Best WiFi Extender: our pick of the best internet range extenders

As our homes become automated havens of smart devices and technology, the stress put on our WiFi connections is becoming more of a problem. This goes even more for those not using one of the best WiFi extenders, but who were already dealing with weak signals, random drop-outs, and dead zones across their homes, sometimes making a smart home more trouble than it's worth.

But the good news is that WiFi extenders have developed at the same rate as the rest of the home technology world, and so can offer support for your existing WiFi speeds. These range from the fastest mesh network extenders to cheaper plug-in boosters that can solve problems in badly-connected areas.

A good extender will make all of the difference when trying to set up common smart home devices including the best video doorbells, security cameras, and TVs. 

We've taken a look at the best WiFi extenders available right now, listing the best below. So whether you want a low-maintenance plug-in device or something a little more advanced, we have you (and your internet) covered.

The best WiFi extenders in 2023

The fastest Wi-Fi extender on our list, reaching up to 6 gigabits per second, the Netgear Nighthawk EAX80 AX600 Range Extender is our top pick for households that want to get more out of their existing internet connection. Working to create a mesh Wi-Fi from your current coverage, it's recommended for those experiencing dead spots.

The 8-stream Wi-Fi means it can handle more with its bandwidth, and it's especially useful if you want your internet to reach areas such as your yard or porch area where security cameras and smart doorbells may reside. You can also use an ethernet cable (you get four ports) to connect devices such as gaming consoles.

Of course, with lots of features comes a higher price tag, and we would recommend that only those with a large amount of ground to cover (or particularly patchy coverage) and serious internet usage spend this much. But if you want the best, then this is it.

A more traditional plug-in Wi-Fi extender, the TP-Link AX2600 Wi-Fi Range Extender is simpler than simple to set up. Just find an empty socket and you're in business. The quartet of antennas on the sides of the device then promises to extend your signal up to 14,000 sqft for better overall connections. 

Note though that, despite extending your Wi-Fi's reach the most of the examples on this list, speeds only reach about 800 megabits/s over 2.4GHz and 1,733 megabits/s over 5GHz. But the company promises this is more than enough to enjoy better 4K streaming and intense gaming.

There's also something called 'beamforming technology' that offers targeted Wi-FI signals to individual devices that need a connection. You can also connect your tech via ethernet cable for more reliable speeds.

A smart speaker and Wi-Fi extender in one package, the Netgear Orbi Voice AC2200 is designed to form part of a wider Orbi mesh Wi-Fi system but adds a ton of new features tied to Alexa on top. That makes it a fantastic option if you've been meaning to set up a smart home, or just want an extra multi-tasking speaker.

Tri-band Wi-Fi and 2,200mb/s speeds mean the Orbi Voice is more than capable of making your streaming, smart device usage, and gaming that must faster and more reliable. There is also FastLane3 technology to ensure that this doesn't slow down as more devices are added.

As for its performance as a speaker, it's mixed. The audio has been offered by Harman Kardon, while the smart features are from Amazon's Alexa. Despite these credentials, some reviewers claim audio quality is just 'okay'. But if that's not your priority, it shouldn't be much of a problem.

A cheaper option for those whose requirements are more limited, the Netgear Powerline 1000 Network Extender costs less than $100 and offers 1GB/s speeds along with wired and wireless connection options for different devices. It's also super simple to set up, with a plug-in design and no app.

It's nothing super-advanced but should suit anyone who simply wants a bit more juice from their Wi-Fi connection for streaming or browsing in dead spots. There's also an energy-efficient feature, as the extender automatically powers itself down when not in use.

The Linksys RE9000 AC3000 MU-MINO Wi-Fi Range Extender sneaks into our top five with fast 3GB/s speeds and promised extension of 10,000 sqft, all using 5GHz Tri-band Wi-Fi to extend the reach of your internet at home. Beamforming technology means each device gets a targeted signal, and you can connect an ethernet cable for reliable speeds.

The device works a little differently, assigning a single 5Ghz band to your existing router so that the other two bands are dedicated to your connected smart devices. The MU-MIMO technology also boosts speeds to devices being used at the same time (which is often the case in busy households).

How to choose the best WiFi extender for your home

What is the difference between Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6?

Throughout this guide, you will have noticed mention of Wi-Fi 4, 5, or 6. Put simply, these relate to the progression of wireless internet technology, with Wi-Fi 4 being the oldest and Wi-Fi 6 the newest, most up-to-date standard. As such, Wi-Fi 6 offers better speeds, less congested bandwidth, and more. In short, the more recent your Wi-Fi standard, the better.

What do Dual-band and Tri-band mean?

Much like with the different Wi-Fi standards, the difference between dual-band and tri-band is modernity. For most purposes, the dual bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz) are sufficient to connect a variety of internet-ready devices around the home, but those with more appliances, TVs and smart security devices may need a little more heft. For that reason, tri-band routers are more capable, but tend to cost a little more.