Name: Tremplin Numérique
Price range: $$$

best Wi-Fi range extenders — Netgear, TP-Link

Do you have a Wi-Fi router that is struggling to reach every corner of the house, office, garage, or yard? If so, you may need a range extender. A mesh system might solve the problem, but it requires replacing your entire network. Instead, get a Wi-Fi range extender to enhance the existing setup you already have, that way you can work or stream Netflix from any room in the house.

In this section:

What to look for in a Wi-Fi range extender

As the name suggests, a range extender picks up your router's Wi-Fi signal, then uses extra power and more antennas to amplify the signal even more. Typically, the terms “Wi-Fi Extender,” “Amplifier,” and “Extender” all mean the same thing, with the Extension being the most common name. Basically, it's a mini-router that you can strategically plug into the wall where you need it most, and then reap the benefits.

A Wi-Fi range extender is different from a mesh Wi-Fi system, which is a slightly newer technology. With an extender, instead of buying brand new equipment, you are simply adding a boost to your current home internet setup.

Speed and specifications: When looking for a range extender, you'll want to pick something that matches (or exceeds) your current Wi-Fi router. If you have a dual-band AC1200 router, obtain at least one dual-band AC1200 repeater. This way the repeater does not interfere with the system any more than it should. Or, if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router, get a Wi-Fi 6 extender.
Vary: Typically, extenders don't deliver on their promises, but you'll still want to pay attention to the suggested range increase. When he says it will cover an area of 2000 square meters. home, don't expect a miracle, but definitely get an extension cord that has enough reach for your situation.
Price: Finally, choose something that will meet your needs without being too expensive. If you are planning on spending too much on a repeater, you can also upgrade to a Whole Home Mesh setup.

Best overall ranking: Netgear Nighthawk X4

The Netgear Nighthawk X4 (EX7300) is the best Wi-Fi range extender for several reasons, although it is a bit pricey. It is one of the fastest plug-in extenders that offers stable AC2200 speeds, supports MU-MIMO technology to stream to multiple devices in your home, has four internal antennas, covers over 2000 feet squares and has an Ethernet port to wire something. like a game console or PC.

We also like the X4's smart roaming feature. Most range extenders don't use the same Wi-Fi network name as what's already in your house and instead have an “Ext” at the end. As a result, the devices will disconnect from your main router and connect to the extender when you move around your home. With the Nighthawk X4, that doesn't happen. It's all a fast, smooth and seamless experience.

Most future proof: TP-Link AX1500

Another solid option and a great Wi-Fi range extender that is a bit more future proof is the TP-Link AX1500. This offers great range, two external antennas, but more importantly, it has Wi-Fi 6. A lot of people still don't have Wi-Fi 6 routers, but they are becoming more and more common by the day. . Without delving into what makes Wi-Fi 6 great, just know that it's faster, spreads Wi-Fi signals farther, won't have as much interference, and performs better in crowded areas like apartments. .

The TP-Link AX1500 will extend the range of your home Wi-Fi to over 1500 square feet with fast and stable speeds, will work with new routers in the future, whether it is a TP- mesh router Link or any Wi-Fi 6 model.

Best budget: D-Link AC1200 Dual

If you just want to get a better Wi-Fi connection in a room in your house or garage and don't need the best or fastest option, consider the affordable D-Link AC1200. This is a solid dual-band (2,4 and 5 GHz) Wi-Fi range extender that offers decent speeds and coverage under $ 50. It supports AC1200 speeds, has two external antennas that you can aim for the best connection, and it still has an Ethernet port if you need it. It's a nice little booster, don't expect it to work upstairs and throughout the house.

Best bounty: Netgear Nighthawk X6

Finally, we wanted to recommend something a little over the top. It's a premium Wi-Fi range booster like no other for those who need the best. The Netgear Nighthawk X6 (EX7700) is a powerful tri-band Wi-Fi range extender featuring fast AC2200 speeds, fast lane technology, two Gigabit Ethernet ports and Netgear's smart roaming feature.

Smart roaming ensures that you only have one Wi-Fi name to search for and connect to, instead of also connecting to the extender. And with tri-band backhaul, the X6 uses one band to communicate with the main router, leaving the 2,4 and 5 GHz bands free for 4K video streaming, gaming and more from any area of the house. . This thing performs as good as it gets, but it comes with a price tag to match.