It cannot be emphasized enough how crucial it is to have a stable wifi connection all around our house. We all have a number of smart devices in our house in which we require good wifi, whether for work or entertainment purposes. However, installing just a router or modem might not be sufficient to meet the internet requirements around the house.
A router may leave dead zones or may be incapable of providing a stable signal to the backyard or garage of your house. We all are familiar with the frustrating buffering of the videos when we move to the far end of the house. A simple solution to this problem is getting an outdoor wifi extender. A wifi extender connects to the main router and mimics its signal.
For a non-techie person, it can be challenging to go through hundreds of wifi extenders and find the one which fits their requirements. If this is the case with you, then this article might be helpful. In this article, we have created a list of the 7 best outdoor wifi extenders. Along with that, we have provided some additional information that will help you get a product that is fit for you.
Table of Contents
7 Best Outdoor Wifi Extender Reviews
1. Ubiquiti UAP-AC-M-US Unifi Mesh Access Point, White – Best Overall
Leading our list is the mesh access point by one of the most trusted brands, Ubiquiti. This is a wifi extender that is better than most extenders in every aspect, be it price, performance, signal quality or the setup process.
Do not be fooled by its small size. It has just as great features as any other wifi extenders. High-grade materials are used to ensure that it never fails to work. Also, operating this wifi extender is very simple.
Why is it unique?
This has two Omni-directional antennas, which can help in creating a stable network. It has a separate guest network so that your guest can easily connect to the network without the need to share your password.
For easy management and monitoring of the network, one can take the help of the mobile app. You can get it working within a matter of minutes and enjoy uninterfered data speed in your smart devices.
Buyer’s experience
Most buyers have only positive things to say about this outdoor wireless extender. This has an appropriate price and an outstanding performance.
The guest network is one of its best features. With these features and performance, it is undoubtedly one of the best outdoor wifi extenders currently available in the market.
Best fit for
This is a wifi booster that uses a mesh system and can be used in homes, offices, warehouses, restaurants, and more, depending upon your demands.
Pros
Cons
- Country of origin : United States
- Model Number : UAP-AC-M
- Package Weight : 1 pounds
2. TP-Link Omada AC1200 Wireless Gigabit Outdoor Access Point | Business WiFi Solution w/ Mesh Support, PoE Powered | SDN Integrated | Cloud Access & App – Best For Outdoors
If you are looking for a hassle-free access point that uses the latest technology, then this is the wifi booster you might like.
This uses a mesh network to spread the network to the areas you want. The maximum speed it can deliver is 1200 Mbps. Also, it can be installed in various forms like wall-mounted, poles, etc.
Packed with many other great features, it is one of the favorites of the people. TP-Link provides a user-friendly app to simplify the process of installation. All in all, it is an outdoor wifi booster which is worthy of praise.
Why is it unique?
The most unique and promising feature of this wifi extender is the self-healing property. With this feature, if any one of the links fails to work, then the system reroutes the data through another link. MU-MIMO technology ensures that the signal remains stable even when multiple devices are connected.
Furthermore, with its weather-resistant features like waterproof and dustproof, it is ideal for outdoor use. This includes two detachable antennas, which can be adjusted as per the requirements.
Buyer’s experience
The buyers state that this wifi extender was fairly easy to set up. This product successfully provided stable wifi in the desired area. It has some of the best features and performance for the price it has. Therefore, it is considered a great way to extend the range of your wifi.
Best fit for
This is a versatile wifi extender that can be used indoors and outdoors in offices or homes. If you are facing the problem of dead zones or need wifi in your backyard, outside of your house, then this product might be suitable for you.
Pros
Cons
- 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐔-𝐌𝐈𝐌𝐎: Equipped with the...
- 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫/𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐬𝐞: The durable, weatherproof enclosure protects the...
- 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐒𝐃𝐍: Omada's Software Defined...
- 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬: Remote Cloud access and Omada app brings centralized cloud management of...
3. TP-Link 2.4GHz N300 Long Range Outdoor CPE | Point to Point Wireless Bridge | 9dBi, 5km+ | Passive PoE Powered w/ Free PoE Injector – Best Range
Next on our list is yet another long range wifi extender outdoor by TP-link. This extender is specifically designed to be used outdoors with weatherproof features. It has the capability to provide 300 Mbps data speed at 2.4 GHz to long distances.
The reason for its high performance is the use of the latest technology antennas with MI-MIMO. The superior performance is accompanied by a user-friendly interface so that it can be set up and used without a problem. With such virtues and performance, it is undoubtedly one of the best 7.
Why is it unique?
The antenna technology it uses allows it to provide stable and seamless wifi at maximum speeds of 300 Mbps at a distance over 5 Km which makes it stand out from the rest of the long distance wifi extenders.
This makes use of a metal reflector so that it faces minimum noise interference and hence, a better wifi signal quality. With a Centralized Management System, the network and all the devices connected to it can be effortlessly managed through Pharos Control from your PC.
Buyer’s experience
The most striking feature of this product that impressed the customers was its long-range. With this wifi extender, users were able to spread their network to a large area.
Also, the product is built using premium quality materials and, therefore, has a longer life-span. All these features are provided at a very nominal cost. Consequently, it is a great product to invest in.
Best fit for
This wifi extender can help you connect your office devices to the network, which may be at a distance of a few kilometers from your house. It is highly durable. Hence you can mount it outdoors without worrying about it getting damaged from rain, dust, or other weather elements.
Pros
Cons
- Built in 9dBi 2x2 dual polarized directional MIMO antenna
- Adjustable transmission Power from 0 to 27dBm/500mW. Power Consumption: 10.5 Watts Max, Note: When deployed using...
- System level optimizations for more than 5km long-range wireless transmission (only for paired Point-to-Point or...
- TP Link Pharos tdma (Time Division Multiple Access) technology improves product Performance in throughput, Capacity and...
4. NETGEAR Orbi Outdoor satellite WiFi extender, works with any WiFi router, gateway, or ISP rented equipment (RBS50Y) – Best For Homes
This outside wifi extender is by well-reputed brand, NETGEAR, and is the best method to eliminate the dead zones your router may have been leaving behind. It connects directly to your router and creates the same network. The maximum speed it provides is 1.7 Gbps.
The extender is capable of handling heat and rain. Therefore, it can be set up outdoors without any issues. Apart from being weather-proof, this has a lot more to offer to its users. Thus, making it one of the best.
Why is it unique?
With this wifi extender, you get extra coverage of 2500 square feet. It is a tri-band wifi extender that has a DIY installation process so that the users face no difficulty in getting it to work. It can be easily mounted on the wall. The separate guest network will make it easy to connect guests’ devices.
You can trust this wifi extender to deliver a premium performance. Now you can enjoy buffering-free videos and seamless data around your backyard, garage, poolside, and sheds.
Best fit for
Depending on the range and the quality of service it provides, it is suitable for use around homes. It is compatible with most of the routers and ISP rented equipment. You can set it up outside your house.
Pros
Cons
- Compatible with any WiFi router, gateway, or ISP rented gateway. (Not compatible with Orbi WiFi 6 systems)
- Weather-resistant, IP66 rating keeps you connected outdoors, rain or shine
- Works with your existing router to extend coverage outside by up to 2, 500 sq. ft.
- Award-winning tri-band mesh WiFi technology provides the fastest internet speeds available
5. Ubiquiti Nanostation NSM5, 5GHz, 802.11a/n Hi-power 20 dBm Minimum, 2×2 MIMO AirMax TDMA PoE Station – Best Performance
This is a simple plug-and-play outdoor range extender. With an easy setup process, anyone can install without help from someone else. This is an affordable method to get rid of dead zones around the house.
Although, do not be fooled by the low price. The performance of this extender is just as good as any costlier product with the same price. It makes use of advanced technologies to maintain stable wifi.
Why is it unique?
It has a simple design with high performance. This makes use of 2×2 MU-MIMO technology to ensure that multiple devices connected to the wifi have a seamless connection.
It is dual-band wifi which has four LED indicators to display the signal strength. With all these features and a low price, this is a great deal.
Buyers’ experience
As per the buyers, this might not have the greatest features like other expensive wifi extenders, but it definitely has good basic features and outstanding performance at an affordable price. Moreover, it is pretty easy to set up and hence, saves a lot of time and effort for the users.
Best fit for
It might have a great performance, but it is not meant for outdoor use or in an office. It is a great wifi extender for homes to remove dead zones that might not have been covered by your router.
Pros
Cons
- Time Division Multiple Access, integrated airMAX (MIMO TDMA protocol) technology.
- Dual Ethernet, 4 LED signal strength indicator, Intelligent POE, Capable of high-speed, carrier-class links
- Frequency Range: 5.745-5.825 Ghz, Gain 16 dBi, Max Power Consumption 8W
- Access (TDMA) airMAX protocol allows each client to send and receive data using pre-designated time slots scheduled by...
6. WAVLINK AC1200 High Power Outdoor Weatherproof WiFi Range Extender/Wireless Access Point/Router with Passive POE, Detachable Omni Directional Antenna – Most Easy to Install
This is a repeater by WAVELINK. It is a versatile product that can work as a repeater, a router, and an access point. The speed at 2.4 GHz is 300 Mbps, and 5 GHz is 867 Mbps. The wifi extender sits in a sturdy weatherproof case to make it appropriate to be used outdoors.
It creates a network that is seamless and does not drop out of a sudden. The high-power amplifiers help provide optimum output power and the best performance possible. Also, you do not have to worry about any trouble while installation as it is quite simple.
Why is it unique?
Many brands do not pay much attention to the security of the network in their wifi extenders. However, this is not the case with WAVELINK. This weatherproof wifi extender outdoor uses WPA/WPA2 encryption to make the network more secure.
With four external antennas, the network is strong with fast data speed. The robust build of this extender keeps it working even in the roughest weather conditions.
Buyer’s experience
Based on the opinion of the users, this wifi extender works just as advertised. It has a trouble-free installation process and outstanding performance. Furthermore, it has a much longer lifespan due to its highly durable design. Thus, the buyers would recommend it to others.
Best fit for
If you have dead zones or weak wifi signals in some parts of your or need a wifi extender for your small business or home office, then this is the product suitable for you. Also, for someone who the security of the network is vital, this could provide the security they demand.
Pros
Cons
- Dual Band AC1200: Speed up to 2.4GHz 150Mbps and 5.8 GHz 867Mbps, high transmission power breaking down the barries of...
- Weatherproof RJ45 Connector, Integragted Passive Power over Ethernet (PoE). Passive PoE Support for Flexible Deployment
- Build in lightning arrester (15kV ESD), robust weatherproof case withstands harsh outdoor conditions.
- Multiple Operation Modes: WL-WN572HP3 supports AP, Repeater,Router, Mesh operation modes. And under AP mode, it provides...
7. Outdoor WiFi Antenna BAS-2301 Extender for WiFi routers (2.4 Ghz) – Best Price
Last but not least in our list, this wifi extender may have fewer features but has unmatched performance. The product can be wall mounted in the area where you need to extend your wifi signal to.
The best part of this wifi extender is that it has a very feasible price. So, buying this product will give an exceptional performance at a low price.
But that is not all; this also has a robust build so that it continues to deliver its great performance for a long period of time.
Why is it unique?
This is a single-band wifi extender, but a dual-band version is also available. This wifi extender can be mounted on a wall. The setup process is one of the easiest. With weather-proof features, it is made to be mounted outdoors. The outer covering is made from ABS plastic which protects the extender from the effects of UV rays and other climatic conditions.
Buyer’s experience
This is the kind of product which offers more at less. The price is nominal, but it does not imply that it does not have a good performance. According to the users, this booster works perfectly. It provided a stable wifi network and lasted for a long. Hence, making it a great choice.
Best fit for
This is a wifi booster that can be used at a multitude of places. Whether you need to remove dead zones in your house, extend the wifi outdoors, or need to use it in restaurants, small offices, warehouses, this extender will do the job.
Pros
Cons
- The antenna extends your home WiFi signal to distant areas. Ideal outdoor WiFi Extender.
- IMPORTANT: This item can be hooked up only to routers with detachable rod antennas (or an external RP-SMA port).
- Great for Backyard Structures, Offices, Stores, Warehouses, Restaurants and other places
- Boosts WiFi signal to distant security cameras
Factors To Know Before Purchasing An Outdoor WiFi Range Extender
Once you have reviewed the above-listed wifi extenders, it is time to learn how to pick the right one based on your needs. The wide range makes it difficult to choose the best choice, so to make your task simple, we have provided you with some features you must consider when purchasing a wifi extender.
These features will ensure that you find the best possible extender for yourself. The essential features are:
1. Distance
It is better to know how much is the range of the transmitter. This feature depends on certain things such as trees, place of installation, walls, etc. You can have an idea about the range depending on the power capacity of the wifi extenders.
A regular wifi extender can extend the range up to 200 feet, while the best ones can offer you more than 300 feet. So choose a wifi extender according to the distance required to transmit signals.
2. Installation
The installation process should not be difficult or time-consuming as it may disappoint the customers. The installation should be seamless and the model should have all the wires, cables, and adapters to make sure that customers have an easy setup experience. Also, it is advisable to choose a model that has more than one installation option.
3. RF Power
RF Power refers to the amplifiers which receive the internet connection from a modem or router and transmit stronger signals. To know how powerful your device is or how much power your amplifier can handle, you need to know the decibel milliwatt and mill watt. More the dBm, the better the device is.
The RF Power transforms milliwatt to decibel milliwatt, which in turn improves the efficiency of signals to travel without losing strength. It is recommended to choose a device that offers a minimum of 8 dBm and 10 mW. Any device with less than this will not deliver proper connection strength.
4. Compatibility
This feature somehow limits users around the world. A wifi extender is compatible with either 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz systems. It is specific to any one of the connections.
You should make sure to buy one according to the internet connection. You can also go for a dual-compatibility wifi extender.
5. Ease of use
You will want to have a wifi extender that is easy to use and install. Along with the compatibility with the internet systems and simple installation, you will need it to be easy to use so as to give your customers an enjoyable experience.
It means you will have a straightforward interface without wasting your time and effort. It also helps in the easy configuration of the wifi extender.
6. Antenna
You should also know how the antenna works apart from the RF Power. Not all wifi extenders come with antennas. They are less efficient and do not work properly in large places.
For the antenna-oriented devices, you need to choose between unidirectional and multidirectional. A unidirectional delivers signals straight while a multidirectional transmits signals 360°. You can also choose wifi extender with two antennas.
7. Price
This is something which must be taken into account based on the wifi service providers. You can find good products at great prices which might be under your budget.
Find the products under your budget and compare the specifications you require, which will help you buy the best wifi extender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is an ideal place to set up the wifi extender?
A1. Where you place the wifi extender depends entirely on your need and purpose of using a wifi extender. If you need to get rid of the dead zones, make sure that the extender is placed in a room where it can properly connect to the main router and at the same time provides the network to the area where you want. If you need it for outdoor use, make sure the extender is weather-proof or under the proper shed if it is not weatherproof.
Q2. Are boosters better than repeaters?
A2. In terms of performance, boosters are better than repeaters. Repeaters, as their name suggests, just mimics the signal of the router to the areas where you may be facing network issues without having any effect on the signal quality. On the other hand, a good quality booster may actually improve the network.
Q3. Are mesh wifi systems a good option?
A3. Mesh wifi uses different nodes which connect to the main router and can be kept at different positions. These nodes do not need to be connected to the router through an ethernet cable and only required to be plugged into a power supply. The mesh system provides greater flexibility to the user regarding coverage.
It can have a range of up to 5000 square feet or more. However, one should remember that the nodes are kept at a place where they can connect with each other and the router adequately. The only drawback is that a mesh system may cost you more than other types of range extenders.
Conclusion
Purchasing a wifi extender is always a good investment. It will solve the problem of dead zones and slow connections around your house or work of place without the need to buy a new router.
Also, there are hundreds of good quality wifi extenders in the market, and with appropriate knowledge and guidance, one can find just the perfect wifi extender for themselves. So, this was our take on best outdoor wifi extender. Do let us know which one you think is the one for you.
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API