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- Signal Salvation: Selecting the Ideal Wi-Fi Booster
Signal Salvation: Selecting the Ideal Wi-Fi Booster
2024-12-19
Ever been waiting anxiously in your bedroom for an email that might lead to a job offer, but the web page just won't load? Or, when you want to video chat with family and friends thousands of miles away after a busy day, it's frustrating to be constantly bombarded with disconnected messages.
Don't worry. A reliable Wi-Fi booster might just help you out!
What is a Wi-Fi booster?
Network signals are affected by multiple factors, including network speed, connection type (fiber or Ethernet), surrounding Wi-Fi interference, obstacles such as walls and furniture, house size, and the number and types of connected devices. Hence, Wi-Fi boosters were developed to expand and enhance home Wi-Fi. They can efficiently receive signals from the main router and enhance them, addressing issues like weak or spotty signals at home.
What types of Wi-Fi boosters are available?
- Range Extenders: Wirelessly connect to the primary router, amplify its signal, and extend coverage. Perfect for renovated homes where complex wiring is impractical.
- Powerline Adapters: Utilise existing electrical wires to transmit data and expand home network coverage. There is no doubt that wired networks will be more stable than wireless networks, which can significantly avoid the impact of obstacles on Wi-Fi. If you want a more stable network, this is a solid choice. Also, when Wi-Fi is included in the product kit, existing networks can be expanded simultaneously through both wired and wireless connections. Note: Both adapters should be on the same circuit. In homes with multiple circuits, ensure the router and the area to be covered are on the same circuit.
Key factors for choosing Wi-Fi boosters
- Compatibility:
Choose one that is compatible with your existing router. But don't worry, if you choose MERCUSYS products, they are compatible with all routers!
It's best to choose one that is compatible with EasyMesh. For example, most Range Extenders from MERCUSYS can be integrated into the network along with the main router, allowing your device to automatically switch to the strongest signal point when you move, achieving seamless roaming.* It can also automatically obtain the parameters of the main router for configuration, which is super convenient.
- House Structure:
For large homes with complex structures or self-built multi-story houses, Powerline Adapters can be a better option as they use power lines for data transmission and are not hindered by obstacles like walls. However, if the house has aging power lines, old appliances, or haphasard wiring, the performance of Powerline Adapters may be compromised.
For small units or simple layouts, such as student dormitories or small rented rooms, Range Extenders are more practical. In smaller spaces like dormitories, wireless signal coverage is generally easier to achieve. With students using mobile phones and tablets for streaming and browsing, a strategically placed range extender can provide reliable network access for everyone at an affordable cost. For temporary residents, a Range Extender is also more convenient than a Powerline Adapter as it can be easily taken away when moving without causing waste.
- Easy Setup:
If you are unfamiliar with networking systems, we recommend choosing brands that support easy connectivity. For example, MERCUSYS Range Extenders support one-touch setup. Simply press the WPS button within a few seconds to expand your Wi-Fi coverage. You can also manage all your Range Extender devices directly with an app.
Of course, if you choose a MERCUSYS Powerline adapter, you can experience the ultimate convenience of plug and play. Connect one adapter to your router, then plug another into any outlet that needs wired Internet service. Simply press the pair button and enjoy your extended circuit network without the annoyance of complicated wiring or setup. You can also download the MERCUSYS Utility from the "Support" page of the MERCUSYS website. It would make managing these devices effortless!
- Security
For those with many neighbors, a device with access control is a good choice. Range Extenders with access control let you decide which devices can connect to the extended network, preventing unrecognised or unauthorised ones and making it more secure. Parents can use it to manage their children's devices, such as tablets and smartphones, by controlling online time and access to ensure protection from harmful content. This feature is available on all MERCUSYS Range Extenders.
- Saving
Concerned about power usage? Choose a device with the Power Schedule feature to automatically turn the repeater on or off at set times. Turn it off when the network isn’t needed, like at night or during weekdays when no one’s home. This saves energy—and for those on a tight budget, every bit helps.
Wi-Fi booster recommendations
Here are the top seven MERCUSYS Wi-Fi boosters. Now that you know how to choose the right one, it’s time to make your pick! Elevate your web experience with these boosters. Don’t wait any longer. Let your network take off!
MERCUSYS Range Extenders |
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Model |
ME80X |
ME60X |
ME1500X |
ME50G |
ME30 |
Wi-Fi Class |
AX3000 |
AX1500 |
AX1500 |
AC1900 |
AC1200 |
Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) |
574 Mbps |
300 Mbps |
300 Mbps |
600 Mbps |
300 Mbps |
Wi-Fi (5 GHz) |
2402 Mbps |
1201 Mbps |
1201 Mbps |
1300 Mbps |
867 Mbps |
Ethernet |
2× External Antennas |
2× External Antennas |
2× External Antennas |
4× External Antennas |
2× External Antennas |
Ports |
1× 1 Gbps LAN Ethernet |
1× 1 Gbps LAN Ethernet |
1×1Gbps LAN Ethernet |
1× 1Gbps LAN Ethernet |
1× 10/100 Mbps LAN Ethernet |
EasyMesh |
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App Support |
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WPS Button |
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Access Control |
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Power Schedule |
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AP Mode |
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Compatible with All Routers |
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MERCUSYS Powerline Adapters |
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Model |
MP510 KIT |
MP500 KIT |
Wi-Fi Class |
AV1000+N300 Wi-Fi |
AV1000 |
Protocol |
HomePlugAV2 |
HomePlugAV2 |
Speed |
1000 Mbps |
1000 Mbps |
Antennas |
2× External Antennas |
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Ports |
1× 1 Gbps Port + 1× 1 Gbps Port |
1× 1 Gbps Port + 1× 1 Gbps Port |
Range |
300 meters |
300 meters |
Wi-Fi Clone Button |
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LED Indicator |
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Compatible with All Routers |
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*MERCUSYS supports EasyMesh models: ME30, ME60X, ME1500X, ME80X
For more information about MERCUSYS, please visit us online at www.mercusys.com/en/ or follow us on:
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