from any access point




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 You may face some speed loss and buffering issues when the network is crowded


 NETGEAR’s customer services and support can be a bit disappointing




 
 
 


5. 
BrosTrend WiFi Range Extender
 – Favorite for Multiple Working Modes


Type:
 Extender, Access Point, and Client Bridge | 
Coverage Area: 
1,200 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit:
 20 devices | 
Speed Setting:
 Dual band | 
Speed Limit: 
1,267 Mbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 N/A






Sale












$39.99




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








Suppose you’re looking for a simple, no-nonsense extender. In that case, this BrosTrend WiFi range extender is surely one of the most promising and trustworthy options. Starting with its functional compatibility, the BrosTrend WiFi extender can work with routers, Ethernet cables, and powerline adapters. 


So, whether you have a router-assisted Internet connection or whether your Internet service is a blend of multiple hardware, this extender can work in literally any setting. 


Moreover, it’s also easy to set up, use, and switch between modes, which is ideal for those who aren’t exactly tech-savvy. The 867 Mbps speed operates at 5 GHz, while the 400 Mbps speed works at 2.4 GHz, which gives you a decent and seamless connectivity all over the house. 


 
 
Pros
 




 Boosts and extends signals through poor building models effortlessly


 Multiple modes make the device affordable for you




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Coverage area isn’t as high as some of the other options




 
 
 


6. 
NETGEAR Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home Mesh WiFi System
 – Top Speed Specs


Type: 
Mesh Wi-Fi router and satellite set | 
Coverage Area: 
5,000 sq. ft. |
 Device Limit:
 25 devices | 
Speed Setting: 
Tri-band | 
Speed Limit:
 3 Gbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility: 
N/A






Sale












$139.99




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








Another NETGEAR extender that caught my eye is the Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home WiFi system. It’s the complete kit for those who have a constant need for extreme WiFi speeds over large areas, both indoors and outdoors and even up in the attic and down in the basement! 


It’s compatible with ISP gateways, access points, Ethernet cords, and satellite cable lines. The tri-band system allows easy streaming and eliminates all buffering backlog without you even noticing.


 
 
Pros
 




 Excellent coverage and speed


 Four gigabit ports included




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Incredibly expensive


 Can be hard to operate




 
 
 


7. 
Google Nest WiFi
 – Easiest to Use


Type: 
Mesh Wi-Fi System | 
Coverage Area:
 2,200 sq. ft. |
 Device Limit: 
200 devices | 
Speed Setting:
 Dual band | 
Speed Limit: 
2.2 Gbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 n/a.






Sale












$68.00




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








This Google Nest WiFi system has made it as my top pick on this list for quite a few reasons. First, just like all other Google technology, the Nest is also designed to make life easier and smoother for its users. It has a sleek, compact, and sustainable design which can easily be placed anywhere in your home. 


A single Google Nest covers up to 2,200 sq. ft. You can simply add more Nest to the junction if you want to multiply the coverage area. 


Second, the device has Bluetooth connectivity and gets in sync with other Google devices to minimize connection hassles on your part, making it easier to stream all the data you want within seconds!




 
 
Pros
 




 Easy and effective coverage method


 Works with other Google devices and applications to create a smart WiFi environment




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Investment costs can go up pretty quickly if you want a second or a third router




 
 
 


8. 
TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Range Extender
 – Best Multipurpose Extender


Type: 
WiFi range extender | 
Coverage Area:
 N/A | 
Device Limit:
 N/A | 
Speed Setting: 
Dual-band RE650 | 
Speed Limit:
 2,200 Mbps | 
OneMesh Compatibility:
 N/A






Sale












$87.21




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








If you’re looking for an extender that can easily handle multiple devices and connectivity modes, this AC2600 Extender from TP-Link is one of the best models to look into.


The AC2600 has a RE650 dual-band connection setting and a quad antenna design which gives ultimate and superior data coverage and access all over the house. 


It’s also compatible with all sorts of access points, routers, and gateways, so you won’t have to invest separately for different types of extensions. Its beamforming technology connects with nearby devices and sends directed signal beams to ensure maximum data transfer speed.




 
 
Pros
 




 Stronger beam for stronger coverage


 Easy to operate




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Higher potential for speed loss in case of simultaneous streaming




 
 
 


9. 
Nova AC1200 Whole Home Mesh WiFi System
 – Most Effective Beamforming Technology


Type: 
Whole-home WiFi system | 
Coverage Area: 
3,500 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit: 
60 devices | 
Speed Setting:
 Dual band | 
Speed Limit: 
N/A | 
OneMesh Compatibility: 
Yes




















View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








This Nova AC1200 Home WiFi system is your complete package for revamping your home’s WiFi service. The pack contains three mesh nodes, power line adapters, a user’s manual, and an Ethernet cable. The Tenda Nova AC1200 is ideal for large homes and those that incorporate an array of different building materials. 


With the complete set, you can get seamless, undisturbed coverage in your porch, your washroom, as well as the top floor in multistory houses. Not only this, but the beamforming technology of this mesh system is also pretty impressive and sends strong, focused signals exactly where you need them.


Although this isn’t likely to happen, sometimes data transfer speeds can be low. You can fix this by learning how to set up a second router to extend WiFi range. 


 
 
Pros
 




 Smart design and arrangement


 Suitable for large homes




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 Data transfer speeds might be pretty low




 
 
 


10. 
Amped Wireless AC1750 WiFi Range Extender (RE1750A)
 – Highest Coverage Without Speed Loss


Type:
 Wireless Range Extender | 
Coverage Area: 
12,000 sq. ft. | 
Device Limit:
 N/A | 
Speed Setting:
 Dual band | 
Speed Limit:
 AC 1750 | 
OneMesh Compatibility: 
N/A
















$36.48




View on Amazon


Last update on 2023-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API








The Amped Wireless AC1750 WiFi extender is another one of my favorites from this list. It comes with three external antennas and has five gigabit ports, an excellent feature for large, crowded homes with numerous Internet-hungry devices. 


With its large coverage capacity and the ability to assist multiple devices at the same time, you can always browse videos, play games, and stream Smart TV from any point, indoors as well as outdoors. 


The AC1750 speed technology ensures that both the 5 GHz and the 2.4 GHz frequencies run smoothly at any access point, router, or ISP gateway.




 
 
Pros
 




 Highest coverage area


 AC1750 ensures maximized speed at any given time




 
 
 
 
Cons
 




 One of the more expensive options




 
 
 


FAQ Section


If you’re still a bit confused on how to extend WiFi range, here are some commonly asked questions about the devices.


What’s the Difference Between a WiFi Booster/Extender/Repeater?


The tech world comes up with new and creative terminology every day. This is why many people feel baffled about the exact difference between a WiFi booster, extender, and repeater. 


Since the technical lines of difference among these are blurred, it’s better to understand these differences from a literal, logical perspective. 


A booster is a device that works to speed up the signals it receives from the router.
An extender is a device that extends the coverage area or the spread of the router’s original signals.
A repeater is a device that absorbs the signals, then replicates them to reinforce signal strength.


Do WiFi Extenders Really Work?


WiFi extenders do work
 when there’s a genuine need for extension in coverage capacity or speed limit. However, you have to properly understand the function of a standard extender to figure out whether you need one or whether there’s something wrong with your current extender. 


A WiFi extender is supposed to lend a helping hand to your actual Internet router or cable line, for example, when you want to see how to extend WiFi range outdoors. That means that your Internet service is functioning well, but you still need a stronger performance, and this is where an extender comes in. 


However, if your device itself has issues with connection, speed, etc., even the best extenders won’t be of much use. In other words, extenders simply enhance what’s already there, but they cannot create faster Internet access on their own.


Do WiFi Extenders Slow Down My Internet Speed?


The primary function of WiFi extenders is to increase the speed and strength of your router, not to slow them down. 


When figuring out how to extend WiFi range without losing speed, this misconception demands proper clarification. Basically, the job of an extender is to make enhancements to the speed that’s already there. 


However, fluctuations in the router’s own performance put more burden on the extender since it has to make up for the lack of strong signals and proper speed. This is why the extender may deliver a subpar performance in some cases, giving the impression that it’s actually slowing down your WiFi.


What Are Some Common WiFi Signal Issues?


There’s a list of instances where my WiFi signals are so weak it almost drives me mad. However, these are actually pretty common, so here’s a brief breakdown of the causes and solutions for WiFi signal issues.


Low Speed 


Cause: Overcrowding, service outage, and voltage fluctuation
Solution: Restarting the WiFi system, professional tech support, and electrical checkups


Bandwidth Problems


Cause: Increased number of connected devices and peak hour data consumption
Solution: Disconnects devices that aren’t using the WiFi service


Hardware Problems


Cause: Poor hardware placement, outdated parts, and old software versions.
Solution: Try relocating your router and extender elsewhere, and ask your ISP for a hardware and software upgrade.


How to Fix WiFi Dead Zones?


Although WiFi extenders are known to erase dead zones quite swiftly, there are some other measures that you can adopt to reinforce WiFi in weaker coverage spots, such as the following:


Shift your router to an open space where it can direct beams efficiently.
Place boosters near areas that have a tricky architecture or tough-grade building material.
Use Ethernet or hardwired cables to get access points in places where wireless performance isn’t up to the mark.


Will a WiFi Booster Work with an Xbox, PS4, or Other Gaming Systems?


Yes, WiFi boosters can work with an Xbox, PlayStation 4, and similar gaming consoles. However, you may need a pretty powerful booster to make sure that your gaming doesn’t take up much of the data transfer, leaving other devices in those dreadful dead zones. In this case, you’d have to look for a 
PS4 booster
 that ensures powerful coverage to such high-demand systems. In other cases, you can also get a separate booster to work for only your gaming system.


Best Selling Top Range WiFi Extenders










#


Preview


Product


Rating


Price












1














TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Extender (RE450), PCMag Editor's Choice, Up to 1750Mbps, Dual...                    






No ratings yet






$59.99
 




View on Amazon
 






2














NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX2800 - Coverage up to 1200 sq.ft. and 20 Devices, WiFi...                    












$39.99
 




View on Amazon
 






3














TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender(RE650), Up to 2600Mbps, Dual Band WiFi Range Extender,...                    






No ratings yet






$87.21
 




View on Amazon
 






4














NETGEAR EX7000-100NAR Nighthawk AC1900 Desktop WiFi Range Extender                    












$54.95
 




View on Amazon
 






5














Netgear WN2500RP-100NAS N600 Desktop WiFi Range Extender (WN2500RP)                    












$29.99
 




View on Amazon
 










Last update on 2023-05-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API