In this article, we will review the 5 Best Wireless Access Points to help you make a buying choice. We have tested dozens of devices and we have narrowed it down to our list. We will save you some time on research
A wireless access point is often abbreviated to WAP or sometimes called AP. This refers to a type of hardware device on a local area network that enables a wired network and devices that are wireless-capable to connect through a wireless standard, including Bluetooth or WiFi.
Wireless Access Points feature antennae and radio transmitters, which will facilitate the connectivity between the network or the Internet and the devices in question. A WAP device can also be referred to as a hotspot.
BEST FUNCTIONS OF A WIRELESS ACCESS POINT
When you consider the function of a wi-fi access point it is not difficult to see why you need to choose this product with care. If you are looking for a tri-band wi-fi access point for your home, there are a number of different factors you are going to need to consider.
If you go for the best Wi-Fi Access point, you can have peace of mind because you will know that you have an Internet connection that is reliable and you should also be able to connect with ease, benefitting from a rapid connection.
Below, we are going to help you to find the best WAP device for home use by taking a look at five of the best options on the market today. We will go over each of the units in our review in detail, but for those in a hurry.
However, before we reveal the specifics about five of the best wireless access point options available, it is important to go over the different considerations that you will have when you are looking for a WAP. Firstly, you will need to consider the Wireless AP Standards.
The two newest IEEE wireless network standards include the 802.11 ac and 802.11n. Aside from this, you need to determine whether you want a single-band wireless AP or a dual-band wireless AP.
You will also want to take a look at the installation that is required, as well as the support tools that are available to assist with this. Other areas of consideration include operating temperatures, upgradeability, and, of course, cost.
So, what is the best wireless access point? Read this buying guide article and find out which one you need.
Invalid table id.5 BEST WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS BUYER’S GUIDE FOR HOME WIFI
Now that you have a better understanding of all of the different factors that need to be taken into account when searching for the best wireless access points, we are going to present you with some of the different options that are available today.
We have carefully narrowed down our search, locating what we believe are the top wireless access points that are out there for you to purchase.
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router (6700)
NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi Fi Router (R6700) – AC1750 Tp Link Wireless Speed (up to 1750 Mbps) | Up to 1500 sq ft Coverage & 25 Devices | 4 x 1G Ethernet cable and 1 x 3.0 USB ports | Armor Security
There is only one place to begin, and this is with the NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart Wi-Fi Network Device (R6700). If you take a look online, you will see that this is a wireless router that has certainly been very well received by those who have already purchased it.
If you are someone that tends to suffer from random connectivity issues with specific devices, the likelihood is that you have an unidentified interference problem. There is no denying that these issues can be a major source of frustration.
They are hard to pinpoint because they are transient. However, you can separate your devices with this tp-link tri-band WAP. This dual-band approach is something that is highly sought after today.
There are a number of other features and useful benefits that are associated with this tri-band wireless device too. A lot of people like this option because of the adjustable antennas.
This is perfectly suited for occasions whereby you want to fine-tune certain things. The pivots can be manipulated easily and they are very robust. If you are a gamer, this is definitely a wifi access point you should be looking at.
Want Better WiFi? We’ve got you covered.
- Up to 1,500 sq. ft of powerful WiFi, coverage depends on access point placement
- Multiple wireless channels and a powerful range extender
- 2.4GHZ and 5.4GHZ wireless client and wireless bridge
Easily upgrade your Wi-Fi experience and coverage with the Nighthawk R6700 and no wired network and no ethernet cable needed.
Range extender Beamforming+ antennas and Dual-Band streaming deliver fast, reliable Wi-Fi to every corner of your home. Up to 1750Mbps wireless speed for demanding activities like HD streaming and online gaming.
Seamless WiFi Access Points for up to 25 Devices
Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.
Circle Smart Parental Control lets you easily manage internet access and wireless LAN port and WLAN to control a kid’s screen time. Use the app to set usage time limits, device schedules, filter websites, and more for every connected device in your home even wifi thermometers.
Four High-Speed 1G Wired Connections
Gigabit Ethernet Ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, game box, and other devices. One USB port lets you share a storage drive or printer across your wired network.
If you take a look at the online gaming communities online, you will see that a lot of gamers have recommended this tp-link multiple access points because you do not have to deal with lag problems anymore.
You can eliminate or reduce lag with the tp-link wireless signal booster because you are able to enhance the speed of your extended mesh network. The capacity to manage your wi fi network through the Nighthawk cellular application is extremely useful.
Possessing all the features at your fingertips is a handy and hassle-free experience with no ethernet cable. In addition, the anti-virus software and services which come with the purchase of this product are excellent.
Now that I’ve tried all the features it is going to be very hard to live without any of them and will most likely purchase the subscription.
Overall, this is a good buy for all it offers but be warned some people do have some connection drop issues. This is a case-by-case basis. There could be a whole host of other reasons that affect the Internet connection. It is a BUY in my books.
No products found.2. Rock Space WiFi Range Enhancer
1200Mbps WiFi Repeater Wireless Signal Booster, 2.4 & 5GHz Dual Band WiFi Multiplier with Ethernet cable and Port, Simple Setup
The second wireless access point that we recommend is the Rock Space WiFi Range enhancer. This is a WiFi signal booster, rather than being a wireless connection device. This product can easily expand the coverage offered by your wireless with a simple press of a button.
Key Highlights:
- 1292 sq. Ft 360 Degree Full Signal Coverage
- Easy Multiplier Setup for WLAN, DHCP server
- WPS One Button wireless Connection range extender
- AC1200 dual-band Multiplier with excellent wireless coverage
- WiFi range amplifier offers up to 300Mbps for 2.4GHz and 867Mbps for 5GHz. Totally 1167 Mbps is available for your use.
- Coverage from the Yard, Garden, Garage, Bedroom, home office, and all parts of the house
- WLAN and Wireless LAN Port: 802.11a/g/b//n/ac, ac pro, OFDMA, Multiple wireless channels
It is really easy to use and set up. Plus, you can choose from a number of different options, with the loss of data transmission reduced drastically.
If that was not enough, this product comes with dual external antennas, offering full signal coverage. The single-purpose function, ease of use, and excellent price make it our number two choice.
A Simple Setup Review Super Impressive Great Wifi Boost Expander
I do not mean to brag but I’ve got a large residence with thick nicely insulated walls. It is hard to get internet access with a wired network or some kind of wireless bridge.
My Comcast wireless router is located on the first floor at one end of the house and my office is on the second floor at the opposite end. My internet access for download speed was approximately 3 MB/sec not sufficient to support internet streaming without dropouts.
The Rock Space Expander was easily installed using Method 2 – Plug in the WAP Expander, press the WPS button on your router, and the one on the expander, and wait for two blue lights. You can then unplug the AP magnifier and transfer it to some plug closer to your distant computer.
They urge halfway, but I discovered that transferring the amplifier as close to the computer as you can without getting a red connection light gave me the very top speeds – triple what I got before. Simple to experiment with because each time you plug it in it auto connects.
The expander creates a fresh SSID – your original SSID having an EXTsuffix. On your computer, you can switch between the two SSID and run speed tests to determine how much improvement there is. Really slick!
No products found.3. WAVLINK 1200M High Power Wifi Range Enhancer
Router Function, Wi Fi Access Point Booster 2.4G+5GHz WPS WiFi Repeater with 4 External Antennas, Wireless Router with 2 Ethernet cables and Port
Next, we have the WAVLINK 1200M High Power WiFi Range Enhancer. This range repeater is described as the next generation of Wi-Fi multiple access points this product certainly has a lot to live up to. However, many people would agree that it certainly delivers.
It comes with a huge assortment of useful features. This includes the built-in lightning arrester. It also supports three LEDs, with wireless signal strength. Maximum security is also assured, which is of the utmost importance when you consider the vulnerabilities associated with devices used today.
Key Highlights:
- Frequency band: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
- Standard wireless LAN Port: IEEE 802.11b/n/a/ac/g, uap ac pro wi fi standard
- Transmit Power: 20DBm MAX
- One-touch W PS Function & Smart light
- Sensitivity: 802 11b 93dB /802 11:-73dBm/802.11n:-68dBm OFDMA Standard IP address
- 3 Amazing Functions: Repeater Mode, AP Mode, or Router Mode Features
- I deal with HD video streaming and gaming and other bandwidth-intensive tasks, just enjoy the ultimate surfing fun anytime anywhere.
In addition to this, this device is able to withstand outdoor conditions, even harsh weather conditions, as it comes with a weatherproof case, which is robust and effective. This product also offers high performance at long-reach links as well as passive PoE support for flexible deployment.
A device that works in my bedrooms My buying guide
I had a problem using all the wifi signals in my master bedroom before. It would connect at a slow speed and could not find my signal strength at all. After visiting a friend’s house who had an AP amplifier that worked well for him. I decided to buy one for my house.
It may even be an outdoor access point Now, it really works nicely in my bedrooms that have an extremely poor WIFI signal, I get 1 bar most of the time. Particularly if my children are playing games, I can not even use my wireless device at all. But now I have 3 signal bars after I set up the device in my bedrooms.
I connect all my devices and started downloading everything that I need when there is less internet activity. I don’t know when the kids are playing video games because it takes a lot of bandwidth.
Playing a lot of games can lead to eye strain, headaches, dry eyes, and fatigue in their own shoulders and neck. I need to slow them down.
The AP Amplifier does not create a connection of its own though, it just extends your existing connection. I read reviews about heat issues but I haven’t faced any problem since the installation of this device for the last 8 days.
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No products found.4. ASUS RT-N12 TP link N300 WiFi Router
2T2R mu MIMO Technology, 4K HD Video Streaming, VoIP, Up to 300 Mbps, Black
Another WAP worth considering is the ASUS RT-N12 TP link N300 WiFi Router with mu Mimo technology. There are a number of reasons why this wireless access point comes recommended.
One of the benefits is the fact that lag build-up is also prevented with this wi-fi router thanks to the automatic bandwidth allocation.
What this feature does is enable you to move some of your data into different parallel channels. This is something that will give you a considerable boost in performance.
Key Features:
- Enriched Signal Range The RT-N12 Mu Mimo specializes in providing an exceptional signal range for speed and reliability on the wireless network.
- Advanced High Power technology from ASUS enhances signal strength and power for almost double the assortment of lower internet access devices.
Easy Installation and Privacy Control
Installation and customize up to four wireless network accounts. Privacy control for every user account restricts access to specified Web sites and lets you specify a limit for the maximum amount of bandwidth every account can utilize.
3-Step Easy Setup Throughout Your Tablet, Smartphone, or even PC
Together with the RT-N12, setup is a breeze. Simply power and join the router and open a browser on a WiFi-enabled apparatus like a notebook or pad.
You will then be taken to a set page with a prompt to enter the ID/password from the internet provider, and that is it! Setting up your system is now simpler than ever.
Instantly Switch Modes and EZ Button
As a result of the management Software, the EZ button on the rear of the device, fast and easily switch between wi-fi router, repeater, and Wireless access point (AP) modes. You can also switch modes using the ASUSWRT graphical user interface straight from your browser.
No delays and no hassles – regardless of the circumstance, take your choice and get connected. Aside from this, this device’s wireless signal comes with a powerful online management tool. This is something that is very helpful and you are definitely advised to take a look at it.
It enables you to tweak your set-up so that you end up with something that is perfect for you. It is also easy for you to adjust your set-up due to the fact that the antennas can be detached with ease. Another plus point for this wireless access point is the fact that it supports 300 Mbps.
When you consider the fact that this is the gold in terms of wireless standard in terms of speeds for a WAP device with the proper Access point placement, it is certainly a good thing to see that this is supported with the ASUS WAP.
If you are looking for a good all-around device with good wireless performance that won’t let you down, you won’t be disappointed here.
No products found.5. Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC Long Range Wireless Access Points
802.11 B/A/G/n/AC (UAP-AC-LR-US), White
The final wireless access point that we are going to take a look at is the Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC Long Radius. Of course, style is never the most important factor when looking for a multiple access point device.
However, there is no denying that style is something that this enterprise-grade access point has in abundance. Of course, when you are spending your hard-earned cash on something and it is going to be on the show, there is nothing wrong with it looking stylish and modern.
Features:
- Simultaneous Dual-Band 802 11ac Operation
- 5 GHz Band with Speeds of up to 867 Mbps wireless client
- 2.4 GHz Band with Speeds of up to 450 Mbps, ac pro, wireless channel, IP Address assignment
- Range up to 183 meters (600 feet) wireless coverage
- The UniFi ac LR is an indoor or outdoor access point placement
- Long-extending 802.11ac dual-radio entry point, capable of speeds up to 1317 Mbps with a variety of up to 183 meters.
- One year warranty
Nevertheless, this wireless router is certainly not all style and has no substance. It has plenty of substance to it. A lot of people have commented on how easy the software is to use.
This is certainly an advantage because the last thing you want is to need to spend plenty of time getting used to things or even taking a training course on the software.
Despite being easy to use, the Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC Indoor Wireless Access Point has all of the features that you would expect. Plus, it also has an innovative design, which features omnidirectional antennas that are embedded inside of the unit.
The reason this is intelligent is that it means that you do not need to fret about realigning the antennas manually. The onboard software takes care of everything for you.
This is important because for optimal performance even factors like humidity are going to change the specific alignment that is required. However, this is not something you need to worry about because it is all going to be taken care of for you.
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No products found.A Commercial Grade device
This is a good step up from the consumer-grade material I was using. The attractive design enabled me to bring my wireless device from the closet (literally) providing me with better wireless coverage than I had before.
Setting up primary and guest networks using the control applications (PC, Mac, or Unix on precisely the exact same wi-fi network as the APS) couldn’t be easier. Each added AP then”just works” once embraced.
I also like that the APs automatically handle hand-offs between each other and automatically pick the wi-fi standard 2.4 or 5 GHz bands according to the greatest functionality. No need for different SSIDs for each.
This is not for the complete networking newbie. But if you understand what an IP address is and the difference between a wireless access point and a wi-fi router, you’re gonna be okay. I would Highly recommend it!
I likely had unrealistic expectations for wireless policy (Perhaps just 1 AP for the 1,970 sq ft house?) Based on reviews here and this unit almost met them anyway. I ended up with one AP-AC-Lite and one AP-AC-LR and between them, I get great coverage.
A buyer’s guide that Covers a Big Home
It covered a 2400 sq ft home. I put it on the corner floor by the window. Still, it gives me complete bars on the other end of the home on the main floor. It’s not the very best and ideal place for this. It will work best if you keep it on the main floor and the middle of the house.
One is sufficient for the whole property. Two of these can annoy your neighbors. You have to get a little bit of a specialized understanding of wireless stations and SSID prior to going ahead and setting it up.
I’m a Cisco CCNA certified IT Analyst, therefore it was a piece of cake for me. At present, I am running MR33 at home.
Once its subscription ends I am going to switch to this. You won’t be disappointed by its services, functionality, and dependability. Not for Newbies, it will require a little bit of technical knowledge to set up.
CONCLUSIONS: Wireless Access Point
All these options are great for their function features and what they can do. Even home is different with different needs. We recommend you choose what you need based on the size of your house, small business, or home office with the budget you have to spend.
Our pick for the best would be the Ubiquiti Unifi Ap-AC the functions and features that come with it seem to work to cover massive size homes with very strong connections. It is a very well-designed device with a nice sleek saucer futuristic look to it. Definite wins on both looks and functions.
FAQs About Wireless Access Point
Are our wireless access points worth it?
Because of their broad transmission range, high user access, and stronger signal sending and receiving capabilities, wireless access points are better for businesses. Wireless access points also have better security performance, which is critical for any business.
Which is a better wireless router or access point?
Finally, if you want to build a more reliable wireless network, you may need a wireless access point. If you only need a wireless network at home to cover a few people, a wireless router will suffice.
Can I use a router as an access point?
Wireless routers can serve as access points, but not all access points can also serve as routers.