If you‘re struggling with Wi-Fi dead zones or unreliable connections in your home, a mesh network could be the solution. Mesh Wi-Fi uses multiple access points that work together to blanket your whole house with strong, steady Wi-Fi. With so many options on the market, we’ve done the research to determine 2023‘s top mesh network systems based on performance, features and value.
How Does Mesh Wi-Fi Work?
A mesh network has two or more access points that connect to your modem to provide Wi-Fi coverage for your entire home. One acts as the main router, while the others function as satellites or nodes, forming a flexible mesh to route signals wherever needed. This eliminates dead zones while allowing smooth roaming between access points without having to connect to different networks as you move around.
Mesh systems have intelligent software to manage traffic between nodes for optimal performance. They support new Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6 for fast speeds, as well as handy features like easy setup, parental controls, and connected device prioritization. Many mesh routers double as smart home hubs for controlling devices too.
Benefits of Mesh Networks
Compared to traditional wireless routers, mesh networks have considerable advantages:
- Whole-home coverage without dead zones
- Stronger signals that penetrate walls and floors
- Fast speeds with minimal dropoffs as you roam
- Support for many devices without congestion
- Easy setup and management with smartphone apps
- Flexible expansion by adding more nodes
The catch is that mesh systems are more expensive upfront. However, they can replace both your router and range extenders for less clutter and hassle.
What to Look for in Mesh Networks
- Coverage: The number of square feet the mesh can accommodate. More is better for larger homes.
- Speed: Faster total bandwidth across nodes means snappier connections. Wi-Fi 6 supports fastest speeds.
- Satellites: More satellites provide wider reach, but get costly. Two or three nodes suit most homes.
- Wi-Fi Standards: Get a system with the latest standards (Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6) for best future-proofing.
- Ease of Use: Look for easy app-based setup and network management tools.
- Price: Entry-level dual-band systems start around $200, while premium tri-band kits run up to $700.
Base your choice on your budget, space needing coverage, and desired features. With the right pick, your home is sure to have wall-to-wall Wi-Fi!
The Best Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
After extensive analysis, we found these mesh networks provide the best overall value across critical categories:
Overall Winner: ASUS ZenWiFi AX6600
Speed: 6600Mbps tri-band Wi-Fi 6
Coverage: 5500 sq ft
Satellites: 2
Highlights: OFDMA and MU-MIMO for efficient performance, AiProtection network security
The ZenWiFi AX6600 offers blazing tri-band speeds up to 6600Mbps and blankets up to 5500 square feet with strong Wi-Fi 6 signals. It sets up easily via app within minutes, while advanced OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies allow simultaneous streaming to multiple devices without congestion. Built-in Trend Micro security provides comprehensive threat protection for all connected devices.
With robust connectivity technologies, expansive coverage, and protective network security, the ASUS ZenWiFi AX6600 is a well-rounded mesh system that meets every networking need.
Best Budget: TP-Link Deco X20
Speed: AX1800 dual-band Wi-Fi 6
Coverage: 5800 sq ft
Satellites: 3
Highlights: Affordable, supports 150 devices, easy setup
Despite its low price point, the TP-Link Deco X20 delivers excellent whole-home Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 1800Mbps. Its tri-band network effortlessly handles over 150 devices with reliably fast connections and expansive reach. Setup takes minutes thanks to the intuitive Deco app.
For cost-conscious shoppers needing basic mesh features without sacrificing quality, the Deco X20 hits the sweet spot.
Fastest Speeds: ASUS ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000
Speed: 11000Mbps tri-band Wi-Fi 6E
Coverage: 6000 sq ft
Satellites: 2
Highlights: Blazing 11Gbps pace powered by Wi-Fi 6E, future-proofed
Equipped with the very latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, the ZenWiFi Pro AXE11000 absolutely dominates with lightning-quick wireless clocking over 10Gbps! It leverages 6GHz bands and 1024QAM for massive capacity across its tri-band network, enabling 8K video streaming, VR gaming, video conferences and more without breaking a sweat.
With overkill speeds to spare for tomorrow’s connected homes, this ASUS mesh is a sound investment for unrivaled future-proof performance.
Smoothest Coverage: NETGEAR Orbi RBK853
Speed: AX6000 tri-band Wi-Fi 6
Coverage: 7500 sq ft
Satellites: 2 (expandable)
Highlights: Blankets up to 7500 sq ft with strong signals, 100+ device capacity
If you need to cover a very large home or office, the NETGEAR Orbi RBK853 is up to the task with room to spare. Its dedicated tri-band backhaul between satellites means snappy Wi-Fi 6 speeds everywhere, not just near the router. You can add more nodes for 2500 sq ft more reach per unit too.
With the Orbi RBK853‘s mammoth coverage, even the biggest spaces can enjoy seamless Wi-Fi roaming minus dead spots.
What‘s It Like Using Mesh Wi-Fi?
Once set up, mesh networks work automatically to give you smooth, consistent connections everywhere in their range. Expect:
- Wall-to-wall Wi-Fi without dead zones
- Fast speeds for 4K video and gaming across nodes
- Strong signals even through walls and floors
- No Network switching between access points
- Easy additions of more satellites when needed
- Reliable connectivity for 100+ devices
- Potential smart home integration
Daily use is frustration-free. Just connect and go without disruptions. Mesh networks deliver wireless freedom!
Tips for Getting the Most from Mesh Networks
To maximize performance:
- Position nodes well for optimal coverage
- Use ethernet backhaul if available for fastest speeds
- Enable smart device prioritization if needed
- Check for firmware updates periodically
- Add satellites gradually only when needed
- Disable extraneous router features to reduce clutter
Take advantage of mesh app features to monitor usage and connections. With good management practices, your network will stay snappy even with heavy use.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems provide whole-home wireless coverage without frustrations. ASUS ZenWiFi models topped our list with robust connectivity features at reasonable prices. Compare your needs to our award winners‘ strengths to pinpoint your perfect fit. Ditch Wi-Fi headaches for good and enjoy the many benefits of mesh networking!
