9 Top Picks
4 Reviewers
30 Hours of Research
30 Options Considered
Is your weak WiFi signal disrupting your smooth gameplay? It’s time that you look for the best WiFi extender for gaming! Learn more about this MUST-HAVE device.
A strong and steady WiFi signal is every gamer’s dream, especially when your online experience is often interrupted by lags and glitches. If you're gaming while traveling, your best bet is the best travel router.
Luckily, there’s a way to get rid of these irritating issues by using the best WiFi extender for gaming. So, let’s dive in!
9 Top WiFi Extenders for Gaming
[Best Overall]
First off, it’s dual-band to enable you to connect up to 35 smart devices to your internet network. With range coverage of 2,300 square feet, you can move anywhere around your house without losing the signal.
4.9/5
[Best for the Money]
What’s probably the best gaming WiFi extender is dual-band. It can offer you a speed of 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1,300Mbps on the 5GHz band. As a gamer or a streamer, these speeds can enhance your overall online experience.
4.8/5
[Best for the Ultra-Fast Internet Speed]
Pretty much like our previous candidate, this mesh range extender by NetGear can offer you amazing features.
You may notice that it’s pricier, but it’s a great choice when you’re wondering how to extend WiFi range.
4.7/5
What I liked most about this NetGear extender is that it includes five Gigabit Ethernet ports. Of course, that could be really convenient if you enjoy the company of Blu-ray players, smart TVs, and more.
4.6/5
This extender is equipped with Spot Finder Technology. This exclusive tech locates the best place to plug-in your device for maximum performance and speed.
4.6/5
The booster is equipped with an Intelligent Signal Indicator light. This cool feature helps you find the best spot to place your extender. Of course, this ensures that you get the strongest WiFi signal for 4K streaming and online gaming.
4.5/5
You’ll probably welcome the fact that this booster can work with any router model. With its 4 antennas, you can expect a powerful and steady signal throughout your house.
4.5/5
All the more reason to like this booster is that it works with any WiFi gateway. Even if you’re not using a Linksys-branded router, this device will boost the WiFi signal to a great extent all the same.
4.4/5
It works just fine with a 750Mbps router using dual-band and FastLane technology. Such features enable this device to connect to 15 smart devices.
4.4/5
What to Look for When Shopping for a WiFi Extender for Gaming
There are three things you should consider before buying a WiFi signal booster.
First off, you need to know the internet speed of your current router so that you can get a WiFi extender that’s just as fast or even faster.
Second of all, you must determine if you need a single, double, or triple-band unit. Your choice will depend on the number of devices that use this network. In general, more devices require higher frequencies.
Lastly, you should know the range that your extender has to cover.
Best WiFi Extender for Gaming Reviews
[Best WiFi Extender Overall]
4.9/5
Our first favorite pick is the NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300. Because of its numerous features, there’s no wonder why it’s on the top of our list.
First off, it’s dual-band to enable you to connect up to 35 smart devices to your internet network. With range coverage of 2,300 square feet, you can move anywhere around your house without losing the signal.
Features:
- Smart Roaming enables you to stay connected as you move around the house
- Dual-band WiFi for faster internet
- Smart Connect tech assigns the strongest signal to the right smart device
- Security options such as parental control ensure the safety of your kids
- 1-Gb Ethernet port grants you a seamless gaming experience
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi |
Bandwidth | 2,200Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 6.3 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches |
Weight | 10.6 ounces |
Number of Connected Devices | 35-40 |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 2,300 square feet |
Better yet, I liked that it boasts an internet speed of 2,200Mbps, which is awesome news for all gamers and streamers. You can most assuredly say goodbye to irritating lags and delays in your online game.
One of the extender’s coolest features is Smart Roaming. It uses your current network’s SSID name to grant you a seamless connection.
Yet, my personal favorite thing about this device is that it’s available with an Ethernet port. This way, you can plug your game console into the 1-Gigabit port for maximum internet speed.
The last thing I’d like to point out is that this extender works with any router brand or model. Therefore, you’ll be less likely to face compatibility or installation issues.
However, if you ever face any problems with the booster, calling customer service can be a bit frustrating. The people that answer your calls tend to misunderstand your issues.
Still, I’m positive that this service is being made better as we speak to create one of the best WiFi extenders for gaming.
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 Pros
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 Cons
[Best For The Money]
4.8/5
The second product that we had to include in our review is the. AC1900 smart router by TP-Link.
What’s probably the best gaming WiFi extender is dual-band. It can offer you a speed of 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1,300Mbps on the 5GHz band. As a gamer or a streamer, these speeds can enhance your overall online experience.
TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router Specifications
Connectivity Technology | Built-in WiFi, Ethernet, USB |
Bandwidth | 1,900Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 9.59 x 7.34 x 1.29 inches |
Weight | 2.10 lbs |
Number of Ethernet Ports | 5 |
Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11ac, 802.11a |
Even better, this device comes with parental control options, the guest WiFi feature, and even a VPN server. Plus, I couldn’t help but fall in love with its Smart Connect technology, which can grant you less congested bands to eliminate lags.
Yet, the thing I’m sure you’d appreciate most is the TP-Link Tether app. It allows you to manage your home network even if you’re not indoors. That feature combined with the company’s 24/7 tech support should allow you to troubleshoot any issues in no time.
Plus, the unit works beautifully with Alexa! Furthermore, if you have Alexa Echo, you can direct specific commands at it to control your extender settings.
Balancing good value, a mid-range price, and strong network coverage, buying this booster can be a great investment.
TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router Pros
TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router Cons
[Best For The Ultra-Fast Internet Speed]
4.7/5
Pretty much like our previous candidate, this mesh range extender by NetGear can offer you amazing features. You may notice that it’s pricier, but it’s a great choice when you’re wondering how to extend WiFi range.
Features:
- A huge bandwidth of 3,000Mbps to match every gamer’s needs
- Tri-band WiFi ensures ultra-fast internet speed
- FastLane3 Technology supports heavy-duty gaming
- Universal compatibility enables the device to connect to all router models
- Four 1-Gb Ethernet ports allow you to plug in your game console besides other devices
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi |
Bandwidth | 3,000Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Tri-Band (one 2GHz and two 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 8.08 x 10.01 x 5.20 inches |
Weight | 1.89 lbs |
Number of Connected Devices | 50-55 |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 2,800 square feet |
The thing that drew my attention to this device is that it’s tri-band. Because of that, it supports up to a roaring 3,000Mbps speed. There’s no wonder why any die-hard streamer would like to get their hands on this beast!
Another much-appreciated gaming-centered feature would be the patented FastLane3 tech. This technology can be especially helpful if you’re all about 4K HD streaming and multiplayer online gaming.
Plus, the range of what could be the best mesh WiFi for gaming can extend for 2,800 square feet. Not just that, it’s capable of connecting to 55 smart devices including phones, laptops, IP cameras, and more.
Now, remember how the previous NetGear product offers you only one 1-Gigabit port? Well, you’d be delighted to learn that this extender comes with four 1-Gigabit ports! Impressive, right?
Other than these awesome features, you’ll find that the rest of the qualities match those of the previous booster. Therefore, we think that the cost is justified, don’t you think so?
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 Pros
NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 Cons
For the third time in a row, NetGear has blessed us with a great WiFi booster. You can join us while we take a look at its incredible features.
To my, and probably your, delight, this extender supports dual-band WiFi. So, you can rely on it to amplify and broadcast 2.4 and 5 GHz signals that come from your existing router.
Features:
- A combined speed of 1,200Mbps for an impressive gaming experience
- Universal compatibility matches any type of router you have
- Ethernet ports allow you to connect to smart devices instantly using one of the ethernet cables we recommend.
- Digital Media Server boosts your WiFi signal to cover dead zones
- Utilizes high-end amplifiers and antennas for a stronger network
NETGEAR Wireless Range Extender EX6200 Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi, Ethernet, USB |
Bandwidth | 1,200Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 12.01 x 10.12 x 3.19 inches |
Weight | 2.33 lbs |
Number of Ports | 5 |
Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b |
Not just that, this product is supported by many things to ensure you steady coverage. With its 700 mW amplifiers and 5dBi antennas, this little buddy will boost your signal without missing a beat.
Yet, what I liked most about this NetGear extender is that it includes five Gigabit Ethernet ports. Of course, that could be really convenient if you enjoy the company of Blu-ray players, smart TVs, and more.
By connecting these devices to your booster using a wire, you can count on a fast and smooth connection. We reviewed best ethernet splitters as a must have for multiple devices.
However, there’s something I wasn’t exactly a fan of. This device has a data transfer rate of 1200Mbps, which is less than other products at the same price. Still, to be fair, some people don’t mind such a minor inconvenience.
Come to think of it, this extender can be a bit problematic if you decide to reset it. You’d have to reinstall it just like you did the first time you brought it. But again, this is no major no-no.
NETGEAR Wireless Range Extender EX6200 Pros
NETGEAR Wireless Range Extender EX6200 Cons
4.6/5
If your WiFi is dual-band, then this Linksys booster might be the one for you. Let’s find out why it could be the best WiFi extender for gaming.
The first thing that I’ve noticed was that this extender is a plug-in device. Of course, this gives it an advantage over a desktop repeater because it saves up so much space. Since I live in an apartment, I’d definitely prefer this Linksys product over other devices.
Features:
- MU-MIMO tech enhances your multi-user internet experience
- Spot Finder Technology helps you find the perfect location for your extender
- Beamforming feature directs heightened WiFi signal to your smart device
- A reliable bandwidth of 1,900Mbps to support gaming and streaming
- Seamless Roaming lets you have a steady connection anywhere in your house
Linksys RE7000 Range Extender Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi |
Bandwidth | 1,900Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 1.81 x 3.18 x 4.96 inches |
Weight | 6.2 ounces |
Number of Ports | 1 |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 10,000 square feet |
Second of all, I liked that it can rebroadcast my WiFi signal up to 10,000 square feet. If you live in a small house or apartment, you’ll probably not need all this extra range. Yet, a large house with several levels and patios would likely need this beauty.
Remarkably, this extender is equipped with Spot Finder Technology. This exclusive tech locates the best place to plug-in your device for maximum performance and speed.
Plus, the MU-MIMO feature supports multiple users. Thus, if you’re a whole family of gamers, this extender should keep up with your simultaneous activity!
Lastly, Seamless Roaming allows you to keep your device connected to your WiFi signal as you move around your home. Grabbing some snacks from the kitchen while playing Fortnite? The game can still go on.
Linksys RE7000 Range Extender Pros
Linksys RE7000 Range Extender Cons
4.5/5
Here’s another noteworthy WiFi extender by TP-Link that you may want to consider. While this unit is small, it can boost your internet signal to an admirable degree.
TP-Link WiFi AC1750 Extender Specifications
Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
Bandwidth | 1,750Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 3.00 x 6.40 x 2.60 inches |
Weight | 12 ounces |
Number of Connected Devices | 33 |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 2,000 square feet |
Because this internet extender is compatible with all types of router, it can save you a lot of trouble with configuration. All you’ll have to do is press the WPS setup button, and it should establish a connection to your access point in minutes via Ethernet port.
Better yet, the booster is equipped with an Intelligent Signal Indicator light. This cool feature helps you find the best spot to place your extender. Of course, this ensures that you get the strongest WiFi signal for 4K streaming and online gaming.
Furthermore, I’m a huge fan of this incredible extender for supporting dual-band WiFi. This way, you can enjoy the luxury of 1,750Mbps speed with almost no lags or interruptions.
Want more reasons to love this product? It comes with 3 powerful antennas to grant you a seamless signal, along with an Ethernet port to connect it to wired devices.
The only downside to this device is that it uses a different name than your existing WiFi name. Yet, that’s not too troublesome.
TP-Link WiFi AC1750 Extender Pros
TP-Link WiFi AC1750 Extender Cons
4.5/5
The AC2600 wireless extender by TP-Link has got everything figured out. It should suit the use of the ultimate gamer, namely, you!
The first thing I appreciated is that this extender comes in plug-in style. Not to mention that its size doesn’t take up more than one electrical outlet. Talk about a space-saving product!
TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi |
Bandwidth | 2,600Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 6.42 x 3.40 x 2.63 inches |
Weight | 1lbs |
Number of Ports | 1 |
Wireless Communication Standard | 5.8 GHz Radio Frequency, Bluetooth |
Furthermore, this device can rebroadcast your WiFi signal using a max speed of 2,600Mbps. Since it’s dual-band, you could rely on it for a glitch-free game of PUBG.
Next, you’ll probably welcome the fact that this booster can work with any router model. With its 4 antennas, you can expect a powerful and steady signal throughout your house.
Yet, the best thing about this product is how easy it is to install. It only takes about 10 minutes, then you can enjoy your WiFi signal from all over your house. In fact, this extender can work pretty fine in a 3,200 square foot house!
One downfall some might encounter is that this WiFi booster is pretty pricey. However, it does a beautiful job of eliminating dead spots in your house. So, it’s probably one of the best WiFi extenders for gaming.
TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender Pros
TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender Cons
We’re back to Linksys products with this cool WiFi repeater. Ready to know more about its qualities?
Well, the first thing I found fascinating about it is that it has four Gigabit Ethernet ports. Therefore, you can connect four various smart devices to this booster using wires for faster connection.
Linksys RE6500 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Specifications
Connectivity Technology | WiFi and Ethernet |
Bandwidth | 1,200Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 0.45 x 1.69 x 6.06 inches |
Weight | 5.6 ounces |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 10,000 square feet |
Wireless Communication Standard | 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11a/b/g/n, 802.11a/b/g/n |
This Linksys router extender is dual-band, allowing you to use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands simultaneously. As a result, you can expect reduced traffic and enhanced gaming speed.
All the more reason to like this booster is that it works with any WiFi gateway. Even if you’re not using a Linksys-branded router, this device will boost the WiFi signal to a great extent all the same.
Yet, my personal favorite thing about this extender is the price, which I consider to be moderate.
Yes, 1,200Mbps of speed may not be enough for heavy-duty gamers. However, this performance can still be appreciated by many gamers.
Also, I’m not exactly thrilled that this extender is desktop-style since it requires a flat surface to rest upon. Still, it’s not a deal-breaker compared to what it can offer you.
Linksys RE6500 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Pros
Linksys RE6500 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender Cons
The last gaming WiFi extender I’d like to recommend is this beauty by NetGear. So far, this trustworthy manufacturer has been full of surprises, and our buddy here is no exception.
Features:
- Supports dual-band WiFi for maximum performance
- Up to 20 connected devices to fulfill your family’s internet needs
- Button-press setup lets you connect the extender to your router in about 5 minutes
- Ethernet port allows you an independent wired connection
- Uses WEP and WPA/WPA2 for a secure network
NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700 Specifications
Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
Bandwidth | 750Mbps |
Frequency Bands | Dual-Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
Dimensions | 2.64 x 1.54 x 2.17 inches |
Weight | 9.6 ounces |
WiFi Coverage | Up to 1200 square feet |
Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g, 802.11a |
For starters, this best-buy WiFi extender can be great if you’re on a tight budget. But don’t be tricked by its price because it’s got plenty of useful features up its sleeve.
You can use it to increase your WiFi signal coverage up to 1,200 square feet. So, whether you live in a small house or an apartment, you can depend on its performance
Next, it works just fine with a 750Mbps router using dual-band and FastLane technology. Such features enable this device to connect to 15 smart devices.
In addition to that, you can always use the wired Ethernet port to establish a strong connection with any device of your choosing. This device could be a game console, streaming players, etc.
Yet, what I think I could enjoy the most about this extender is its 5-minute setup. As you know, most WiFi boosters out there come with endless configuration issues. Thus, it’s always a relief to get a product with quick and easy installation.
I know that a speed of 750Mbps may not be sufficient for some players. However, it’s quite suitable considering this extender’s price.
NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700 Pros
NETGEAR WiFi Range Extender EX3700 Cons
How Does a WiFi Range Extender Work?
Do WiFi extenders work as routers do? The answer is no.
A signal booster receives an existing WiFi signal from your router, amplifies it, then rebroadcasts it. So, When the signal is retransmitted, it can cover larger distances and farther destinations where the WiFi might be too weak.
Even better, if you use a booster in your house, the internet can reach rooms that had no signal previously.
For the best results, you’ll need to locate this unit halfway the distance between your router and the places where you want better coverage.
How to Find the Best WiFi Range Extender?
Finding the right WiFi booster to match your use requires some digging.
For instance, the price is probably the first thing to cross your mind. Of course, the higher the cost, the more options you’ll get out of your extender. Yet, if you’re on a budget, you should find a decent balance between value and price.
Also, make sure that the extender is compatible with your router. You can figure this out by taking a look at the technical specs on both devices.
Here are more things you need to think about.
Desktop vs. Plug-In WiFi Range Extenders
The physical profile of your extender is an important aspect to decide.
A desktop unit is similar to a typical router. You’ll need to position it on a flat surface, and it usually takes up more space than a plug-in unit.
On the other hand, a wall plug extender only requires an electric outlet. Of course, it can be a more reliable option if you don’t have much desk space.
Both types of extenders can come with or without external antennas. However, I’d personally go for a unit with an antenna for better coverage.
Installation and Configuration
Your WiFi booster setup process can vary from one model to another. To choose the perfect device, you should look up its configuration method beforehand.
Some units connect to your router wirelessly, but this isn’t always an advantage. In this case, you’ll need to press the WPS button on both devices at the same time to create a connection. Of course, doing that can take several attempts.
Alternatively, you may want to go for an extender that has an ethernet port. This way, you can connect it to your router using a wire, which ensures faster installation.
Limitations of WiFi Range Extenders
Despite the various benefits that a WiFi network extender will grant you, it can have some limitations.
For starters, the internet bandwidth of any computer connected to an extender will be cut in half. This might not have significant effects on your web-browsing speed, but it can slow down streaming.
Plus, because router manufacturers are constantly improving WiFi standards, an extender might not be able to keep up in the future. So, you’ll eventually need to buy a more compatible booster.
Lastly, you may face incompatibility issues if the router and extender aren’t of the same brand.
Use NetSpot to Plan Your WiFi Extender Purchase
To keep low-coverage issues to the minimum, there’s no better way than to use the NetSpot app. This application allows you to analyze your WiFi coverage by creating site surveys.
Using the data that comes out of these surveys, the app will let you know where the spots with weak signals are. Also, it’ll recommend the best type of extender to buy and select the perfect location for it to enhance your WiFi signal in dead spots.
Ultimately, you can use this app to check the security settings of your WiFi network.
FAQs:
1. What is the best WIFI extender for gaming.
Here are the Top WiFi Extenders for Gaming that we can recommend.
1. NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300 - Our first favorite pick is the NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7300. Because of its numerous features, there’s no wonder why it’s on the top of our list. First off, it’s dual-band to enable you to connect up to 35 smart devices to your internet network. With range coverage of 2,300 square feet, you can move anywhere around your house without losing the signal.
2. TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router - The second product that we had to include in our review is the. AC1900 smart router by TP-Link.
What’s probably the best gaming WiFi extender is dual-band. It can offer you a speed of 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1,300Mbps on the 5GHz band. As a gamer or a streamer, these speeds can enhance your overall online experience.
3. NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 - Pretty much like our previous candidate, this mesh range extender by NetGear can offer you amazing features.
You may notice that it’s pricier, but it’s a great choice when you’re wondering how to extend WiFi range.
2. Do WiFi extenders work for gaming?
Yes, it beneficial for gamers. Dual-band is probably the best feature of the best gaming WiFi extender. It features a 2.4GHz band with a maximum speed of 600Mbps and a 5GHz band with a full speed of 1,300Mbps. As a gamer or streamer, these speeds can help you get the most out of your online experience.
3. Will WiFi extender improve Ping?
Yes, a WiFi extender can improve your ping by increasing the signal strength of your WiFi network. This will allow your devices to communicate with the router more effectively, which can reduce latency and improve overall performance.
4. Do WiFi extenders really work?
Yes, WiFi extenders work to extend the reach of your WiFi network. They do this by creating a second WiFi network that is separate from your primary network. This second network is then used to extend the reach of your primary network.
5. How can I boost my WiFi for gaming?
How to Reduce Lag and Speed Up Your Internet for Gaming.
1. Determine Your Internet Connection's Speed and Bandwidth.
2. Pursue Low Latency.
3. Relocate Your Router.
4. Ensure that all background websites and programs are closed.
5. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your device to your router.
6. Connect to a Local Server.
7. Power Cycle Your Router.
8. Obtain a New Router.