Mesh Wi-Fi systems are sets made up of a router and one or more extra nodes that share a single wireless network across a whole home or office. Our range of over 130 models includes mesh systems, mesh routers, separate satellites, and a few tabletop routers and repeaters. Brands include TP-Link, ASUS, Cudy and NETGEAR.
How to choose a mesh Wi-Fi system
Wi-Fi standard. Wi-Fi 7 is the standard supported by the largest group of models in our range, with a good number of Wi-Fi 6 systems close behind. Wi-Fi 6E adds the 6 GHz band, while Wi-Fi 5 systems suit a simpler home network. One Wi-Fi 8 model is also listed. You will only notice the benefit of a newer standard if your phones and laptops support it too. Older devices still connect, but at lower speeds.
Bands. Dual-band systems (2.4 and 5 GHz) are the most common in our range, and tri-band models add either a 6 GHz band or a second 5 GHz band. The extra band is usually used for traffic between the nodes, which leaves more speed for your connected devices. Tri-band is worth considering in large or multi-storey homes where nodes sit several rooms apart. The speeds quoted in specifications (for example 574 or 688 Mbit/s on the first band and several thousand Mbit/s on the second) are theoretical maximums, and real speeds are lower.
Coverage and number of nodes. Work from floor area, number of floors and wall material: concrete and brick absorb far more signal than plasterboard. Two nodes are usually enough for a flat or a small house, while larger buildings need three or more. If you may want to expand later, look for an extra node from the same maker and series, as nodes from different manufacturers generally do not work together.
Wired connections. Models in our range have from 1 to 5 LAN (RJ-45) ports, most often 2 to 4. Check the ports on the extra nodes as well as on the main router, since a cable to a node can serve a TV, games console or NAS. Nodes linked by cable also give the most stable connection between them.
Brands in our range
- TP-Link: the largest number of mesh models in our range, and one of the best-known makers of home networking equipment.
- ASUS: known for AiMesh, which lets compatible ASUS routers be combined into one mesh network.
- NETGEAR: a long-established networking manufacturer with both home and business products.
- FRITZ!: a German manufacturer whose FRITZ!Box routers work with its own repeaters as a mesh network.
- Ubiquiti: known for network equipment aimed at offices and small businesses, managed with its own software.
- devolo: specialises in Powerline adapters, which carry a network signal over a building's electrical wiring.
- Cudy and Tenda: makers focused on affordable home networking equipment.
Also in our range: Xiaomi, Acer, D-Link and Strong.
Frequently asked questions
How is a mesh system different from a Wi-Fi repeater?
The nodes of a mesh system work as one network with a single name and password, and your device switches between nodes automatically. A basic repeater often creates a separate network and loses some speed when relaying the signal. That makes a mesh system more convenient for covering several rooms or floors.
How many mesh nodes do I need?
Two nodes are usually enough for a flat or a small house, and larger or multi-storey buildings need three or more. Wall material matters a lot, because signal weakens more through concrete or brick. If you are unsure, choose a set that can be expanded later with an extra node.
Is a tri-band mesh system worth it?
A tri-band system is worth it in larger homes where nodes are far apart. The extra band is usually used for the link between nodes, which leaves more speed for your connected devices. In a small flat a dual-band model is often enough.
Does a mesh system replace my router?
In most cases yes: the main node connects to your provider's modem and takes over the router's role. If you must keep the provider's device, many mesh routers can work in access point mode. Check this feature in the description of the model before buying.
