2021年6月18日星期五

Looking for the Best Spectrum WiFi Extender Out There?

Spectrum Logo

You’ve heard of Charter Spectrum, right? If you haven’t, they are an Internet provider based in the United States. The brand was first introduced in 2014 and since then has become a household name. That is partly due to the variety of services and products they offer on top of the Internet , one of which is the spectrum WiFi extender. If your current Internet speed is not doing it for you, then you should consider a WiFi booster. They are a great way to prevent dead zones and increase Internet speed.

You know when your Internet is perfect in your whole house but stops existing when you go in the kitchen? Yeah, that’s the dead zone. However, sometimes, they can be smaller, like when your WiFi stops working when you turn to the side in bed. Yeah, a WiFi extender will fix that, and finally, you can be comfortable while watching TikTok at 3 a.m. alone in bed. Success! Luckily, that’s not all it can do.

A proper WiFi extender will increase the speed and range of your Internet, so even if you are outside of your house, you will still have a strong connection. There are some WiFi boosters that are perfect for Spectrum. They have exceptional features that make them one of the best on the market. 

This includes the Amazon Eero Pro – yes, that Amazon. WiFi extenders are becoming more and more common, especially when “Big Tech” starts embarrassing the new product. Not only Amazon but Apple also has their own WiFi boosters, and I won’t be surprised if Google comes up with a new and innovative extender – that is if they haven’t already. 

Why are so many people suddenly interested in this product? Well, I think that because more people are spending time indoors. They’re starting to realize that their WiFi… well, it’s not the best. Even if it was, there is nothing wrong with giving it a little boost, and you might be surprised about the improvement. 

Best Spectrum WiFi Extender at a Glance

This time around, the top pick is the NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX8000 for the simple reason that it’s the best extender around. It has top-grade speed and a wide range, not to mention a few extra features. All in all, it does everything right.
 
  1. Best Option for the Home – TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender (RE650)
  2. Best Family-Oriented Option – NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7000
  3. Best Budget-Friendly Option – TP-Link N300 WiFi Extender
  4. Best-Designed Option – Tenda NOVA Mesh Spectrum WiFi Extender
  5. Best Gaming Option – Nextbox WiFi Extender
  6. Best Option for Range – TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi System for Spectrum
  7. Best New Tech Option – Amazon Eero Pro WiFi Extender
  8. Best Option for Versatility – NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX6400
  9. Runner-Up Option – TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender RE230
  10. Best Option Overall – NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX8000

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Spectrum WiFi Extender Full Reviews

Spectrum Internet is one of the most popular WiFi providers in the United States. So a question like “Which WiFi booster will work with Spectrum?” is only natural. Well, luckily, I am here to answer it once and for all. Here are the best Spectrum WiFi range extenders on the market today.

1. TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender (RE650) – Best Option for the Home

Connectivity Technology: Plug-in | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: 802.11n, 802.11ac | Security Protocol: N/A | Controller Type: Push Button 
Sale TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender(RE650), Up to 2600Mbps, Dual Band WiFi Range Extender,...

Let’s start off this list with the TP-Link AC2600 WiFi Extender. This is one of those plug-in boosters that require an outlet to function, which is not always ideal. However, I do like the design of this one. 

It has a slick modern look with four antennas on the top as well as three LED indicators on the front. Those little lights are for when the device is powered on, when it is using 2.4Ghz power, and when it is at 5Ghz power. Yes, that means this Spectrum WiFi extender is a dual-band one, like most high-end options nowadays.

When the booster is on 5Gz power, your Internet speed will be about 1733Mbps, while the 2Ghz power has an Internet speed of 800Mbps. Both are more than enough for streaming or gaming. This is great because you can connect multiple devices to your Spectrum booster. You can watch Explained on Netflix while kicking ass and chewing bubble gum in Apex Legends – at least that’s what I would do. 

However, if for some reason that’s not enough for you or if you need more Internet, while I don’t know how that would happen, don’t worry. This particular TP-Link has an Ethernet port for your Ethernet cable, increasing your speed to an even greater degree.

The best part, however, has to be how easy it is to set it up. The Spectrum extender has a big LED ring in the middle. That ring will light up blue when the placement of the booster is good and red when it’s bad. Not only that, but there is an app that will take you even further. It has access to additional settings such as guest privilege, scheduling, and device management. 

All in all, this is a great device that I would definitely recommend to anyone who is looking. Despite this, there is still one other problem that I haven’t mentioned. You see, this particular WiFi extender takes a little while to set up, which admittedly is a pretty minor nitpick. However, even with that, I would still recommend this particular booster, especially if you are traveling a lot.

Pros
  • Great speed
  • Compact
  • Has additional features
Cons
  • No pass-through outlet
  • Long set- up

2. NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 – Best Family-Oriented Option

Connectivity Technology: WiFi | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: Universal | Security Protocol: WEP, WPA/WPA2 | Controller Type: Push Button
Sale NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7000 - Coverage up to 2100 sq.ft. and 35 devices...

Next up is the NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX7000. If a plug-in booster does not do it for you, then might I recommend something bigger? 

This WiFi extender for your Spectrum Internet looks like a miniature building. It has three antennas sticking out of the back and can cover a range of up to 2100 sq. ft. Oh! You think that’s everything? It’s not. The Spectrum WiFi booster has up 1900Mbps wireless speed. You can also connect up to 30 devices to the mesh network. I don’t know who has 30 devices laying around in their home, but it’s nice to know the upper limit. 

This particular NETGEAR also has smart roaming technology, which lets you connect to the best network available. It’s always nice to see additional features like that. There is also an app that you can use for parental control if you are into that type of thing. Other than that, there are 5-gigabit Ethernet ports on the back if you want some extra connection.

Likewise, setting up the device is as easy as pushing a button. You can literally just push a button, and the WiFi extender will be connected to the network. The simple setup is the best feature on this one, in my humble opinion. However, it is not without its issues.

For example, this WiFi extender has a really bold design. I mean look at the thing, no matter where you put it, it will stand out, or you can simply model your whole house just for this WiFi extender – I don’t know. Either way, you will have to find a spot for it, and it will have to be a big one. Also, this device is significantly more expensive when compared to some of the other entries on this list. That is for the budget-friendly people among us. 

Even so, I would argue that this Spectrum WiFi booster is well worth it. It has great features that would be welcome in anybody’s family home, especially if you have kids.

Pros
  • Family-friendly features
  • Amazing speed
  • Amazing range
Cons
  • Above-average price
  • Bold design

3. TP-Link N300 WiFi extender – Best Budget-Friendly Option

Connectivity Technology: Plug-in | Frequency Band Class: Single Band | Wireless Type: 802.11b/g/n | Security Protocol: N/A | Controller Type: Push Button
Sale TP-Link N300 WiFi Extender(TL-WA855RE)-WiFi Range Extender, up to 300Mbps speed,...

Looks like we have another plug-in TP-Link booster. The TP-Link N300 WiFi extender has a simple design. It looks like a white box with two antennae on top. I love that this booster fits perfectly in the background, so if you are bothered by bold designs – *ahem* *ahem* last entry – then consider this as an alternative in more ways than one.

This particular Spectrum WiFi booster is comparatively cheaper when considering the other entries on this list. It’s a budget-friendly option that has WiFi coverage of up to 800 sq. ft. Just plug it in your wall, ideally at the end of your current WiFi signal, and start it on up.

The extender is really easy to set up – just two simple taps and the device is good to go. However, if you are like me, you will probably struggle a bit when finding the perfect place for the booster. Luckily, this particular TP-Link extender has a light that will glow blue if the location is suitable and red if you need to find a new place for the device.

Best part is that there are additional parental control features. You can set schedules when the Internet is available and much more. Of course, you will also have to download the app. Don’t worry – it’s a good one. It gives you access to a lot more features as well as regular updates. 

However, there is a single, monstrous fact that I cannot overlook. You see, this particular Spectrum WiFi range extender is only single band. So only the 2.4Ghz frequency is available with up to 300 Mbps Internet speed. So if you have a rather fast Internet, maybe look elsewhere. There are other budget options that are dual band; however, they might lack some of the other features on this device.

All in all, I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to extend the Internet coverage in their suburban home. With parental features and a simple plug-in installation, you can never go wrong. So for my budget-conscious people, this one goes out for you.

Pros
  • Compact design
  • Budget-friendly
  • Parental features
Cons
  • Single band
  • No pass-through outlet

4. Tenda NOVA Mesh Spectrum WiFi Extender – Best-Designed Option

Connectivity Technology: Wireless | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: 802.11ac | Security Protocol: WPA2-PSK |Controller Type: Push Button
Sale Tenda Nova Mesh WiFi System (MW5)-Up to 3500 sq.ft. Whole Home Coverage, Gigabit Mesh...

Well, if you are looking for something slick and modern, something that will blend in perfectly with your background, then the Tenda NOVA Mesh Spectrum WiFi Extender is what you should be looking at. 

This plug-in booster has a minimalistic look to it. It is all white with a gray text on the bottom and a single LED light. The device extended your mesh network up to 3750 sq. ft. So yeah, say goodbye to dead zones. Not only that, but you can link up to 60 devices to the extender, and I thought 30 was a lot. It also has up to 1200Mbps, which means you can play online and stream on multiple devices without dropping a frame. 

The WiFi extender is also really easy to set up and use. Remember that LED light that I mentioned? That’s also used to determine where the best place for the extender will be. It can also interact with Alexa or Google Assistant for that full smart home experience. Then, there is the app which gives you access to a plethora of new features such as parental control.

However, the best part about this device has to be its design. Let me explain! The WiFi extender has two modes – wall mode and cube mode. When in wall mode, you can basically stick this thing anywhere you wish, even on the ceiling, while cube mode turns it into a cube – surprise surprise. The two are interchangeable, and you can pick the ones that suit your preference. 

However, I would say that the device is a bit expensive when compared to similar products. This Spectrum WiFi extender is sadly with an above-average price. Even so, I think it’s well worth it. You see it has great capabilities with a few unique features, not to mention that design. 

So if you are someone who is looking for a small but effective WiFi extender, I would suggest this one, especially if it fits your aesthetic. Don’t deny it, I know you have one. I think this device is also perfect for families of every size.

Pros
  • Amazing design
  • Amazing speed
  • Great range
Cons
  • Above-average price

5. Nextbox WiFi Extender – Best Gaming Option

Connectivity Technology: Plug-in | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: Universal | Security Protocol: WPA/WPA2 PSK Mixed/Hidden SSID/Black List Function | Controller Type: Push Button
Sale WiFi Extender / Repeater Parent (1200-black) US

This one is for the gamers among us. Whether you like playing WoW or Apex Legends or even Among Us, a WiFi booster is a good player 2 to have. Likewise, the Nextbox WiFi extender has a gamelike aesthetic. The device resembles a futuristic gray box with a triangular pattern on the front. There are also two antennas on top. 

As you might imagine, the two antennae are used for the dual-band technology. The Spectrum WiFi booster has a combined speed of 1200 Mbps, more than ideal for any multiplayer game. Even if you decided to stream Apex Legends on Twitch while your family is watching Netflix, the Internet speed won’t dip, and you won’t experience any lag spikes.

This particular WiFi extender is also really easy to set up. Just plug it in, and press a button – that’s it. There is also an Ethernet port on the back for those who want a little bit of extra boost., although I wish they had put one or two more Ethernet access points.

One thing I really like about this Spectrum WiFi extender is the extra security. On top of the more standard WPA/WPA2, you also get PSK Mixed/Hidden and SSID/Black List Function to stop any unwanted networks from connecting. So if you are a hard-core gamer who is really into tech stuff and Internet privacy, I would highly recommend this extender. Ok fine, even if you are not exactly like that but still a gamer who likes their privacy, I would still highly recommend this product.

However, not everything is perfect and although the design is cool it is a little bit bulky. Not to mention that the WiFi extender requires an additional outlet to work. So make sure to reserve a spot. But even with all of those little annoyances, I would still recommend it. It would look especially good if you place it near your gaming setup. That is to say, if the router is not in the same room. Because you know, the extender should be placed on the edge of the WiFi network.

Pros
  • Security
  • Great for gaming
  • Good speed
Cons
  • Bold design
  • No pass-through outlet

6. TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi System for Spectrum – Best Option for Range

Connectivity Technology: WiFi | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: 802.11ac | Security Protocol: N/A | Controller Type: Push Button
Sale TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System (Deco S4) – Up to 5,500 Sq.ft. Coverage, Replaces...

Now, we have one of the more unique options on this list, the TP-Link Deco S4 Mesh WiFi System for Spectrum. I say unique because the device has a round design with some interesting features. 

First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. This particular Spectrum WiFi extender has an incredible range. The mesh network on this thing can cover up to 5,500 sq. ft. So if you have a giant mansion, then I guess you don’t have to buy two extenders anymore. Seriously though, this has to be the longest range I have seen on a WiFi booster.

The speed is 1200Mbps. It’s kind of underwhelming, I know. I mean it’s not bad – that’s a pretty good speed for a WiFi extender. Nothing can top the range on this thing. Thus, you can stream games, play them, or watch movies.

You want to know what the best part is, though? This particular TP-Link extender can connect up to 100 devices. This and the range are shocking features, but at least the 5,500 sq. ft. range has a purpose, but who just has 100 devices laying around, right? I feel like if you owned a futuristic smart mansion, this would be the perfect Spectrum extender for you. Even if you don’t, I would still highly recommend it to just about anybody.

That is to say it is not without its own faults. The Deco S4 is slightly more expensive than some competitors. Not only that, but you should check if the extender is compatible with your router, because chances are it might not be. It lacks versatility and can only connect with 802.11ac networks.

Even with all that being said, I would not change my mind about recommending this thing. The range is simply wonderful, and the speed is decent as well. It’s also nice to know that you have the option of connecting up to 100 devices, and that’s not to mention the 2-gigabit Ethernet ports on the back which can give you an even better power up.

Pros
  • Incredible range
  • Great speed
  • A lot of bandwidth
Cons
  • Above average price
  • Limited connectivity

7. Amazon Eero Pro WiFi extender – Best New-Tech Option

Connectivity Technology: Plug-in | Frequency Band Class: Tri-Band | Wireless Type: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Security Protocol: WPA2-PSK | Controller Type: App
Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi system (1 Pro + 2 Beacons)

Yes, even the big guys like Amazon are joining in the fun of WiFi boosters. The Amazon Eero Pro WiFi extender has a very slick, very modern design – almost cloudlike. Better yet, you can find it on Amazon.

This particular Spectrum WiFi booster has a tri-band frequency, one with 2.4Ghz, one with 5Ghz, and the other with 5.8Ghz. The device can also reach up to 550 Mbps. This is not the best, but it is still enough to dominate in Apex Legends or watch some Netflix. The range in comparison is pretty good, although there are better ones out there. At 1,750 sq. ft., the WiFi extender should cover any dead zones you might have.

The installation is a pretty easy process. All you have to do is download the app, and it will guide you through. Once you set everything up, the extender will automatically connect to your Spectrum Internet and create a mesh network. You also have some additional parental control features, such as schedules or simply banning your kinds from the Internet.

However, everything has its issues and so does the Amazon Eero. So it happens that this particular one is on the expensive side of things when compared to even some of the other high-end options. Not only that, but for such a device, you would expect some USB or Ethernet ports. Well, there isn’t any.

However, I am willing to overlook that because the Amazon Eero comes with a few other devices that will help you establish a giant wireless mesh network in your house. That’s the unique thing about this device. It was designed as a WiFi extender, but Amazon is also marketing it as something that could replace your router entirely. So if we say it in Pokemon terms, the Eero is the next evolution of the WiFi booster. Thus, if you want to try something new, something exotic, or if you are someone who loves being on the cutting edge of technological development, then I would recommend you take a look at this one. Otherwise, even if you aren’t, I would still recommend you check this baby out.

Pros
  • Tri-band frequency
  • Parental features
  • Slick design
Cons
  • Above-average price
  • No pass-through outlet

8. NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX6400 – Best Option for Versatility 

Connectivity Technology: Wireless, USB, Ethernet | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g | Security Protocol: N/A | Controller Type: Push Button
NETGEAR AC1200 Wireless WiFi Range Extender (EX6200)

If versatility is what you are looking for, this entry is for you. The NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX6400 is a big one. The design has a gamelike aesthetic with two antennae on the back. There are also a few LED indicators on the front.

As a whole, this particular WiFi booster has a bold design, and you will be hard-pressed to find a spot where it won’t stand out, maybe near your gaming PC. Other than that, the extender has a dual-band frequency with a combined speed of up to 1.2Gbps or 1200Mbps. It’s bad at all and is perfect for anyone who wants an uninterrupted PVP match. The range is also pretty decent, and it is just enough to cover your whole house or apartment. 

Where the device truly shines is with its access points. There are 5-gigabit Ethernet ports on the back as well as a few USB 3.0 ports. So if you are looking to stay connected, then you have come to the right place, my friend. You can hook up your TV, PlayStation 5, and so much more.

However, the price is slightly above average. So I would not recommend it to my budget-friendly people out there. Despite all the ports and speed that this extender has, I don’t think it’s all worth it – just saying that there might be better options out there in the market, not to mention that design. It looks cool, yes, but I personally would have a hard time finding a spot for this thing. Not only does it need to be on the edge of the WiFi signal bubble as they call it, but you can’t very well place it on the floor somewhere. It just won’t look good, but that’s just my opinion. 

 Still, I believe I would recommend this thing to anyone who needs it. I think this might be another good choice for a family home. It just has that much versatility and option. The speed is good, and the extra ports are perfect for movie night or some other activity that happy families do. Either way, I would still recommend it.

Pros
  • Good speed
  • Great connectivity
  • Great versatility
Cons
  • Bold design
  • Above-average price

9. TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender RE230 – Runner-Up Option

Connectivity Technology: Plug-In | Frequency Band Class: Dual Band | Wireless Type: Universal  | Security Protocol: N/A | Controller Type: App
TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender (RE230), Covers Up to 1200 Sq.ft and 20 Devices, Dual...

Here, we have the second-best WiFi extender for Spectrum Internet. The TP-Link AC750 WiFi extender RE230 is a plug-in type that means to say goodbye to one of your outlets.

This particular Spectrum WiFi booster has a minimalistic-like design. There is a single Ethernet access point on the side and a few LED indicators on the front.

The WiFi extender’s range is around 1200 sq. ft., and you can connect up to 20 devices to the mesh network. However, the speed is a bit on the slower side with 300Mbps on 2.4Ghz frequency and 433Mbps on 5Ghz. Even so, I think that is more than enough to cover your daily needs.

The setup is also extremely easy. You can download the app to help you with the installation, and there is also a signal indicator for the best place to put the extender. Likewise, this particular one is universally compatible. The app will also give you a few other features, such as access to software updates, monitoring of your device, and some parental features.

I would recommend this particular booster to just about anybody. It is great for the home, and it has a good range and decent speed. It will also work for anyone, whether you are a gamer or just want to watch uninterrupted movies, even on mobile. It also doesn’t take that much space, so you can take it traveling with you. There is also decent security that will keep you protected from unwanted guests. 

The only gripe I have with this WiFi extender is the design, but not in the way you think. You see, I don’t like the plug-in type of booster at all. Yes, they are small, but they also take up an outlet, although most people have outlets to spare. That’s not always the case for everyone, and it can get a bit annoying constantly removing it and connecting it back. Still, I guess that’s just my little nitpick. The AC750 is well worth it and budget-friendly at that.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good range
  • Universal compatibility
Cons
  • No pass-through outlet

10. NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX8000 – Best Option Overall

Connectivity Technology: WiFi | Frequency Band Class: Tri-Band | Wireless Type: Universal | Security Protocol: WEP, WPA/WPA2 | Controller Type: Push Button
Sale NETGEAR WiFi Mesh Range Extender EX8000 - Coverage up to 2500 sq.ft. and 50 Devices...

We have finally arrived at the best WiFi extender for Spectrum Internet out there. The NETGEAR WiFi Extender EX8000 has a slick, modern design with a minimalistic feel.

The antennas are internal, and there are four gigabit Ethernet ports on the back as well as a few LED light indicators on the front. The cool thing is that the extender has a tri-band frequency for an Internet speed of up to 3000 Mbps. It also covers a 2800 sq. ft. area and can connect up to 55 devices.

There is also smart roaming technology that will automatically connect to the best network available. More than that, the installation only takes about 5 minutes and happens with the press of a single button. There is also an app that gives you access to some additional features, such as setting up schedules and some other parental control options.

All in all, this is a Spectrum WiFi extender that I would recommend to just about anyone. If you are looking for something to increase your Internet speed then this monster has you covered, whether you want to stream Apex Legends or download a movie. Either way, you will forget what a lag spike is. If your Internet is fast enough and you just want to extend its range, then you are also covered. This WiFi booster can cover a small mansion, so you can even game in the backyard if you want. Hell, bringing your computer outside and ranking up under the sun should be normalized. No matter who you are, you will find something that you like about this extender.

There is one con, however, and that is the expensive price of the WiFi booster, at least when compared to the other entries, because even for a high-end option, the extender’s price is above the norm. Still, I think it’s well worth it for the best technology that can be offered at the moment. It just all depends on what you are looking for – should you be a gamer, content creator, or just a family. 

Pros
  • Incredible speed
  • Amazing range
  • Universal compatibility
  • Fast setup
Cons
  • Above-average price

Best Spectrum WiFi Extender Buyer’s Guide

We all know that different WiFi boosters have different features. However, what you might not know is how many there actually are. Of course, you have your typical speed, compatibility, and range, but some devices come with a few extra features that you might see as gimmicky or something you need in your life. Either way, they can be just as important as everything else, but how does it all work exactly?

Speed

In general, a good rule of thumb is that your WiFi extender should be faster than your current Internet. You can measure the upload and download speed of your network by going to sites such as speedtest.net. This process is totally safe, and no information is transferred. The website just tests the quality of your connection. You can also see if your WiFi booster has a stronger connection because most manufacturers are upfront with the speed of their device. I should also mention that if you have a VPN, the extra connection will slow down your WiFi, but when it comes to by how much, that will depend on where you are connecting to and which VPN you are using. 

When it comes to WiFi extenders, there are a couple of types that you should be on the lookout for. The best models out there have either dual-band or even tri-band technology, which increases the Internet speed by a significant amount. If by some chance you wind up with an extender that is slower than your router, you will find significant drops in speed at the cover area.

If you are still not sure as to which WiFi extender to get when it comes to speed, you might consider the minimum. 300 Mbps should be enough to cover most users when it comes to streaming, gaming, or even uploading. Of course, it is always nice to have more speed, but 300 Mbps is plenty in my opinion.

Ease of Use

A good WiFi extender should be easy to install and use. In case there is some sort of problem, either when installing or after, that problem should be easy to resolve. Of course, you will have no way of knowing how easy to use a product will be before you buy it, but there are a few tricks that might help you decide.

Look at the age of the WiFi booster, and check to see when it was made. Newer extenders are easier to use and install, mainly due to advancements in technology. Some brands also advertise their installation method. Sometimes, it’s as easy as pushing a button, but other times, you will have to go through a few hoops.

Some brands also have their own apps, specifically made to help you with the installation and sometimes with the usage of the WiFi extender. One of the best apps on the market is NetSpot. It can show you a map of your WiFi coverage marked with green (good coverage) and red (band coverage). Using that system, the app will suggest the perfect place for your WiFi extender.

Everything I have talked about so far is designed to make boosters more accessible to positional new customers. With each passing year, these extenders get better and better, while new features and apps make them easier to use.

Budget

So, budget is an interesting topic. That is because WiFi extenders can range anywhere from $11–300. Normally, the lower the price is, the weaker the product is. However, that’s not exactly the case for boosters. There are some hidden gems in the lower reaches of the price pool, and then there are the USB types. Those are sometimes as big as a thumb drive and are mainly meant for laptops. Now, since they are smaller, they don’t have as strong of a connection as a relatively expensive WiFi booster. However, they still do a goddamn good job, especially if you are traveling a lot. I believe that when compared to the rest of the market, these USB WiFi extenders are on the cheaper side and a perfect product for the budget-friendly among us.

Of course, there are things that you should never compromise on in favor of a better price – or at least I wouldn’t. The main thing is dual-band technology. Most extenders nowadays have either tri-band or dual, even those on the budget-friendly side of things. If you ever find yourself looking at a single-band booster, close the page immediately. Avoid those things like the plague, because chances are, they will not increase your Internet speed. On the contrary, they will slow it down.

Range

Of course, how can I make a Spectrum WiFi booster buyer’s guide and not include arguably the most important factor? Range. By design, the WiFi booster will extend your range whether it slows down the Internet speed or increases it. This happens because the extender works by receiving your existing WiFi signal through its little antennae – whether they are internal or external. Afterward, it amplifies it and transmits it back to your device.

WiFi boosters can increase your range up to 2,500 feet. That is the maximum of course, and most especially, the budget-friendly versions don’t cover as much. Even the extender with the shortest range at 800 feet is more than enough for most homes. For reference, a typical Internet router has around 150 feet of range. So even the worst WiFi booster should cover up any dead zones you might have, but of course the wider the range, the better.

Compatibility 

Another extremely important factor I would like to talk to you about is compatibility. This will determine which boosters work with your Spectrum Internet. Most brands list their compatibility on the product page, and your WiFi lists its type on the back. So you can simply compare the two. Of course, you don’t have to do that if the booster is advertised with universal compatibility.

However, there is a misconception going around that says if your WiFi booster is not compatible with the router, then it won’t work. That is simply not true. It might not work as well, but it will still work. Still, for the best results, you should consider one that matches your Spectrum router.

Beyond that, there is another layer of compatibility. and that is of the OS. Because most extenders require you to install specific drivers on your computer, as happenstance, some of them don’t work with Mac, while others with Windows. Likewise, if you have a more niche operating system such as Linux, you will be hard-pressed to find a compatible WiFi booster.

So you should keep both the OS and router type in mind when choosing a WiFi booster.

Extra Feature and Design

Of course, this is not necessary, but it’s always nice to see, almost like an after-credits scene in Marvel movies. These features can range anywhere from an extra Ethernet port to parental control. Depending on who you are and what you are looking for, they might walk a fine line between a gimmick and “I need this in my life now!” However, as a general rule, I look for extra security in my Spectrum WiFi extender.

However, these extra features are not just limited to the software side of things. I would argue that some of the design choices on WiFi boosters can be considered extra features as well. I am talking about the ones that connect via USB or by plugging them in an outlet. They are significantly smaller and perfect for traveling, which to me is also an extra feature. If you are a person who spends a lot of time on the road, then maybe one of those will be the right choice for you. They are perfect for a road trip, and the USB WiFi extender especially works amazingly well in an RV.

So depending on what you are looking for, the features of your WiFi booster may vary. Personally, as mentioned, I like the ones that come with that extra bit of security. Other than that, I like to have two extenders at a time, one that is on the bigger side for my apartment and a smaller USB booster for when I am traveling. Of course, that’s just me, and depending on your needs, a single extender should be enough for most people.

FAQ

What Is a WiFi Extender?

A WiFi extender, sometimes called a booster or a repeater, is a device that amplifies your WiFi signal. It does this by capturing the signal, amplifying it, and transmitting it once more, basically like a power-up station for the Internet.

Where Should I Place My WiFi Extender?

Preferably, you would place your WiFi extender somewhere near the edge of your mesh network or halfway between your router and PC. If that happens to be around 6 feet or less, then I would suggest the former option, as to how you would know the range of your mesh network. Well, there are a ton of apps online that can map that out for you. Hell, even the brand of your WiFi extender may have one. Generally, the most common router out there has around 160 feet of range. Still, I would suggest you check the range of your router online to make sure or you know – let the AI do it for you.

How Far Does a WiFi Extender Reach?

The range of a WiFi extender will vary greatly depending on its design and purpose. Some might be made specifically for traveling with a laptop and, as a result, have a smaller range, while others are made with family homes in mind. Those have a wider range and can connect to more devices, but the most a WiFi extender can reach is up to 2,500 feet.

How Can You Connect a WiFi Extender to the Spectrum Router?

Well, this will depend a lot on the type of your Spectrum WiFi extender. Some higher-end models can connect with the push of a button, while others require a physical connection to your device and additional software. In general, your booster should be compatible with your router. It should also be within the WiFi range. Most manufacturers have details about this exact thing on their product page. 

What WiFi Extender Works with Spectrum?

Most WiFi extenders will work with Spectrum Internet. However, you should first make sure of the model of your router. 

Who Is It For?

If you often find yourself disconnecting from the Internet while in your room, then I would recommend looking into a WiFi extender. If you are disconnecting when moving around the house or just in general, then I would also recommend looking into one.

Do WiFi Extenders Have Any Other Benefits?

Good question! They indeed do. Another thing you should make sure of is that the booster’s speed is higher than your Internet’s. This will ensure that your Mbps won’t drop. In fact, the WiFi extender might actually increase your browsing speed. It is also great for security as it adds an extra layer of protection.

Will My Spectrum WiFi Work with an Extender?

Yes, yes it will.

Conclusion

Basically, WiFi extenders are magical items that boost the speed of our Internet. Well, not exactly but kinda. These magical bricks come in a variety of designs. There are those that plug in an outlet, those that are like thumb drives, and the proper big boy WiFi booster that can connect your whole family. Thus, the Spectrum WiFi extender that is right for you will vary depending on your needs. Luckily, you have me. I tried to vary the suggestions on this list as much as possible to give you a better idea of what might be out there. Generally, the compatibility of your Spectrum WiFi extender will need to match your router. 

WiFi boosters have truly come a long way. The old extenders had the terrible side effect of slowing down your WiFi. However, nowadays most high-end options do the opposite. Still, I believe there is this stigma that boosters are actually bad for your Internet, an opinion I don’t agree with. WiFi extenders are actually really useful, especially in countries with bad Internet – Like the United States. 

With the growing need for an online connection and advancements in technology, I predict that WiFi boosters will become more and more common. It doesn’t matter if you have a Spectrum connection or a Fios one – a WiFi extender doesn’t discriminate. You should consider all the factors that go into your Internet  connection and personal life. Do you stay at home a lot, or do you travel? Where do you spend most of your Internet time? What’s the model of your router? How fast is your WiFi? All those questions are things to consider, as well as one of the most important questions: “What will you be using it for?” If it’s just for work or traveling, then a USB booster will do you a good job. However, if you are traveling a lot and want faster Internet, I would recommend taking a plug-in booster. They are a bit heavier but can give you a better connection. Finally, if you are looking for something that will extend your mesh network but also give you a faster Internet connection, take a look at the home WiFi extenders. Most of them can connect to multiple devices and are perfect for streaming or even gaming on a PS4. I hope we have finally answered the age-old question “Do WiFi boosters work?” Yes, yes they do. 
All in all, I believe we should have more boosters in more homes. That’s my campaign for president now – make America have better Internet . When I get elected, I will put WiFi boosters in everybody’s home. So if you have a slow connection or disconnect at times, I would recommend you an extender.

Top Rated Spectrum WiFi Extenders

Last update on 2021-06-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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