Best mesh Wi-Fi router

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Mesh WiFi routers have become a go-to solution for homes and offices dealing with weak or inconsistent internet. Unlike traditional single-point routers, these systems use multiple devices (nodes) to create a seamless network, extending coverage across larger areas and eliminating dead zones. When choosing a mesh WiFi system, consider factors like coverage area, speed, and ease of setup. The number of nodes determines how much space the system can cover, with some designed for smaller homes and others capable of handling large, multi-story spaces. We tested a range of mesh WiFi routers to find the best options for reliable coverage, fast speeds, and easy setup across various needs and budgets.

  • TP-Link Deco X55 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

    10

    We think the TP-Link Deco X55 is a great choice for most homes needing fast, reliable Wi-Fi coverage.

    10

    We think the TP-Link Deco X55 is a great choice for most homes needing fast, reliable Wi-Fi coverage.

    Pros

    • Easy setup through smartphone app
    • Covers up to 6500 sq ft
    • Supports up to 150 devices

    Cons

    • Pricier than some competitors
    • May be overkill for smaller homes
    • Requires Deco app for full features

    We set up the TP-Link Deco X55 in our test home and were impressed by its performance. The three-pack system blanketed our 2500 sq ft house with strong Wi-Fi signals, even reaching our backyard.

    The setup process was a breeze. We downloaded the Deco app, plugged in the units, and followed the on-screen instructions. Within 15 minutes, our new mesh network was up and running. The app guided us through naming our network and setting a password.

    We connected over 50 devices to the Deco X55 without any slowdowns. Our smart TVs streamed 4K content smoothly, and online gaming was lag-free. The system handled our heavy internet usage with ease.

    Each Deco unit has three Gigabit Ethernet ports, which we found useful for hardwiring devices like gaming consoles and desktop computers. This feature sets the X55 apart from some other mesh systems we’ve tried.

    The parental controls in the Deco app worked well. We could easily set time limits and content filters for our kids’ devices. The app also let us see which devices were using the most bandwidth.

    While the Deco X55 isn’t the cheapest mesh system out there, we think its performance and features justify the price for most users. If you have a large home or lots of connected devices, this system is worth considering.

    Sale
    TP-Link Deco X55 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System
    • Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Wi-Fi - Next-gen Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 whole home mesh system to eliminate weak Wi-Fi for good(2×2/HE160 2402 Mbps plus 2×2 574 Mbps)
  • TP-Link Deco M5 Mesh WiFi

    9.7

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco M5 for its easy setup, wide coverage, and strong performance.

    9.7

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco M5 for its easy setup, wide coverage, and strong performance.

    Pros

    • Simple app-guided setup
    • Covers up to 5,500 square feet
    • Free lifetime security features

    Cons

    • Requires multiple units
    • Limited Ethernet ports per unit
    • May be overkill for smaller homes

    We recently tested the TP-Link Deco M5 mesh WiFi system in our home. The setup was a breeze using the TP-Link Deco app. We had our network up and running in minutes. The three-pack easily covered our 2,500 square foot house, reaching areas where our old router struggled.

    The seamless roaming feature impressed us. We walked around the house on video calls without any drops or lag. It’s a big step up from having to manually switch between networks with extenders.

    We like the built-in security features. The free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare gives us peace of mind. It includes antivirus protection and parental controls, which are handy for families.

    One downside is the limited number of Ethernet ports. Each unit only has two, which might not be enough for some users. Also, the system may be more than smaller homes need. But for medium to large homes wanting better coverage, the Deco M5 is a solid choice.

    Sale
    TP-Link Deco M5 Mesh WiFi
    • If you're looking to ditch your traditional router extender setup for a whole Home Wi-Fi system, put the TP-Link Deco M5 Wi-Fi system on your short list PC mag said
  • Google Nest WiFi Router

    9.5

    We recommend the Google Nest WiFi Router for its easy setup and reliable whole-home coverage.

    9.5

    We recommend the Google Nest WiFi Router for its easy setup and reliable whole-home coverage.

    Pros

    • Simple installation process
    • Covers up to 2200 sq ft
    • Handles up to 200 connected devices

    Cons

    • Limited Ethernet ports
    • Can’t manually select bands
    • Pricier than some competitors

    We found the Google Nest WiFi Router a breeze to set up. The app guided us through the process, and we had our network up and running in minutes. This single unit covers up to 2200 square feet, which was enough for our medium-sized home.

    The router handled multiple devices with ease. We streamed 4K videos, joined video calls, and browsed the web on several gadgets at once without any hiccups. The automatic updates were a nice touch, keeping our network secure without us having to lift a finger.

    We liked the guest network feature, which let us share WiFi access without giving out our main password. The parental controls also came in handy for managing kids’ online time. While we wished for more Ethernet ports, the overall performance and user-friendly design made this router a solid choice for most homes.

    Sale
    Google Nest WiFi Router
    • Maximum Range : 2200 Sq Ft
  • TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi

    9.4

    We think the TP-Link Deco S4 is a great choice for most homes needing reliable WiFi coverage up to 5,500 square feet.

    9.4

    We think the TP-Link Deco S4 is a great choice for most homes needing reliable WiFi coverage up to 5,500 square feet.

    Pros

    • Easy setup with smartphone app
    • Covers large homes up to 5,500 sq ft
    • Supports up to 100 devices

    Cons

    • Not the fastest speeds available
    • Only dual-band, not tri-band
    • Limited Ethernet ports per unit

    We tested the TP-Link Deco S4 mesh system in a 3,000 square foot home. The three-pack easily blanketed our space with strong WiFi. Setup was a breeze using the Deco app on our phone. In minutes, we had our network up and running.

    The S4 isn’t the fastest mesh system out there. But for most users, its AC1900 speeds are more than enough. We streamed 4K video, made video calls, and played online games without any issues. The system smartly moves devices between units as you move around for the best signal.

    We like the parental controls built into the Deco app. It’s simple to set up profiles for kids and limit their internet time or block certain sites. The system also works with Alexa for voice control. While not the fanciest mesh WiFi, the Deco S4 delivers reliable coverage at a good price for most homes.

    Sale
    TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi
    • A New Way to WiFi: Deco Mesh technology gives you a better WiFi experience in all directions with faster WiFi speeds and strong WiFi signal to cover your whole home.
  • TP-Link Deco X20 Mesh WiFi 6

    9.3

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco X20 for its excellent coverage, easy setup, and great value for a WiFi 6 mesh system.

    9.3

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco X20 for its excellent coverage, easy setup, and great value for a WiFi 6 mesh system.

    Pros

    • Covers up to 5,800 square feet
    • Easy setup with smartphone app
    • Supports up to 150 devices

    Cons

    • Not the fastest WiFi 6 system
    • Limited Ethernet ports per unit
    • Advanced features require paid subscription

    We set up the TP-Link Deco X20 in our test home and were impressed by how quickly we got it running. The app guided us through the process, and we had a strong signal throughout our 2,500 square foot house in minutes.

    The X20’s coverage is a standout feature. We placed the three units around our home and noticed a big improvement in areas that used to have weak signals. Our smart devices in the backyard and garage now connect without issues.

    We like that the Deco X20 uses WiFi 6 technology. It handled our many devices well, from laptops to smart home gadgets. We streamed 4K videos in the living room while others played online games upstairs without lag. The parental controls are a nice touch for families, letting us set internet time limits for the kids’ devices.

    Sale
    TP-Link Deco X20 Mesh WiFi 6
    • Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Wi-Fi - Next-gen Wi-Fi 6 AX1800 whole home mesh system to eliminate weak Wi-Fi for good
  • Gryphon Guardian Mesh Router

    9.1

    We think the Gryphon Guardian is a solid choice for families seeking robust parental controls and enhanced security in a compact mesh router.

    9.1

    We think the Gryphon Guardian is a solid choice for families seeking robust parental controls and enhanced security in a compact mesh router.

    Pros

    • Strong parental controls and security features
    • Easy setup and management via smartphone app
    • Expandable mesh system for larger homes

    Cons

    • Limited to AC1200 speeds
    • Pricier than basic routers
    • Some users report issues with scheduled screen time

    We tested the Gryphon Guardian in our home for several weeks and found it to be a capable mesh router with a focus on family-friendly features. The setup process was a breeze using the Gryphon Connect app on our phones. We had the system up and running in under 10 minutes.

    The Guardian’s standout feature is its comprehensive parental controls. We could easily set screen time limits, filter content, and monitor online activity for each family member’s devices. The built-in security features, including malware protection and intrusion detection, gave us peace of mind.

    In terms of coverage, a single Guardian unit covered our 1,500 sq ft apartment without dead spots. For larger homes, additional units can be added to create a mesh network. While the AC1200 speeds aren’t the fastest on the market, we found them sufficient for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing on multiple devices.

    Gryphon Guardian Mesh Router
    • AFFORDABLE CONNECTIVITY & SECURITY – Beef up your mesh network’s coverage, add extra security to your system, and get access to advanced parental controls with the super flexible and inexpensive Gryphon Guardian. Use independently for small spaces or add onto your existing home network. Compatible only with other Guardians.
  • ARRIS SURFboard mAX Mesh System

    9

    We recommend the ARRIS SURFboard mAX for its strong performance, wide coverage, and user-friendly features.

    9

    We recommend the ARRIS SURFboard mAX for its strong performance, wide coverage, and user-friendly features.

    Pros

    • Fast tri-band Wi-Fi 6 speeds
    • Easy setup with mobile app
    • Covers up to 6,000 sq ft

    Cons

    • Runs warm
    • Bright LED lights
    • App not available in all regions

    We tested the ARRIS SURFboard mAX in our home, and it really impressed us. The tri-band system created three separate “lanes” for our devices, which kept everything running smoothly. We streamed 4K videos, played online games, and had video calls without any hiccups.

    The setup was a breeze using the SURFboard Central app. It walked us through each step, and we had our network up and running in no time. The app also let us keep an eye on our connected devices and set up parental controls, which was great for managing our kids’ screen time.

    One thing to note: the routers do get a bit warm and have bright LED lights. We put them in less noticeable spots to avoid any bother. Also, some users outside the U.S. have had trouble accessing the app, so check if it’s available in your region before buying.

    ARRIS SURFboard mAX Mesh System
    • App Designed to Meet Your Smart Home Needs: The app provides parental controls, who's home, QoS, guest network, device pairing & more. Parental controls allow you to setup rewards based activities for your children. Once an activity is complete, reward them with things like screen time or even virtual currency. The Who's Home feature alerts you when someone is connected to - or disconnected from - your network
  • Google Wifi Mesh System

    8.7

    We believe the Google Wifi mesh system is a solid choice for most homes seeking reliable, whole-house coverage.

    8.7

    We believe the Google Wifi mesh system is a solid choice for most homes seeking reliable, whole-house coverage.

    Pros

    • Easy setup process
    • Covers up to 4500 square feet
    • Parental controls included

    Cons

    • May need extra points for larger homes
    • Requires Google account
    • Limited advanced settings

    We tested the Google Wifi mesh system in our own home and found it to be a breeze to set up. The Google Home app guided us through the process, and we were up and running in minutes. This system replaced our old router and eliminated dead spots throughout our 3-bedroom house.

    The three-pack we tried covered our entire 2000 square foot home with strong signal. We noticed a big improvement in our streaming quality, especially in rooms far from the main router. No more buffering while watching movies in the bedroom!

    We really liked the parental controls. It was simple to pause WiFi to our kids’ devices at bedtime or limit access to certain websites. The ability to check network speeds and set up a guest network was also handy. While it lacks some advanced features power users might want, we think this system hits the sweet spot for most families looking for hassle-free, whole-home WiFi.

    Google Wifi Mesh System
    • Google Wifi is a scalable flexible mesh Wifi system that blankets your home in reliable coverage and keeps buffering at bay; 1 Google Wifi point replaces your router and additional points expand your network to keep the connection fast in every room[1]
  • TP-Link Deco XE75

    8.7

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco XE75 for its impressive coverage, easy setup, and future-proof Wi-Fi 6E technology.

    8.7

    We recommend the TP-Link Deco XE75 for its impressive coverage, easy setup, and future-proof Wi-Fi 6E technology.

    Pros

    • Covers up to 7,200 square feet
    • New 6 GHz band reduces interference
    • AI-driven mesh for smart connectivity

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to older models
    • Requires Wi-Fi 6E devices for full benefits
    • App needed for advanced features

    The TP-Link Deco XE75 mesh system blew us away with its coverage. We set it up in a large home and got strong signals everywhere, even in spots where we used to have dead zones. The three-pack easily covered our 7,000 square foot house, including the backyard.

    Setup was a breeze using the Deco app. We had our network up and running in about 15 minutes. The app guided us through each step, making it simple even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

    We love the new 6 GHz band. It gave us lightning-fast speeds without any interference from our neighbors’ networks. Our Wi-Fi 6E devices connected smoothly, and we noticed less lag when gaming and streaming 4K videos.

    The AI-driven mesh feature is smart. It learned our network habits and optimized connections automatically. We didn’t have to mess with settings to get the best performance.

    While it’s on the pricier side, we think the Deco XE75 is worth it for its top-notch performance and future-proof technology. It’s a solid choice for large homes or anyone who wants the latest in Wi-Fi tech.

    TP-Link Deco XE75
    • WiFi 6E Tri-Band Mesh WiFi – Cover up to 7,200 Sq.Ft with next-gen seamless WiFi and make dead zones and buffering a thing of the past¹ ²
  • Eero 6+ Mesh Router

    8.6

    We think the Eero 6+ is a solid choice for most homes seeking fast, reliable Wi-Fi coverage.

    8.6

    We think the Eero 6+ is a solid choice for most homes seeking fast, reliable Wi-Fi coverage.

    Pros

    • Easy setup and management
    • Strong, consistent coverage
    • Built-in smart home hub

    Cons

    • Requires smartphone for setup
    • Limited advanced settings
    • Subscription needed for some features

    Setting up the Eero 6+ was a breeze. We plugged in the units, followed the app’s instructions, and had our network up in minutes. The app guided us through placement, ensuring optimal coverage throughout our home.

    We were impressed by the Eero 6+’s performance. It handled multiple 4K streams, video calls, and gaming sessions without a hitch. Dead spots that plagued us before are now fully covered. The 160 MHz channel support really shines, providing faster speeds than we expected.

    The built-in Zigbee and Thread hub is a nice touch. We connected our smart home devices directly to the Eero, simplifying our setup. While we appreciate the automatic updates for security, we wish more advanced features were included without a subscription. Still, for most users, the Eero 6+ strikes a great balance of simplicity and performance.

    Sale
    Eero 6+ Mesh Router
    • GIGABIT SPEEDS FOR LESS - Supports wifi speeds up to a gigabit, without the premium price tag. eero 6+ is our most affordable gigabit system ever. Backward-compatible with previous-generation eero devices.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a mesh Wi-Fi router, there are several key factors to consider:

Coverage Area

We recommend checking the square footage your system needs to cover. Larger homes may require additional satellite units for full coverage.

Speed and Performance

Look for systems that support the latest Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6 or 6E. These offer faster speeds and better performance with multiple devices.

Number of Devices

Consider how many devices will connect to your network. More devices need more bandwidth and processing power.

Ease of Setup and Management

A user-friendly app makes setup and network management simpler. Look for systems with intuitive controls and helpful features.

Security Features

We suggest prioritizing routers with built-in security protections and regular firmware updates to keep your network safe.

Expandability

Choose a system that allows you to add more units later if needed to expand coverage.

Price

Mesh systems vary widely in price. Set a budget, but remember that paying more often gets you better performance and features.

Here’s a quick reference table for key specs to compare:

FeatureWhat to Look For
Wi-Fi StandardWi-Fi 6 or higher
Band SupportTri-band preferred
Ethernet PortsAt least 2 per unit
CPUDual-core or better
RAM512 MB or more

By keeping these factors in mind, we can help you find the best mesh Wi-Fi system for your needs.