In today’s highly connected world, stable and high-quality wireless connections are essential, especially for big houses or extended working spaces. Most traditional routers require uniform coverage in larger spaces, and often, there are black spots where signal strength is low. This is where long-range routers come in handy.
Able to cover large spaces and Dead zones,Best long-range routers for 2024 are specially formulated to cover extra space with powerful signal booster technology. Whether you live in a multisite, several-floor house or are a businessman who requires a stable connection in a big office, purchasing a long-range router will significantly change the quality of your connection.
That is why, by picking the right model, you are guaranteed that the signal will cover every zone and that you will not have to worry about interruptions.
What Makes a Router Long Range?
In the case of Wi-Fi routers, range simply refers to the router’s capability to have a good and strong Wi-Fi signal over a larger coverage area.Â
This means that the router can easily cover a certain area, such as a house or an office, so dead zones or areas with weaker signal and connection can be easily solved.
Key Features:
- Powerful Antennas:
Wireless routers with multiple high-gain antennas provide more robust and better signals in all house corners, boosting the coverage area.
- Advanced WiFi Standards:
Some of the newer Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802. 11ax), have better range and efficiency than the older standards. They also support more devices and perform better than the previous standards.
- Beamforming Technology:
This feature helps the access point direct the Wi-Fi signal to the connected devices rather than emitting it in any way, boosting signal density and minimising interference.
Importance:
These features are necessary for a better Wi-Fi range because they help ensure the signal stays strong and steady throughout your space.Â
With these features, a long-range router reduces connection problems, supports stable streaming and games, and ensures that all linked devices perform similarly.
Top Long-Range Routers of 2024
List of best routers in 2024Â
These routers are among the best routers in the UK for 2024, each offering distinct advantages depending on your needs, whether top-tier speed, extensive coverage, or a balance of performance and affordability.
ASUS RT-AX88U
Key Features:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support
- Eight high-gain antennas
- 4×4 MU-MIMO technology
- Advanced beamforming
- Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with combined speeds up to 6000 Mbps
Pros:
- Excellent range and speed for large homes
- Supports a high number of simultaneous connections
- Comprehensive security features with AiProtection
Cons:
- Higher price point
- The bulky design may not fit all spaces
Netgear Nighthawk RAX200
Key Features:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology
- Tri-band (1x 2.4 GHz and 2x 5 GHz) with speeds up to 10.8 Gbps
- Eight high-performance antennas
- Dynamic QoS and advanced beamforming
Pros:
- Outstanding speed and coverage
- Ideal for high-demand environments with many devices
- User-friendly app for setup and management
Cons:
- Expensive
- Large footprint
TP-Link Archer AX73
Key Features:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support
- Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with combined speeds up to 5400 Mbps
- Six high-gain antennas
- OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology
- Robust security features with TP-Link HomeCare
Pros:
- Strong performance and range at a competitive price
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Good balance of features and cost
Cons:
- Limited to dual-band operation
- It may not cover vast areas as effectively as tri-band models
How to Extend WiFi Range Even Further?
Tips and Tricks
Optimal Router Placement:
Position your router in a central location within your home or office to ensure an even distribution of the Wi-Fi signal. Avoid placing the router near walls, metal objects, or electronic devices that can interfere with the signal.Â
Use Wi-Fi Extenders:
Specialised devices, such as Wi-Fi extenders or repeaters, help you amplify the signal where the router’s signal does not quite reach. These devices pick up the current signal from your router and amplify it to cover untapped areas.
Update Firmware:
The router’s firmware must be constantly upgraded to contain all the latest enhancement and protection features. Producers also provide firmware updates to improve the router’s working ability and extend its range.
Optimise Channel Settings:
Interference from neighbouring Wi-Fi networks can affect signal quality. To minimise interference, use your router’s settings to select the least congested channel or enable automatic channel selection.
Product Recommendations
Netgear Nighthawk X6S EX8000:
A powerful Wi-Fi extender that supports tri-band technology, offering extended coverage and improved performance in large areas. Its seamless roaming feature ensures that devices automatically connect to the strongest signal.
Eero Pro 6 Mesh Wi-Fi System:
This mesh system provides extensive coverage and supports Wi-Fi 6 technology for high-speed performance. The Eero app makes setup and management easy, and additional nodes can be added to expand coverage.
TP-Link RE650 AC2600 Wi-Fi Range Extender:
With high-speed dual-band capabilities and four external antennas, this range extender enhances coverage and performance, making it ideal for large homes or offices.
Case Studies
Multi-Story Home:
A family living in a three-story house struggled with weak Wi-Fi signals on the upper floors. They achieved consistent coverage throughout the home by implementing a mesh network with the Eero Pro 6 system.Â
Office Building:Â
A small business operating in a multi-room office experienced frequent signal drops and slow speeds in certain areas. The installation of the Netgear Nighthawk X6S EX8000 extender significantly improved connectivity, covering the entire office and ensuring uninterrupted service for all employees.
2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz vs. 6 GHz: Understanding Frequency Bands
Explanation
Wi-Fi networks operate on different frequency bands, each with unique characteristics. The primary bands are 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and the newer 6 GHz.
2.4 GHz:
This band is the most widely used and offers broader coverage due to its longer wavelength, which effectively penetrates walls and obstacles. However, it is also more susceptible to interference from other devices like microwaves, cordless phones, and neighbouring Wi-Fi networks, which can impact performance.
5 GHz:
Due to its shorter wavelength, this band provides higher speeds and less interference than 2.4 GHz. While it offers faster data rates and more channels, it has a shorter range and can penetrate walls and obstacles less easily.Â
6 GHz:
The newest addition, introduced with Wi-Fi 6E, offers even more channels and less interference due to its greater bandwidth. It provides faster speeds and improved performance in congested environments but has a similar range limitation to 5 GHz, with limited penetration through walls.
Best Use Cases
2.4 GHz:
It is best for covering larger areas and devices farther from the router. It is ideal for basic tasks like web browsing and email, especially in environments with many obstacles or where devices are spread out. However, due to its susceptibility to interference, there might be better choices for high-bandwidth applications.
5 GHz:
It is ideal for high-speed activities such as streaming, gaming, and large file transfers, especially when devices are close to the router. It is best used in environments with minimal interference and where high performance is needed in specific areas.
6 GHz:
It is best suited for high-density environments and tasks requiring the highest speeds and lowest latency, such as 4K video streaming and online gaming. It reduces interference in crowded areas but may only be ideal for a small home due to its limited range.
Impact on Range
2.4 GHz:
It offers the most fantastic range and coverage, making it practical for larger spaces or areas with many obstructions. However, interference from other devices and networks can compromise its performance.
5 GHz:
It provides faster speeds but has a shorter range. Its signal strength diminishes more rapidly with distance and obstacles. It’s best for areas where high performance is needed close to the router.
6 GHz:
Similar to 5 GHz in terms of range but with the added benefit of reduced interference and more available channels. It’s suitable for environments where high speed and low latency are critical, but its effective range may still be limited compared to 2.4 GHz.
ConclusionÂ
Are you looking for the best long-range routers for 2024? Technological advancements offer many options, including the ASUS RT-AX88U, Netgear Nighthawk RAX200, and TP-Link Archer AX73.Â
These routers provide lightning-fast speed, comprehensive service, or a combination. They eliminate dead spots and provide reliable internet access throughout your space. Choosing the right long-range router can eliminate dead spots and allow you to enjoy a smoother internet experience.Â
Choose the one that works best for you and enjoy a better, more reliable Wi-Fi connection in your home or office.Â
Related Articles:
Network Switch vs Router vs Firewall: Key Differences and How to Choose
Complete Guide to TP LINK Network Switches & Networking Devices
Take Control of Your Home Network with the TP-Link Archer AX73 Wi-Fi 6 Router
The Top Wired Routers of 2024 With Unmatched Performance and Reliability