Most people have routers at their homes for better and fast connections in all their home devices. However, even with the most amazing routers, you can have some dead spots in your home. The major cause behind this can be the blockage of signals due to thick walls, metal, and wood objects that are present around the house.
In such a scenario, a WiFi Access Point is a simple solution. A WAP connects to the main router with the help of an Ethernet cable. This gadget helps in providing a stable and strong connection at the places the router’s signal does reach. There are hundreds of routers available in the market. It can be a challenging task to identify which one is the best for you.
To make your task a little easier, we have reviewed the best 7 best WAP for home. Also, there is a buying guide that comprises the main features and factors necessary to keep in mind when looking for a WAP. Now, without any further ado, let’s get straight to the topic.
Table of Contents
7 Best WAP for Home Reviews
1. Ubiquiti UniFi Nano HD Compact Enterprise Access Point (UAP-NANOHD-US) – Top Pick
This is one of the best wireless access points one can find. The features it has makes it great at both speed and range. It has numerous good functions like a robust build, seamless streaming, and lag-free gaming.
Moreover, one can manage it easily. With its unique design, it can be ceiling or wall-mounted. Along with other features, it also has guest portals. Also, it uses the latest MIMO technology for better performance.
Why is it unique?
This is a dual-band access point. At 2.4 GHz, it offers a speed of 300 Mbps, while at 5 GHz, the speed is 1733 Mbps. Hence, giving a combined speed of around 2000 Mbps or 2 Gbps, one can connect more than two hundred devices to this access point. The 2×2 MIMO and 4×4 MIMO at 2.4 and 5 GHz, respectively, offer a strong network.
Buyer’s Experience
The customers state that this access point gave an outstanding performance. It was easy to set up and easy to control. With the great features it has, the users were able to see a noteworthy enhancement in the quality of the signal. Thus, it is an access point one should consider buying.
Best Fit For
With the extensive connectivity it delivers, anyone has a large number of devices to connect. So, it is an ideal choice for anyone that wants to connect a good number of devices at home.
Pros
Cons
- Four stream 802.11AC Wave2 technology
- Supports 200+ concurrent users
- 802.3af PoE compatibility
- Optional covers (sold separately) allow the Unifi nanohd AP TO discreetyly blend into its setting
2. Ubiquiti Networks Unifi Dual-Radio PRO Access Point (UAP-AC-PRO-US) – Best Choice
Another great access point by Ubiquiti is this, as it has all the features one expects in a good access point. The UAP-AC-PRO-US does not only increase the range of your router but is simple in design. Also, it can be fixed on the ceiling or on the wall.
With the single control plane, one can easily customize the WiFi network. It is made from the best quality materials so that it can withstand tough weather and last long. There are three antennas to enhance the quality of the signal.
Why is it unique?
This access point has 3×3 MU-MIMO features so that various devices can connect to the signal without decreasing its quality and strength. The dual-band antennas are the reason it can provide such good networks. With the guest portal feature, the devices of guests can be linked without any difficulty. Also, it includes a 2.0 USB port.
Buyer’s Experience
The users claim that this is the best access point they could find. They were impressed by its performance. It enhanced the strength and range of their WiFi. Many users say that they prefer it over any other access point.
Best Fit For
Keeping in mind that it is weather-proof, it is most suitable for outdoor use. Also, it can extend the network to get rid of all dead zones. For more option on the Best Way to extend Wifi Outside we have a dedicated article for you.
Pros
Cons
- Manage Your Networks from a Single Control Plane
- Intuitive and Robust Configuration, Control and Monitoring
- Remote Firmware Upgrade
- Users and Guests
3. ASUS RT-N12 N300 WiFi Router 2T2R MIMO Technology – Best Affordable
This gadget is specially designed to provide fast and quality WiFi networks. The RT-N12 is three-in-one; that is, it can act as a router, access point, and range extender. It has many features, including high speed, wide range, and easy management.
This product is packed with features that are updated with the latest technology. With the 2T2R MIMO feature, you can enjoy high-speed internet for uninterrupted and seamless 4K HD streaming as well as online gaming.
Why is it unique?
Setting up this device is ridiculously simple. This increases the range of the network remarkably while maintaining its strength. You can manage and control the network easily. You set the bandwidth a device can use. Also, block access to some websites for some accounts. This purchase includes one 2.0 USB port, RJ45 cable, two 5dbi, and adjustable antennas. The speed delivered by this device is 300 Mbps.
Buyer’s Experience
According to numerous buyers, this product has good features and even better performance. It was efficient in upgrading the quality of the network. They found it extremely simple to set up and use. All in all, it is a good choice.
Best Fit For
It is most suitable if you want to increase the range of your house. This product will be a pocket-friendly solution for a few dead spots that you want to eliminate.
Pros
Cons
- Multiple 3 in 1 Router/Access Point /Range Extender wireless modes
- 4 SSIDs help manage bandwidth allocation and access control
- Powerful Online Multi tasking, throughput up to 300Mbps
- 2 detachable 5dBi antennas for more powerful and wider coverage
4. TP-Link Wireless N300 2T2R Access Point – Best Performance
Are you looking for an affordable method to increase the range of your router? If yes, then this is the access point you need. This is a single-band access point that can increase the range of your main router to very long distances.
It can be used as a bridge and a repeater. The design of this product is sleek and simple. Along with its ability to increase the range, it also keeps the network safe from viruses and data theft. This model has two external antennas for better signal quality.
Why is it unique?
This product can be set as far as 100 ft from the main router, which means a very wide range of connectivity. The maximum speed delivered by this unit is 300 Mbps at a bandwidth of 2.4 GHz. The network is made secure by using WPA encryption. Due to the two 4dbi antennas, the signal is not affected by any solid obstacle like walls, metal, or wood.
Buyer’s Experience
The buyers are very satisfied with the execution of this product. Most users reported that using this range extender has helped them connect devices located outside their house. Consequently, they would advise other people to invest in this product as well.
Best Fit For
This product is considered to be most appropriate if you need an extender to provide swift data and a proper network to outdoor smart devices like cameras, doorbells, etc.
Pros
Cons
- 300Mbps wireless transmission rate, brings smooth wireless N experience
- Supports multiple operating modes: Access Point, Client, Universal/ WDS Repeater, Wireless Bridge
- Easily setup a WPA encrypted secure connection at a push of the QSS button
- Up to 30 meter (100 feet) Power over Ethernet capability for flexible deployment
5. NETGEAR Wireless Desktop Access Point (WAC104) – Best Overall
This is an elegant looking access point that is capable of delivering a great performance. It has numerous beneficial features like high internet speed and a consistent WiFi network. You can use it as a router as well as an access point.
It is a dual-band access point with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bandwidth. Also, it includes four 1G ethernet ports to provide internet through wired devices like computers, game consoles, etc. This is a fast and dependable way to get rid of dead zones.
Why is it unique?
Owing to the dual-band, at 2.4 GHz, it offers 300 Mbps and at 5 GHz, 867 Mbps. It is hence giving a combined speed of 1200 Mbps. With the WiFi Protected System, one can easily connect their device to the access point. It is backward compatible due to which it can connect to old devices as well.
Buyer’s Experience
Almost all buyers had something good to say about the performance of this access point. People who have used this for a long time state that it provides an undisturbed and smooth internet signal. In short, they are happy with their investment.
Best Fit For
This access point is suitable for anyone who wants a durable extender for lag-free gaming and streaming.
Pros
Cons
- Maximum Range : 1000 Sq Ft
- Fast dual band 802.11ac WiFi at a combined aggregate speed of 1.2 Gbps (300Mbps at 2.4 GHz and 867Mbps at 5 GHz)
- Factory tuned external antennas provide superior signal and far reaching WiFi coverage
- Advanced Security and Flexible Wireless Configuration - access point, and WDS point-to-point, point-to-multipoint...
6. Securifi Almond (3 Minute Setup) Touchscreen Wireless Router/Range Extender – Best Model
The Securifi Almond is packed with modern and latest technology. This is very versatile as it can be used as a router, access point, bridge, or repeater. Moreover, this is the first router ever to have a touchscreen. With this feature, it becomes very easy to set up compared to other routers or range extenders.
It gives the user the freedom to customize on his own terms. Not only that, it has a unique and modern design. You can even connect it to Alexa to use it through voice command. Other features include its three Ethernet ports and one USB port.
Why is it unique?
Owing to the presence of a touchscreen, one can set it up within 3 minutes. It is highly secure with a strong firewall. Also, it lets you limit the amount of time a device can connect to the device. You can restrict unwanted devices to connect to it. The maximum speed offered is 300 Mbps with MIMO technology and two internal antennas.
Buyer’s Experience
After analyzing the feedback given by the users, it is safe to say that one will not be disappointed by the performance of this product. They found it simple to customize and solved all their WiFi problems. Hence, they would recommend it to others.
Best Fit For
If you live in a two-storey house and want a device that can provide stable connections, then this product is a great option for you.
Pros
Cons
- 95% of customers SET IT UP IN 3 MINUTES using Touchscreen Wizard; World's 1st TOUCHSCREEN Router
- NO PC/Mac/CD needed for Setup or Management
- MULTI PURPOSE USAGE: Use as primary WiFi Router or Range Extender or Access Point or Wireless Bridge - No built-in DSL...
- UNIVERSAL RANGE EXTENDER MODE: Compatible with any existing router (eg: Netgear, Linksys, Belkin etc.); COMPATIBLE WITH...
7. D-Link PoE Access Point AC1300 (DAP-2610) – Best Featured
This access point by D-Link has great features and functions. It has a dual-band and a modern and aesthetic design. For easy storage, one can mount it on the ceiling or on the wall. With the use of efficient technology, this access point is successful in improving signal quality.
It has some unique features like beamforming technology. Using the band steering function, a device will connect to the band, which provides faster connections automatically. Moreover, one can schedule the time for which the access point will work so that it shuts down when not in use to save energy and reduce power consumption.
Why is it unique?
With this access point, the user gets a total speed of 1300 Mbps. The speed at 2.4 GHz is 400 Mbps and 900 Mbps at 5 GHz. It has guest access control for easily linking the guest’s devices. This product uses MIMO technology so that no matter how many devices are connected, the signal remains consistent and strong.
Buyer’s Experience
If we were to take the words of the customer, we could say that this access point does a great job. Almost every buyer stated that they are happy with how easy it is to set and use. In short, it is a praiseworthy access point.
Best Fit For
This access point is great if you live in a large house and need to extend the range without compromising the quality of the network.
Pros
Cons
- FLEXIBLE SOLUTION: Works as a standalone AP or as part of a centralized, scalable multi-device deployment
- DISCREET DEPLOYMENT WITH PoE: 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) support allows for an easy, flexible, and clean...
- NEED FOR SPEED: High-performance 802.11AC Wave 2 Wi-Fi with 2x2 MIMO technology ensures superior coverage and Wi-Fi...
- MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NETWORK CAPABILITIES: Offers several operational modes (Access Point, Wireless Client, WDS, and...
Buying Guide
Now that you have read the descriptions of best access point for home, you must have an idea of the different features and functions available in a WAP. In this buying guide, you will find the features which are very essential to check before selecting any one of them.
1. Range
The range is one of the essential features of WAP. After all, it is a range extender. Make sure that you check that the range of WAP is long enough to extend the WiFi to the dead spots. Also, if it needs to be linked to the main router through an ethernet cable, you have to ensure that the cable is long enough to keep the WAP at the place where you need it.
2. Antenna
Antennas have a key role in determining the strength and quality of the signal. In a WAP, the antenna can be in-built or externally attached to the body. External antennas can be adjustable. Check that the antennas used are of good quality and appropriately fixed to the WAP. Moreover, make sure that the antennas use the latest technology for a more stable WiFi connection in the dead zones.
3. MU-MIMO Technology
This is a must-have feature in a WAP. MU-MIMO is the acronym for Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Out. This feature lets people use high-speed internet on multiple devices at the same time. Earlier, this function was not present in the range extenders. However, most WPA has this feature. Yet, it is important to check that this feature works efficiently because the number of smart devices being used in the house is increasing.
4. Speed
There is a speed limit in every WAP. A wireless access point cannot deliver a speed more than that limit. Make sure that the speed of WAP and the main router is compatible with each other. If the main router’s speed is more than that of WAP, then the resultant speed in devices linked to the latter will have less speed. Also, buying a WPA with a much higher speed than a router will not provide a higher speed. Thus, choose a WAP that has just the right speed.
5. Bandwidth
A WAP can be single-band, dual-band, and tri-band. The bandwidths are usually 2 GHz and 5GHz. The 2GHz is responsible for a more extended range while the 5GHz provides a stable and swift internet in multiple devices simultaneously. The best bandwidth for you depends on your demands.
A dual-band WAP has 2GHz and 5GHz frequencies. In a tri-band, you will find a 2 GHz and two 5GHz frequencies. If you need to connect many devices, then a tri-band is better, while a dual-band will suffice if you have fewer devices.
6. Price
The first thing we check in any product is its price. Proper research will help you to avoid buying an overpriced WAP that does not have a great performance. The price of the WAP will largely depend on what features it has.
Thus, you must list down the factors that you require in your WAP. Compare different brands that offer such functions. This will make it clear which product is worth its price. By using this method, you can find the best wireless AP for you at the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the benefits of using a WAP?
A1. A Wireless access point is beneficial in many ways. The main purpose of a WAP is to extend the range of the WiFi to a larger area. This will get rid of all the dead spots where your router cannot reach. It does this without decreasing the quality of the signal.
Moreover, a WAP increases the capacity, which is the number of devices connected to a router. This is very helpful when you have more new devices in your house to connect.
Q2. How is WAP different from a router?
A2. A router is the main device that is used to create a local network where one can connect his own devices. A WAP, on the other hand, is an extender. It is a device linked to the main router to extend its range and improve the network’s stability. A WAP does not affect the speed provided by the router. Also, with a WAP, you can connect more devices to the router.
Q3. Which is better, a mesh network or a WCP?
A3. Both mesh networks and WCP have their advantages and drawbacks. A mesh network uses different nodes that are placed at numerous positions in the house to spread the network throughout. They are hassle-free because they are wireless. However, it does degrade the quality of the signal.
A WAP needs to be connected to a router through an ethernet cable. Hence, it becomes a bit difficult to set up. Also, you will require a long ethernet cable depending upon the distance between the router and WAP. Since it is a wired device, it delivers a consistent and robust network throughout. Thus, to know which option is better for you depends upon the purpose of buying a range extender.
Conclusion
Well, now that you’re towards the end of this article, so to wrap this up, we’ll say that while choosing a WAP for your home or any other purpose the above mentioned factors are to be considered. Also, the mentioned products are among the best WAP for home that are available for you to buy.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API