If you’re having connectivity issues at home, using a mesh wifi router might solve them.
Unlike regular wireless routers with traditional single receivers, the best mesh wifi routers in 2020 have more to offer. They’re made up of multiple nodes that can be strategically arranged around your home.
This means that you’re guaranteed to enjoy a consistent and strong wireless signal through your office or home. Mesh wifi routers are perfect for covering big spaces.
They deliver a unified and solid network which is super vital. They’re also easy to setup. You don’t need a professional to install them, so they also save you money.
So, without any further ado, let’s learn more about mesh routes and review some of the best products on the market.
What is Wifi Mesh?
Whole-Home Wifi systems or mesh wifi consists of the main router that connects directly to the modem.
It also connects to a series of satellite nodes or modules placed around your office or home for complete wifi coverage.
They’re all part of a single wifi network and share the same password and SSID, unlike regular routers.
Is Wifi Mesh Better Than Router?
Mesh wifi routers are very popular at the moment.
However, traditional routers and access points are improving as well. Longer range and faster speeds are more than regular terms when it comes to buying the latest router.
You will often find advanced options that a mesh system cannot offer. However, mesh wifi routers have their advantages too.
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What is the Advantage of Mesh Wifi?
The biggest advantage of using mesh wifi routers is increases wireless coverage.
They’re the perfect solutions for oddly-shaped apartments, large houses, and areas that span multiple floors.
Mesh routers provide each separate space with its personal “hub”. This resolves slow network speed and weak signal almost instantly.
Google Nest Wifi
Google Nest Wifi is a mesh router with a smart speaker.
That is why people prefer this model over many others. It has a simple yet elegant design and excellent performance. If you buy this router, you will get a 2-in-1 device.
Speed: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4 GHz/5 GHz simultaneous dual-band.
You can choose between sand, mist or white color. It has dual gigabit ethernet ports, advanced security chip, privacy control, and nest wifi point with Google Assistant.
The controls are simple. Overall, it is a great product that is reasonably-priced but delivers great results.
Pros:
- Easy to setup
- Solid performance
- Smart speaker feature
- Compatible with Google Wifi
- Sleek design
Cons:
- No USB ports
- No smart speaker functionality on main router unit
- No anti-malware tools
Google Wifi
Another great product that is worth your investment is Google Wifi.
It is affordable, easy to set up and use, and efficient. It’s probably the best mesh wifi router out there at the moment.
Not only it has the power to extend fast wifi throughout your office or home but also has a simple setup that requires downloading an app to your smartphone.
Scan QR codes and just locate the nodes where you need connectivity around your home or office. It is one of the greatest routers for a reason.
Speed: 802.11ac 5GHz down 101.41 Mbps, 2.4GHz down 47.53 Mbps.
Advanced features include Bluetooth smart ready, AC1200 2 x 2 Wave 2 wifi, TX beamforming, 2 x Gigabit Ethernet ports per wifi point (1 WAN and 1 LAN port each), and so on.
However, it has limited hardware control.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Strong coverage
- Updates on its own
- Accessible app
- Compact
Cons:
- No USB ports
- A mobile device or Google account are needed for setup and usage
- Lacks advanced features
Netgear Orbi
If you have money to spend, spend it on the Netgear Orbi. It is one of the best mesh wifi routers that money can buy in 2020.
You will get one main router and multiple satellite nodes to plug into power outlets around your home. It has excellent performance and beautiful design. However, it’s costly.
Speed: 802.11ac 5GHz down 90.14 Mbps, 2.4GHz down 93.69 Mbps.
Highlighted features include MU-MIMO ready, 4GB flash memory, mesh nodes 2-4, 1 x USB 2.0 port, 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps gigabit ethernet ports, and so on.
It’s perfect for gamers and customers with many devices that need a hardwired connection.
Pros:
- Superb range
- A dedicated 4×4 radio for data backhaul at speeds of 1.7Gbps
- Perfect for gamers
Cons:
- Costly
TP-Link Deco M5
If you’re looking for something to spread wifi throughout your office or home without spending too much, look no further than TP-Link Deco M5.
It is easy to configure and install. Interesting features include quad-core CPU, Alexa compatibility, MU-MIMO ready, 1 x USB type-c port, Bluetooth 4.2, 2 x Gigabit ports per deco m5 unit, and router-based antivirus.
Speed: 802.11ac 5GHz down 76.69 Mbps. It’s slower than other alternatives but if that doesn’t concern you, buy it today.
It’s the perfect choice for customers who want a great mesh wifi router but don’t want something too complicated. It’s a great bargain for the price.
Pros:
- Compact
- Two Ethernet ports
- Fast speeds
Cons:
- No web interface
- Doesn’t support dedicated band control
- Setting requires an app
Ubiquiti Amplifi HD
Last but not least, Ubiquiti Amplifi HD is perfect for people who love Apple’s design philosophy.
It is extremely powerful and expensive. However, you will get lots of advanced features including an LCD touchscreen, modern design, and modular network coverage.
Other crucial features include 4 x gigabit LAN, 1 x Gigabit WAN, and mesh nodes 1 router and 2 nodes.
Speed: 802.11AC 5GHz down 74.1Mbps.
This product is capable of a super large amount of throughput. It’s perfect for people who live in larger houses. However, it’s not suitable for medium and small homes.
If you live in a smaller home, I suggest that you choose some of the previous models that I have covered above.
If you use this device in a smaller space, you will not be able to take advantage of the full power that it provides.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- LCD touchscreen
- Four Ethernet ports and 1 WAN port
- Advanced features
- Sleep design
Cons:
- Expensive
- Doesn’t support wired backhaul
- Large mesh points
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Final Verdict
Hopefully, my buying guide can help you choose the best mesh wifi routers for you.
Have you tried any of these routers before? What is your experience? Please, share your comments and thoughts below.