To find the best WiFi mesh systems for your home or office, we began by looking at the factors that help to ensure stable, high-speed connections, including their coverage range, network speed, smart features, and form factor. Depending on the size of your home, apartment, or office space, you may need a mesh system with a full coverage area to ensure no device gets left out. On the other hand, you may favor speed for intense online activities such as video games and 4K Ultra HD movie streaming. No matter your online routine, we have an option for you.
In our testing, we found the TP-Link Deco P9 Mesh WiFi System to be our top choice thanks to its massive 6,000 square foot coverage rating and powerful inbuilt Powerline system that enables WiFi to reach beyond thick walls. The P9 Mesh system also keeps up to 100 devices online with high-speed 802.11ac WiFi, providing speeds of up to 867 Mbps, perfect for watching 4K Ultra HD content on multiple machines or downloading large attachments. Keep reading to learn more about the TP-Link D9 and other mesh WiFi systems. But before we dive in, have a look at the best routers you can try today.
Top 6 Best WiFi Mesh Systems
#1 TP-Link Deco P9 WiFi Mesh System
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: TP-Link offers a powerful mesh solution with the Deco P9, delivering a massive 6000 square feet range of coverage, even through thick walls, while supporting up to 100 different connected devices.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Large coverage area (6000 sq.ft.)
- Ability to support up to 100 devices
- Includes robust parental controls
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Questionable choice for smart homes
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
If you’re looking for the best WiFi mesh system to install in your house, the TP-Link Deco P9 will be your best bet. The system features one of the most extensive ranges of coverage out of the systems we reviewed, able to cover large living spaces or offices, up to 6000 square feet. The seamless roaming ability even allows you to move throughout your house while maintaining a smooth internet connection. If you have a collection of devices at home, there are no worries with the Deco P9 system, as it supports up to 100 devices connected at once.
Related: Also check the best wifi routers for long-range.
If you’re a concerned parent, you can also set up robust parental controls for each of your children, selecting web filters for restricting inappropriate content, adding time limits, and suspending connections at the push of a button. One thing to note about the Deco P9 is that its two WiFi broadcasts (2.4Ghz and 5Ghz) can not be separated, making setting up smart home devices that only support 2.4Ghz WiFi a bit tricky, but still possible. All in all, the TP-Link Deco P9 is the best mesh WiFi for thick walls and other tricky scenarios. You can compare it to the best modem.
#2 Amazon Eero Mesh WiFi System
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Amazon delivers with a Mesh WiFi system that is easy to set up in under 10 minutes, while blanketing your property with up to 5,000 sq.ft. of WiFi. Eero also provides powerful internet security tools out of the box to keep your family safe.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Easy 10-minute set up
- Control with Alexa devices
- Powerful security tools
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Dual-Band design limits devices
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Amazon is a brand that has likely already invaded your home — whether it be via a Kindle, FireTV, or Prime membership. Now, Amazon can help ensure the devices in your home stay connected with the Eero mesh WiFi system. One of our favorite aspects of the system is its easy setup in less than 10 minutes and the support provided by Amazon if the need arrives. Once connected, you’ll have up to 5,000 square feet of internet blanketing your home or office. Best of all, Amazon includes a collection of fantastic security tools to keep your connection, and everyone using it, safe.
Related: Take a closer look at some of the best wifi modems.
Amazon’s Eero system allows you to scan for threats, block content, and even advertising. Those who opt to upgrade to Eero Secure+ for a fee can then access security apps such as 1Password and Malwarebytes. You can also control your entire setup via an Amazon Echo device using voice commands. Just know that the dual-band design of the router is a bit limiting, so if you have a vast array of devices, you may want to check other options available. Like the best network switch.
#3 Meshforce M1 Mesh WiFi System
Award: BEST BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: Mesh WiFi systems have always been expensive, but Meshforce is changing that trend with the M1. Easy to set up, offering parental controls, and covering 4500 sq.ft., the M1 is an excellent option for anyone on a budget.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Expandable for enhanced coverage
- Control via mobile devices
- Set up temporary guest WiFi
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Limited advanced functionality
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
When mesh systems were first introduced, they were prohibitively expensive for most individuals. Now, Meshforce is attempting to make a difference in the market with the M1 system by providing it at a more affordable price, and they are doing an excellent job. Featuring all the features you would want to see from a top-tier routing including 802.11ac WiFi for fast speeds, a coverage range of 4500 square feet, and secure WPA encryption options; the M1 is a choice most users won’t feel they sacrificed anything for increased affordability. Additionally, if you need more coverage, you can use up to six satellite devices for increased range.
The entire Meshforce network can be set up with a mobile device running iOS or Android, and once established, tweaks can help to create an even better experience. For example, the ability to create a guest network allows you to provide individuals with access to your internet, but without sacrificing the security of your WiFi devices. Just note that the Meshforce does lack some more advanced features to support DDNS, VPN clients, and static IPs. Don’t know what those mean? Then don’t worry, you likely won’t need them! If you want an AC router, read about the best AC router and see if it fits your needs.
#4 NETGEAR Orbi Mesh WiFi System with Wall Plugs
Award: MOST DISCREET
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re looking to set up a mesh system that doesn’t announce itself to every guest that enters the house, then the NETGEAR Orbi is a solid bet with its versatile wall plugs that don’t take up counter space.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Compact wall plug satellites (no wires)
- Reliable tri-band connection
- Gigabit port for fast wired connections
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Parental controls require subscription
- Low number of supported devices
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
While some of us may be proud to show off our new mesh WiFi systems, most will want to hide them away as yet another electric box. Not only does the NETGEAR Orbit present a more attractive router design than most other brands, but it includes several satellite units that plug directly into your AC outlet — no need for additional counter space. These smaller units also don’t keep the system from being reliable as a tri-band connection keeps everything up and running.
We also appreciate the inclusion of gigabit ports on the back of the Orbi for fast wired connections. The two features we aren’t thrilled about are the parental controls which require a paid subscription to use, and that the manufacturer only claims support for up to twenty devices. That being said, the NETGEAR Orbi makes an excellent option for homes with only about a dozen and a half internet devices. For your gaming needs, read about the best router for gaming.
#5 Google Nest Mesh WiFi System
Award: BEST COVERAGE
WHY WE LIKE IT: Google knocks it out of the park with its Nest Mesh WiFi system, able to connect up to 200 devices while providing coverage over up to 6600 square feet — perfect for large homes and offices. Plus it’s easy to set up.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Handles a large number of devices
- Able to stream multiple 4K videos
- Automatically updates itself
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Extremely expensive
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
We’ll say it off the bat, the Google Nest Mesh WiFi System is fantastic, but your wallet better be prepared to pay the admission price. Best for households that have a seemingly endless number of devices, the Google Nest mesh WiFi system can support up to an impressive 200 device connections at a time. The system doesn’t fall easily either, as it provides fast AC2200 MIMO WiFi signals for both reliability and speed. In essence, you can even stream multiple 4K Ultra HD videos at the same time without worry if you have the internet plan to support it.
Coming from Google, we see a durable product that is easy to set up through the Google Home app on both Android and iOS devices. We also like that the Google mesh WiFi system will automatically update itself with new features, unlike some other routes which make the processes much more complicated. Just be sure you can swing the price as we felt it is prohibitive for most individuals.
#6 NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro XRM570 Mesh WiFi System
Award: BEST HIGH-SPEED
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re a gamer, look no further than the NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro, optimized for intense online gaming with low ping optimization. You can even view real-time bandwidth usage for complete control over your network.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for gaming
- Network monitor for identifying lag
- Geo-filter to reduce gaming ping
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- No mobile app for control
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Are you looking to increase your multiplayer game? Take your online matches to the next level with the Nighthawk Pro from NETGEAR, specifically optimized for gaming. As soon as you set it up, you’ll gain access to the Gaming Dashboard, enabling advanced control over your network. Use the dashboard to identify network lag via the network monitor or add geo-filters to prevent long-distance gamers from joining your game. Bandwidth prioritization even allows you to pick which devices on your network receive priority.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro extends its range thanks to its tri-band WiFi system, able to handle up to 2.6Gbps of bandwidth at a time — optimal for video gaming, 4K Ultra HD video watching, and other high-demand activities. Without a doubt, the Nighthawk Pro is the best mesh WiFi for gaming. We only wish that NETGEAR offered a mobile app, as the only way to control this router is through a web browser, making it a bit more cumbersome than needed.
How We Decided
When selecting the best Mesh WiFi systems, we looked at the essential factors, including each system’s coverage range, network speed, smart features, and form factor. Then, to ensure that you always receive the best quality no matter your selection, we established minimum criteria, so only the best options would be presented to you. Our picks also take into account the different ways individuals use their internet, whether it be for necessary email, high-speed gaming, or smart home devices, such as HUE light bulbs or wireless security cameras.
When it came to coverage range, we opted not to select any products that covered less than 4000 square feet; more massive than the average home, it should be suitable for most individuals without any WiFi drops. Additionally, we ensured all of our selections use the latest 802.11ac network standard and at least a dual-band connection, making them reliable options for streaming movies and other modern activities.
Your network should be advanced, which is why we only selected options that include advanced smart features such as parental setup, smart roaming, and device control. Lastly, when it came down to form-factor, we ensured we picked a selection of different devices so that you could best find the option for you. Somethings are just personal taste after all, and we wanted to ensure everyone was satisfied.
Best Mesh WiFi Systems Buyer’s Guide
Features
- Coverage Range: It is critical to purchase a mesh WiFi system that will cover your entire home or office; otherwise, you will find yourself losing signal constantly. Generally, systems are sold with a rating of square footage. Be sure that the square footage is sufficient; if it is not, you can typically purchase an additional add-on satellite to expand the range.
- Network Speed: Most mesh systems will be fast enough for everyday tasks, but to be sure, make a selection that supports 802.11ac WiFi — the latest wireless standard. If you have a particularly demanding network with online video games and 4K Ultra HD streaming, a tri-band router should be on your shopping list for increased bandwidth and reliability.
- Smart Features: Whether you are a parent, a gamer, or a power-user, selecting a mesh system with smart features can give you greater control over your network. Seek out options with parental controls for keeping an eye on the kids or, if you are a power-user, make sure the choice you are selecting gives you access to an advanced dashboard.
- Form-factor: Many people want to throw their WiFi systems into a closet, but the best performance is given when the devices are out in the open. Select a form-factor that can fit into the spaces you intend on placing your new mesh system, and make a selection that you won’t feel is a constant eyesore.
