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Boosting your WiFi just got easier. After researching over 50 top WiFi Mesh Systems available on the market, we bought the 10 most compelling models to test head-to-head and rank to help you find the best. We rated and scored the ease of use of each system and evaluated the different features and functions they offer. We thoroughly tested the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz throughput, along with the WiFi range by streaming movies as far away from the router as we could get. Read on to see which system delivered the best range performance and seamless connection experience, which is the easiest to get up and running, and which option has the most features.
Networking essentials have become a standard in the modern world. If you are considering a WiFi mesh system, then you might also find our review of WiFi extenders interesting, and our single point WiFi router review, too. If you're in the early stages of setting up your home office or need a product to up your productivity and efficiency, we've reviewed various office-related goods to help your search, from printers to our favorite keyboards. Check out what we've tested and rated as top-notch office products so you can make an informed buying decision.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on October 8, 2024, with updated charts for our 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz throughput tests and new specs tables in our award section to help better compare products.
Claimed Coverage for 3 Units: 5800 sq. ft. | Wired Backhaul: Yes
REASONS TO BUY
Easy to install
WiFi 6-compatible
Inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
Minimal QoS options
SPECIFICATIONS
Wireless Specification
Dual Band
Wi-Fi Version
WiFi 6
Frequency
5 GHz
2.4 GHz
Processor
1.0 GHz Dual-Core
Memory
N/A
For a top-tier WiFi Mesh System to extend the range of your network, the TP-Link Deco X20 is a champ. Our team found this mesh system exceptionally easy to set up, and its companion app offers all the features we could ask for. You can monitor your network status, check the placement of satellite nodes, and set up parental controls to limit network access or block content. The router and nodes are minimal and sleek, with 2 WAN/LAN ports on the back of each for hardwired devices or for setting up wired Ethernet backhaul. This system is also WiFi 6-compatible, making it more future-proof than other routers in this review.
The Deco X20 showed the best performance of the group in our 2.4 GHz throughput tests, showing speeds of 144 Mbps at 9 feet unobstructed and 121 Mbps at 35 feet unobstructed — speeds that only dropped about 10-20 Mbps when we ran the same tests with obstructions (walls) at 9 and 35 feet. It also performed super well overall in our 5 GHz throughput tests, only bested by systems like the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 and Netgear Orbi. The Deco X20 also performed well in our range test, again only falling behind the Linksys Atlas Pro 6, which had the best range in our tests. You should get solid data throughput for streaming or gaming with this AX1800 router. We also like that this system is expandable with additional nodes and compatible with other TP-Link Deco models if you need additional coverage.
Our testers didn't find the QoS of this system to be overly impressive. The options were lacking, though we were pleased that it was included. Also, the system only allows you to prioritize upload and download speeds. Despite these minimal shortcomings, this is an excellent performing unit that won't cost an arm and a leg. If you want a model with a great QoS, the ASUS ZenWiFi (XT8) is the one to look at.
Claimed Coverage for 2 Units: 5500 sq. ft. | Wired Backhaul: Yes
REASONS TO BUY
High maximum throughput
Great coverage
Great for Google-based smart homes
REASONS TO AVOID
Not WiFi 6 compatible
SPECIFICATIONS
Wireless Specification
Dual Band
Wi-Fi Version
WiFi 5
Frequency
5 GHz
2.4 GHz
Processor
1.4 GHz Quad-core 64-bit ARM
Memory
4 GB Flash
1 GB RAM
As of publication on October 8, 2024, Google is discontinuing this Nest WiFi system in favor of the Nest WiFi Pro, which we've yet to test. The Pro model includes Wi-Fi 6E coverage. You may still be able to find a great deal on the original Nest WiFi Router we tested here.
The Google Nest WiFi Router system is a great choice for those seeking a premium WiFi mesh system for a Google-based smart home. Compatible with both Google WiFi and Google Nest Points, you can mix and match to get the perfect network for your needs and the layout of your home. We tested using a trio of Google Nest Routers and saw some of the best ranges in line with their impressively high claimed coverage area. This system should also have enough data throughput for most users, allowing you to get the most of the bandwidth you pay for. The routers are sleek and discreet enough to blend into the background, with each node having a pair of gigabit ports for any hardwired connection or wired backhaul. You also have plenty of features in the Google Home app, allowing you to optimize your network, blacklist devices, or filter content — even allowing you voice control over your network using the Google Assistant.
One notable drawback is that this system is not WiFi 6 compatible. This may concern you if you want to future-proof your home or own several devices that run off WiFi 6. If you're on the hunt for a WiFi 6 capable system, the TP-Link Deco X20 is the way to go. In our experience, though, we found many devices are still not WiFi 6 capable. So, this may not be an issue if you don't plan on immediately upgrading to WiFi 6-capable devices. Minor shortcomings aside, we wholeheartedly recommend this system to anyone who wants the best without breaking the bank.
Claimed Coverage for 2 Units: 6000 sq. ft. | Wired Backhaul: Yes
REASONS TO BUY
Easy installation
User-friendly app
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
SPECIFICATIONS
Wireless Specification
Dual Band
Wi-Fi Version
WiFi 6
Frequency
5 GHz
2.4 GHz
Processor
1.0 GHz dual-Core
Memory
256 MB Flash
512MB RAM
This WiFi mesh system has all the bells and whistles, with WiFi 6 compatibility, MU-MIMO, and OFDMA, the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is one of the most future-proof products in our lineup. The system is easily set up through the Linksys app, which walks you through the process step-by-step. The app includes great features like parental controls, WiFi settings, and device prioritization. This mesh system was one of the best performers in our lineup, leading the group in our range test. We were able to walk an impressive 160 feet away from the router before our video began to buffer. This system is impressive and will tackle almost anything you throw at it. Whether that be streaming movies, gaming, or working from home, this system will have you covered. The sleek tower-like design will blend into its surroundings and includes 4 WAN/LAN ports for Ethernet backhaul.
If you don't plan on using the advanced features or are unlikely to invest in multiple WiFi 6-capable devices anytime soon, then the price tag may not be worth the investment. Truth be told, this is one of the best models on the market, especially for those who want to extend their WiFi coverage and exercise more control over their network. If you're hoping to find something more affordable, check out the Google Nest WiFi Router. It will save you some money, especially if you find a good deal.
Claimed Coverage for 2 Units: 5500 sq. ft. | Wired Backhaul: Yes
REASONS TO BUY
Great QoS
Easy setup
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
SPECIFICATIONS
Wireless Specification
Dual Band
Wi-Fi Version
WiFi 6
Frequency
5 GHz
2.4 GHz
Processor
1.5 GHz quad-core
Memory
256 MB Flash
512 MB RAM
The ASUS ZenWiFi (XT8) is a top-notch mesh system with superb advanced features. It is the only product in our lineup that has a computer-based setup option. Through the app, our system was up and running after three simple steps. ASUS incorporates AiMesh technology into these routers. This advanced feature ensures dead zones are eliminated by creating a seamless network throughout the entire home. AiMesh is easily set up through the app or PC, where more advanced features can be controlled. We were particularly impressed with the QoS. The system has three types of QoS: adaptive QoS, traditional QoS, and a bandwidth limiter for uploading and downloading. We specifically enjoyed the adaptive QoS, with options to prioritize specific tasks like gaming, streaming, work, education, and more. The system is WiFi 6-compatible with MU-MIMO and OFDMA, giving you the peace of mind that your home is future-proof. Additionally, the ZenWiFi is the gold standard when it comes to parental controls. This includes options like creating profiles, blocking sites or apps, filtering content, and creating schedules.
Aside from our ease of use test, the ZenWiFi had about average performance. For such an expensive product, we would have liked to see it do a little better in our throughput metrics. It showed speeds in the middle of the pack in our 2.4 GHz tests, but actually performed quite well in our 5 GHz throughput tests, displaying speeds of 302 Mbps in our obstructed tests at 9 feet and 265 Mbps at 35 feet. All things considered, the system will provide enough throughput for most households. The ZenWiFi had the best features and ease of installation of all the models in our lineup, which we feel is worth the investment. Still, you could save some money and invest in the TP-Link Deco X20, which we also found easy to install, and it bested the Asus in nearly all of our throughput and range tests.
The Asus ZenWiFi has some of the most advanced features like QoS, parental controls, and more.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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How We Test WiFi Mesh Systems
For this review, we researched over 50 top WiFi mesh systems available on the market before purchasing the 10 most compelling models to test head-to-head and rank. We identified the key metrics essential to grading a WiFi mesh system. Then, we carried out a series of tests for each of the routers in our lineup. We spent hours measuring and evaluating the 2.4 GHz throughput, 5 GHz throughput, range, and ease of use.
Our testing of WiFi routers is comprised of four rating metrics:
2.4 GHz Throughput (35% of overall score weighting)
5 GHz Throughput (35% weighting)
Range (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Our WiFi mesh system review was conducted by Matt Spencer and Becca Glades. This team brings a unique set of skills into this category. Matt is an avid tech user and gamer. He knows the ins and outs of computer systems and has tested everything from traditional WiFi routers to gaming headsets. Becca is formally trained in software engineering. She understands the importance of speedy internet in all nooks and crannies of the building, as working from home is the new normal. You can rest assured that this team has thoroughly tested and inspected each WiFi mesh system to ensure our readers are making the most informed purchase possible.
Our testers watched a movie and walked away from the router, noting the distance when the video began to buffer.
The ZenWiFi is incredibly easy to set up, with a simple three-step process.
Our testers thoroughly inspected each accompanying app, rating its user-friendliness.
Analysis and Test Results
To capture all aspects of a WiFi mesh system's performance, we created four different test metrics: 2.4 GHz Throughput, 5 GHz Throughput, Range, and Ease of Use. We highlighted standout performances for each metric in the sections below and any products that we found particularly lackluster.
What's the Best Value?
There are many WiFi mesh systems to choose from with various price points. We found that some of the pricier models, like the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 and ASUS ZenWiFi, included connectivity features like WiFi 6 compatibility, MU-MIMO, and OFDMA. They also had advanced QoS, parental controls, and more. Some of the cheaper options don't include these future-proof features, though they might not be necessary for you depending on the devices you plan on connecting. Many devices aren't yet using WiFi 6, so the need for this feature isn't yet crucial. However, this advancement allows more devices to simultaneously use the network. The Google Nest WiFi is a budget option that did a great job in our tests and includes features like parental controls, device prioritization, and more. However, this device isn't WiFi 6 compatible, a feature worth considering if you'd like to stay ahead of the game.
2.4 GHz Throughput
Most homes will have dead spots or zones. Often, these areas are located behind walls or furniture. WiFi mesh systems aim to eliminate all dead zones by creating a blanket of WiFi over the entire house. To test this, we assessed the 2.4 GHz throughput in various locations with and without obstructions.
We started nine feet away with an unobstructed path. Then, we obstruct the path with a wall. We repeated this test at 35 feet and 70 feet. We did not test the unobstructed path at 70 feet as most buildings don't have rooms that are 70 feet long without some sort of barrier. The chart below shows 2.4 GHz throughput at 9 and 35 feet unobstructed.
2.4 GHz Unobstructed Throughput
Product
9 ft
35 ft
TP-Link Deco X20
144
121
TP-Link Deco M5
129
106
Eero WiFi System
109
87
Linksys Atlas Pro 6 (MX5503)
104.7
74
Asus ZenWiFi (XT8)
85.1
78
Google WiFi
91.6
68
TP-Link Deco S4
72.4
81
Netgear Orbi (RBK752)
77.2
71
Google Nest WiFi
81
66
MeshForce M3
41.7
45
The TP-Link Deco X20 and TP-Link Deco M5 fared the best in our unobstructed tests here, with speeds of over 100 Mbps at both distances. The Eero WiFi System also had a respectable showing, with speeds over 109 Mbps at 9 feet and 87 Mbps at 35 feet.
The TP-Link Deco X20 is a top performer in throughput and range. The pack includes three nodes.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
We've charted the 2.4 GHz obstructed throughput below, this time at 9, 35, and 70 feet, all obstructed by walls.
2.4 GHz Obstructed Throughput
Product
9 ft
35 ft
70 ft
TP-Link Deco X20
137
100
20
TP-Link Deco M5
112
109
7
Eero WiFi System
129
87
3
TP-Link Deco S4
79
94
12
Asus ZenWiFi (XT8)
86
79
19
Linksys Atlas Pro 6 (MX5503)
77
80
21
Netgear Orbi (RBK752)
84
66
17
Google Nest WiFi
78
68
17
Google WiFi
71
68
16
MeshForce M3
34
41
15
Again the TP-Link Deco X20, TP-Link Deco M5, and Eero systems came out on top in the 9 foot range and had some of the highest speeds in the 35 foot range test. However, the otherwise average Linksys Atlas Pro 6 actually had the most Mbps in the 70 foot range (21 Mpbs compared to the Deco X20's 20 Mpbs). The moral of the story here seems to be that none of these models will offer great speeds at 2.4 GHz at 70 feet with obstructions in between.
Each system's overall 1-10 ratings for our 2.4 GHz throughput test metric are charted above. The TP-Link Deco X20 and TP-Link Deco M5 were the top scorers overall in this metric.
5 GHz Throughput
Our throughput tests were aimed at testing connectivity and speeds in different locations. We made sure to test the throughput behind barriers like walls, as this is often where dead spots or slower speeds occur. Mesh systems work to eliminate these dead spots, providing reliable and powerful speed throughout.
Our tests for the 5 GHz throughput were largely the same as the 2.5 GHz throughput test. We assessed the internet speeds at 9 and 35 unobstructed. Additionally, we obstructed the path with walls at 9, 35, and 70 feet to see an accurate representation of the speeds on the 5 GHz band. Below are the results of our unobstructed 5 GHz tests.
5 GHz Unobstructed Throughput
Product
9 ft
35 ft
Linksys Atlas Pro 6 (MX5503)
398
348
Netgear Orbi (RBK752)
353
308
Asus ZenWiFi (XT8)
328
311
TP-Link Deco X20
365
271
Google Nest WiFi
316
315
TP-Link Deco M5
332
249
Eero WiFi System
295
266
TP-Link Deco S4
322
236
Google WiFi
317
240
MeshForce M3
160
159
The Linksys Atlas Pro 6 and Netgear Orbi lead the pack here. The Linksys reached speeds of almost 400 Mbps at 9 feet and 348 Mbps at 35 feet. The MeshForce M3 was the slowest performer, with average speeds hovering around 160 Mpbs at both 9 and 35 feet.
5 GHz Obstructed Throughput
Product
9 ft
35 ft
70 ft
Linksys Atlas Pro 6 (MX5503)
309
331
118.7
Netgear Orbi (RBK752)
356
312
49.1
Google Nest WiFi
314
313
89.1
TP-Link Deco X20
360
303
52.1
Asus ZenWiFi (XT8)
302
265
39.3
TP-Link Deco M5
320
262
3.9
Google WiFi
303
263
18.3
Eero WiFi System
290
239
41.5
TP-Link Deco S4
297
237
27.5
MeshForce M3
170
164
29.4
In our obstructed 5 GHz tests, the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 and Netgear Orbi again did quite well. We were quite impressed by the Atlas Pro here, which far outperformed any other system in our long-range test, reaching averaged speeds of 119 Mpbs at 70 feet with obstructions. Only the Google Nest even came close to matching this speed with 89 Mbps at 70 feet.
The Netgear Orbi's sleek design fits into almost every room. It was a leader in our 5 GHz throughput test.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Deco X20 did an exceptional job with our short-range test, with speeds around 360 Mbps. Below, we've charted each WiFi mesh system's overall score in our 5 GHz Throughput metric.
Range
We conducted a test to get an accurate depiction of the range of each system. We pulled the same video on 1080p and played it on both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands for each mesh system. We simply moved away from the router in 10-foot increments, noting the point at which the video began to buffer. We rated and compared these distances for each of the mesh routers. While most performed well, a few had a standout performance.
Overall, we were the most impressed with the Linksys Atlas Pro 6. We were able to stream our movie on the 2.4 GHz channel until the 100-foot mark, at which point buffering began. We lost connection to the router before buffering occurred at 160 feet while on the 5 GHz band. The TP-Link Deco X20 also had a standout performance. On the 2.4 GHz band, our video began buffering at 100 feet, whereas the 5 GHz band held out to 110 feet.
The Linksys Atlas Pro 6 is a top performer in our throughput, range, and ease of use tests.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The ASUS ZenWifi, Google Nest WiFi, and Netgear Orbi also did well. The ASUS began buffering 90 feet away from the router on both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. The Google Nest and Netgear Orbi scored the same, buffering at 80 feet on 2.4 GHz and 100 feet on 5 GHz.
Finishing at the end was the Eero WiFi System. At 70 feet, the video would load. However, anytime we tried to advance, the video would begin buffering. This was the case for both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.
Ease of Use
For this metric, we first assessed the simplicity of the installation. Almost all of these systems require a mobile app to be downloaded for the setup. These apps also control the mesh system, so we rated their user-friendliness as well. We then looked into the features included with these systems. Many include advanced functions like parental controls, device prioritization, guest networks, and additional WiFi settings.
We found the ASUS ZenWiFi to be the best of the best in terms of user-friendliness. It was the fastest to get running, with a simple three-step process with clear instructions. This was the only system in our lineup that had the option to do the setup through the app or a computer. Once live, there is a large selection of great features for the user. The parental controls were some of the best we tested, with options to create profiles, add an age group, block specific sites or categories, and create schedules. Additionally, ASUS has three options when it comes to QoS. The user can select between adaptive QoS, traditional QoS, or a bandwidth limiter. We particularly liked the adaptive QoS. Through this, we could easily select specific tasks to receive more bandwidth like gaming, streaming, web surfing, and more. At any point, you can add more ASUS routers should you need to expand your network even further.
The ZenWiFi has a large selection of content that can be blocked through the parental controls.
The ZenWiFi has QoS that allows the user to select from a large array of activities.
The TP-Link models — the Deco M5, Deco X20, and the Deco S4 — are some of the quickest and easiest to set up. These contenders use the Deco app, which is dedicated solely to setting up and managing your network with these routers. Once you set up the initial node, adding additional nodes is very easy. The app gives you ideas about potential placements and can usually automatically detect the routers after you plug them in and they have time to turn on. You can also check your arrangement and ensure it's good once the nodes are connected. However, we usually had to update the firmware with the TP-Link models before they were good to go.
The Deco app guides you through the process with a series of prompts.
It's very easy to add additional Deco units once the first is installed, making it a breeze to set up this mesh system.
We found the Linksys Atlas Pro 6 and the Google Nest WiFi the next easiest to set up. They follow a very similar process to the TP-Link routers, with guided prompts walking you through the process. Like the ASUS ZenWiFi, this system includes parental controls and QoS. The Nest's controls are incorporated into the Google Home app. This is convenient for those who already have Google smart homes as everything can be controlled in one place.
Finishing at the back of the group, the Meshforce M3S was our least favorite to set up. You need to plug in this router, connect using the factory default SSID and password on the router's base, and start the initial configuration using the MyMesh app. This app just seemed to be a bit clunky to us and took us about twice as long as the TP-Link X20 or the Deco M5.
Conclusion
Having spotty WiFi coverage can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you're working remotely from your home office, gaming, or streaming. We hope this has been a helpful comparison of all the top WiFi mesh systems currently available and has been beneficial for your quest for a better network. All of these routers will increase the usable area of your WiFi network. Still, if you are trying to get the fastest internet possible, it may be worth checking with your ISP about upgrading your service or updating your modem, as even the best router can't improve on a bottleneck caused by your modem or provider.
