Best Wi-Fi Extenders in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 15, 2024
Want to have Wi-Fi in a yard next to your house? Or your phone doesn’t show all 4 bars on the second floor of your house? Then grab a Wi-Fi extender and expand the boundaries of your wireless router's signal. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Designated Areas
Data Interface
Antennas
Power Supply
Speed
Network Standards
Access and Data Protection
Warranty
 
PROS

Lan-port has a speed of 1000 mbps and boasts a modern auto-sensing technology: the connected devices automatically exchange data to establish the optimal operation mode and data transfer rate.

CONS

Due to its large size it may restrict access to adjacent outlets.

OUR VERDICT

This model is equipped with 3 external antennas, therefore it is able to expand the area of Wi-Fi coverage by as much as 900 square meters. And the maximum data transfer rate over a wireless network up to 1750 Mbps will help it to cover the needs of large houses and medium-sized offices.

detailed parameters
Designated Areas

Large houses, offices

Data Interface

1 x LAN (RJ45) port, Wi-Fi

Antennas

3 external antennas

Power Supply

AC (directly in wall outlet)

Speed

5GHz: Up to 1300 Mbps

2.4GHz: Up to 450 Mbps

LAN-port: up to 1000 Mbps

Network Standards

IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac

Access and Data Protection

64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The case has a mechanical switch that allows you to select the optimal frequency band, based on the frequency of your router. Thus, you can achieve maximum data transfer speed and significantly reduce wireless congestion.

CONS

Some firmware versions are unstable (may require an update).

OUR VERDICT

If each family member in your house has several high-tech gadgets, and you want to ensure a stable connection with each of the devices, this Booster will help you for sure: watching movies or playing games online will not have any delays.

detailed parameters
Designated Areas

Medium to large houses

Data Interface

1 x Lan (RJ45) port, Wi-Fi

Antennas

Internal antennas

Power Supply

AC (directly in wall outlet)

Speed

5GHz: Up to 867 Mbps

2.4GHz: Up to 300 Mbps

LAN-port: Up to 100 Mbps

Network Standards

IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac

Access and Data Protection

64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK

Warranty

3 years

PROS

You can configure and manage your Wi-Fi network directly from your smartphone using the free TP-Link Tether app (Android, iOS). Fully compliant with the latest wireless standards.

CONS

Setup is simple, but relatively time-consuming.

OUR VERDICT

The TP-LINK RE220 AC750 amplifier is compatible with any Wi-Fi router or access point, making it easy to expand your Wi-Fi network and improve its signal. The dual bands provide up to 750Mbps total bandwidth, delivering blazing fast network speeds for HD video streaming, online gaming and more.

detailed parameters
Designated Areas

Medium to large houses

Data Interface

1 x LAN Port (RJ45), Wi-Fi

Antennas

Internal antennas

Power Supply

AC (directly in wall outlet)

Speed

5GHz: Up to 433 Mbps

2.4GHz: Up to 300 Mbps

Network Standards

IEEE 802.11 b/g/n and IEEE 802.11ac

Access and Data Protection

64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The WPS button allows you to connect any device with one click in just 10 seconds. At the same time, new connection parameters are generated each time, which ensures a secure and encrypted network environment.

CONS

Instructions not very detailed.

OUR VERDICT

This Ubcwin Wi-Fi Extender is a device that allows you to expand the range of a wireless network in your home and guarantees full 360-degree signal coverage, without any dead zones. The device has a minimalistic design and will allow for easy and stable connectivity.

detailed parameters
Designated Areas

Medium to large houses

Data Interface

1 x LAN Port (RJ45), Wi-Fi

Antennas

2 Internal antennas

Power Supply

AC (directly in wall outlet)

Speed

2.4GHz: Up to 300 Mbps

Network Standards

IEEE 802.11n/b/g

Access and Data Protection

64/128-bit WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA Mixed, WPS

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The two included Ethernet ports allow you to connect wired devices such as PCs, smart TVs, and streaming boxes to the network so that the Internet connection with all devices in the house is stable.

CONS

Indicators are quite bright, which can be annoying in a dark room.

OUR VERDICT

The OPPEY WiFi Extender supports three (AP / Repeater / Router) working modes, which further expands its scope. Ultra-high speeds of wireless communication will be provided to you, letting you watch your favourite online shows or downloaded all necessary content.

detailed parameters
Designated Areas

Medium to large houses

Data Interface

2 x LAN Ports (RJ45), Wi-Fi

Antennas

Internal antennas

Power Supply

AC (directly in wall outlet)

Speed

2.4GHz and 5GHz: Up to 300 Mbps

Network Standards

IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, IEEE 802.11bgn

Access and Data Protection

64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

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TP-LINK RE450

High Quality All Around

In the world of information technologies, there are always some kinds of products that sacrifice some of its aspects in favour of others and those that instead focus on delivering the best they can do in every single category. It's not at all uncommon to find that products with great features also feature some kind of trade-offs that cut into the value they would otherwise provide. Though, generally speaking, this sort of approach entails a relatively mediocre quality of all of these elements, the TP-LINK RE450 Universal Dual Band Wi-Fi Booster is one of those welcome exceptions that exudes high quality in just about every single area.

To get the ball rolling, this Wi-Fi router booster offers a fairly solid connection speed, with up to 1300 Mbps on a 5GHz network and up to 450 Mbps on a 2.4GHz one. The aforementioned networks are secured with the help of three external dual-band antennas that extend the coverage of your wireless signal and its reliability, effectively removing any potential dead zones from your house or your place of business. Given that both of the bandwidths utilise the Wireless-AC technology, you'll be able to rest assured knowing that the power of the signal will be able to match its range.

Review of TP-LINK RE450 AC1750 Universal Dual Band Range Extender

One Touch Setup

Another great feature of this wireless router is its Gigabit ethernet port, offering a high speed wired connection that gives you plenty of flexibility in connecting devices that either do not have wireless capabilities, or that only support slower speed standards from the past. This is perfect for something such as a desktop computer or a game console that you want to connect without having to shell out more money for a wireless adapter.

Lastly, even though this TP-Link Wi-Fi booster is essentially an orthodox all-rounder, the model does incorporate a fairly unique Intelligent Signal Indicator that comes with an RE button for one-touch setup, making the setup process of the router quite easy, especially for those who are always intimidated by such things. The blue light will indicate that the connection is solid and the red one will be reserved for those occasions when it isn't, letting you quickly and easily check the status of your connection without having to go into the firmware. All in all, the TP-LINK RE450 Universal Dual Band Wi-Fi Booster is a reliable and well-rounded model that will be a perfect fit for the kind of clientele that would choose a versatile device over a specific one any day of the week.

TP-LINK RE450 AC1750 Universal Dual Band Range Extender in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £45.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B013SYHHI2

 

BT Wi-Fi Extender 1200

Stable Wireless Connectivity

There are a large number of factors that can cause wireless connectivity problems with wireless networks. Although having a weak signal is one of the most common problems, another issue that wireless networks tend to encounter is wireless interference. This is often caused by other wireless networks or devices in the area that happen to be using the same frequency as the wireless network, which can cause the overlapping signals to interfere with each other. In such cases as this, most wireless range extenders will do little to help mitigate connectivity issues.

The BT 1200 Wi-Fi Range Extender is one such device that doesn't have to experience problems with wireless interference. This WiFi range extender features an external switch that lets you change the frequency band used by the extender, letting you cycle through until you find the one with the clearest, strongest signal. This lets you optimise your wireless network for getting the best data transfer speeds throughout its entirety without having to worry about interference limiting your network speeds. This feature makes this wireless range extender perfect for areas that have a lot of wireless traffic or that are in range of other wireless networks.

Review of BT Wi-Fi Extender 1200 AC1200 Wi-Fi Range Extender

Easy Positioning

A common issue that people often encounter with using a WiFi range extender is with where exactly the device should go. With most devices, it's not always clear where the extender should go in order to maximise the range of the wireless network while still maintaining a strong, stable connection throughout the area. With this device, though, you're in luck. The external casing of the device includes indicator lights that will help you with finding the optimal placement of the range extender. The indicator lights will show whether the device is too close or too far away from the wireless router, while a middle light will indicate when it is in an optimal location.

Along with the great features highlighted above, this wireless range extender includes most everything that one should expect from such a device. The range extender supports 11ac 1200 dual band technology, giving you the fastest data transfer speeds possible, should your wireless router support them. Setup of the device is also quite simple, requiring no more than a couple of minutes to get it up and running. If you are looking for a great wireless extender that can help solve issues with slow wireless speeds and interference, this just might be the best option for you.

BT Wi-Fi Extender 1200 AC1200 Wi-Fi Range Extender in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £29.97
Stock In stock
ASIN B00P7XV00O

 

TP-LINK RE220

Easy Compatibility

Have you been looking through the different WiFi range extenders, but you have some concerns about which models have the best compatibility with your particular Wi-Fi network? By choosing the TP-LINK RE220 AC750 Universal Dual Band Range Extender, you won't have to worry about it. This powerful little device will be fully compatible with your network as well as any additional access points that are connected to it. This high degree of compatibility comes with the fact that this access point supports the full range of wireless standards, so it won't have any issues with connecting to either an old or brand new wireless router, regardless of which model you have.

Compatibility is great to have, but what about the wireless network speeds? This dual-band router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz connections, which combined give you up to 750 Mbs network speeds, giving you plenty of bandwidth for any task. Whether you are streaming videos from your favourite streaming service, playing online games, or just video chatting with your friends and family, this wireless access point will certainly not be a bottleneck, giving you full Internet access speeds without any buffering or lagging issues.

Review of TP-LINK RE220 AC750 Universal Dual Band Range Extender

Manage From Anywhere

Another great feature that most people will certainly like about this WiFi range extender is that it is extremely simple to configure and manage. With the TP-Link Tether app running on your Android or iOS smartphone, you can set up and configure this access point without any difficulty whatsoever, letting you manage your home network from anywhere. The setup process for this device is pretty simple, although be aware that it can be a bit time-consuming, so make sure that you set aside a bit of time when first setting it up. Once it is set up, though, managing it is dead simple.

Just like many of the other WiFi range extenders out there, this unit comes as a one-piece connection to your power outlet, letting you keep it well out of the way, while still providing a great extension to your home or office wireless network. The unit also includes a built-in Ethernet port that lets you connect any devices that do not have built-in wireless adapters. This way, those with a desktop computer, streaming media player, or game console can connect right up to your network without having to be near the router. With all of these great features rolled up into one simple device, you'll find that this WiFi range extender is one of the best products of its kind available.

TP-LINK RE220 AC750 Universal Dual Band Range Extender in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £19.49
Stock In stock
ASIN B07ZWBBPQN

 

Ubcwin 300Mbps

Extend Your Range

Those who often find themselves with multiple WiFi dead spots in their homes will often want to know why they can't get rid of them with a more powerful router. Sometimes, there is just no getting past such things, largely due to the materials used in the walls or other objects in the home. Fear not, though, as even the toughest dead spots can get worked around thanks to a WiFi extender such as the Ubcwin 300Mbps WiFi Range Extender. This device allows you to expand the range of your home's wireless network and guarantees full 360-degree signal coverage, without any dead zones. Along with this, you will have an extremely stable network that is easy to manage.

The device itself has a minimalistic design with a relatively small footprint, and is certainly smaller than most WiFi routers. This gives you the ability to easily set it up in the most strategic location for extending your home's WiFi network to the areas where you need the coverage. In fact, this WiFi range extender includes a built-in mains plug that allows you to plug it into any mains outlet in your home, so you won't need to worry about setting it up on a desk or a table. The front of the device included LED indicators that give you the status of the device as well as of the wireless network as a whole, so you should be able to check for problems just at a glance.

Review of Ubcwin 300Mbps WiFi Range Extender

One Click Connect

One of the most convenient features of this WiFi range extender is the WPS button included on the front of the casing, which allows you to easily and quickly connect any wireless device to your network with just the single press of a button. This will definitely come in handy for those who often are connecting multiple devices to their home network, which can get tiring when having to manually input the settings for the network.

One sore point we have noticed with this wireless range extender is that the included instructions are rather poor and don't really do a good job of walking first-time users through setting it up on the network. Thankfully, this shouldn't be a deal-breaker for most people, as the setup is rather straightforward and doesn't require much in the way of configuration, provided that you are using it just to extend your existing wireless network's range. The device connects to your wireless router through the included Ethernet port, so you will want to make sure that your router has a free one available before setting it up.

To sum up our thoughts on this WiFi range extender, we think it is an excellent value that gives anyone the ability to boost the range of their home wireless network without much fuss.

Ubcwin 300Mbps WiFi Range Extender in the use
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B09QLYJ6ZN

 

OPPEY 300Mbps

3 Mode Extender

WiFi range extenders can seem fairly intimidating to those who are not tech-heads. With many people having enough trouble just setting up a wireless router in their homes, adding a range extender to that same network can seem all that much more difficult, especially if you have never tried setting one up before. However, this doesn't have to be the case. With the OPPEY 300Mbps WiFi Extender, you can easily extend your wireless network range and eliminate dead spots with minimal effort, and to top that all off, it definitely won't cost you an arm and a leg.

This WiFi Extender from OPPEY supports three working modes, which further expands its scope. The AP (Access Point) mode helps give you a different network name that works off your wireless network, which can be handy for those who want to be able to connect to a stronger network at a glance. Repeater mode allows you to connect the device to your existing wireless network without needing a direct connection through an Ethernet port. Router mode allows the device to work just like a wireless router, which can come in handy if you happen to have a broadband modem without a working wireless router. In short, this device gives you tons of flexibility in how you can use it.

Review of OPPEY 300Mbps WiFi Extender

Dual Ethernet Ports

Just like with the other WiFi range extenders reviewed here, this device has a small footprint that allows you to just plug it into a convenient mains outlet in your home or small office. The casing of the device is black rather than the typical white that most other models come in, which may or may not be to any person's particular taste. Having said that, it is small enough to where it definitely won't stick out like a sore thumb no matter where you have it plugged in.

The front of the device includes multiple LED indicators that show if the device is powered on, which operating mode it is in, and the status of the wireless network. This is quite handy if you are trying to troubleshoot an issue with your wireless network, letting you see all of this at a glance instead of having to dig through menus in the device's firmware. The WPS button gives you the ability to connect any mobile device to your network with just the click of a button, adding to its convenience.

One thing we are happy to see with this device is that it includes two Ethernet ports on it, letting you connect something like a desktop computer that doesn't have a wireless adapter installed. We wish more range extenders included multiple Ethernet ports, so those in agreement with us will definitely want to give this range extender a serious look.

OPPEY 300Mbps WiFi Extender in the use
Last updated price £26.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B09PR63N2K

 

What Is a Wi-Fi Extender?

Nowadays you can get a Wi-Fi signal almost everywhere in a city: malls, offices, cafeterias, hotels, shops, and even in public transport. Of course, the connection there may vary in quality from good to no signal at all. But even at your own house, you are not safe from accidentally getting into a dead spot where you cannot pick up even a single bar from your Wi-Fi router. Concrete walls, reinforced panels, weak output signal—these and many other things may become a nearly impenetrable barrier for Internet access.

Wi-Fi extenders are an excellent solution to cover your entire house with a stable signal. As it is evident from the name, they extend the existing Wi-Fi coverage by taking a signal from a router and retransferring it to the nearby area. In some cases, an extender simply boosts your router with additional antennas; in others, it creates a new network with a common router as an access point.

But right before we'll go further into details, you might want to take a look at our review of the best wireless routers with a thorough guide on how to get a Wi-Fi router best suited for your needs.

What Features to Compare

Designated Area

First of all, think about where you are going to use. Wi-Fi extenders sometimes are called repeaters and have a designated area of use. You can find models that are recommended but not limited to small houses or offices. The device amplifies a signal so that it could reach the farthest corners of your apartment, like when you have thick concrete walls in your building with a router's signal cutting through only one or two of them. For a cottage or an office, you might require a more powerful extender. In that case, we recommend taking a closer look at a Wi-Fi repeater that has adjustable external antennas with the gain power at 3 dBi or higher. If antennas are detachable, they can be replaced with more powerful or directional antennas in the future, but in most cases, you can simply point them in the required direction.

Bandwidth and Maximum Speed

You want to buy an extender to get better coverage and speed in the first place, right? If those numbers mean nothing to you, just try to buy an extender with the same maximum speed as your Wi-Fi router. Check them in a manual and in contract to your ISP. Search for numbers like Mbps or Mb/s. Below, we've compiled devices that range from 300 up to incredible 1300 Mbps, so that you could choose the one that would suit your ISP traffic plan and walls layout best.

Setup and Controls

Setup and controls are mostly done only once by connecting a device to your computer’s Ethernet port to set a Wi-Fi password. Normally, extenders work right away, but sometimes they have a CD with special software to program an extender. Basic options like resetting or turning the device on-off usually have designated buttons on the body. If you prefer gaming but your family loves watching online video or downloading large files, an ordinary extender might not be enough, as the streaming video and big files take a lot of Internet traffic and can cause lags. Therefore, you might want to get an advanced model with an option to prioritize connections.

Design

Most of the time, extenders are simply plugged into a socket and look like compact boxes with or without antennas. However, there are models that have an external power cord and can be placed on top of the shelf or just sit on your table. That way you will always have them within hand's reach.

Data Interfaces

There’re repeaters that have output LAN ports to connect them to other devices that have no Wi-Fi module, like a TV or desktop PC. Some extenders work with a power-line technology. It allows you to transfer Internet signal via the electrical wiring of your house. You will need 2 or more of such power-line adapters. After they've been plugged in the sockets, one of them will pick up a signal from the router via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi, while the other one can receive it and retransfer further to other devices. Please note, that in most cases Internet signal can’t pass through electric transformers or power monitors.

You might also come across such specifications as supported network standards or access protection protocols, however, they are mostly interoperable only with many routers, so you might need this info only if you are going to install very specific routers in your office and need to protect confidential data. Still, common routers, extenders, and adapters are designed in accordance with Wi-Fi standards which oblige manufacturers to have the means for data protection. Set passwords, keep them to yourself and worry not - your information will be safe and sound.

Sources:

1. Simon Jary How to improve Wi-Fi in the home: Wi-Fi extenders vs Powerline adapters, PC Advisor. January 7, 2015.

2. Samara Lynn Wireless Witch: How to Place a Wireless Extender, PCMag. November 12, 2013.

3. Dan O'Halloran Boost Your WiFi with a Range Extender, Techlicious. January 12, 2015.

4. Dong Ngo Networking buying guide, CNET. September 14, 2016.

5. WiFi Boosters, Repeaters and ExtendersRepeaterStore.

6. WiFi Range Extender Best Setup GuideRouterGuide.

7. Simon Hill 7 Things to Consider When Buying a WiFi Range Extender, DealNews. June 9, 2016.

8. Securifi How to Choose the Right WiFi Extender Solution For Your Home, Securifi Blog. July 5, 2016.

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