10 Best Wifi6 Mesh Router - Buyer’s Guide | SHR

The "best" mesh WiFi brand can depend on various factors such as your specific needs, home size, budget, and preferences. Several reputable brands are known for producing high-quality mesh WiFi systems. Keep in mind that new models may have been released since then, so it's advisable to check for the latest reviews and customer feedback. Some of the leading mesh WiFi brands include:

NETGEAR Orbi:
Known for its strong performance, especially in larger homes. Orbi uses a dedicated wireless backhaul for communication between nodes, reducing potential speed loss.

Google Nest WiFi:
Offers a user-friendly experience and seamless integration with other Google smart home devices. It's known for its simplicity and ease of use.

Eero:
Acquired by Amazon, Eero is praised for its straightforward setup and management through a mobile app. It provides reliable coverage with the option for a subscription service for additional security features.

Linksys Velop:
A modular mesh system that allows users to add nodes for expanded coverage. Linksys Velop is known for its performance and flexibility.

TP-Link Deco:
TP-Link offers a variety of mesh WiFi systems catering to different needs and budgets. Deco is recognized for its affordability and reliable coverage.

ASUS AiMesh:
ASUS provides AiMesh, allowing users to create a mesh network using compatible ASUS routers. It's suitable for those who want the flexibility to choose their routers.

AmpliFi by Ubiquiti:
Known for its sleek design and strong performance. AmpliFi offers mesh WiFi systems with options for different coverage needs.

Samsung SmartThings WiFi:
Combines mesh WiFi with SmartThings home automation features. It's suitable for users looking to integrate smart home devices into their mesh network.

When selecting a mesh WiFi system, consider factors such as coverage area, the number of connected devices, ease of setup, and any specific features you may need, such as parental controls or advanced security options. Additionally, check for the latest models and customer reviews to ensure that the mesh system aligns with your specific requirements.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and 6E?

Wi-Fi 6E is an extension of Wi-Fi 6, and the key difference lies in the frequency bands they operate on. Here's a breakdown of the main differences between Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E:

Frequency Bands:
Wi-Fi 6: Operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.
Wi-Fi 6E: Extends to the 6 GHz frequency band, in addition to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

Additional Spectrum:
Wi-Fi 6E: The introduction of the 6 GHz band provides more available spectrum, which can lead to less interference and congestion compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This additional spectrum can offer more channels and wider bandwidths for improved performance.

Channel Width:
Wi-Fi 6E: Supports wider channel widths in the 6 GHz band, allowing for faster data rates and improved efficiency.

Interference Reduction:
Wi-Fi 6E: With the 6 GHz band being less crowded (at least initially), Wi-Fi 6E networks may experience reduced interference compared to the more congested 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

Backward Compatibility:
Wi-Fi 6E: While Wi-Fi 6E introduces the 6 GHz band, devices supporting Wi-Fi 6E are still fully backward compatible with Wi-Fi 6 and previous Wi-Fi standards. This ensures that users can connect to networks on any available band.

Regulatory Approval:
Wi-Fi 6E: The use of the 6 GHz band is subject to regulatory approval in different countries. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, some regions have already made the 6 GHz band available for unlicensed Wi-Fi use.

Applications:
Wi-Fi 6E: The additional spectrum and reduced interference make Wi-Fi 6E well-suited for applications that demand high data rates, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), high-definition video streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.

It's important to note that Wi-Fi 6E is an evolution of Wi-Fi 6, building upon the advancements introduced by Wi-Fi 6. The introduction of the 6 GHz band is a significant enhancement, providing more room for Wi-Fi devices to operate efficiently and deliver higher performance. As the technology evolves, more devices are expected to support Wi-Fi 6E, taking advantage of the benefits offered by the additional spectrum.

Why is Mesh WiFi slower?

Mesh WiFi systems, when properly configured and deployed, should not inherently be slower than traditional single-router setups. In fact, one of the primary purposes of mesh networks is to provide better coverage and eliminate dead zones, offering a more consistent and reliable internet experience throughout your home. However, under certain conditions, the perception of slower speeds in a mesh network may arise due to various factors:

Wireless Backhaul:
Mesh systems typically use a wireless backhaul to communicate between nodes (mesh points). If the wireless backhaul connection is weak or experiences interference, it can impact the overall speed of the network.

Interference and Congestion:
Wireless networks, including mesh systems, can be affected by interference from neighboring Wi-Fi networks, electronic devices, and physical obstacles. In crowded environments, multiple devices competing for the same wireless channels can lead to congestion and reduced speeds.

Topology and Placement:
Inefficient placement of mesh nodes can affect performance. If nodes are too far apart or if there are physical obstructions, the wireless backhaul may be less efficient, leading to slower speeds.

Limited Bandwidth for Backhaul:
Some mesh systems may dedicate a portion of the available wireless bandwidth for communication between nodes (backhaul). If this bandwidth is limited, it can impact the overall speed of the mesh network.

Device Connection to Weaker Nodes:
Devices connecting to a weaker mesh node rather than the main router or a stronger node can experience slower speeds. It's important for devices to connect to the most optimal node for the best performance.

Network Overhead:
Mesh systems introduce additional communication overhead as nodes coordinate with each other to manage the network. While modern mesh systems are designed to minimize this overhead, it can still have a slight impact on overall speed.

Hardware Limitations:
Some older or budget-friendly mesh systems may have hardware limitations that affect their overall speed capabilities. High-end mesh systems with the latest technologies tend to offer better performance.

To address potential speed issues in a mesh network, it's important to optimize the placement of nodes, consider the topology of the network, and choose a mesh system with features that align with your specific needs and usage patterns. Additionally, using a wired backhaul, when possible, can significantly improve the overall speed and reliability of a mesh network.

Read More:

The Best Affordable Wifi 6 Router - Reviews & Buyer's Guide

Best Gaming Router Reviews & Buyers Guide in 2023