A good WiFi Router helps in distributing the wireless broadband signals to different electronic gadgets like Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops and Computer PCs etc…
However, there may be a few instances where you’ll find the WiFi range extenders or WiFi mesh routers handy in boosting the existing WiFi signals, especially if you’re working in another room or floor that is far away from the reach of the WiFi signal.
But, which is better among the two? WiFi extender or Wireless mesh system? Let’s understand the basic differences between the two and see which is better considering your requirements.
What is a WiFi Range Extender?
A WiFi extender or repeater or booster is a portable device that act as a intermediate device to pass on (boost) the Wireless signals from your existing WiFi router device so that you can connect to the Internet seamlessly even if you’re far away from the room where the router is placed.
This way, the Wireless extender eliminates dead zones inside your house/flat/office and provides better signal coverage without any loss of speed.
What is a WiFi Mesh System?
A WiFi mesh system consists of multiple satellite nodes that act as extenders to transmit signals from one place to another without the need for a separate WiFi router.
Yes, you get the router and the extenders in the same package.
However, unlike the WiFi booster, the Mesh network can transmit signals to a very large area, like the offices or large homes.
Difference b/w WiFi Range Extender and Mesh Network
| WiFi Extender | Mesh Network |
|---|---|
| Setup is a Bit Hard | Easy to Configure via the App |
| Plug and Use | Plug and Use |
| Works with the Router | Doesn’t Need a Router (built-in) |
| Need to Manually Switch to the Network | Single Network across all the Nodes |
| Small to Medium Signal Coverage | Larger WiFi Coverage |
| Partial Signal Loss | Full Signal Strength |
| Affordable | A Bit Expensive |
Conclusion:
As you’ve seen, both the Wireless extenders and Mesh systems have their own pros and cons. For those with medium signal coverage requirement (small home) or small budget can go with the WiFi range extender. And, if you want larger WiFi signal coverage, then you should definitely go for the WiFi Mesh routers.
Hope, you understood the differences between the two devices clearly. Now, it is your turn to choose the one according to your requirements and budget.