Best Portable Wifi extenders: A Complete Guide

Best Portable Wifi extenders: A Complete Guide

We have all experienced that one moment of happiness where we are joyfully playing an online game, merrily streaming your favorite video tutorial or listening to a podcast while enjoying a good video call on FaceTime as you stumble upon a dead Wifi Zone – that’s where everything comes to a halt. Whilst, every other room in your house is receiving full signal bars however, for some odd reason the Wifi doesn’t tend to reach just where you are sitting.

Or maybe the hotel that you are staying in for your business conference would not allow those signal bars to pop up unless you hold your laptop outside the window at a 45-degree angle. When alternative remedies like failed troubleshooting attempts are in order, a Wifi, range extender or a repeater serves as an optimum solution give your signals the boost they need to restore a healthy and smooth connection.

What is a portable Wifi extender?

A portable wifi range extender also popularly known as a portable Wifi booster has been used worldwide for over decades as they serve the purpose of providing the easiest way to attain a faster internet connection while traveling and connecting to networks on your phones or laptops which you are barely able to see.

The portable Wifi repeater aims to extend your Wifi’s coverage area by amplifying the reduced signals which are already received – they transmit these signals and boost then providing an effective twice as before coverage area to even the most niche corners of your house, office, hotel rooms, different floors of a skyscraper and can even extend them to the back of your yard.

These portable Wifi extenders are tiny devices that can easily fit at the end of your pocket that endless frustration of a distorted Wifi connection network.

What’s the difference between a portable Wifi booster, repeater, or extender?

Portable Wifi boosters, extenders or repeaters are all the same – each device aiming to amplify Wifi coverage. However, not all Wifi extenders or repeaters work similarly. There are numerous different kinds of devices available in stores and our soul purpose is to help you distinguish between those devices and how they work so that you can choose the best one out for your given situation.

Factors to check before purchasing the best portable Wifi extender

But before you purchase a Wifi extender, you need to take into consideration a few factors that can help you choose the best one amongst all. So let’s evaluate these basic points which are going to compliment your Wifi router.

Frequency

There are three types of frequencies available:

• Single 2.4GHz
• Dual-Band 2.4GHz
• 5GHz support

Most portable Wifi range extenders are compatible with a single 2.4GHz frequency while the expensive ones support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz spectrums. You can opt for a single band but if your router supports a dual-band and you wish to enjoy the perks of this one then you need to save up a good amount since it’s a bit more expensive.

Standards Compatibility

• IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
• IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
• IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant

Standards compatibility has a direct link with the age of your router and its frequency spectrum. The best way to find out your router’s specifications is to check the standards that it is supported by. Regardless, if you are still stuck with a few doubts opt for a universal extender that is compliant with any 802.11 a/b/n/ac routers. The emphasis on compatibility is to ensure a stronger integration between the portable range extender and the router.

Profile

You need to consider a few physical outlook presentations of the device you are about to purchase. Whether it has a dual antenna or an external one? If it is Plug or desktop based? All of these factors greatly matter.

Wall plug based portable Wifi extenders take a minimum amount of space and require a vacant socket on the wall. On the contrary, modern portable Wifi extenders are designed for desktop use since it has external or built-in antennas that resemble a router’s outlook. You just need to place it on a flat surface means it might take up a bit of room spacing.

Security

The highest level of security that we home users require is support for WPA2-PSK security protocol – the only thing you need to check if you want to keep your network secure and safe.

Manufacturer

It is obvious if you are to expect your portable Wifi range extender from the same manufacturer as that of your current router to work efficiently, however, it is mostly based on the standards and frequency spectrum. If you already have a router that works on 2.4GHz and 5GHz, then a portable Wifi repeater working on similar frequencies would be an ideal one for you. Similarly, if a router is compliant with IEEE 802.11 bgn then a Wifi range booster would work wonders with it. You can always look into technical specifications to confirm if the two devices will work well together.

The wired backbone or Wifi mesh

There are two types of Wifi extenders/Wifi boosters.

Wifi mesh, being the first kind, also known as Wifi repeater are wireless connections that go by with your router which then repeat these wireless signals in a new area. However, a problem with this kind is that it links both the router and the device simultaneously reducing the wireless bandwidth allocation to 50%. Besides, the further away the booster is placed concerning the router, the less bandwidth you receive.

On the contrary, Wired based Wifi extenders work differently, by using a wired connection with the router saving the wireless bandwidth for your device – this results in a strong, powerful and independent Wifi signal.

Cost

It can be a subjective issue and can vary as per your range and feasibility. All we can tell you is to choose the best Portable Wifi booster that will produce the best possible results with your router and are well within your range.

Ports

Ports refer to the ethernet availability for a wired connection. If you are choosing a plug based Wifi extender then most of them might have either one or two ethernet ports available. Although, desktop-based Wifi extenders can have up to a maximum of 5 ethernet ports which are ideal for devices that are unable to receive any sort of Wifi connectivity, for instance, an IP camera, an old desktop or a printer.

Performance

After the range, a portable Wifi extender’s performance is evaluated concerning its bandwidth. To understand the maximum bandwidth supportive of your router you can look at the labels below.

• N300 – 802.11 bgn compliant with the single band offering up to 300MBps
• AC750 – 802.11ac compliant with concurrent dual-band offering 300Mbps (2.4GHz) and 433Mbps (5GHz)
• AC1200 – 802.11 compliant with concurrent dual-band offering up to 1167Mbps
• AC1750 – 802.11 complaint with concurrent dual-band offering up to 1750Mbps (450Mbps on 2.4GHz and 1300Mbps on 5GHz)
• AC1900 – 802.11 compliant with the concurrent dual-band offering up to 1900Mbps
• AC2200 – 802.11 complaint with the concurrent dual-band offering up to 2200Mbps

Speed

It is essential to look for portable Wifi boosters that are supported by 802.11ac standard for maximum speed.

USB Ports

Some portable Wifi boosters will consist of USB ports that can be attached to printers or external hard drives for network sharing purposes, so you can easily choose the one according to your circumstances.

Audio Jack

If you wish to enjoy audio streaming on your portable Wifi repeater then make sure to buy one with an audio jack.

External antennas

As mentioned, some Wifi boosters come with antennas – the more the number of antennas, the better network coverage you are bound to have.

Top 7 Best Portable Wifi Boosters of 2020

We have got you covered for the perfect portable Wifi extender that shall suit your demands and fulfill your requirements. Let us have a look below.

NETGEAR N300 Wifi Range Extender (EX2700)

System Requirements:

• 11 b/g/n 2.4GHz wireless router or gateway, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0 or Safari 1.4 or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher
• Standard Wifi router or gateway compliant
• Water Outlet Diameter: 0.6 inches
• Fast Ethernet Port to connect a wired device
• External antennas for better performance

With NETGEAR N300 Wifi Range Extender, you can easily enjoy a stronger internet connection at any time at any place of your choice. To add more, it has a very easy installation method with no rocket science – with its extended guaranteed coverage of up to 300Mbps you can enjoy a faster connection without any disruptions all within just a few minutes.

This is ideal for an indoor portable Wifi extending facility especially for mobile phones and gaming consoles. Moreover, you can work wonders with laptops and wired devices – now you don’t have to choose between any devices to be disconnected and enjoy the perks all at once.

This portable Wifi repeater has two external fold up antennas to ensure an amplified Wifi coverage with a better and faster speed. Its wall plug design allows you to save ample space, so you can easily carry it wherever you plan ongoing. Moreover, it won’t serve as an eyesore and is ideal for a minimalist nomad.

It works perfectly with any standard router and can you keep you connected for all devices that are within its proximity. A suggestion would be to keep a different SSID network name for your Wifi extender device as of your router’s SSID, however, the password shall remain the same. You can easily get the most out of this device as it comes with a full one year warranty.

TP-Link N300 Wifi Range Extender

• System Requirements: Microsoft Windows 98SE, NT, 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, Mac OS, NetWare, UNIX or Linux.
• Two external antennas for faster and more reliable Wifi.
• Supports AP mode which creates a new Wifi access point
• 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support
• D. Power Ranked TP-Link “Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Wireless Routers” in 2017. Not compatible with 5G.

The TL-WA855RE Wifi booster works to expand a router’s weak signal and convert it into a strong and more reliable connection, especially indoors. This device allows you to have a good internet connection by extending the Wifi range device and stream without a dead zone.

With the TL-WA855RE’s highly compatible ability to sync with access points, standard routers, and service provider gateways that support N300 Wifi, you can extend to a device faster than before. It doesn’t matter if it is your router or the one which is provided at your hotel accommodation or a guest house, once the setup is complete you can have a reliable connection. With a simple setting like a WPS button you can and an Intelligent Signal Indicator, you can easily find an extending range – you can set it up all by yourself and don’t have to delay those streaming videos anymore.

You can also use the TP-Link Tether app which gives you access to manage your network settings via your smartphone, may it be any Android device or an IOS one. The cherry on top, the device is trendy yet chic with a sleek compact design that will complement all sorts of decor.

Edimax EW-7833UAC AC1750 Dual-Band Wifi USB 3.0 Adapter

• Ultrafast 11ac Wifi speed: next-generation AC1750 Wifi for HD streaming and gaming with transfer speeds up to 450Mbps (2.4GHz) or 1300 Mbps (5GHz)
• USB 3.0 interface enables the USB adapter to achieve the super-fast speeds which 802.11ac can provide
• Uses Beamforming technology for higher reliability and speed
• Supports Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.7 above and Linux

The Edimax EW-7833UAC AC1750 is one of the best-proven devices to extend your Wifi range up to 1300 Mbps (on 5Ghz devices) and up to 450 Mbps on 2.4Ghz. Using this device will give you perks of a faster internet connection with no buffering and no downtime but a strong continuous connection wherever you go.

It uses 3T3R MIMO technology that comprises 3 transmitter antennas and 3 Receiver antennas, both meant to enhance the internet speed and range, giving a massive boost to your device. It’s larger antenna has the ability to rotate 180 degrees to ensure a better performance since these antennas act as a receiving transmitter and can gain great Dual-band sensitivity.

Using a USB 3.0 technology, it’s performance is enhanced by almost 10x more than that of a USB 2.0, which makes it ideal for higher internet usage like online games and Hd streaming. Its beamforming capacity can extend the Wifi connection to ensure no signals are missed and pure connectivity is received.

TP-Link Archer T2UH 600Mbps USB Wireless Wifi Network Adapter

• External Powerful Antenna: High Gain Long-Range 2dBi Antenna can help you connect even when signals are weak
• High Speed: Up to 600Mbps Wifi speeds on 5GHz (433Mbps) or 24GHz (150Mbps) bands; Performance to reduce freezing and lags when streaming and gaming
• Ultra-fast AC600 wireless adapter speed with 802.11ac
• Industry Leading Support: 2-YEAR WARRANTY AND FREE 24/7 TECHNICAL SUPPORT
• Compatibility: support Windows (XP/7/8/8.1/10) – Mac OS (10.7~10.13)

TP-LINK’s Archer T2UH utilizes a next-generation Wifi standard – the 802.11ac – which aims to provide a three times faster connection than the regular wireless N models. You can enjoy a smooth internet connection with your laptop or any other gadget with an extended range and faster speed due to its virtual functioning with any Wifi gateway or router.

It has a 433Mbps wireless speed over the 5GHz band and can go up to 150Mbps over the 2.4GHz band and is hence preferred as one of the best choices for online gaming, HD streamings or any tasks that require a high bandwidth allocation – allowing you to surf the internet without a poor connection. The Archer T2UH also comprises a 1m USB 2.0 extension cable, that can increase the USB connection length and allows you to plug in or plug out your device into the socket more conveniently.

It’s elegant and chic design makes it a suitable choice for a workplace or even for home use. To sweeten the charm, it comes with a 2-year unconditional manufacturer warranty and a 24/7 support helpline.

Alfa Long-Range Dual-Band AC1200 Wireless USB 3.0 Wifi Adapter

• Amazing N 300Mbps & AC 867Mbps Data Transfer Speeds are Perfect for Media
• Wireless Security Standards Include WEP 64-Bit, WEP 128-Bit, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK
• Dual-Band (2.4GHz/5GHz) 5dBi Removable Antennas Guarantee Reliable Access
• Functions Seamlessly with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8/8.1; Mac 10.5 or Later; & Linux
• Supported Standards Include 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, and 802.11ac

The Alfa AWUS036ACH Wifi extender is a dual-band, long-range, powerful and ultra-fast wireless peed delivering a device that can high bandwidth tasks. It is a tiny device with a minimum possible weight of only 50 grams – making it easy for you to carry it anywhere and serves as an excellent remedy for an office device or home-based one.

The sleek booster is a combination of an 802.11ac AC1200 chipset, giving it adaptability to WEP 64-Bit, WEP 128-Bit, WPA-PSK, and WPA2-PSK standards, and USB 3.0 interface that enables you to connect your devices to a fast, secure and safe Wifi connection without a hassle.

The device is a compact model measuring 86.6 x 26 x 22.3mm and is supported by removable dual 5dBi antennas to enhance the signal range.

This portable Wifi booster is a plug-and-play model, built to be used by any person who has no prior knowledge of the latest technologies. You just need a USB 3.0 cable and plug its end to a Pc or Laptop device. Now install its driver and avail a hassle-free yet powerful internet connection. The kit also offers a quick guide to set it up.

Inamax USB Wifi Adapter 1200Mbps

• Compatible with Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP/2000, Mac OS 10.5-10.13. (However, does not support Linux).
• Ultra-fast AC1200 wireless adapter speed with 802.11ac.
• Up to 1200Mbps wifi speeds on 5GHz (867Mbps) or 2.4GHz (300Mbps) bands.
• Comes with a Manufacturer’s Warranty

The Inamax Wifi booster tends to replicate the speed of your router up to 867Mbps when it is connected to a 5GHz band and can go up to 300Mbps on 2.4GHz bands.

With its 802.11ac adapter, the device aims to reduce any sort of freezing or lagging during online gaming or video streaming. Now that you have a reliable connection, gaming would become so much better than before.

This device uses a USB 3.0 Port interface, that can transfer up to 5Gbps, which is approximately ten times much faster than a USB 2.0. This device not only ensures a reliable and steady internet with maximum performance. No need to panic if your gadget is not compatible with a USB 3.0 port since the booster device can work fine with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices too. You don’t have to worry about the devices anymore then, just sit back and enjoy the perks. If that doesn’t satisfy you can always avail of the manufacturer’s given warranty for a replacement or even a refund for the product.

It has a potent external 5dBi dual-band antenna allowing it to have a long range to catch and extend those signals. The device is compatible with Plug and play and does not require any CD drivers if in case you are using Windows 10.

OURLink – 600 Mbps Adapter – WIFI Booster

• 3x faster than WIFI N Adapters
• 600Mbps
• Compact (minimalistic)
• Universal/flexible
• Wifi-hotspot

This device is an ultimate solution for a traveler with the need for a signal booster over a laptop or a Pc desktop. It comes with a small yet flexible USB adapter and dual-band connection that permits sooth video calls, HD streaming, and even online gaming. It includes a SoftAP mode that can help in creating a mobile Wifi hotspot and allows the device to become a router if in any case, the internet connection is available via a wire.

Frequently Asked Questions: Portable Wifi Boosters

• Will my wireless extender work with my existing router?

Wifi extenders are considered to be universal devices that can work with any existing routers, hence they are easily compatible with a majority of devices available in the market.

• Where should I place my wireless range extender?

The ideally recommended place to position your portable Wifi device is halfway between your laptop or PC desktop and your router.

• How do I set up my Wifi range extender?

The device will come with the manual which will include easy guidelines for the setup

• Where can I find videos on the range extender setup?

Such videos are easily available on YouTube channel

• Are Wifi extenders secure

Yes, they offer the same amount of security as the traditional devices (WEP, WPA, WPA2, etc).

• Can I have 2 Wifi extenders in my house?

Yes, you can have 2 devices in your house. However, do not connect two of those. Since the performance of the second router is expected to be satisfactory make sure to connect them to the main router.

• What can I do if the extender disconnects when connecting to the main router during setup?

Change the router’s wireless settings or re-flash the firmware of both the router and the extender.

• Can I add more than one Range Extender to my Router network?

Yes, you can have more than one connection on your extended range.

• Are our Wifi extenders good for gaming?

Yes, they are an excellent source of smooth and reliable internet connection if you want to play online games.

• Do Wifi boosters increase Internet speed?

They will enhance your signal strength and increase your internet speed with immediate boosting.

The Final Verdict

The above research should be sufficient for you to truly understand how a Wifi boosting device works and which particular device you should get for yourself. Make sure before you purchase a Wifi extender device, you tick off all the boxes on your checklist that are essential for your given purpose. Performance, speed, security, port, profile, and cost are a few main prerequisites that you are bound to research before the final purchase has been made.

Lastly, ensure that you are well aware of the warranty in case you are not satisfied with the device. And if you are unsure of how to set up the device or are unable to comprehend the instruction given in the guide, you can always land up on YouTube for a better tutorial. Once the setup is complete, you can enjoy those HD streaming movies online, have a smooth weekend with a Netflix series watch, or maybe fire up your gaming PC and have long and intense gaming sessions with your buddies from all over the world. Why else would you need a Wifi boosting device otherwise?