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Top 12 Wi-Fi extenders for router: Best WiFi Extenders for Spectrum in 2022
Criteria for choosing a spectrum WiFi signal booster for your router in 2022
Keep in mind! A Wi-Fi amplifier (repeater) is a device capable of receiving and retransmitting the router signal, increasing the coverage area.
When choosing a device, you should focus on a number of points:
Design.
All Wi-Fi amplifiers have a similar design – it is a small device in a case with the ability to connect to a socket.
A number of models are equipped with external antennas for more effective reception and transmission.
Frequency range.
Budget amplifiers usually operate on a single frequency of 2.4 GHz.
Advanced models add a 5 GHz band to it.
Some devices are able to operate simultaneously in both bands, providing greater coverage and being resistant to interference.
Wi-Fi standards.
Among the five major Wi-Fi standards, 802.11 a/b/g/n and ac, the latter is the most advanced and fastest.
In addition, the progressive standard guarantees a stable connection without signal loss.
Transmitter power.
The higher the gain of the router, the better.
If there is a lack of power, it is unlikely to be possible to correct the situation with software settings.
The best inexpensive models
Budget models have relatively modest parameters and minimal functionality.
Note: Such devices will be suitable for installation in a small apartment or house.
Rating and review of the best inexpensive models of wi-fi router signal amplifiers according to reviews and customer ratings.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Amplifier PRO for spectrum internet
Wi-Fi Amplifier is a compact repeater (repeater) of Wi-Fi network signal connected to a standard 220 V mains.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Amplifier PRO device is designed for use in homes, apartments or offices of different sizes, it extends the coverage area of the existing wireless network.
The device is compatible with a wide range of routers.
The amplifier operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and provides Wi-Fi connection speeds of up to 300 MBit/sec.
The output power of its built-in transmitter is 20 dbm.
The equipment is configured via a user-friendly and intuitive web interface.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n;
- connection speed – 300 Mbps;
- antennas – external, 2 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 20 dbm;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 80 × 70 × 54 mm.
Pros:
- performs the basic function perfectly;
- easy setup;
- minimalistic design;
- affordable price tag.
Cons:
- underdeveloped MiHome service;
- Lack of an access point option;
TP-LINK TL-WA854RE for spectrum wifi
Wireless signal booster with the Range Extender option to extend the range of the Wi-Fi network in places where you can’t lay cable.
The TP-LINK TL-WA854RE qualitatively eliminates dead spots.
This is achieved through a wide antenna pattern and high speed wireless connection.
Decent parameters allow you to comfortably watch video and listen to audio content online.
Additional network expansion is possible by connecting another similar repeater.
The device equipped with the web-interface is provided with the option of filtering by MAC addresses, the option of wireless network statistics.
Technical parameters:
- Operating range – 2.4 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n;
- connection speed – 300 Mbps;
- antennas – internal, 2 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 15 dBm;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 66 × 110 × 75 mm.
Pros:
- compactness;
- easy setup;
- ease of operation;
- speed increase by several times.
Cons:
- heating when working;
- Lack of LAN-connectors.
Mercusys MW300RE V3 spectrum wifi extender
The repeater mode model is recommended for installations in areas where the wireless signal strength is insufficient to ensure stable data transmission.
The Mercusys MW300RE V3 has a transmitter operating in the 2.4 GHz band in compliance with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n standards and three external antennas.
The model can be used indoors at an ambient temperature of 0-40 ° C and relative humidity of up to 90 percent.
A Quick Setup Guide is included in the package. Basic information can be found on the box of the device.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n;
- connection speed – 300 Mbit / s;
- antennas – external, 3 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 20 dBm;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 75 × 101 × 39 mm.
Pros:
- easy setup;
- good signal amplification;
- long range;
- stylish design.
Cons:
- Supports only 2.4 GHz;
- For the configuration you need a computer/laptop;
- poor set of settings.
TP-LINK TL-WA855RE extender for spectrum WiFi
Repeater, acting as a repeater, significantly increases the range of the wireless signal and is an ideal solution for applications in medium and large areas.
Not only does it extend the range of the signal, it also compensates for signal interference from obstacles and other devices operating in the same frequency.
The TP-LINK TL-WA855RE can be used both as an amplifier as well as a full-fledged access point.
This can be accomplished using the RJ-45 connector. An important advantage of the repeater is the small size and two external removable antennas.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n;
- connection speed – 300 Mbit / s;
- antennas – external, 2 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 20 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 100 Mbps;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 78 × 80 × 77 mm.
Pros:
- easy setup;
- signal stability;
- high transmission speed;
- significant coverage area;
- compact dimensions.
Cons:
- slow network identification;
- no support for the 5 GHz band;
- scarce additional functionality.
Medium price segment wifi router
This segment is dominated by high-quality Wi-Fi signal amplifiers with good features.
Be aware of this! These are the most popular models of repeaters from leading manufacturers of network equipment.
TP-LINK RE205 best wifi extender for spectrum
Repeater with the ability to simultaneously amplify the signal in two bands will be suitable for installation inside premises with a complex configuration and a significant area.
In addition to its primary mode, the TP-LINK RE205 can also be used as an access point.
An intuitive display panel is located on top of the device.
The device is controlled via the web interface.
The amplifier is designed for indoor applications with an ambient temperature of between 0 and 40 °C and a maximum permissible relative humidity of 95 percent.
The device plugs directly into an electrical outlet.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 733 Mbps;
- antennas – external, 2 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 19.5 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 100 Mbps;
- Data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 80 × 78 × 77 mm.
Pros:
- modern design;
- quick setup via the app;
- simultaneous dual-band operation;
- clear and simple interface;
- high quality of communication.
Cons:
- large size (covers a double socket);
- long time to turn on and connect to the Wi-Fi network;
- overpriced in comparison with analogues.
TP-LINK RE200 V1 wi-fi extender for spectrum router
Wi-Fi signal booster with 802.11ac support and dual-band Wi-Fi capability will help improve the signal in areas where cable installation is not possible.
The TP-LINK RE200 V1 is a compact, high quality plastic case with an LED meter showing the connection status and signal strength of the access point.
The maximum data transfer rate is 733 Mbps.
Built-in Ethernet port with a maximum speed of 100 Mbps allows you to use the adapter as an access point with a cable connection.
The equipment is powered from a regular socket.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 733 Mbps;
- antennas – internal, 3 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 20 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 100 Mbps;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 110 × 66 × 75 mm.
Pros:
- easy setup;
- high quality expansion of the current network;
- Possibility to create your own subnet;
- switchable LED indicators;
- Dual band operation.
Cons:
- The average power of the transmitter amplifier;
- heating during operation;
- large overall dimensions.
TP-LINK RE305 extender for spectrum internet
Equipped with a pair of external antennas for receiving and transmitting the signal, this model is a necessary tool for expanding wireless coverage inside large rooms.
The TP-LINK RE305 boasts a number of useful features.
First of all, it can be directly connected to the network socket with a voltage of 220 V, support for multiple standards of Wi-Fi – 802.11 a/ac/b/g/n, working frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz with simultaneous operation in two bands.
With a maximum connection speed of 1167 Mbit/s the high-speed information exchange is provided.
Management and configuration of the device is done via the web-interface.
The Ethernet port makes it possible to connect via cable. The model has compact size and light weight.
Technical parameters:
Operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
connection speed – 1167 Mbps;
antennas – external, 2 pcs;
transmitter gain – 17 dBm;
access point – LAN, 100 Mbps;
data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
dimensions – (W × H × D) – 80 × 77 × 78 mm.
Pros:
- relatively compact dimensions;
- good signal strength;
- easy setup;
- stability.
Cons:
- considerable heat in operation;
- Not the friendliest software.
TP-LINK RE220 wifi extender for spectrum internet
Wireless signal booster with three external high-power antennas guarantees fast and stable Wi-Fi even in “blind” zones.
Presented equipment is compatible with a variety of Wi-Fi devices.
The condition for compatibility is 802.11 b/g/n/ac support.
Dual band Wi-Fi module provides the user with speeds up to 750 Mbps.
Its compact size and wall mount capability make it easy to move and mount.
The built-in Ethernet connector makes it possible to use the TP-LINK RE220 amplifier as a Wi-Fi adapter with a wired connection.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 750 Mbps;
- antennas – internal, 3 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 20 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 100 Mbps;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 110 × 66 × 75 mm.
Pros:
- high data transmission speed;
- wide coverage area;
- fast setup in the application;
- no ping.
Cons:
- 5 GHz network does not work with some router models;
- It is recommended to install in the line of sight of the router.
Important: Premium models stand out not only for their high cost, but also for their advanced technical parameters.
The following reviewed repeaters have a large coverage area, are easy to configure/manage, they are suitable for use at home and in the office.
TP-LINK RE365 best wi-fi extender for spectrum
A premium model with two active external antennas to eliminate dead spots and maximize your home or office Wi-Fi network.
The TP-LINK RE365 is a 220V AC amplifier with a built in plug.
A built-in loop-through socket allows you to connect any home electrical equipment.
The transmitter of the presented device covers the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands with a peak rate of 1167 Mbps.
Additional LAN-port will be useful when you need to connect a computer or laptop to the network via cable.
A clever LED indication makes the installation process easy.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 1167 Mbps;
- antennas – external, 2 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 18 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 1 Gbps;
- data encryption – WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 125 × 70 × 77 mm.
Pros:
- stylish appearance;
- convenient night mode option with LEDs switching off;
- the possibility of creating seamless networks;
- 16A socket through socket.
Cons:
- large overall dimensions;
- Not the most outstanding range;
- configuration can be difficult for inexperienced users.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi MeshPoint HD mesh range extender
Premium device is a Wi-Fi repeater of the famous series, famous for stability and real coverage extension with significant signal amplification of the network system.
Ubiquiti AmpliFi MeshPoint HD amplifier is equipped with a dual-band Wi-Fi system supporting 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, six broadband internal antennas supporting MIMO 3×3, a transmitter with a working gain of 26 dBm.
The device guarantees a maximum connection speed of up to 1750 Mbps.
Management and configuration of the equipment is made via an application for mobile devices.
The repeater has hot plug and play support.
Technical parameters:
- Operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 1750 Mbps;
- antennas – internal, 6 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 26 dBm;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 244 × 54 × 58 mm.
Pros:
- modern wireless system;
- high build quality;
- long range;
- the possibility of creating a seamless Wi-Fi;
- control in a mobile app.
Cons:
- high price;
- large size.
TP-LINK RE450 V1 wifi range extender for spectrum wi-fi
A compact indoor wall-mountable device with three active external antennas, allowing you to extend the Wi-Fi coverage area significantly without a drop in speed.
The TP-LINK RE450 V1 is powered by 220V.
The device has support for PoE, several standards for Wi-Fi connection.
Frequency operation of the transmitter can be performed simultaneously in two bands.
With a maximum wireless connection speed of 1750 Mbps the device can operate in several modes – as an access point, repeater or bridge.
There is a user manual for quick setup.
Technical parameters:
Working range – 2.4/5 GHz;
Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
connection speed – 1750 Mbps;
antennas – external, 3 pcs;
transmitter gain – 23 dBm;
access point – LAN, 1 Gbps;
data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
dimensions – (W × H × D) – 163 × 76 × 67 mm.
Pros:
- high data transfer rate;
- compactness;
- switchable LED backlight;
- easy setup;
- simultaneous operation on 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies.
Cons:
- Firmware update is necessary for the correct operation;
- no software auto-update;
- High cost.
TP-LINK RE650 wifi extender to spectrum router
This model is equipped with four powerful external antennas and is suitable for large apartments, cottages and offices, because it can provide a signal up to 1300 m2.
Phase-shift technology and MIMO multiuser capability allows you to deliver data to multiple client gadgets at the same time without any loss of speed or channel congestion.
The TP-LINK RE650 amplifier supports 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi with bandwidths up to 2,533 Mbps.
Connection security tools are WEP/WPA/WPA2 protocols.
The equipment can work as an access point for a previously created network. All settings and administration are available in the web interface.
Technical parameters:
- operating range – 2.4/5 GHz;
- Wi-Fi standard – b, a, g, n, ac;
- connection speed – 2533 Mbps;
- antennas – external, 4 pcs;
- transmitter gain – 23 dBm;
- access point – LAN, 1 Gbps;
- data encryption – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
- dimensions – (W × H × D) – 163 × 86 × 40 mm.
Pros:
- high throughput;
- High quality plastic housing;
- excellent range performance (up to 1300 sq. meters);
- Gigabit Ethernet port for cable connection;
- compatibility with all router models.
Cons:
- not a democratic price tag;
- large size;
- relatively complicated setup.
FAQ
The Spectrum WiFi booster has up 1900Mbps wireless speed. You can also connect up to 30 devices to the mesh network.
There are many factors that can affect the performance of your internet and WiFi, including:
- Location of the WiFi modem and router.
- Avoiding signal blockages.
- Use only at 5 GHz.
- Selecting the correct channel width.
- Identifying dead zones.
- Reboot the modem and router regularly.
When two or more nodes need to connect to each other using IEEE 802.11 protocol and the distance is too great to establish a direct connection, a wireless booster is used to bridge the gap. A WiFi extender is used to extend the range of your WiFi network
I know the question of whether using a WiFi extender slows down your internet speed is asked quite often and, due to the odd wording, the answer is no, it has no effect on your internet speed.
Some TP-Link extenders also have WPS buttons, so you can use them for setup.
- Plug the TP-Link extension cord into an outlet near your wireless router.
- Press the WPS button on the back of the router. You should see the WPS LED blinking.
- Press the WPS button on the TP-Link extender. The WPS LED should flash here as well.
Its performance is up to 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and up to 433 Mbps in the 5 GHz band. It also provides Wi-Fi coverage of up to 1,200 square feet. If you have multiple devices that require HD streaming, this dual-band Wi-Fi extension will allow you to connect up to twenty devices.
Spectrum WiFi Pods provide additional coverage for Advanced Home WiFi service, allowing WiFi signals to reach all devices in the home for a better experience. With Spectrum WiFi Pods and Advanced Home WiFi service. Boost the performance of connected customers with optimized connections on your router or pod.
WiFi extensions usually work with any existing router, so you don’t need to replace your router. An extender can significantly increase the range of your network – if you install it in the right spot, you can even get coverage outdoors, like in your backyard.
But how far can a WiFi extender be from a router? Typically, a WiFi extender can be anywhere from 100 to 400 feet away from your router. This depends on several factors, namely the WiFi network itself, the layout of your home, the type of extender you have, and the location of these devices in your home.
We should use a WiFi repeater when we need a reliable and strong connection to a router, if the distance between the router and the repeater is shorter and there are no obstacles between them. We should use a WiFi extender when we need the same strong and reliable connection with the router.