Want to learn about the best WiFi extender for concrete walls? This review and buying guide has the answer!
Are you experiencing a slower connection in your house than what the Internet Service Provider offered? The cause behind this could be the concrete walls. Concrete is a non-porous building material known to absorb electromagnetic waves such as Wi-Fi and lower its strength.
Tearing down those concrete walls is not an option. So how can you enjoy a stable internet connection? To provide you with a solution, this article reviews the 9 best WiFi extenders for concrete walls you can consider to extend your Wi-Fi connection. We have also compiled a buying guide and other information you might be interested in learning about using WiFi extenders for concrete walls.
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9 Best WiFi Extender For Concrete Walls Review List For 2022
| PHOTO | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
#1 Top Pick  | NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX2700 If you're searching for the best WiFi extender for concrete walls that is compact yet affordable, then the NETGEAR Wi-Fi range extender EX2700 should be your pick. | Check Price → |
Best Connectivity  | NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi Router NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 delivers a high-speed Wi-Fi connection of up to 1.9 Gbps (1900 Mbps) over a coverage range of 1800 sq. ft. With this blazing fast wireless speed and fantastic coverage, this router enables you to connect up to 30 wireless devices at one time. | Check Price → |
Best Wi-Fi Extender With Sleek Design  | TP-Link AC1200 Wi-Fi Extender (RE300) This Wi-Fi range extender offers high-performance Wi-Fi connectivity for devices around your home or workplace. The TP-Link RE300 uses dual-band Wi-Fi technology which offers an overall internet speed of up to 1200 Mbps. | Check Price → |
Best Gaming & Streaming WiFi Extender  | ASUS AC2900 Wi-Fi Gaming Router ASUS RT-AC86U provides an ultra-fast dual-band Wi-Fi speed of up to 2900Mbps. The integrated techs include NitroQAMTM (1024-QAM) and 5GHz quad-stream that enable the router to deliver a high-speed Wi-Fi connection and lets you enjoy 4k Ultra HD live streaming and online gaming without interruptions. | Check Price → |
Best High Coverage WiFi Extender  | Linksys EA9500 Max-Stream (AC5400) When it comes to speed and coverage, the EA9500 Wi-Fi router delivers internet speed up to a striking 5.4Gbps. Moreover, this router extends the high-speed Wi-Fi to a superb range of 3000 sq. ft. and helps in eliminating every dead zone. | Check Price → |
Best Smart Homes WiFi Extender  | Amazon eero Pro6 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 Router Take your smart home to the next level with Amazon eero Pro6 mesh Wi-Fi router. The features offered by this compact and sleek designed mesh router are top-notch and functions as another best WiFi extender for concrete walls. | Check Price → |
Best Secure Browsing WiFi Extender  | Gryphon Parental Control Router & Mesh Wi-Fi System The Gryphon router provides a powerful Wi-Fi mesh connection up to a speed of 3 Gbps by using tri-band technology. The whole-home mesh covers a range of up to 3000 sq. ft. and supports a reliable connection for more than 100 devices. | Check Price → |
Best Versatile Wi-Fi Extender  | VANIN EC4-1200 Dual-Band WiFi Extender The VANIN EC4-1200 can function through multiple modes while providing a high-performance internet connection. The VANIN EC4-1200 makes use of dual-bands to deliver a high Wi-Fi speed of 1200 Mbps while providing a 360-degree coverage range of up to 1500 sq. ft. | Check Price → |
Best Speedy Connection Wi-Fi Extender  | TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi Extender The TP-Link RE505X Wi-Fi extender is similar to the TP-Link RE300 reviewed above and is another best WiFi extender for concrete walls. | Check Price → |
1. NETGEAR Wi-Fi Range Extender EX2700 – Top Pick
The NETGEAR EX2700 helps extend existing Wi-Fi signals up to a distance of 800 sq. ft. Furthermore, the extender boosts signals from your router and provides a single bandwidth internet speed of 300 Mbps.
The speed and coverage distance offered by this model allows you to connect up to 10 wireless devices simultaneously. Hence you can enjoy fast internet on your favorite devices such as smartphones, tablets, etc., from any part of your house.
The NETGEAR EX2700 Wi-Fi range extender makes use of built-in external antennas. These antennas help capture and extend pre-existing Wi-Fi signals to cover an entire area.
Being universally compatible, this Wi-Fi extender can work with any existing router, cable, satellite, or DSL to provide an internet connection throughout available dead zones.
This extender is designed to blend in with your house’s interior. The overall size is also compact and doesn’t take up much space, while the modern exterior imparts a stylish look to the room decor once installed.
A single 10/100 M ethernet port allows you to directly connect a wired device to the extender for faster-uninterrupted internet connection.
Item Weight: 0.22 lbs
Item Dimensions: 2.64×2.17×1.34 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 a/b/g/n
Security: WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK
Range: 800 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 300 Mbps
Installing the NETGEAR EX2700 Wi-Fi range extender is relatively easy. A WPS button located on the extender helps you set up the device in under 5 minutes.
All in all, the NETGEAR EX2700 is an excellent pocket-friendly extender for compact homes and workspaces.
Pros
- Discrete wall-plug design
- Easy installation
- Universally compatible
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi Router – Best Connectivity
Furthermore, it supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology allowing you to enjoy a high-performance internet connection for HD streaming and online gaming.
To provide such reliable and fast wireless signals, the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 Wi-Fi router contains 3 high-powered external antennas. These amplified antennas help extend the signals to every dead zone and convert them into signal available zones.
What makes the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 perform even better is the processor it contains. This is a 1 GHz dual-core processor that provides an extended range and helps optimize the Wi-Fi experience on every device to prevent lagging and buffering.
Talking about optimizing the Wi-Fi experience, the R7000 uses Smart Connect technology to auto-select the best dual-band path for an optimal connection on your device. This aids in minimizing interference while enhancing Wi-Fi speed to the max.
The R7000 contains 4 ethernet ports and 2 USB ports to deliver an even better internet connection. The 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports allow direct connectivity for wired devices, while the 2 USB ports (2.0 + 3.0) let you connect shared storage devices or printers to the network.
Item Weight: 1.65 lbs
Item Dimensions: 11.22×7.26×1.97 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 ac
Security: WPA2-PSK, NETGEAR ArmorTM
Range: 1800 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 1.9 Gbps
Besides the standard WPA2-PSK protocol, the router is also protected by NETGEAR ArmorTM cybersecurity powered by BitDefender. This protects all your connected devices, network, and private data from viruses, malware, and theft.
It also includes guest Wi-Fi access, DoS attack prevention, VPN, etc. Furthermore, you can control the network and set time and content limits with the Circle Smart Parental Control App compatible with R7000.
Coming to the setup, the entire process is a breeze and takes about 5 minutes to do. Simply plug the internet ethernet cable into the router, and with the help of a walkthrough on the Nighthawk app, you can connect your devices to the network. Moreover, the Nighthawk app lets you use devices, run internet speed tests, and manage subscriptions.
Pros
- Supports Wi-Fi 6 technology
- NETGEAR ArmorTM cybersecurity for all devices
- Circle Smart Parental Control app
3. TP-Link AC1200 Wi-Fi Extender (RE300) – Best Wi-Fi Extender With Sleek Design
When choosing the best WiFi extender for concrete walls, the TP-Link RE300 Wi-Fi extender also deserves to be on our list.
To ensure your network keeps running at the best speed, the Adaptive Path Selection feature automatically chooses the fastest connection path to the existing router while preventing interruptions.
Along with Adaptive Path Selection, the TP-Link RE300 Wi-Fi extender also consists of a high-speed mode. This mode establishes a single super-fast internet connection by combining the 2 available bands to let you enjoy HD streaming and gaming without lags.
The RE300 Wi-Fi extender increases the coverage range up to 1500 sq. ft. and can connect up to 25 devices simultaneously. One of the best things about RE300 is that this extender is universally compatible with any existing router, access points, and Internet Service Provider gateways.
On top of that, the extender enables a TP-Link OneMeshTM network when paired with an existing router. The mesh network created delivers seamless smart roaming and simplifies management by generating a single SSID.
Item Weight: 0.4 lbs
Item Dimensions: 2.74×4.89×1.38 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Security: WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK
Range: 1500 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 1200Mbps
The RE300 is designed to be plugged into a wall outlet, blends with your room decor, fits anywhere, and doesn’t take up much space. Installing it is a piece of cake. You can either use the WPS button to connect to your device router or a TP-Link Tether app or web UI. The Tether app also lets you customize the Wi-Fi settings, manage the network, and even create schedules for turning off the Wi-Fi connection.
Also, the smart signal indicator located on the Wi-Fi extender helps you detect an optimal location with the best signal strength so that you can experience the strongest internet connection.
Pros
- Easy setup via WPS button or TP-Link Tether app
- OneMeshTM network
- Smart signal indicator
4. ASUS AC2900 Wi-Fi Gaming Router – Best Gaming & Streaming WiFi Extender
The ASUS RT-AC86U boosts Wi-Fi signals and extends them over a range of 1800 sq. ft. This is made possible by the built-in external high-performance antennas, Range boost technology, and beamforming AiRadar. All of this helps create a fast, clear, and strong signal.
In addition, the integrated MU-MIMO technology maximizes multi-device performance and makes connectivity even better. MU-MIMO enables a separate dedicated high-performance Wi-Fi connection on every compatible device. It allows multiple devices to connect to the network simultaneously without slowing down the network speed.
To provide an ultra-fast connection for multiple devices, the RT-AC86U also consists of a PC-grade 1.8 GHz 64bit dual-core processor. Moreover, the ASUS RT-AC86U has an integrated game accelerator ideal for unstoppable online gaming. This, in particular, is a Gamers Private Network (GPN) from WTFast that selects the best route for gaming packets. In turn, the accelerator helps lower ping time and minimizes packet loss for a quality gaming experience.
You can boost the gaming bandwidth Adaptive QoS which lets you prioritize gaming packets and other activities. Additionally, with the Gamer solo mode, you’re able to assign a total dedicated bandwidth to your gaming.
One of the best features of the ASUS RT-AC86U Wi-Fi router is its security. The router comes with AiProtection Pro, commercial-grade cybersecurity that protects all your devices from attacks and data theft. Additional parental controls in the AiProtection Pro allow you to monitor internet activity, enable child-safe mode, filter content and block time for all devices.
Item Weight: 2 lbs
Item Dimensions: 6.2×3.3×8.66 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 ac
Security: WEP, WPS, WPA/WPA2-PSK
Range: 1800 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 2900 Mbps
There are four gigabit LAN ports, a USB 2.0 and a USB 3.1 Gen1 port for directly connecting wired devices, making the RT-AC86U router function as a storage center and digital Home Hub.
The ASUS router app, along with the feature ASUSWRT UI, provides convenient access to a 3-step installation process that is easy to follow and lets you manage your network.
With multiple compatible ASUS routers, you can connect the RT-AC86U to create an AiMesh system that can deliver an even better high-speed Wi-Fi over a coverage range of 4000sq.ft.
Pros
- NitroQAM and 5GHz technology for ultra-high-speed internet connection.
- Simultaneous connection of multiple devices with MU-MIMO tech.
- WTFast game accelerator and Adaptive QoS for uninterrupted gaming sessions.
- Better coverage with AiRadar and Range Boost.
- Free AiProtection Pro cybersecurity.
- AiMesh supported.
5. Linksys EA9500 Max-Stream (AC5400) – Best High Coverage WiFi Extender
The integrated tri-band Wi-Fi technology and powerful dual-core processor make this high performance possible. The 3 frequency bands and 1.4 GHz dual-core processor generates high-speed data ideal for online gaming and HD streaming and allows connecting 25+ devices simultaneously.
There are 8 adjustable external antennas on the EA9500, which, along with the beamforming technology, focuses and extends stronger and faster signals to all your devices without dispersal. Linksys EA9500 Wi-Fi router also consists of MU-MIMO technology. This ensures the delivery of the same speed signals to all devices and enables them to connect simultaneously without interrupting the network.
Item Weight: 3.25 lbs
Item Dimensions: 14.29×5.39×11.73
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Security: WEP, WPA2-PSK
Range: 3000 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 5400 Mbps
The Gigabit Ethernet and 2 USB ports offer a more advanced connection. These allow direct connection of wired devices, printers, and shared storage devices to the network.
After establishing a connection, you can use the Smart Wi-Fi app to manage network settings. The app provides real-time info about your network, allows the creation of separate guest networks, sets parental controls, and even lets you prioritize specific devices.
Pros
- Tri-band coverage.
- Integrated MU-MIMO technology.
- 8 antennas and beamforming technology for stronger and focused signals.
6. Amazon eero Pro6 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 Router – Best Smart Homes WiFi Extender
This mesh Wi-Fi router works with tri-band technology to provide an ultra-high-speed internet connection of up to a gigabit while covering a whopping 6000 sq. ft. range. This type of performance offered allows you to connect 75+ devices to the network simultaneously.
Amazon’s eero Pro6 supports the Wi-Fi 6 standard, which promises a connection with faster throughput speed and less bandwidth congestion ideal for uninterrupted gaming and HD streaming. With a built-in Zigbee smart home hub, eero Pro6 connects all compatible devices connected to the network to Alexa and lets you voice control them.
Item Weight: 1.49 lbs
Item Dimensions: 5.47×5.47×2.07 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 ax
Security: WPA2, WPA3
Range: 6000 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 1 Gbps
Security provided by eero Pro6 is remarkable. The eero Secure app provides access to security tools such as threat scanning, ad blocking, and content warnings. Moreover, installing the eero Pro6 is easy. Simply download the eero app, connect your eero device, and the TrueMesh optimizes Wi-Fi according to your space.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 and tri-band technology.
- Built-in Zigbee home hub for enabling voice control.
- High security provided by eero Secure.
7. Gryphon Parental Control Router & Mesh Wi-Fi System – Best Secure Browsing WiFi Extender
This enables seamless coverage throughout the entire home and lets you and your family enjoy a stable Wi-Fi connection without experiencing lagging or buffering.
The best feature of the Gryphon Parental Control Router and Mesh Wi-Fi System is the security it offers. With the included Gryphon Parental Control app, you’re able to manage the entire internet system. With it, you can block access to various websites, set daily limits, and view web browsing history and usage insights. Regular security updates provide extra protection against malware and various digital privacy threats.
Item Weight: 2.03 lbs
Item Dimensions: 4.3×4.3×9 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 b/g/n
Security: WPA2, WPA3
Range: 3000 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 3 Gbps
Setting up the router is a breeze. The Gryphon mesh router only requires the Gryphon app, which connects devices within minutes and provides network management without any hassles.
Pros
- Easy installation.
- Triband technology.
- Top-notch protection with Parental Control App.
8. VANIN EC4-1200 Dual-Band WiFi Extender – Best Versatile Wi-Fi Extender
The EC4-1200 is integrated with the MU-MIMO technology that allows connecting 20+ devices simultaneously without slowing down the network. Additionally, the Beam Forming technology focuses the Wi-Fi signals to deliver an even stronger internet connection to the connected devices.
The best part of the VANIN EC4-1200 Wi-Fi range extender is that it can work in three different modes. The repeater mode functions to extend Wi-Fi signals from an existing router. In AP mode, it can create a private network and then share it with multiple devices. Meanwhile, router mode enables EC4-1200 to work as a router by plugging an ethernet cable into the port.
Item Weight: 0.78 lbs
Item Dimensions: 5.9×3.5×3.3
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 a/b/g/n
Range: 1500 sq. ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 1200 Mbps
You can easily set up the VANIN EC4-1200 Wi-Fi extender by simply pressing the WPS button. An additional smart signal indicator on the extender detects the best location with the strongest Wi-Fi reception signals to place the extender in that area.
Pros
- MU-MIMO and beamforming technology.
- Works through 3 different modes: repeater, AP, and router mode.
- Easy setup.
9. TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi Extender – Best Speedy Connection Wi-Fi Extender
Integrated with dual-band and Wi-Fi 6 technology, the TP-Link RE505X Wi-Fi extender delivers a fast internet speed of 1.4 Gbps for uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and gaming. Moreover, the 2 specialized built-in external antennas help to extend the fast Wi-Fi signals over a coverage range of up to 1500 sq. ft. Also, the extender can connect 25 devices to the network simultaneously.
The Adaptive Path Selection feature in RE505X automatically selects the highest performance path from the router and connects devices to it. On the other hand, the High-Speed mode uses both frequency bands to provide a stable and faster internet connection.
Item Weight: 0.93 lbs
Item Dimensions: 2.9×1.8×4.9 in
Wi-Fi Technology: 802.11 ax
Security: WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK
Range: 1500 sq.ft.
Data Transfer Rate: 1.5 Gbps
TP-Link RE505X Wi-Fi extender supports OneMeshTM. This enables the creation of a mesh network with any compatible router to provide a seamless smart roaming network with the same SSID. This extender also works through an access point mode by plugging an ethernet cable to extend signals. An intelligent signal indicator on the Wi-Fi extender detects an optimal installation location with strong Wi-Fi signals.
Pros
- Works with Wi-Fi 6 technology.
- Adaptive Path Selection feature and High-Speed mode.
- Supports OneMeshTM and can also turn into an access point.
How To Choose The Best WiFi Extender For Concrete Walls?
You might be considering buying a Wi-Fi extender for concrete walls because they weaken your Wi-Fi router signals. While trying to search for the best WiFi extender for concrete walls, you will undoubtedly see various brands that claim to be the best, while in reality, not all of them are.
Here are a few factors you should look for when trying to buy the best WiFi extender for concrete walls:
Network Setup
The network setup for the WiFi extender should be easy to follow. Many models feature user-friendly software and even animated guidance for added convenience. The WiFi extender should be able to detect the optimum location inside the house and assist with maximum node coverage.
Design
The WiFi extender you opt for should have a design that has a mesh framework that features options to increase overall performance.
Multi-Band
The presence of a multi-band means you get a dedicated network meant for improving the efficiency of mesh systems.
Beamforming
Stable WiFi systems have beamforming, especially when we talk about systems that use the 802.11ac/ax protocols to operate. Beamforming helps increase the device performance by boosting the usage of the wireless spectrum via a focus on radio signals. The process gives you more signals.
Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output Technology
A Wi-Fi extender with MU-MIMO technology has the upper hand. MU-MIMO stands for Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output and is also known as AC Wave 2 or Next-Gen AC. This unique technology allows multiple devices to connect to the Wi-Fi simultaneously without slowing down the network speed. Hence a Wi-Fi extender with integrated MU-MIMO technology can be beneficial if you run multiple wireless devices at once.
Ethernet Ports
The best mesh WiFi systems tend to have at least one Ethernet port that is meant for hardwired links. You will find the Gigaports attached to the cable or modem for optimum output and speed.
Data Transfer Rate
The data transfer rate is the maximum internet speed a Wi-Fi extender can provide. This speed is generally mentioned in numerical along with Mbps (Megabits per second) or Gbps (Gigabit per second). An extender with a higher data transfer rate is usually ideal for larger areas with more devices.
Wi-Fi Coverage
The Wi-Fi coverage refers to the max range or distance you can extend to the Wi-Fi signals. To get the best WiFi extender for concrete walls, you should check how many sq. ft the Wi-Fi extender covers. A higher coverage range is better for larger locations to maximize Wi-Fi connectivity.
Difference Between a Wi-Fi Extender And Wi-Fi Mesh System
While searching for the best WiFi extender for concrete walls, you’re bound to stumble upon terms such as Wi-Fi extender and Wi-Fi mesh system/router. While the terms seem similar and might be used interchangeably, there is a marked difference between the two.
To help you understand better, here is the distinction between a Wi-Fi extender and a mesh network.
Wi-Fi Extender
A Wi-Fi range extender is a separate device that helps to extend your Wi-Fi. This device works by connecting to an existing Wi-Fi router network, intercepting it, magnifying the signals, and rebroadcasting it with a new network name. Hence when signals become weak from a Wi-Fi router, a Wi-Fi extender increases the coverage range. You can manually switch from the router to the extender’s network this way.
Wi-Fi Mesh System
A Wi-Fi mesh system is a hybrid system to spread wireless connections through a larger area. This system collects devices that include the main router and a series of satellite modules, AKA nodes. One node is connected to the main router, while the rest are placed in different locations to cover Wi-Fi dead zones.
Unlike a Wi-Fi extender, all devices under the mesh system are part of the same wireless network and have the same SSID and password.
What’s The Problem With Concrete & Brick Walls?
Different building materials tend to interact differently with Wi-Fi signals. The US National Institute of Standards and Technology experimented with concrete as one of the thickest materials and the worst for Wi-Fi to pass through as it partially absorbs the signals.
Additionally, when rebar is used to strengthen concrete slabs, the metal further weakens the Wi-Fi signals. Hence, concrete walls can highly affect radio signals attenuation.
Where To Place Your Router If You have Concrete Or Brick Walls?
It is recommended to place a router in a central location. The device should be away from walls. For multi-story homes, the device should be close to the most central floor to enjoy the best signals.
2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz. Band For Penetrating Concrete & Brick Walls
Wi-Fi signals are transmitted as frequency bands. These are ranges of radio waves within the wireless spectrum divided further into Wi-Fi channels.
There are two kinds of frequency bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz is lower in frequency, has a more extended range, and can penetrate through obstacles such as furniture, walls, etc. The 5 GHz band, on the other hand, has a shorter range but offers a higher internet speed.
To get the best WiFi extender for concrete walls, look for the bands the device works with. A single-band Wi-Fi extender can suit concrete walls, but an extender that supports dual or tri-band can offer better coverage and internet speed.
FAQs – Best WiFi Extender For Concrete Walls
Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work Through Concrete Walls?
Concrete is one of the worst building materials for Wi-Fi signals to pass through. Due to this, additional devices are needed to supply Wi-Fi signals all over an area with concrete walls.
Wi-Fi extenders do work through concrete walls. However, you need to find the best WiFi extender for concrete walls with high Wi-Fi speed and coverage range. Additionally, it should work with multi-frequency bands to ensure a stable internet connection.
How Do You Get Wi-Fi Through Concrete?
To get Wi-Fi through concrete, you need to extend the range and strength of your existing router’s signals. To do that, you can either invest in a Wi-Fi extender or get a whole-home Wi-Fi mesh system. The Wi-Fi extender and mesh system capture weak signals, boost them, and then rebroadcasts to an entire area with concrete walls.
How Do I Get Wi-Fi To Penetrate a Wall?
Wi-Fi signals can usually penetrate through walls. However, the building material and thickness can affect this ability.
To get Wi-Fi to penetrate a wall, you need to extend your Wi-Fi signals to reach dead zones. You can extend the range by getting a better Wi-Fi router or a Wi-Fi extender for an existing router. You can also purchase a Wi-Fi mesh system, set up a powerline LAN, or even place additional access points for Wi-Fi to penetrate through walls.
Conclusion
Getting yourself the best WiFi extender for concrete walls is the easiest solution to experience a stable internet connection, even with brick walls around. We hope the information and reviews presented in our WiFi extender for concrete walls review lists helped you out.
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