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If your house is big enough that a single Wi-Fi access point can’t cover it, you need a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh Wi-Fi system. I’ve faced this dilemma in several houses and have tried both options with varying success levels—but now I suggest only one option.
Mesh Wi-Fi Is Easier to Set Up
One of the things that I liked about mesh Wi-Fi was how easy it was to set up. All I needed to do was plug the first router into the one provided by my provider, connect to it via the app, and follow the instructions. What I like about it is that since the mesh Wi-Fi units must come from the same manufacturers (and sometimes must even be the same model), they usually just work with no additional setup needed after you add all the mesh Wi-Fi routers you need.
On the other hand, range extenders can get a bit more involved. First, you need to set them up (like giving them an access point name and password). Then, you need to connect them to your original Wi-Fi network and then connect your devices. This might not be a hassle if you add one range extender and connect just one or two gadgets to the extended network. But if you’re setting up multiple devices, it can become quite a hassle rather quickly.
It’s Easier to Expand Mesh Wi-Fi Networks
If you use a Wi-Fi range extender to get Wi-Fi in the furthest corners of your house, you need to follow a completely different setup process. This might not be an issue for the tech enthusiasts among us, but those who aren’t as inclined might get a bit confused.
Mesh Wi-Fi networks are designed to work together as one unit, making expansion much easier. To add another router, you simply need to hop on the app and choose a new router. So, if you notice that you’re not getting a strong enough Wi-Fi signal in your garage and already have a mesh Wi-Fi system, you can purchase a compatible router and add it to your system.
Settings up an additional access point with my TP-Link mesh Wi-Fi router took me about five minutes. In fact, I spent more time picking one ofthe best ways of managing the cablesthat ran from the gateway and power outlet to ensure that my router looked good.
Mesh Routers Often Look Better
Aside from scalability and ease of use and installation, one of thefeatures I look for in a mesh Wi-Fi systemis its looks. Unfortunately, many range-extending Wi-Fi models plug directly into the wall and have several antennas sticking out. It often makes them look chaotic, especially if you plug it in a place where it’s easily seen.
On the other hand, most mesh routers look a bit more stylish. For example, some TP-Link models, like theTP-Link DecoAX3000’ssmooth cylindrical looks that wouldn’t look out of place in any home. You could even get more expensive options to attach to your ceiling. It looks like the router is part of your house and not some electronic device you just added as an afterthought.
Devices Sometimes Fail to Connect to the Nearest Wi-Fi Extender
The biggest reason why I picked a mesh router over a Wi-Fi extender is that the former acts like a cellular network, where your device would automatically switch to the stronger access point without issue. This ensures that your phone or device is always online and that you won’t have any issues with latency or connection, even if you move across your house.
This isn’t true if you use a Wi-Fi extender. Even if you’re near the range extender access point, your phone might still prefer the original access point it’s connected to, even if the signal isn’t as good. That means you’ll have to manually switch to the closer access point, which is annoying, especially if you’re in an online match.
Even if this is the only advantage of a mesh router network over a Wi-Fi range extender, this is reason enough for me to choose the former. The only downside with mesh Wi-Fi systems is they’re often more expensive, and you can’t mix and match different brands. Nevertheless, if you want the ultimate convenience and ensure that you only have one Wi-Fi network in your home, a mesh Wi-Fi system is the way to go.
